Occasionally, an event emerges that shakes things up—one that challenges your perspective and leaves you inspired. That event is DisruptHR!

DisruptHR is the ultimate knowledge exchange designed to energize, inform, and empower thought leaders in HR and beyond. Starting at 4:30 p.m. on October 23, you’ll experience 12 expert speakers, each with just 5 minutes to share their insights. Think of it as speed dating with innovative ideas poised to transform HR and the companies they support.

To give you a taste of what to expect, we’re highlighting the fantastic speakers you’ll hear from at this high-profile event.

Christy Jacobson

Founder & HR Consultant, DevelopHR Consulting

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I’ve had a lot of jobs— from dream gigs to “never again” moments—each one teaching me something that shapes how I work today. Now, as the founder of DevelopHR Consulting, I help small businesses ditch the HR overwhelm and build workplaces where people can thrive. I’m a Midwestern wife, mom of two teenagers, and firm believer that a good laugh can solve almost anything— well, that and good coffee.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: Eight years ago, I wrote “A Place to Grow: Finding My Way Through 19 Jobs.” Back then, I felt like I was drifting. Today, with 24 jobs behind me and a business I love, I see it as a purposeful redirection. My talk is about rethinking growth, releasing the need for a perfect plan, and trusting that detours lead to the good stuff.

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: For years, I felt embarrassed by my career path and wasted energy trying to hide it. Running my own business showed me that every stop gave me skills I use today. Growth looks different for everyone, and every step is a chance to learn something new.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: Don’t focus on what others are doing—get excited about what you’re doing. I recently learned that the Latin root of “compete” means to strive for something, not against someone. That stuck with me. There’s room for all of us, and I’d rather compete for the clients and work I want than against another business.

A: I can’t point to just one. Looking back, there were goals I thought I’d “failed” at—getting a promotion, hitting a certain salary by a certain age, or, yes, becoming an Olympic gymnast (my “career” started and ended at age five, but in my head it was going places). Over time, I’ve realized that resilience has been the constant. God’s given me the ability to eventually see the bright side, pivot when something doesn’t work out, and dream up the next idea.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: I don’t stay motivated and inspired all the time—and I’ve stopped expecting to. Those things come and go. What matters is showing up in the “in-between,” when the work feels routine or I’m running low on energy. Early in my career, I’d jump to a new job the minute the spark faded, thinking I should feel inspired every single day. Turns out, that’s not reality. Now I see motivation as the bonus fuel, not the engine.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: Great leaders start as great team players—humble, hungry, and smart. Add in curiosity, the guts to fail, and the grace to own your mistakes, and you’ve got the real deal. A title might put “leader” on your signature line, but how you show up is what earns it.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: Depends on the day. I’d love to say I handle them with grace, immediately learn the lesson, and move on. But the truth? I overthink, get way too critical of myself, throw a mini pity party, and cry to my husband… then I get back to work. The older I get, the faster that cycle goes—which I’m calling progress. From the outside, it might look like I’m handling it well, but there’s usually a whole lot of internal noise before I get there.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Be intentional—and realistic— about how you define impact. We tend to romanticize achievement at a young age… started varsity in 8th grade, made “40 under 40,” youngest to ever (fill in the blank). That mindset can make you feel like a failure when your first job doesn’t involve radically changing the world in nine months. Sometimes impact looks like earning the trust to lead a client meeting, being asked to train a new teammate, or improving a process that makes your team’s day a little easier. Be ambitious and passionate, but don’t confuse speed or youth with impact.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: By admitting it’s not really a balance. It’s more of a see-saw, shifting toward whatever needs me most in the moment—sometimes my kids, sometimes my husband, sometimes work, and sometimes me. Letting go of the idea of perfect balance is something I’m actually proud of. Everyone has a different tolerance for how much they can juggle, and sometimes you have to fall flat on your face to figure yours out.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: Sometimes a quick scroll leads you down an intriguing rabbit hole. That happened when I saw a LinkedIn post from Andrew Stone about a video shoot for Chipp—a company that builds and integrates AI agents for businesses. I was intrigued enough to check out their site and testimonials, and now I’m excited to learn more. Granted, I haven’t done a deep dive yet, so if anyone from Chipp wants to give me the inside scoop, I’m all in.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: My goal is to stay curious and not limit myself to strictly business books or “self-help.” Some of my biggest lessons have come from the most random places. There’s a novel I’ve read no less than ten times because of the personal and professional lessons it teaches me. I’ve built trainings and pulled quotes from a movie I watched (Mulan is full of leadership lessons). Growth can come from anywhere if you’re paying attention—and I’m always on the lookout for it.

A: I don’t know that I can point to one specific project or thing that I am particularly proud of. It might be because I tend to see everything through the lens of “what could I have done better?” But I am proud (and still a little surprised) that I’m running a successful business. It was a dream I didn’t even know I had until later in life, and even then, I half-expected to fall on my face. I think that’s part of why it’s worked, I’m not holding on too tightly. I’ve learned to embrace pivots, trust the process, and believe that God will keep guiding and providing.

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: I promise I’m not getting a kickback for saying this again, but if every employee, business owner, and board member focused on being an ideal team player—humble, hungry, and smart—workplace culture would take care of itself. I’ve seen it over and over: when those three traits are present, trust grows, teamwork clicks, and the culture becomes the thing that keeps people around.

DevelopHR Consulting

develophr.co
LinkedIn | /develophr
Instagram | @develophr_

Charissa Quinlan

Director Product Management, Aldevron

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I’m a wife. A mama. A learner. A reader. A dreamer. A problem-solver. A scientist. A traveler. A Gilmore Girls fanatic. A work in progress.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: Normalizing failure at work.

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: As a scientist we are taught that failure is not only a normal part of breakthroughs, but a critical part of the process. It’s only through the iterative cycle of experimenting, failing, making adjustments, and experimenting again that you *might* find success. However, when you transition to the corporate world, the focus tends to be on the success itself—the end result. You lose sight of the critical learning experience— the journey—that must happen along the way to achieve the goal, making success elusive and perhaps unrewarding.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: Find what motivates you, what you’re passionate about and follow it.

A: In graduate school I worked on building a start-up company around our technology and pitched it to investors, scientists, and business leaders at business school competitions. Though we didn’t move forward with the company, I found my passion for the business side of science, and it inspired my focus on how we bring novel therapies out of the lab and to the patients who need them most.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: When I’m having tough moments, I come back to my why—my goals, how what I’m doing drives that journey—and I take risks on exciting opportunities. If I’m not feeling outside my comfort zone at least 25% of the time, it’s time to take a new step.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: Bold. Curious. Authentic. Intentional. Inspiring. Communicator.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: I reflect, focus on what I learn from them and use that to fuel my next steps.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Build meaningful connections with others in your field—get to know them, learn from them, share with them. You never know where opportunities to work on exciting projects or new roles may come from.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: Work life balance has looked different for me at different stages but something I keep constant is being present for the small daily moments—like taking the kids to school and reading books together at bedtime.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: I firmly believe learning is a lifelong journey so I’m excited about the development of nearly endless opportunities, formats, and topics of certificates and educational programs designed for working professionals to build their skills and networks, outside of their organization.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: With curiosity. I love to learn new things that challenge me and the way I view the world.

A: My prior role at Aldevron was building our client-facing project and program management organization from the ground up. It was a challenging journey full of learning from failures and successes that taught me so much about leadership and about myself. They are a team of incredible humans who make a difference in the world every day and I’m proud to have worked alongside them.

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: Somewhere people feel they can be their authentic self, do meaningful work that fuels them, and with colleagues who support them in achieving their goals.

Aldevron

aldevron.com
LinkedIn | /aldevron
Facebook | /aldeveron
YouTube | @aldevron
Twitter | @Aldevron

Josh Kampa

Senior Business Development Executive, OneDigital

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I’m an Army brat, born in Germany and raised all over the U.S.—a journey that shaped my love for people, stories, and adaptability. I’ve been happily married for 14 years to an HR professional, and we’re proud parents to three incredible kids: Haylee (18), Harper (12), and Paxton (10). We call Forest Lake, MN home, and I love to cook, plan our next international adventure, coach my kids’ travel basketball team, or just hang with the family.

