Why Listen:
You’re craving more meaning and calm in your personal or professional life—and curious how others are redefining ambition and impact.
Episode Description:
What does it take for businesses to become AI-ready? In this candid and forward-looking conversation, we speak with Christopher Dore—business educator, AI entrepreneur, and CEO of Scarlet Nova—about how small and mid-sized organizations can thoughtfully navigate AI adoption. Drawing from his work with over many companies and his role at Algonquin College, Chris reveals the most common misconceptions about AI, the hidden role of generalists in successful implementations, and why strategic curiosity may be the ultimate competitive edge. Whether you're overwhelmed by AI hype or unsure where to begin, this episode offers grounded guidance and a clear starting point.
Key Highlights:
About Christopher Dore:
Christopher is a business educator, AI entrepreneur, and community leader. He leads the Business Management and Entrepreneurship program at Algonquin College, serves as CEO of Scarlett Nova helping businesses harness the power of AI and is the founder of Lead+Change, a social enterprise focused on authentic leadership and social impact.
Find Christopher Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswdore/
Website: www.scarlettnova.com
Find Us:
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen:
You’re craving more meaning and calm in your personal or professional life—and curious how others are redefining ambition and impact.
Episode Description:
After a thoughtful parental leave, Cailin Hillier returned to her role as a UX researcher with a refreshed sense of purpose—and a deeper appreciation for the power of pause. In this candid conversation, Cailin shares how she’s learned to embrace contentment, practice intentional prioritization, and use her generalist strengths to thrive in work, motherhood, and community life. From structured spontaneity to embracing imperfect action, she offers a grounded, human approach to navigating transitions. Whether you're rethinking your relationship with work or simply trying to do less, better—this one’s for you.
Key Highlights:
About Cailin Hillier:
After studying engineering and science at the University of Waterloo, Cailin attended the Rotman School of Management and immediately gravitated towards facilitation and design thinking methodologies. A self-described generalist who has navigated roles in consulting and operations, she stumbled into a career as a UX Researcher.
Cailin currently works at Thinkific, focusing on the longer term product vision, including the implications of AI on customers. Having recently returned to work from parental leave, she brings a generalist lens to every facet of her life.
Find Cailin Here
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cailin-hillier
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen: You want to lead like a founder—even if you’re not in tech.
Episode Description:
What does it really take to lead a small, mission-driven organization through massive growth? In this conversation, we speak with Allan Reesor-McDowell, Executive Director at the John Howard Society of Ottawa, about his earlier experience rapidly scaling Matthew House Ottawa from a tiny charity into a multi-million-dollar, multi-program organization. Allan shares how embracing his generalist mindset, rather than chasing expertise, helped him prioritize, pivot, and make smart decisions that enabled sustainable growth. For anyone navigating leadership in uncertain times, especially within nonprofits or systems under pressure, this episode explores how broad thinking, strategic listening, and confident humility can be powerful levers for change.
Key Highlights:
Being Agnostic: Why being agnostic to tools and approaches allowed Allan to adapt quickly and lead effectively through organizational change.
Smart Growth: How Allan helped scale Matthew House Ottawa from 3 to 55 staff and $300K to $5M in budget, using agile planning and resourceful outsourcing.
Decision-Making: The importance of reversible decisions, risk management, and knowing when to pause versus push forward.
Outsourcing Strategy: How fractional expertise (e.g., HR, finance) enabled big capabilities on a small budget.
Confidence with Humility: Balancing imposter syndrome with clarity on the value of broad-based competence, and leading without needing to be the expert.
About Allan Reesor-McDowell:
Allan grew up in Canada but work, studies and travel led him for many years to the US, Haiti, and England as well as to more than 60 countries throughout Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America. Allan has served in leadership and governance roles in politics and nonprofits, including serving on the boards of the Social Housing Registry of Ottawa, The Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa, the Canadian Council for Refugees and currently sits on the board for the Ottawa Community Foundation.
Allan currently serves as Executive Director of John Howard Society of Ottawa. He holds an MSc in Development Studies from SOAS, University of London and was a recipient of the Forty Under 40 award in 2021.
Find Allan Here
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen: You’re tired of permission-based culture and curious about systems built on trust and autonomy.
Description:
Is the traditional org chart on its last legs? In this provocative conversation, organizational futurist Joseph Logan challenges the foundations of how we've structured work for the last 150 years. Drawing on his journey from a senior pharma executive to the founder of Jumpsuit, Joseph explains why centralized, hierarchical models no longer serve today’s complexity—and how distributed intelligence, autonomous teams, and bossless organizations offer a viable path forward. We explore the historical roots of the org chart, the forces accelerating its decline (think AI, hybrid work, and portfolio careers), and what a post-org chart operating system might look like. This episode offers a powerful lens for generalists and leaders ready to work with, not against, the future.
Key Highlights:
The Death of the Org Chart: Why the 150-year-old model of organizational hierarchy is breaking under the weight of AI, hybrid work, and portfolio careers.
From Control to Consent: How permission-based systems are giving way to decentralized, consent-based collaboration.
Bossless Doesn’t Mean Leaderless: The distinction between removing gatekeepers and cultivating distributed leadership.
The Emergent OS: A new organizational “operating system” that leverages decentralization, diversity, and real-time feedback loops.
Generalists Rising: Why generalists are well-positioned to thrive in the shift away from rigid roles toward adaptive, principle-driven work.
About Joseph:
Joseph Logan, partner with Jumpsuit, envisions a world without bosses. In his working creating the conditions for vibrant, adaptive organizations with activated communities at Jumpsuit, the team lives what it believes. Joseph coaches leaders who are leaning into the future of adaptive, responsive work in a new, post-mechanistic age.
Find Joseph Here
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephlogan/
Website: https://www.jumpsuitagency.com/
Other links: Jumpsuit Patreon (posts to livestreams, etc.) https://www.patreon.com/c/Jumpsuiters/posts
Find Julie
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen:
If you’re in growth mode and want to learn from a generalist who’s DONE it.
Description:
In this special two-hour conversation, Andrew Waitman—former CEO of Assent, Order of Ottawa inductee, and one of Canada’s most respected business leaders—reflects on his decade transforming a 25-person startup into a $100M ARR global SaaS powerhouse. Speaking candidly about his journey from engineer to venture capitalist to CEO, Andrew shares how being a generalist shaped his leadership, decision-making, and foresight in an era of rapid technological disruption. From balancing specialists with generalists, to navigating AI adoption, to building cohesive cultures that scale, Andrew offers hard-earned lessons on leadership, resilience, and the art of seeing patterns before others. This episode is both a masterclass in business growth and a deeply personal exploration of adaptability, humility, and the mindset required to thrive in uncertain times.
Key Highlights:
About Andrew:
Andrew Waitman is the Executive Chairman and former CEO of Assent, where he transformed a 25-person startup into a global SaaS leader with more than $100M in annual recurring revenue and unicorn valuation. Recognized as 2024 CEO of the Year and inducted into the Order of Ottawa, Andrew is widely regarded as one of Canada’s most respected technology executives. His leadership at Assent not only drove exponential growth but also positioned the company as a trusted partner for organizations navigating complex supply chain sustainability and compliance challenges.
Before Assent, Andrew served as CEO of Pythian, where he drove rapid international expansion and established the company as a leader in data and analytics services. He also held senior leadership roles at Celtic House Venture Partners and Entrust, contributing to IPOs, global growth strategies, and portfolio success stories. In addition, Andrew has served on multiple boards helping to shape Canada’s innovation economy. Across these roles, he has consistently demonstrated foresight, execution, and the ability to scale organizations through disruption while building strong, cohesive teams.
Find Andrew Here
Why Listen:
You’ve outgrown the career script you were handed—and you’re ready to write your own.
Description:
What if success wasn’t something you climbed toward—but something you defined for yourself? In this candid conversation, Anna Lundberg shares how she walked away from a high-prestige corporate role to build a career shaped by freedom, flexibility, and values-alignment.
Founder of One Step Outside, Anna now helps others do the same—especially those who’ve outgrown linear paths and want more than a title or a ladder. Together, we explore how generalists are uniquely wired to design portfolio careers, navigate reinvention, and step outside the scripts that no longer fit.
If you’re craving space to ask what you really want from work and life, this episode opens the door.
Key Highlights:
About Anna:
Anna Lundberg is the founder of One Step Outside®, where she helps experienced professionals and business owners reimagine what success really looks like - beyond the conventional 9 to 5.