Professionally, I’ve spent the past decade partnering with HR leaders and teams, offering both strategic insight and practical support. I love being a go-to resource who helps turn challenges into growth opportunities.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: “FBI (Freakin’ Brilliant Ideas) for HR”

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: In my early days working alongside HR teams, a CHRO once told me, “HR—just two letters, but so much between the H & R.” That insight stuck with me, and over the years, those two letters have come to represent an even greater breadth of challenges, responsibilities, and impact. HR sits at the heart of every organization, driving culture, strategy, and results.

What excites me most is discovering clever, out-ofthe-box ideas—sometimes surprisingly simple ones—that help chip away at the evergrowing HR to-do list. I love being part of the journey that turns smart ideas into meaningful change.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

1) It’s a small world, don’t be an asshole.

2) If you don’t believe and love what you do, do something different, or for someone different.

A: Growing up as an Army brat, constantly on the move every few years, I picked up some powerful lessons early in life that have shaped both who I am and how I approach my career. I learned that you don’t need travel internationally to experience different cultures—just a few states away or they’re right in your own backyard. I developed a deep appreciation for people and the rich tapestry of their differences. I developed a deep appreciation for people and the rich variety of their differences. And above all, I came to understand the value of finding common ground and building authentic connections..

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: I’m fortunate to be surrounded by the unwavering support of an incredible wife and three amazing kids—they’re the heartbeat behind everything I do. Their encouragement fuels my motivation every single day. I also feel deeply connected to the company I work for—what we stand for, the mission we drive, and the people I get to work alongside, both colleagues and clients. That shared sense of purpose is what keeps me inspired and passionate about the work.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: In my experience, the most successful leaders share a few defining traits. It begins with a genuine care for their people—no matter their title, tenure, or role. Great leaders understand that respect and empathy should extend to everyone, not just those in their inner circle. They also welcome fresh perspectives and aren’t threatened by team members who may excel in areas beyond their own expertise. Instead of feeling challenged, they feel energized by collaboration and growth.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: One piece of advice my mom gave me—long before I even understood what it meant—was, “You can get bitter or better.” Over time, those words really sank in. Don’t get me wrong, I still have my bitter moments, but these days they show up less often and don’t linger nearly as long.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Before signing on with any employer, do your homework. Research thoroughly, ask the tough questions, and be unapologetically selective. Your list of “must haves”— whether it’s purpose, culture, flexibility, or growth—should be your compass, not a wishlist. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who inspire you, challenge you, and help you stay aligned with your values. And don’t forget to cultivate a tight inner circle of mentors—people who’ll call you out, lift you up, and help you level up.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: A truly healthy work-life balance starts at the top. It’s embedded in the culture an employer creates and reinforced by the leaders we report to directly. If that culture prioritizes wellbeing, flexibility, and respect for life outside of work, it trickles down into every corner of the organization.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: AI it still carries an element of the unknown, and with it, a healthy dose of fear. But when thoughtfully implemented, it becomes a powerful HR asset—one that gives time back to teams by automating routine tasks and streamlining processes. This shift allows teams to redirect energy toward strategic initiatives, deeper employee engagement, and impactful cultural development. It’s not about replacing the human touch—it’s about amplifying it.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: Growth is a lifelong process. Personally, I try to focus on self-awareness through reflection and feedback. Professionally, I seek environments that align with my values and offer opportunities to stretch my skills. Mentorship, continuous learning, and surrounding myself with inspiring people are key. For me, growth is about progress, not perfection.

A: One of the most meaningful initiatives in my career has been helping to build a collaborative platform through the “Between HR” events in Fargo. These gatherings and my time up here the past four years have brought together incredible HR professionals, local leaders, and nonprofits, creating space for innovation in benefits and human resources. It’s been incredibly rewarding.

OneDigital

onedigital.com
Linkedin | /weareonedigital
Facebook | /OneDigitalAdvisory
Instagram | @weareonedigital
Twitter | @weareonedigital

Tansey Cregan

Project Manager, CoBeck Construction Co., LLC

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: If there is a hard way to get somewhere or a path less traveled, it is almost a certainty I will end up on that journey! My name is Tansey, I have spent my lifetime, my career has been no exception, finding myself navigating through ambiguity. Challenges, exciting opportunities, goals not for the faint of heart, this is where I have learned I fit best; of course, it took me a hot minute to quit resisting where the universe was guiding me before I just began accepting it. I value the unique opportunity I’ve had to gain perspective from different angles that not everyone gets to experience. It’s these experiences and perspectives that are the reason I’m a disruptor. The status quo has never been something I could understand, nor get comfortable in.

As I look back, I can now see that this way of navigating life has allowed me to learn some pretty impactful lessons, as well as gain a true appreciation for those relationships along the way. I feel very fortunate to know I can be a risk taker and not only be able to come out the other side stronger, but also have a powerhouse of family, friends, and network by my side. Through each experience I can truly say I understand the reason, the lesson, and I have found friendship. For that I know I am blessed!

I hope that the way I tackle life, career, and family and the attitude I show up with will also reflect in my children as they begin their own journeys. My partner Matt and I have a full home with our blended family. Kendra is 17, Ty 14, Alex 12, and Claire 9. It is such a joy watching them grow and getting to share with them the lessons I learn, as well as teach them to share with us and each other in the same way. We stay busy yet still enjoy most our times together connecting; family dinner around the table each night or some pretty emotionally charged game night competitions!

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: The layer in the middle of the org chart.

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: The middle is where everything connects, and where so much potential often goes unnoticed. I care deeply about this layer of leadership because middle managers quietly carry the weight of culture, performance, and people. They translate vision into action, keep teams aligned and engaged, and grow future leaders—often through much ambiguity. I believe when we empower the layer that leads from the middle, we don’t just fix what’s broken—we unlock what’s possible.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: You are worth trusting! Your gut is always right for you so make sure you check in there first every time for everything, trust yourself. True alignment in your role is the game changer. From there, it is a smoother path to align with others and build connections that resonate with who you are, the work you’re doing, where you’re headed, and the way in which you want to get there.

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

A: I greatly enjoy reading case studies and finding ways to apply that knowledge and those lessons to my own work. I know I may be a bit different than others in this regard, so my top two book recommendations could be slightly more on the analytical side than some prefer. However, I’ve read each of these multiple times and each time I always take away something new that I’ve been able to successfully apply.

The first book I always recommend is “Creating a Kaizen Culture: Align the Organization, Achieve Breakthrough Results, and Sustain the Gains” by Jon Miller, Mike Wroblewski, Jaime Villafuerte.

Second is “The High-Velocity Edge: How Market Leaders Leverage Operational Excellence to Beat the Competition” by Steven J. Spear.

A: This is hands down the experience I had leading the last team I was a part of. I was an outsider coming in to lead a team of diverse cross-functioning roles. For the most part everyone was either very established in the company and their role, or brand new to one or both. This team had already been through different managers with varying leadership styles, as well as quite a bit of consistent change. Their resilience is still something I admire most from any of my experiences so far in my career. I compare my own resilience to them as my north star in everything I do.

They did not need me to show up with yet another set of different focuses and directions. Instead, they just needed someone to support them and clear the way so that they can do what each of them do best. Being mindful of showing them the potential they have always had but just needed some clarity around. When I recognized this, I knew transparency and trust had to be our primary focus as a team. This team challenged me to be authentic in every step we took—they would not let me show up in any other way than my authentic self. It was through them challenging me that I grew more in this role than I ever had before. Authentic and transparent leadership was a catalyst not only for the growth of this team, but for my growth as an individual as well.

I am so blessed to have had the experience working with that group of amazing people. Not only for the potential they tapped into in themselves and each other, but for holding me accountable to growing and finding my own potential as well.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: I am always hungry to learn; my mindset is constantly on continuously improving. Through that it leads me to always have new and fresh ways of looking at my professional landscape. It’s almost impossible to lose motivation when there is always something new and/ or progressive to learn how to tackle.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: I think for anyone, especially leaders, it is critical to be mindful of being self-aware. That is the foundation and from there leaders can have a growth focus on other key traits. Amongst those that I continue to focus on growing in are authenticity and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: I’m ashamed to admit that in the past I didn’t always handle this with a clear mind, in the best way. However, I have changed and grown to be focused on trusting the journey. I find that when I’m confidently aligned with those I trust around me (trusting myself as the first step), I can trust that I will overcome the setbacks and challenges as I am meant to. And as always, there is a lesson in everything. Embracing the lesson and applying it forward has been my approach throughout.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Show up as yourself and never be afraid to ask the questions no one else is! Build that network, it will be your sounding board, your support system, and you never know when it will be your next opportunity

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: For me there are two primary focuses for this. The first is communication, both with work and with my personal life. That clarity opens the door for authentic, meaningful, and usually needed conversation as you’re trying to navigate finding balance. The second is my planner and daily planning routine. I am a highly organized person and it all lives and dies by my planner.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: Of course, AI—this for me is a given. And not just to jump on a bandwagon. I have been an early adopter for quite a while and where the future is headed is exciting! I not only want to embrace the progress and opportunities, but I also want to help carve the path forward.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: I have always been a very goal driven person; I think this may come from just an inherent competitive nature I was born with. So, for me, I always have a fully developed goal, or a few, that I am focused on with milestones for progress. This is true in both my personal and professional life.