A former Procter & Gamble marketing executive, Anna left corporate life in 2013 and has since built a body of work dedicated to helping others design more fulfilling, flexible, and sustainable careers. She’s the author of Outside of the 9 to 5, host of the Reimagining Success® podcast, and creator of the Business Accelerator for solopreneurs.
Her work is grounded in the belief that success isn’t truly success if it comes at the cost of your health, identity, or family life - and that there’s a more human, more intentional way to build a business, lead a team, or navigate a career transition.
Find Anna Here
Website: https://onestepoutside.com/
Other links: https://annaselundberg.com/
Find Julie
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen:
You’ve met people who just “get it done”—this episode explains who they are and why they matter.
Description:
What if generalists weren’t just versatile professionals—but a distinct breed of business operator, like Navy SEALs for the corporate world? In this high-energy conversation, Casey Woo—high-growth CFO, CEO, and founder of the Operators Guild—shares his unique framework for understanding generalists as “scalers”: multidimensional, mission-driven individuals built for complexity, speed, and constant change.
Drawing on military analogies, deep operational insight, and his upcoming book, Casey offers a language and lens for generalists who’ve long struggled to define their value. Whether you’re a shapeshifter trying to find your place or a leader trying to spot hidden talent, this episode gives powerful clarity to an often-misunderstood role.
Key Highlights:
About Casey:
Casey Woo is a seasoned public market investor turned high-growth technology COO/CFO, with over two decades of experience guiding companies through the complexities of scaling. Having served as a 6x CFO and 2x COO, Casey has led businesses across various industries and stages, from early-stage startups to pre-IPO powerhouses. His expertise spans software, hardware, marketplaces, eCommerce, and more, with a proven track record in driving strategic growth, optimizing operations, and securing successful exits.
As a leader, Casey is deeply committed to building and scaling companies that grow fast and smart. His strategic approach focuses on aligning vision with execution, ensuring that every initiative is prioritized for maximum impact. Beyond his executive roles, Casey is co-founder and CEO of the Operators Guild, a community of 1000+ top operators, where he shares his insights and mentors the next generation of business leaders.
Casey’s passion for strategic planning and performance management has made him a sought-after advisor and investor, helping startups navigate the challenges of hyper-growth with precision and confidence.
Find Casey Here
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseywoo/
Website: https://www.operators-guild.com/
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen:
If you’re navigating AI and automation in recruitment, this conversation helps you cut through the hype and focus on skills-based assessment—so you can hire smarter, faster, and fairer.
Description:
I sit down with a senior director at Indeed to unpack the promise—and the practicalities—of skills-first hiring in today’s Canadian labour market. We cover what’s broken about degree and tenure “gatekeeping,” how HR and hiring managers can align around measurable competencies, and where AI can actually de-risk evaluation instead of adding noise. Along the way, we talk tenure gains when degree screens are dropped, why learning & development is a top decision driver for applicants, and how generalists can finally be seen for transferable strengths. If you care about better matches, fairer access, and making hiring simpler and smarter, this one’s for you.
Key Highlights:
Skills-first hiring: Hire for demonstrable capability, not proxies like degrees or minimum years.
Market context: Unemployment is up; openings are down—prime time to widen talent pools and revisit screens.
Data points: 78% of job seekers weigh L&D heavily; ~32% report barriers from degree/years requirements; dropping degree screens has been linked to ~20% longer tenure.
AI in TA: Only ~27% of Canadian employers use AI in hiring; used well, it can standardize and scale skill assessment.
HR & hiring managers: Define “what good looks like,” agree on risk tolerance (e.g., the “70/30 fit”), and test for competencies early.
About Stepan:
As a Senior Director at Indeed, Stepan Arman is at the forefront of bringing the company's vision and strategy to life. His experience managing teams that work directly with both job seekers and employers gives him a unique and insightful perspective into the world of work. With a decade of leadership in human resources, spanning everything from small businesses to global organizations, Stepan has developed a deep understanding of the challenges facing both sides of the workforce. He has a proven track record of partnering with countless companies to solve their most complex problems, whether it's developing workforce strategies, strengthening culture, or enriching the employee experience
Find Stepan Here
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stepanarman/
Website: indeed.ca
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen:
For anyone feeling pressured to “prove” themselves: Hear how to embrace your generalist strengths and connect meaningfully in any room.
Episode Description:
We explore how impostor syndrome shows up for generalists and what it takes to move past it—without losing the curiosity and humility that make generalists thrive. Lynn Ladd, Chief of Staff at OTUS Group and an active leader in the nonprofit sector, shares her journey from feeling “the person in the background” to being recognized as “the connector” in Ottawa’s nonprofit space. She offers practical networking strategies, advice for finding your professional “blue jeans” fit, and a reminder that invisible work can be the glue holding organizations together. Whether you’re navigating career transitions, seeking to build more authentic connections, or learning to own your value without the traditional credentials, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom.
Key Highlights:
About Lynn:
Lynn Ladd is Chief of Staff at OTUS Group, where she leads business growth and operations while helping clients—especially purpose-driven organizations—navigate finance and governance with confidence. A lifelong resident of Ottawa with a degree in Economics from the University of Ottawa, Lynn’s career spans leadership roles in retail, financial management, and the nonprofit sector, including her time at the Ottawa Board of Trade.
She’s is an active volunteer, serving on the board of KLEO and Kiwanis Air Cadet Squadron. She has recently been appointed to the Board of Planned Parenthood Ottawa, and the CDH2 Foundation of Canada.
When not working or giving back, she enjoys life with her husband, their Lab, two rescue cats, and regular visits with their grown kids in Calgary and Halifax.
Find Lynn Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnladd/
Website: https://nonprofitcfo.ca/
Find Us:
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen:
You’re craving work that aligns with your values.
Episode Description:
Samantha Stilwell is a cultural anthropologist, consultant, flight attendant, and community builder—sometimes all at once. In this wide-ranging conversation, she opens up about discovering the concept of a “portfolio career” and how it validated the winding, multi-threaded path she’s chosen. We explore what it means to live intentionally without conforming to social norms, how to choose projects that align with a deeper mission, and why success doesn’t always look like scale. Whether she's decoding workplace dynamics in Kenya, building community with women founders, or flying across northern Quebec, Samantha shares how generalists can find purpose by following their own internal compass.
Key Highlights:
About Samantha:
Samantha Stilwell is a cultural anthropologist by profession—meaning she’s a story-listener and a story-sharer. But the one story she’s still writing is her own career path. Flight attendant, consultant, keynote speaker, community builder, author—Samantha wears many hats (sometimes all at once), but her throughline is always the same: a deep curiosity about people and the cultures we create. Whether she's 35,000 feet in the air or speaking on a global stage, she brings an anthropologist’s lens to everything she does—helping others understand themselves, each other, and the world a little better.
Find Samantha
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/samanthastilwell
Website: culturedynamiq.com
Find Julie
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen:
You’ve heard the term ‘polymath’—now you’re wondering if it describes you, or if it should.
Episode Description:
What does it mean to thrive as a polymath in the age of AI—and why does it matter more than ever? In this episode, we speak with Dr. Angela C. Myers, one of the first scholars to formally study modern polymathy. Drawing from her pioneering dissertation, her experience in organizational development, and her vision for the future of work, Angela explains why generalists with deep expertise across domains are not just valuable—they're essential. We explore how polymaths can drive innovation, how organizations can adapt to the new demands of AI-driven change, and why lifelong, self-directed learning is the key to staying relevant and fulfilled in a rapidly evolving world.
Episode Highlights:
Polymathy Defined: The distinction between generalists, polymaths, and why “polymathic” might be the most accessible term for modern multi-specialists.
Future-Proofing Work: Why AI makes polymathic talent a business imperative—and how to spot it.
Learning vs. Knowing: How understanding whether someone thrives on learning or knowing can transform team design and retention.
Organizational Adaptation: Practical ways businesses can shift hiring, development, and innovation strategies for the polymathic age.
About Angela:
Dr. Angela C. Meyers is a leading voice in the modern polymathy movement. She authored the world’s first doctoral dissertation on polymathy—In Pursuit of Polymaths: Understanding Renaissance Persons of the 21st Century—and has dedicated her career to advancing interdisciplinary learning, leadership, and social innovation.
With a background spanning nine years at the U.S. Center for Leadership Development and six years at the Executive Office of the President, Dr. Meyers brings unmatched insight into government, systems thinking, and human potential. Today, she leads a vibrant online community for curious, mission-driven minds through her platform Polymaths Place on Facebook, and teaches The Polymathic Method to organizations and individuals looking to thrive in complexity.