A: Leading the last team I was a part of! We knew we had a challenging road ahead of us to achieve what we set out to. In order to get there, it was such an honor to have them put their trust in my leadership as I developed and lead them through an organizational change model focused on Kaizen. The journey came with a lot of new learning, expectations, and accountability for everyone. To see the team become change agents, embrace continuous improvement in each of their departments and roles, and build a level of respect for each other and ownership of their outcomes—that was something I will never forget being a part of!

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: A positive culture starts with transparency, thrives through open communication, and is sustained by accountability. When people know what’s expected, feel safe to speak up, and see follow-through on what’s said, trust grows. And trust is the foundation of any great workplace.

CoBeck Construction Co., LLC

cobeckconstruction.com
Facebook | /CoBeckConstructionCo

Crystal Whalen

Chief Compliance Officer, Gate City Bank

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I was born and raised in Fargo-Moorhead. I grew up in Sabin, MN, as the daughter of two hard-working parents and three sisters—each of them inspiring me in their own way with distinct God given gifts. I am a mother to two daughters enrolled in Fargo Public Schools. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in business management with an emphasis in banking. When I can, I enjoy volunteering in the community, serving on both the Atonement Lutheran Church and Jefferson Elementary School PTA board of directors. I have a soft spot for organizations that exist to serve young people or marginalized populations.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: I’ll be talking about my profession as a compliance manager and how it’s a calling to serve people beyond just enforcing rules

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: When people hear my job is in banking compliance, their eyes gloss over, and there’s often a joke about being in the group no one wants to deal with or working where “dreams go to die,” but I see the role so much differently. One of the keys to success in any role is the ability to build and maintain relationships— compliance is a people business at the heart of it. Yes, I must be able to read and interpret very technical details of the law, but beyond that, I am just making sure that we are thinking about whether what we do is the right thing for our internal and external customers. To effectively do my job, I get to live out my core values of integrity, curiosity, and fairness every day to inspire growth, solve problems, and achieve shared objectives that deliver products and services our customers want. We spend a substantial amount of time at work each week, and to enjoy what we do, we must recognize what our values and mission are so that we can align our work to them. I found it in an unlikely field, but I’d love to help inspire other people to find joy in their work.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: Be authentic. It’s easy, especially early in your career, to try to replicate the successful model others have used, but their secret sauce isn’t yours. Your value is the gifts you were given—the authentic way you communicate, your grit, your knowledge. Be confident in your strengths and don’t underestimate the importance of the talents that are uniquely yours.

A: When I was young, I was a shift manager at a local restaurant. The time came to hire an assistant manager, and I wasn’t given the role. When I asked the owner why I wasn’t given the opportunity, she said, “I didn’t know you were interested.” As simple as that is, it was formative for me. Since then, I have made sure that I show my desire for growth both by direct communication and indirectly through action. The willingness to continue to learn and grow by taking on additional responsibilities that give me that extra depth and breadth of experience (even when it isn’t “my job”) has proven the best way for me to grow personally and professionally. I eventually became the General Manager at that restaurant before they sold to new owners, and I started my career in banking. Since then, most of my promotions were not roles that I applied for but roles I slid into because I was never afraid to do the work that enabled growth.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: I am purpose-driven; when I understand where I’m going and why I’m headed there, the motivation is there naturally. I find that when I am in a period where I am feeling unmotivated or uninspired, it’s time to seek out a new opportunity. That doesn’t necessarily mean a new job; it may be as simple as finding a new task or project to take on where I can learn, grow, and find my inspiration.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: I believe that grit is the most critical skill you can have. Never be afraid to lead with curiosity, fail forward, and try again. I can teach someone how to read a law, how to find appropriate processes to understand if they comply, but I cannot teach the ability to take the initiative to solve a problem. Effective communication is another skill critical to success. This doesn’t simply mean that you know how to present information or that you can write an email; it means catering your communication to your audience. It means getting to know the people you work with enough that you know how to approach challenging topics and provide appropriate influence rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: I am a processor and take things personally, so initially, I struggle with letting my emotions drive. Once I get past the emotional reaction, I can rationalize and create an action plan to move forward. Generally, each setback or challenge I’ve had has made me a better person, stronger, more intelligent, and more adaptable, so I try at the end of those challenging periods to remember to look back at the growth that happened as a result. This approach means I don’t allow myself to dwell on setbacks or challenges too long before looking to the future.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Don’t let yourself fall into the “it’s always been done that way” or “we tried that before, and it didn’t work” traps. If you aren’t learning and growing, you’re falling behind. Be innovative, look for ways to do better, and ask the question even if you think it’s been asked before. Be bold in pursuing growth—you don’t make a difference by standing in the background and following along with the status quo.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: This is a lifelong battle. I enjoy what I do for work, so sometimes it’s hard to disconnect. It’s beneficial to have people at work and in your personal life to hold you accountable for disconnecting and remind you why it’s crucial. I see work-life balance a little differently than most. I am a whole person both at work and in my personal life. Sometimes, when I am at home, I’m working to get things done or because I found inspiration and have an idea I want to think through—I am still an employee when I’m home. Sometimes when I’m at work, I need to make an appointment or leave to take care of a family member. Work-life balance to me is about the flexibility to be a mom, daughter, employee, etc., regardless of the time of day.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: Oh gosh. As a risk manager, the pace of change in banking is both alarming and exciting for me. The FinTech companies out there are driving us bankers to think creatively to offer innovative products and services (even if I am occasionally frustrated by the lack of regulation in that space). Use of AI makes me nervous because I fear that people won’t remember that it’s a tool, not an answer, so we need to use it wisely. That said, it’s great to be able to use this to gain efficiency in my work so that I can spend more time adding value.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: Every situation has a lesson for me to learn from it, and I believe there’s a plan for my life and a purpose I’m here to serve. I have goals I want to accomplish, but I keep myself open to possibilities.

I think growth is equal parts intention and chance—most of my development opportunities came from experiences I didn’t set out for intentionally. I enjoy reading non-fiction and finding correlations to my everyday life. I joke sometimes that I am like a toddler. I always say, “But why?” Staying curious helps me continue to grow, and even if something is unrelated to my field, there’s something I can take away from it.

A: I helped launch a few products at my former employer that were new to the industry and unproven from a regulatory perspective. We moved at a rapid pace to get to market and were creative in how we balanced risk and rewards. This allowed me to partner with people whose primary concern was moving quickly and thinking creatively, and with people who were concerned with everything that could go wrong in uncharted territory. It was fun to negotiate with both sets of people and bring them together, think creatively, and be a part of the solution. We launched quickly. The launches were not without problems, but because the team had learned to work so well together, we were able to identify and address concerns quickly. The launch of these products is one of my favorite accomplishments in my professional career, and I still watch the news and celebrate the successes of the teammates I learned so much from.

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: Honesty, integrity, and the ability to put other people ahead of yourself. Trust and collaboration drive a positive workplace culture, which cannot be cultivated when we’re all looking out for ourselves. Getting people to buy into a shared mission and knowing you’re in the trenches together makes a big difference. Giving honest information as soon as possible builds trust, which makes the difference between a workplace where you work together and one where you’re afraid to make a mistake.

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

A: I enjoyed “The Situation Room” by George Stephanopoulos and Lisa Dickey. The book takes you through each presidency since the Situation Room was formed under the Kennedy administration. It gives insight into key events throughout history and a glimpse into various leadership styles of our nation’s leaders. There’s a quote I always come back to: “Trust is the foundation of teamwork. It enables people to express dissent—another vital component of an effective Situation Room. No president is served well by sycophants and groupthink; a healthy debate is critical to finding the best path forward.” Beyond presidents and the situation room, this is a valuable reminder for leaders as well—we should aspire to create an environment where healthy debate is encouraged, where our teams and our colleagues feel safe providing a different perspective or opinion because those are the conversations that drive us forward.