Explore more of her work at www.drangelameyers.com, follow her insights on LinkedIn, or dive into her videos at YouTube.com/@AngelaCMeyers.
Find Angela
Website: www.drangelameyers.com
The Polymathic Method: drangelameyers.com/polymathic-method
Doctoral Dissertation: In Pursuit of Polymaths
Facebook Community: Polymaths Place
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drangelacmeyers
YouTube: youtube.com/@AngelaCMeyers
Find Julie
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen:
You’ve outgrown productivity hacks—and you’re ready for a more integrated, values-driven approach to getting things done.
Description
What if you could lead your life—and your team—with the same clarity and intention you bring to your best strategic plans? In this episode, Sandra Veledar shares the how and why of I Live Performance (I.Liv); a platform designed to help individuals and leaders align their daily actions with what truly matters.
Blending systems thinking, agile principles, and self-leadership, Sandra introduces a structured approach to intentional living.
Key Highlights:
About Sandra:
Sandra Veledar is a business transformation and technology leader with over 20 years of experience, who built her career delivering business value with technology-enabled solutions and people-first approaches.
Sandra started her career in high-tech and since has worked on large-scale business transformations in the Ottawa PwC Advisory Services, followed by an IT executive role at Farm Boy where she supported the organization through significant growth, leading the technology strategy and team in scaling IT operations and services. Currently, she is the Founder and CEO of I.Liv Performance, bringing to market an individual performance and leadership solution. Inspired by her own journey, Sandra applies her professional expertise to help organizations retain top talent and close the strategy-to-execution gap through I.Liv’s innovative approach to sustainable high-performance.
Sandra holds a B.Eng. in Computer Systems Engineering from Carleton University (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada), and an MBA from McGill University (Montreal, Quebec, Canada).
Find Sandra:
Website: https://iliv.io.
Other links:
Find Julie:
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact
Why Listen:
If you’ve ever questioned how to balance independence and collaboration in your work, this episode’s for you.
Description:
Charlie Myszkowski joins us to explore the delicate balance between independence and delegation, drawing on his background in cognitive science and his experience navigating diverse roles. As generalists, we often grapple with knowing when to lean into our broad skill set and when to partner with specialists. Charlie shares how understanding your cognitive load—and the limits of going at it alone—can transform not only your work but also how you build collaborative, trusting relationships.
Key Takeaways:
Delegation: How generalists can leverage specialists to turn ideas into action.
Cognitive Load: Recognizing the limits of working solo and the value of shared effort.
About Them:
Charlie Myszkowski is an undergraduate student heading into their fourth year studying Cognitive Science at the University of Edinburgh—a degree all about how people think, often using computer models to understand the brain. Alongside his studies, Charlie works as a Strategy and IT Operations Consultant. In short, he helps businesses and busy people improve their lives and achieve their goals. They’re also involved in a few different ventures and are an active part of the university’s entrepreneurship community. Outside of all that, they have a background in musical theatre and still carry a bit of that flair into everything they do.
Find Them Here:
Website: https://cmysz.com
Book time or work with me: https://cmysz.com/book
Connect with me on LinkedIn (dm me that you listened to the podcast and I’ll connect straight away!): https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmyszkowski
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact
Why Listen:
A practical conversation on balancing vulnerability and action
Description:
Bradley Rausch, host of the “Redefining Growth” podcast, shares his personal journey of embracing authenticity and focusing on concrete action. As a multifaceted thinker who values vulnerability and practical impact, Bradley’s perspective speaks to the generalist spirit—balancing broad thinking with the courage to act. This conversation highlights the power of getting real, grounding big ideas in small steps, and supporting others on their growth journey.
Key Highlights:
Authenticity: Showing up with honesty and vulnerability in your work and life.
Concrete Action: Moving from big ideas to specific, real-world steps.
Impact: Recognizing your ability to help others become better versions of themselves.
Bridging Theory and Practice: Turning strategic thinking into tangible outcomes.
About Them:
Bradley Rausch is a content creator, strategic marketer, and the go-to CMO for founder-led companies scaling with thought leadership. With six years of experience, he’s helped several dozen founders get out of their own way and scale without sacrificing their values. From podcasting to social media ecosystems to referral and testimonial systems, Bradley and his team help founders attract more of their best clients, and generate only the highest quality revenue for their companies.
Find Them Here
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-rausch/
Other links: www.instagram.com/bradleyyrausch/
Redefining Growth Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6gYrLgsW0xoXNeKzqzae1J?si=950efde4f7f548f
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact
Why Listen: You want to improve your communication across different personalities and work styles.
What makes work relationships truly productive—and what gets in the way? In this episode, executive coach Simona Radencich shares how a generalist mindset can strengthen communication, deepen trust, and adapt to complex team dynamics. From recognizing unspoken cues to reframing conflict and customizing leadership approaches, she offers actionable insights grounded in emotional intelligence and years of experience.
Key Highlights:
About Simona:
Simona Radencich helps leaders build resilience, emotional intelligence, and stronger relationships—starting with themselves—without sacrificing performance, results, or their humanity. She believes leadership is a way of being, and that while people are complex, productive relationships don’t have to be.
As a certified executive coach, consultant, and founder of Henlise Consulting, she partners with leaders navigating complex team dynamics, growth, and change. Her work focuses on building clarity, confidence, and relational effectiveness in high-stakes areas like hiring, onboarding, talent development, and performance management.
With over 30 years of experience in leadership, human resources, consulting, and entrepreneurship, she supports leaders across start-ups, scale-ups, and established organizations in creating resilient, higher-performing teams and sustainable, people-centered business success.
Find Simona Here
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/simonamradencich
Website: www.henliseconsulting.com
Other links: https://calendly.com/simonar
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact
Why Listen: You want to sharpen your thinking in complex, fast-moving environments.
What does critical thinking really look like in action—and why do so many people assume they’re already good at it? In this conversation, I interview Ingrid Dueck and Steven Verboom of Kepner-Tregoe to explore what makes clear thinking so difficult in complex, fast-paced organizations. They unpack how biases, assumptions, and poor question habits derail decision-making—and how a structured, data-driven approach can shift how teams think, work, and solve problems. With examples from factories, boardrooms, and workshops, this episode is a practical look at the invisible mechanics of thinking. It also highlights the often-overlooked advantage generalists may bring to critical thinking.
Key Highlights:
Ingrid Dueck is a seasoned expert in critical thinking and organizational development and is the Director of Organizational Talent and Leadership Development at Kepner-Tregoe. For over 25 years, she has dedicated her career to empowering individuals and teams through the facilitation, teaching, and coaching of essential skills like problem-solving, decision-making, and risk management. Her passion lies in helping people think more clearly and act more decisively—whether in the boardroom, on the front lines, or in leadership development programs around the world. Ingrid brings a unique blend of insight, structure, and empathy to her work, making her a trusted guide for those navigating complex challenges.
Find Ingrid Here
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-dueck
Website: www.kepner-tregoe.com
Steven Verboom is a self-identified Generalist who over the course of the last few years has transitioned from a Chemical Engineer into a Critical Thinking Consultant. On a day-to-day basis he helps individuals, teams & organizations sharpen their critical thinking skills as well as further clarify high-stakes discussions. In short; someone who thrives for asking the difficult questions but listens from genuine curiosity.
Find Steven Here
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sjverboom
Website: www.kepner-tregoe.com
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact
Why Listen: You’ve worked across sales, marketing, or customer roles—and know the real value lies in connecting the dots.
What happens when a generalist takes on the customer acquisition journey? In this episode, we sit down with JP Hébert—part technologist, part marketer, part sales strategist—who brings a systems-level view to how organizations attract and convert customers. Drawing from experience across startups and global firms, JP shares how generalists operate across the full lifecycle, when to bring in specialists, and how to navigate the power dynamics between roles.
Whether you're in marketing, sales, or leadership, this conversation explores what it means to see the whole system, not just your part of it. We unpack the often-overlooked value of generalists as connectors, integrators, and “good troublemakers” who challenge assumptions—and improve outcomes.
Key Highlights:
About Them:
JP is a long-time customer-facing technology business executive and enthusiast, the love story started in 1983 with a Commodore-64. Throughout his career, JP has occupied a variety of roles over the years from individual sales contributor to tech startup CEO, and pretty much everything in-between in very small to global organizations. He is also involved with Digital Humani, a nonprofit tech startup focused on reforestation, loves to mentor and is a mean BBQ cook
Find JP Here
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jphebert/
Website: www.rock8fuel.com
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact
Why Listen: You’re navigating complex systems and want practical insight into how real change happens—especially when it feels impossible.