Gate City Bank

Kristi Huber

Founder & Executive Coach, Perspective Shift Consulting

Q: Tell us about yourself

A: I’m an executive coach, keynote speaker, and founder of Perspective Shift Consulting. I work with high-achieving leaders and leadership teams to help them reconnect with purpose, rebuild capacity, and lead with greater clarity and alignment.

After years in executive leadership, I started noticing a pattern: leaders who were successful on paper but quietly disengaged or burned out. That experience led me to define and develop a concept I call Leadership Drift, when leaders lose connection to why their work matters, often without realizing it.

To help address that, I created the Radical Clarity framework, which helps leaders reflect on their values, voice, energy, and vision, so they can lead with intention and authenticity. My work focuses on realignment, not just performance, because when leaders are clear, they make better decisions, inspire stronger teams, and shape healthier cultures.

This has become the throughline of my career: helping leaders get back to the core of who they are so they can lead with presence and impact.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: “Want Employee Engagement That Inspires? Start With the Drift No One’s Talking About.”

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: I believe burnout is the most urgent and misunderstood challenge companies face today. The truth is, what we call burnout is often something deeper. It’s Leadership Drift.

It’s the slow, quiet disconnect that happens when high-performing leaders, especially managers, lose touch with their purpose, their energy, or their sense of alignment. And when that happens to a leader, it doesn’t just affect them it ripples across the entire team.

That’s why I care so much about this work, because I’ve been that leader. And now, I help others name what they’re feeling, reconnect with what matters, and lead from a place of clarity again.

I want leaders to have tools, not just to manage their own drift, but to recognize it in others and create space for realignment inside their teams. Because when leaders are aligned, cultures heal, teams reengage, and companies regain the capacity they didn’t even realize they had lost.

For the organizations that lean into this? It’s a game-changer. It’s the difference between a burned-out workforce and a culture built on clarity, energy, and purpose. That’s the impact I want to make.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: The next big risk to your business isn’t burnout, it’s Leadership Drift. Your managers aren’t just tired, they’re disconnected. And when they drift, so do their teams. In Gallup’s 2025 State of the Global Workplace study, they found that manager burnout is driving overall disengagement. Gallup found that 70% of team engagement is attributable to the manager. Start measuring what really drives engagement: alignment, energy, and clarity.

Build cultures where leaders don’t just perform, they pause, recalibrate, and lead with purpose. Because when leaders are lit up, teams follow. And that’s how you turn drift into momentum.

A: A pivotal moment in my career was working with a leadership team during an intentional strategic shift. I saw firsthand how disengagement wasn’t about performance; it was about misalignment. That experience clarified for me how critical it is to equip leaders with the tools to reconnect with their purpose, and it inspired the development of my Leadership Drift and Radical Clarity frameworks.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: I stay motivated by staying aligned. Motivation, for me, doesn’t come from chasing milestones anymore; it comes from reconnecting with meaning. When I feel off track, I return to my purpose: helping leaders realign with their values, vision, voice, and vitality through Radical Clarity

I’ve learned first-hand that burnout begins with misalignment. So I build in space to reflect, reset, and listen both to myself and to the leaders I serve. I believe that’s where real inspiration lives. Helping others find clarity has a way of deepening my own. And when I’m aligned, I don’t have to force motivation; my purpose does the work for me.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: Successful leaders today are those who prioritize clarity, curiosity, and coaching. They invest in their own growth by seeking coaching outside their organizations, creating space for honest reflection, fresh perspective, and deeper alignment. That external support helps them stay grounded, selfaware, and strategic in high-stakes environments.

But they don’t stop there; they bring that mindset into their teams. They ask powerful questions, develop others intentionally, and create cultures of trust and growth.

Leaders who both receive great coaching and know how to coach their teams to greatness are the ones driving engagement, resilience, and lasting impact.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: I’ve learned to see setbacks as signals and opportunities to realign. When challenges show up, I pause and ask: What is this trying to teach me? Where might I be out of alignment?

I rely on the same Radical Clarity framework I teach others, checking in on my values, vision, energy, and voice. That helps me move forward with confidence and purpose.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: My advice to young professionals is this: Don’t just chase success, pursue alignment.

Get clear on your values early and check in with them often. Understand what energizes you, what you stand for, and what kind of impact you want to make. When you’re aligned with who you are, your work becomes more meaningful and your influence more powerful. Impact doesn’t come from having all the answers; it comes from showing up with intention, curiosity, and a willingness to evolve.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: Work-life balance is something I’ve definitely had to work at. It doesn’t come naturally to me. I’m driven, I care deeply about the work I do, and it’s easy for those lines to blur.

What’s helped me most is shifting the question from balance to alignment. When I’m aligned with my values, energy, and purpose it becomes easier to set boundaries, protect my time, and stay present in both life and work.

I don’t always get it right, but I’ve learned that when I start to feel stretched thin or disconnected, it’s usually a signal to pause, reflect, and realign before burnout sets in. Alignment doesn’t guarantee balance, but it gives me a compass to come back to. reading books together at bedtime.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: One of the trends that excites me most is the growing use of executive coaching as a strategic advantage, not just a remedial tool. More leaders are recognizing that self-awareness isn’t a soft skill; it’s a performance edge. The smartest, most forward-thinking executives are investing in coaching to sharpen their clarity, expand their influence, and stay grounded in fast-changing environments.

It’s exciting to see companies finally understand that when leaders grow in alignment, everyone benefits, culture strengthens, engagement rises, and impact multiplies. Coaching is a catalyst for transformational leadership.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: I approach personal and professional growth as a nonnegotiable investment, not a luxury. For years, I’ve set aside money in my personal budget specifically for professional development. Whether it’s coaching, courses, books, or experiences, I believe growth doesn’t just happen, it has to be prioritized. Making that commitment has kept me evolving, challenged, and aligned with my purpose. The return on that investment shows up in every area of my leadership and life.

A: One initiative I’m particularly proud of is creating the Leadership Drift to Radical Clarity framework. It emerged from a challenge I’ve seen organizations struggle with for years: leaders and teams quietly disengaging, not because they lack talent or ambition, but because they’ve lost alignment with their purpose, values, or energy. For a long time, there’s been no clear answer to this problem, just surface-level solutions that never quite address the root cause. I want to change that. This framework is designed to help leaders name the drift, realign with clarity, and lead with greater presence and purpose. It’s a practical, transformative tool for re-engaging leadership and culture at every level. Helping solve this long-standing challenge is one of the most meaningful parts of my work.

“This book is a reminder that leadership isn’t about being the smartest or most strategic person in the room. It’s about being the most aware.”

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: A positive workplace culture starts with leaders who are aligned, aware, and intentional. When leaders operate with Radical Clarity, clear on their values, purpose, energy, and voice, they create environments where trust, transparency, and engagement thrive.

The biggest threat to culture isn’t conflict, it’s Leadership Drift. When leaders become disconnected from their purpose or start leading on autopilot, that disconnection trickles down and erodes morale, momentum, and meaning.

That’s why I believe executive coaching is essential not just for individual growth, but for an organization’s cultural health. Coaching helps leaders stay grounded, reflect more deeply, and lead in a way that fosters connection and clarity across the entire organization. Aligned leaders build cultures people want to be part of.

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

A: If you’re a leader searching for purpose, alignment, or a way to reconnect with what really matters, “Inspire Greatness” by Matt Tenney is a must-read.

This book is a reminder that leadership isn’t about being the smartest or most strategic person in the room. It’s about being the most aware. That’s exactly where Leadership Drift begins, when we stop being present, stop reflecting, and start performing on autopilot.

Tenney’s approach brings you back to center. He challenges leaders to lead from a place of mindfulness, service, and clarity, not ego or pressure. Leading with intention, alignment, and a deep connection to why you lead.

If you’ve been feeling disconnected in your role or you lead a team that’s burning out, this book offers more than inspiration; it offers a recalibration. Because the most powerful leaders don’t just drive performance. They create the conditions for clarity and greatness, in themselves and their teams.

Perspective Shift Consulting

perspectiveshiftconsulting.com

Annie Wood

Chief of Staff, Tellwell Story Co.

Q: Tell us about yourself

A: I’m a believer in taking action, creating meaningful connections, and putting learning into practice. In fact, you might see my motto “go first” tattooed on my arm as a reminder to initiate conversations and invite people into community. One of my missions in life is to help people find more success and ways to use their individuality to create the workplace communities they want to be part of. You can often find me nerding out about what I’ve learned from a podcast, a recent article, or attending an event.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: Wouldn’t it be great if your organization were truly invested in keeping you as part of the team without stifling your opportunities for growth and mastery of your craft? Heck yes! And it’s possible. Tellwell Story Co believes that each person needs to have a clear path toward their goals, combined with coaching and learning opportunities, rather than needing to move on to keep leveling up. At the heart of Tellwell’s “Trail Maps” initiative is a unique approach to learning and development that supports people’s evolution and lifelong learning. Using the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) framework, each teammate has co-created a plan that aligns their areas of interest for growth and learning with Tellwell’s goals for sharing stories that matter.

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: For so many people, the idea of staying feels like stagnation. They fear that being in the same job will get boring and repetitive. Being part of a team and a workplace community is often the aspect of a job that people don’t want to leave, but often end up feeling like they need to go in order to grow. I want to challenge these ideas. I care deeply about helping people find ways to evolve, grow, and move toward mastery within our organization because I know that enjoying the people we work with, paired with right-sized challenges, can lead to career satisfaction.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: Carve out time to reflect on your week so that you can learn from your experiences. Too often, I see folks miss the valuable lessons that life is offering them simply because they’re focused on their to-do list. I set a reminder in my phone each week that simply prompts me to jot down any ideas in a note by asking, “What did this week teach me?”

A: I like to share the fun fact that in my career, every job I’ve held didn’t exist before I stepped into the role. This means that I’ve never felt the need to “fill someone else’s shoes” and that I’ve had to learn to navigate ambiguity in order to make progress. These experiences have taught me to stay curious and explore different ways of tackling a problem. I’ve also learned to be sure that I’m clear on the goals and priorities, so that what I’m spending my time on is aligned with the “why” of what we’re doing.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: As my favorite college professor, Dr. Amy O’Connor, would say, “Learning is fun!” So I find ways to continue learning and challenging myself to grow. I wholeheartedly believe that keeping my brain and my heart engaged in my work is the key to staying motivated. I love building new skills, trying new ways of doing things, and finding outlets to share my learning. In my role at Tellwell, I get to support our team’s learning and growth, too! And as a team, we work with many nonprofits and mission-driven organizations to share their stories of impact, which keeps my heart in the work.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: Caring about people is the most important element of being a leader. Being able to genuinely care about the folks on your team is the foundation for having productive and respectful relationships where we can do good work together. I’ve found that when people know that I care about them and honor their efforts toward our shared goals, they’re more bought in and open to feedback.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: When I was about six years out of grad school and into my professional career, I was exhausted and overwhelmed by a role that had expanded far beyond what I originally said yes to when I joined that team. I didn’t know how to set boundaries or assert myself productively to figure out how to move forward, so I was burned out, and it was taking a toll on the people around me. After my last day at the organization, I took a month to reset and really look at the role I’d played in my own demise as well as think about what I wanted next—I called that month “Annie-tober.” From there, I sought out a counselor and a coach who could help me develop the skills to navigate challenges with better mental processes, practice assertiveness, and use strategies for proactively managing my energy. Now, I honor the anniversary of Annie-tober by reflecting on what I’ve learned in the past year, setting goals for the year ahead, and practicing gratitude for the investments I’ve made in myself.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: The world is full of people with ideas. What will set you apart is taking action on your ideas and then iterating to make them better.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: At Tellwell, I’m really fortunate to have two weeks each year (during the 4th of July and the Christmas holiday season) where we shut down the office to reset, recharge, and relax. We call it “Re:Week” and people are encouraged to explore or go on an adventure! These weeks are fun to look forward to and to plan for (in addition to other PTO!) as part of our rhythm of the year. In addition to those bigger pauses in my work, I’m committed to a morning routine that helps energize me and wake me up for the day. For me, consistency is key and helps me show up for my team.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: I love seeing more offices test out “Summer Fridays,” which is something we do all year round at Tellwell with half-day Fridays. I’ve seen the value of that extra time in my own life when I can get a jumpstart on the weekend or have a little extra “me time.” I’d love to see more organizations put systems and practices in place that support people.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: I don’t try to separate who I am as a person and who I am as a professional. For me, all my growth is both! To balance my learning, I spend time learning from thoughtleaders like Cy Wakeman or Adam Grant because they focus on leading teams and organizations as well as how to be human. I also have regular counseling sessions to work on my own issues so that I don’t work those out on the people around me. Experience is often the best teacher, so I also regularly reflect on what I’m learning by doing.

A: In the spring of 2025, Tellwell hosted WellTold: A Nonprofit Storytelling Conference for the first time ever. As the executive producer of the event, I had so much fun working with the speakers to share tactics and frameworks, designing the day of learning so that people left inspired and equipped, and weaving creativity and connection throughout the event. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from the speakers and attendees made me so proud of the learning experience our team delivered in-person to 150 folks and online to 70+ more people. We also have an active online community with learning and connection opportunities a few times each month!

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: I believe that most people want to contribute to their communities by doing work that matters alongside people they trust with a clear goal to achieve. When leaders can help their teams understand why what they’re doing is important, that’s a foundational element. Then, layering in the norms and practices so that people can trust each other builds on that. Finally, leaders are responsible for being the goalkeepers who champion what the team is working toward.

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

A: The “We Are For Good Podcast” with Jon McCoy and Becky Endicott is excellent! It’s filled with wisdom, heart, and lessons that people in any organization can apply to leading, learning, and innovating.

A book that I love and re-read at least annually is “The Answer to How is Yes: Acting on What Matters” by Peter Block. Every time I read it, I’m challenged to focus on the why and purpose of my goals instead of getting sucked into the how

Tellwell Story Co.

wetellwell.com
Facebook | /wetellwell
Instagram | @wetellwell

James Bergman

Early Intervention Specialist, Pediatric Partners | Artist, James Bergman LLC

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I am an intuitive songwriter specializing in custom collaborative songwriting for individuals, organizations, and businesses. I also work as a speech-language pathologist in early Intervention (birth to 3 years old services in the home with a parent coaching model). Prior to this position, I worked in the schools for 10 years. My wife and I live in Fargo with our two kids (6 and 8) and our dog, Butters.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: I will be talking about an injury I sustained while working in the schools. While getting hurt on the job is not uncommon, my experience was extremely unusual and brought about a massive shift in my life and my worldview. If it wasn’t for this incident, I have no idea who I would be right now. By realizing what made this injury possible, I discovered how wellness is so much more than just healing what happened to us; it is realizing who we are and what we were made to do.

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: It feels so essential to where we are right now as a collective. The world around us, and especially the world of work, is changing so rapidly. A lot of us are not prepared for how these changes might impact our futures. By getting a better understanding of who we are and the invisible burdens we all carry with us, we can uncover the power to adapt and shift into the new roles that this moment demands. We can realize that we are all connected and find new ways to better the lives of ourselves, our families, and the communities we are being called to create.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: Do what you love. If you can find a way to make a living doing it, even better, but when we make time to follow our passions, they lead us to a better place. They help us grow. They help us thrive. It is easy to find other things that seem more urgent, but the things that light us up help to lighten our load. They can give us the energy we need to approach the mundane yet necessary tasks with more levity and a different perspective. When we prioritize play, we provide those around us with permission to do the same. By doing what we love, we shift ourselves toward a new understanding of life and work.

A: One experience that significantly shaped my career was realizing that it is okay to follow your passion. A few years into my career in the schools, I was having lunch with some speech therapists in the district, and we talked about a position that opened up in Early Childhood Special Education. I was working at a high school at the time, but I loved (and still love) working with younger kids, and this position seemed perfect. The thing that was holding me back was my devotion to my coworkers and the team that I was a part of. I was used to going wherever the district needed me. I was just happy that I had a secure job, a good union, and a reasonable schedule. One coworker in particular said that if I wanted the job, I should just apply. By taking that leap and doing what was right for me, I started to pay more attention to what it was that I wanted. Since that time, I have made more and bigger shifts toward a career path that reflects the life I want to create for myself and that allows me to share the gifts that I have to offer the world.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: I stay motivated and inspired by realizing that all of the experiences we have are leading us somewhere. It is difficult to have this perspective when we are in the middle of a situation we wish we didn’t have to deal with, but the lessons we take from it make us stronger. These episodes build our resilience and give us the tools we need for what is to come. The reasons we are who we are and know what we know are the experiences that shaped us. They bring us to where we find ourselves and give us the skills we need to move forward. This realization can help us accept ourselves and our situations even when they are not what we would have chosen. The future versions of ourselves need us to be where we are right now. Even though we usually don’t realize this in the moment, as Steve Jobs put it, “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward.”