How do we fix a system as complex and fragmented as healthcare? In this thought-provoking conversation, facilitator and health systems leader Anne-Marie Parent shares what it takes to shift from a command-and-control model to a living, evolving ecosystem. Drawing from her experience in health informatics, change management, and systems coaching, Anne-Marie explores how diverse perspectives, relationship-building, and courageous co-creation are essential for real transformation. For generalists navigating complex systems—within or beyond healthcare—this episode offers a masterclass in creating space for collaboration, letting go of control, and trusting the collective intelligence of the group.
Key Highlights:
About Them:
Anne-Marie Parent is a leadership coach, educator, and transformation strategist who believes it's time for a new way of leading—especially in health systems. Her work centers on embracing complexity, fostering collaboration, and creating space for clarity, courage, and purpose.
With over two decades of cross-sector experience in the public, private, and not-for-profit worlds, Anne-Marie helps individuals and organizations navigate uncertainty, untangle complexity, and co-create more regenerative ways of working—without burning out or losing sight of what matters most.
Her approach blends systems thinking, change leadership, and deep human connection. She’s trained in Prosci change management, holds a Black Belt in Lean Healthcare, and is certified in systems coaching (ORSC) and flow-based leadership. Anne-Marie also teaches at the Telfer School of Management and recently took the TEDx stage to share her insights on systemic leadership.
Whether she's coaching gifted professionals, designing culture-shifting programs, or facilitating multi-stakeholder collaborations, Anne-Marie is known for meeting people where they are—and helping them lead with integrity, clarity, and flow.
Find Anne-Marie Here
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amparent/
Website: https://www.ampedupleadership.ca
Other links: Check out her TEDx video https://youtu.be/JRBkjiL-sqo
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact
Why Listen:
Discover a simple framework to choose tech that actually serves you.
Description:
What does it mean for AI to truly support human flourishing—and how can generalists help shape that future? Tamara Lechner chairs the AI for Human Flourishing think tank at Harvard. We discuss the framework her team developed to help individuals and organizations assess whether AI tools enhance well-being, connection, and meaning. Tamara shares practical insights on navigating emerging technologies with intention, AI governance to parenting in the digital age,
Key Highlights:
Human Flourishing Framework: A 7-driver tool to evaluate whether AI enhances or undermines human potential, well-being, and productivity.
Generalists in AI: How broad, integrative thinkers play a crucial role in complex tech-human decisions and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Tech with Intent: Examples of tools like Character AI that raise ethical flags—and why critical thinking must guide adoption.
Workplace Readiness: Why organizations need support assessing AI features, and how developers are engaging with ethical design.
Parenting and AI: The urgent need for parents to actively engage in how children interact with emotionally intelligent AI platforms.
About Them:
Tamara Lechner has spent the past 20 years helping people to live happier more productive and meaningful lives. She follows her curiosity which has led her from film & TV to positive psychology, social emotional learning and culture transformation. She is a “people person” in the AI world and today her energy is spent chairing the AI for Human Flourishing think tank within the Human Flourishing Program at Harvard"
Find Tamara Here
LinkedIn: Tamara Lechner | LinkedIn
Website: aiforhumanflourishing.com - Chair
🌎World Flourishing Organization - Head of Learning
Find Us
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact.
Why Listen: Unlock unique strategies for enhancing your leadership skills.
Ama Cobbina, a business development leader, explores the challenges of becoming a leader and suggests that the difficulty lies in specialists learning to become T-Shaped, moving from their core skill set of depth and learning how to embrace breadth. This philosophical discussion as well as practice tools for how leaders can embrace a generalist mindset is the focus of this episode.
Conversation Highlights
Ama Cobbina is a business development leader who prides themselves on strategic decision making as a generalist connector. They have connected the dots of sales lifecycles, marketing and business health for 15+ years advocating for frameworks that build commonality, interdependence and value creation. A member of the Proposal Industry Expert Advisory Board and Mentor, Ama seeks to help organizations orient themselves towards the necessary mindsets around meeting their business needs holistically. Trained in the ultimate generalist profession of Architecture and bringing those skills into their professional career has served them well in thinking about formulating how generalism is viable or even inevitable path forward.
LinkedIn: Ama Cobbina
Find Us:
Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true
Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/
Don’t forget to leave a 5* review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – The more reviews, the bigger the impact