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: Curiosity, humility, and big-picture thinking. I think many of us are used to leaders who pretend to have all the answers. Some of us are still seeking this. But when leaders realize what they don’t know, they can begin to ask questions and invite others in to help understand our problems from a different perspective. I have been involved in industries where everyone is used to doing things a certain way and doesn’t give pause to ask “Why?”. So much of the time, we are so busy doing what we are doing, we don’t slow down to ask, “How can we do this better?” By actively listening to the experiences of others, leaders have the opportunity to broaden their perspective and understand challenges from multiple angles. By asking questions, welcoming others in, and learning from their experiences, we have an opportunity to develop our leadership skills and move away from “the way it has always been done.”

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: This has been difficult in the past. Sometimes, I can see the positive impact that a certain project could have on our community, but when others can’t, or won’t, it is easy to take it personally. Over the years, I have begun to understand that each setback and challenge is a lesson that is teaching us something we came here to learn. When a certain initiative I was developing was not acknowledged a few years ago, I was frustrated, but that experience made me understand that sometimes we see things that the future will hold, but it is not yet the time or place. When things don’t work out the way we think they should, it is important to acknowledge how we are feeling, allow ourselves to feel it and let it go, and wonder where it will take us next, and what important truths we have learned as a result.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Get to know yourself. It is easy to go down a career path and have a specific idea about what a professional in that industry should look like. Often, we contort ourselves to fit into the boxes and categories that we imagine others expect of us. There is nothing wrong with being adaptable. That is a necessary skill in almost any work environment, but by taking time to know yourself, your skills, your values, and your dreams, you can shape your own vision for the future.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: Making time to do what you love and prioritizing self-care is such an important part of finding balance in your life. In my current position, I am driving around a lot. This provides a lot of time for inspiration. One of the things I love about songwriting is that it can be done almost anywhere. As I am driving, I often listen to books on tape or podcasts, and when I hear something that sounds like it belongs in a song, I take note. I might make a voice memo or start a Google Doc, and give that idea some space to develop. Having that freedom inspires and invigorates me. I also find that taking time for what lights me up provides the energy and inspiration I need to focus on my job when I need to.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: Emerging Digital Academy. Yes, it’s a coding bootcamp, and it may not be a trend or a technology, but it offers the chance to utilize technology and create new trends that could benefit any industry. EDA provides an avenue for local individuals, businesses, or organizations to have a dream realized. Every cohort has an opportunity to work on “client projects,” and members of our local community have the chance to propose different projects they would like some help with. The students and staff are incredible to work with, and each one’s knowledge and background provides a slightly different perspective. I have had the opportunity to work with them on two occasions, and both were amazing reminders that we can do so much more when we know the local resources around us and invite others to work on a common goal.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: We are always growing, but everything has a season. In the past, I would have viewed personal and professional growth as a line graph that keeps pointing up. We take a course, learn a new skill, and keep moving upwards towards the next one. But part of growth is rest. Over the last few years, I have been diving into the area of personal growth and development, but sometimes, all this striving to learn the next new thing just ends up reinforcing this idea of “not-enoughness.” By taking time to metabolize and integrate what we have learned rather than just moving on to the next new thing, we have the chance to continue our own personal and professional growth, even when we are not in the middle of actively working on it.

Book/Podcast Recs

“Talking to Strangers” by Malcolm Gladwell
“Soul Boom” by Rainn Wilson
“We Can Do Hard Things” by Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle
“The Bible for Normal People” by Pete Enns and Jared Byas

A: I love living in Fargo. “Fargo feels like a city with a small town’s heart and soul,” as I put it in one of my songs. It is big enough that there is always something new to learn about, and it is small enough that if you want to be a part of it, you can. The one thing that I noticed is that while we have many amazing community programs and organizations, there is no great system for helping people find what they need.

That is why I started “The Milestone Park Project.” Emerging Digital Academy helped me to develop a website that lets parents complete developmental checklists and get recommendations for services based on those results. My initial idea was to put signs in school parks that include a list of expectations for kids entering kindergarten and a QR code that links to the website. While this idea is still in the process of being actualized, I think this could be transformative for kids and their parents.

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: Authenticity is essential. When people can bring their whole selves into the workplace without fear of judgment, it becomes a place where they can explore and express who they are, rather than who they think they are expected to be. When people feel comfortable being themselves, they are more able to share their gifts and experiences in a way that benefits the entire organization. As people open up about what they care about, their workplace can help them do more and find ways to integrate those passions into their work. This also provides a shining example for what is possible in our jobs and our lives when we show up as who we truly are.

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

A: I just finished reading “Talking to Strangers” by Malcolm Gladwell. I always enjoy his books, but this one felt very relevant right now. Beyond just the main points—how we “default to truth”, assume people are transparent, often misinterpret behaviors, and need to use caution and humility when dealing with others, one big takeaway for me was how the strategies that work in one situation don’t automatically translate to others. By focusing on the bigger picture, and realizing there are pieces still out of frame, we can think more critically about be more effective as professionals and citizens.

I also have been loving podcasts like “Soul Boom” by Rainn Wilson, “We Can Do Hard Things” by Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle, and “The Bible for Normal People” by Pete Enns and Jared Byas.

Follow James on:

Pediatric Partners

sevitahealth.com/pediatric-partners

Dave Erickson

VP of Operations, Grafstrom Construction | Worship Director, Hawley Lutheran Church

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I’m married to my lovely wife, Amie, and we live in Hawley with our 3 kids—Josiah (9), Mara (7), and Luka (1). I work as the VP of Operations at Grafstrom Construction in Fargo. I’m also the Wednesday Worship Director at Hawley Lutheran Church. My hobbies outside of work and leading the band at church include strength training, running, cold plunges, reading, podcasts, and spending time with my family at the lake.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: Death and Dying. Gratitude. Memento Mori.

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: We push death and dying as far to the fringes as we possibly can in American culture. Other cultures around the world have a much healthier relationship to death and dying. Why? What do they do differently? How do they handle difficult times as it relates to the topic? I’m passionate about this topic because embracing the fact that I’m going to die someday, in fact actively reminding myself of it every single morning, has been one of the greatest life hacks I’ve ever encountered. It gives every day infinitely more meaning. It makes every goodnight kiss to my wife and three kids that much more powerful. We’re so scared of it, but we don’t need to be. With the right mindset, we can turn this unavoidable fact of life into a catalyst for living more fully and meaningfully.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: Focus on providing value to all the people around you—even if it’s unpaid at first or it’s “not your job.” The money usually catches up.

A: The biggest thing for me was waiting very patiently for what some might have thought was “too long” for the right opportunity to come along. I was working a few part-time jobs to provide for my family (trucking pigs, painting houses, and carpentry). My dad and I were working our way through about 400 corn cobs outside my huge country garden, making “freezer corn,” and he asked me (kindly and caringly) when I was going to figure out what I’m doing with my life. I told him, “I’m just not sure yet, but when the right opportunity comes, I’ll know.” About a year after that moment, Hans (owner of Grafstrom Construction) called and offered me a full-time management position at the company. I jumped at it, and the rest is history!.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: Working hard to provide for my family is the low-hanging fruit here. We all need to pay the bills right?! I’ve seen families struggle to make ends meet financially, and that causes so much stress on the whole family, and especially a marriage. So first and foremost, I work hard (and budget harder) to ensure we can live a minimally stressful life from a financial standpoint. The second thing that motivates and inspires me is witnessing firsthand how much I grow as an individual due to the challenges faced in the workplace. Problems arise. Sometimes surprising and unexpected ones. Being forced to handle bigger and bigger problems translates into more and more personal growth (in my humble opinion). And that growth can have a major impact on how a person handles all the “life things” outside of work/the workplace. The challenges I face at work make me a better person outside of work.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: Humility. Openness. Willingness to admit when they’re wrong. Willingness to admit when they don’t know the answer to something.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: Trust the process. Know that if you’re providing value to others, you’ll always have a place somewhere in the world of work.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Go above and beyond. And if co-workers tease you about “being a suck up,” don’t apologize. Let them have that crappy opinion. They’ll bear the fruits of their labor ,and you’ll bear yours. Play the long game. Have grit.

Find ways to automate. Identify the processes you know you’ll be doing repeatedly in your job, and find ways to streamline them and make them more efficient. You’re essentially buying back time.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: I have a checklist of five daily physical/mental health habits. If I don’t do at least three of them each day, I’ve failed. They are: meditate, cold plunge, breathwork, reading (at least 30 minutes), and exercise (at least 30 minutes). When I do those things at some point throughout my day, they recharge me and make me more productive in the time I’m actively grinding at the keyboard.

Don’t work past 6 p.m. unless you’re facing unusual circumstances. Most of the time, it can wait until the next day. Go touch grass. Spend time with people you love.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: Vibe coding and LLMs are incredible tools. They’ve made many of my processes faster, more accurate, and more efficient.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: By not putting a bunch of focus on it. If you’re doing the right things, it happens naturally.

Right things = physical health (exercise, diet, cold exposure, heat exposure), mental health (spirituality/ religion, meditation, healthy relationships), work/life balance, and knowing that someday I’ll be permanently parked underneath a grave stone. Nobody on their deathbed says, “Geez, I wish I had spent more time at work so I could have gotten that promotion.”

A: I’m just proud of helping one of my best friends (Hans Grafstrom) build a successful business!

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: Radical and open honesty— even if it hurts. Have the tough conversations. Don’t let stuff fester. Everyone says that… actually doing it is a different story.

Book Recs

“The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” by John Maxwell
“Good Energy” by Casey Means
“Winter Swimming” by Susanna Soberg
“What Doesn’t Kill Us” by Scott Carney
“Breakfast With Seneca” by David Fideler
“The Comfort Crisis” by Michael Easter

Grafstrom Construction

grafstrom.co
Facebook | /GrafstromConstruction
Instagram | @grafstromconstruction
Youtube | @verymuchconstruction

Hawley Lutheran Church

hawleylutheran.org
Facebook | /hawleylutheran
Instagram | @hawleylutheran
Youtube | hawleylutheran_mn

Darcy Bakkegard

Co-Founder, The Educators’ Lab

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I believe in the power of education to change lives and the power of teachers to lead that change. To help teachers do this work, I co-founded The Educators’ Lab USA and am a board member of The Educators’ Lab Global. I design and facilitate The Teacher Empowerment Incubator, a pilot program that supports rural teachers as community collaborators and problem-solvers.

I want to drive change in education and empower teachers as changemakers. Through my work, teachers reconnect with their purpose, rekindle their spark for teaching, and reignite the joy of teaching and learning. This method, while originally formulated with teachers in mind, transcends occupation and has proven helpful and effective for anyone.

In addition to my joy work, I’m the co-author of The Startup Teacher Playbook, a frequent contributor to Edutopia, I hold a Master’s of Secondary Education, am an ISTE Certified Educator, and am an experienced international presenter and keynote speaker. I’m always up for brainstorming and collaborating. I lives in Fargo with my husband and our triplets.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: The power of—and need for—joy. And specifically, the necessity of and rejuvenating power of joy, and how we can use that energy to help us address the problems we face

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: Because life is pretty shitty. And it is also amazing. Which factors are you going to focus on? We don’t have time for people to wax poetically about the past or stew and rut about what’s wrong (in the world, in our community, in our places of employment, etc). We need people to do something. And there is ample evidence that by doing—by taking action—we can not only make a difference, we can improve our own mental and physical wellbeing. From that perspective, why isn’t everyone passionate about joy?

A: Not specific, but ubiquitous. Two things:

1. The general negativity around professional development/professional learning.

2. The tendency for people to “Yeah, but…” themselves into not even trying new things. They’ve heard no so many times; they have the judgment of dozens of people occupying their brain space; they immediately think of all the reasons why something might not work they never take the first steps to even try.

Learning new things should be joyful. Finding the answers to the challenges we face should be and is joyful. I want to shift the “Yeah, but’s…” to conversations centered around “What if…”. There is amazing power in “what if” and when we capture that energy and try new things, when we turn problems into possibilities, we unlock so much joy and help make the world better.

Yeah, I know how cheesy this all sounds; I can hear myself. But I’m tired of seeing students who don’t care. I’m tired of seeing amazing teachers (or insert any profession) burning out and quitting because they just can’t do it anymore. I want everyone to know that they have the power to spark change. I want that for students and teachers; for moms and nurses; for anyone who’s frustrated and feeling like their ideas (or they themselves) don’t matter.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: At a workshop this summer (the Teacher Empowerment Incubator training in May), a veteran teacher of 24 years looked at the group and shared: “I looked at the roster of people in this group and I was like, I’m the oldest person here. I’ve been teaching the longest. I’m losing my spark. I’m losing my fight in a community of no’s. I needed the spark. Now (after the training) I’m like—yeah! Let’s kickass!”

That’s a pretty good motivator.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: Trust. Empathy. Listening

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: I try to control what I can control: My perspective, perception, and actions. Sure, I may rage or whine for a bit (ask my poor husband), but generally and sincerely, any setback is an opportunity to reassess. To try something different. Without fail, in my life and in my short business journey, every “setback” has yielded powerful opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Look at who and what needs help, what needs to shift, what needs to give or grow, and do your best to help.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: Well, I have five-year-old triplets, so if I work too much, they get really mad at me and complain. Okay, they rage. That has basically meant I work when they are at preschool or asleep. They are also common guests at most of my virtual meetings.

For me, the imbalance right now is that I want to be working more. I love what I do. This work truly brings me joy, and my brain is happier when I’m working. In turn, I’m a better person and mom, and wife when I’m able to feed my soul. But I also remind myself that I will never get my kids as little kids again. So when I get frustrated that the balance is leaning heavily on being a mom, I try to shift my perspective and remember that I only get this time with them once. That helps.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: With the addition of AI tools and the myriad capacity-building benefits they present, I’m hopeful that this shift helps us double down on and re-commit to human connections. We build our capacity for collaboration and problem-solving in new ways.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: Ideally, with a design thinking lens: what isn’t working? Priya Parker writes in “The Art of Gathering:” Start with what you want to be different and go from there. While she’s talking about hosting gatherings, it’s just sound advice: What do you want to be different? Then work backwards, looking for strategies, resources, and people that can help you create the difference.

A: The Teacher Empowerment Incubator

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: Joy.

The Educators’ Lab

LinkedIn | /educatorslab
Facebook | /educatorslab
Instagram | @StartupTeacher
Youtube | @educatorslab1018

Devlyn Brooks

Chief Executive Officer, Churches United

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I am married to one rad cat who still thinks the ’80s rule. She keeps me honest, young and driven in mission. Shelley and I met way back in college, but reconnected later in life to marry and blend our families. We have four children: Garrett and his wife Anna who live in Lakeville, MN; Carter who lives in Minneapolis; Ava and her boyfriend Hunter who live in Fargo; and Siri, a senior at Moorhead High School. Our menagerie at home includes two rescue huskies named “Gus Gus” and “Howie” and two cats named “Ginger” and “Little Girl.” I love pastoring, writing, reading and throwing worms in the lake. Which some people call fishing. I’m an ordained pastor in the ELCA and have served Faith Lutheran Church in Wolverton, MN, for eight years. Last year I published my first book; I write a weekly faith-focused newspaper column that appears in 45 newspapers in seven states; and I host a podcast called “Lead with Light” for the Dakota Medical Foundation.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: Embrace Yes!

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: I believe that faith calls us into action. We’re not supposed to live our lives based on our fears. But rather we are called to people of action; people who do; people who serve; people who lead. And we do so much more confidently when we embrace saying “yes” in our most challenging moments.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: The details matter. What I mean is that you play how you practice. And if your shortcutting the small things, it eventually will be revealed. Sorry friends, there are no shortcuts in life that don’t come without consequences.

A: Being laid off from a software firm that I built. The company was purchased by a larger company, and it became apparent there wasn’t a new role for me. This ended a 30-year run in the media and forced me to come to terms with the fact that it’s not what we do that defines us, but rather how we show up in whatever role we currently have that does. I never dreamt that I would leave media. Then I found out there was an entirely new role waiting for me that I could never have imagined. Friends, the right role will find you if you are prepared. I promise.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: It’s pretty easy to stay motivated when you work at an agency that serves 500 of your neighbors every single day. But also, I embrace yes. When new opportunities come along, my first instinct isn’t to shy away. You really can’t be afraid to take on new adventures. It is the greatest learning lab you’ll ever know.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: Curiosity, a willingness to learn, empathy, flexibility, imagination, and the ability to surround themselves with colleagues who are smarter than them.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: As my Mama taught us: “One day at a time, son. One day at a time.” I never knew the deep insight in that seemingly simple advice as I grew up. I only understood it after she passed, and I went through a series of deeply personal losses. You can’t rush heartbreak; you can’t ignore or bury it. Our society teaches us to rush through difficult emotions. But those who possess wisdom understand that you don’t get through life without scars. So… take each setback one day at a time and lean into what your grief is telling you. You will learn a lot about yourself.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: Learn everything. Do all the shitty jobs. It’s in that process you’ll learn who you are, and you’ll build empathy for later for those you’ll lead. Sorry, friends, there are no shortcuts. Leaders earn their respect; it’s not by anointment.

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: Umm, well, I maybe am not the one to ask. But let me just say this: We get done what we prioritize. You’d be surprised what you can do when you decide the elements in your life that fill your cup, and which are filler. Cut the filler

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: Corporate culture embracing flexibility; willingness to rethink what “benefits” means to employees; younger generations embracing physical media again; colleges rethinking what a “major” means.

Book Recs

“Abundance” by “The Holy Bible” Derek Thompson and Ezra Klein
“The Fifth Discipline” by Peter M. Senge
“I Had a Hammer” by Hank Aaron
“The Holy Bible”

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: Embrace Yes! No, seriously. I never sabotage opportunities for growth or new challenges by allowing my inner anxiety to lead me immediately to say no. This has led to some really awesome opportunities I never could have dreamt of for myself. Do your self work. Know who you are. Find your peace with that person. When you do, the growth opportunities will chase you. I promise.

A: The life-saving work we do every single day at Churches United to serve 500 of our neighbors.

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: Embrace Yes! If you create space in an organization so that everyone isn’t afraid to “Embrace Yes!”, you’ll attract and keep employees who are inspired to grow. A leader who understands that there a quite a number of positions in which a person’s attitude and aptitude are far more important than their skills. Be willing to hire those people and help them integrate into your organization. Give me someone who burns with passion and curiosity over a person who merely possesses talent every day of the week.

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

A: Well, you mean other than mine? I’d highly recommend “Abundance” by Derek Thompson and Ezra Klein; “The Fifth Discipline” by Peter M. Senge; “I Had a Hammer” by Hank Aaron; and the Gospel of Mathew. No, seriously, there’s some good stuff in there.

Book Recs

“Abundance” by “The Holy Bible” Derek Thompson and Ezra Klein
“The Fifth Discipline” by Peter M. Senge
“I Had a Hammer” by Hank Aaron
“The Holy Bible”

Churches United

churches-united.org
Facebook | /1901ChurchesUnited
Instagram | @churches_united
LinkedIn | /churches-united-for-homeless

Bree Gill

Human Resources and Administration Manager, Burian & Associates, LLC

Q: Tell us about yourself

A: I was born and raised in Fargo and still call it home today with my amazing husband, Andrew. Together, we have a beautifully blended family of six kids, one cat, and a giant Cane Corso who definitely keeps life interesting. I spent about a decade as a stay-at-home mom before making the leap into the workforce at 30—something which felt scary but exciting at the same time. After trying a few jobs that didn’t quite click, I found my place at Burian & Associates in 2022, and I haven’t looked back

Being part of a growing small business, I unexpectedly found myself stepping into an HR role— and quickly realized it’s exactly where I’m meant to be. I love the work, the people, and the constant opportunity to support others while learning something new every day. Outside of work, I’m usually running between football games, concerts, and shows with our kids. I also love working out, spending time with my husband, and collecting some of the world’s weirdest pets—from praying mantises to whip scorpions. Creepy crawlies have always had a place in my heart!

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

A: My topic is “Sparkles, Stereotypes, and Showing Up as Me”—it’s part HR, part personal storytelling, and part glitter. I’ll dive into the evolving world of workplace attire and how outdated dress codes are often less about professionalism and more about policing identity. From blazers to sparkly boots, we’ll talk about how self-expression shows up at work, and why it’s time we stop pretending “business casual” means the exact same thing for everyone. It’s about giving people permission to show up as themselves—sparkles, tattoos, personality, and all. Expect a few laughs, some uncomfortable truths, and definitely a reference to my long nails.

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

A: For too long, I tried to shrink parts of myself to blend in in every aspect of my life. I worried that sparkles were too much, that my style or long nails would make people take me less seriously, or that I needed to blend in to belong. But the truth is, the more I showed up as me, the more confident I felt, and I get better at my job when I feel good. Working in HR, I see how often people feel like they need to dim who they are just to be accepted at work. I’m passionate about challenging that. Authenticity is a strength that people shouldn’t have to trade in for a job title.

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

A: Don’t be afraid to grow into who you are, even if you start late, or it looks different from what you pictured, or it feels scary. Some of the best things in my life came from just saying yes and figuring it out along the way.

A: One experience that really shaped my career was working on our company handbook. As a relatively new HR professional in a growing small business, the project gave me the chance to understand the company’s values, culture, and people. What made it especially meaningful was the trust and support the leadership showed me through the process – they believe in my abilities and gave me the space to help shape something important. I realized this wasn’t just a job, but a place I could make a meaningful impact by helping create a workplace where people feel supported and heard.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

A: There are a few key things—my incredible team, my strawberry rockstar, and the amazing people I’ve met along the way in this field. While my energy drink gets me through busy days, it’s really the support and collaboration with my team that keeps me inspired. I’m reminded every day how awesome it is to work with people who care about their work and each other.

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

A: The best leaders today are the ones who really get that people are different and that it’s a good thing. They listen, care, and make sure everyone feels like they belong. They’re flexible and can handle change when change is necessary. Being transparent and honest helps build trust within the team. Great leaders create a space where people can be themselves and do their best work.

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

A: Setbacks and challenges are part of the journey, and they are inevitable. When they happen, I take a deep breath, remind myself that it’s normal to face setbacks at times, and figure out what I can learn from the circumstance. I try to stay patient and lean on my team and support system for help when I need it. And sometimes, a quick break helps me reset and tackle the issue.

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

A: My biggest advice would be to do the scary thing. Step outside your comfort zone, take on challenges that feel a little too big. Impact isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being brave enough to try

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

A: Honestly, I don’t always have strict boundaries. If I’m not busy, I’ll often read and answer emails outside of “regular work hours.” But I balance that by being fully present with my family and prioritizing important events. I also make sure to step away and recharge when I need to, whether that’s an early lunch or working from home to have a change of pace.

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

A: Right now, AI powered recruiting is my jam. I am eager to learn about how it can help find the right people faster. I will also stop and watch company videos on social media. It’s really cool to see how they are using drones, creative lighting, and even TikTok to make awesome content.

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

A: Personal and professional growth go hand in hand for me. Being willing to step into the unknown and learn, even if it’s uncomfortable. Celebrating small wins along the way helps me stay motivated.

A: One project I am especially proud of is creating a working SOP. Starting from scratch meant gathering input from everyone, understanding key processes, and putting them into guidelines that are clear. Building something foundational has been a time-consuming but valuable learning experience.

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

A: This starts with trust, respect, and communication. One of the most important things is allowing everyone a chance to share what matters to them. When people feel heard, they’re more engaged. It also takes consistency and a genuine commitment to support each other, not just professionally, but as people. A strong culture is built when everyone has a voice and feels they’re part of something that values them.

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

A: I encourage making reading or listening a regular habit. Anything that sparks your interests or challenges your thinking. With so much content available online now, you can easily listen throughout your day.

Burian & Associates, LLC

burianassociates.com
Facebook | /burianassociates
Instagram | @burianassociates
LinkedIn | /burian-and-associates-llc

Christy Jacobson

Q: Tell us about yourself.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

Q: Can you share a specific experience that has significantly shaped your career?

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

Q: Can you share an example of a project or initiative that you’re particularly proud of?

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

Charissa Quinlan

Q: Tell us about yourself.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

Q: Can you share a specific experience that has significantly shaped your career?

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

Q: Can you share an example of a project or initiative that you’re particularly proud of?.

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

Josh Kampa

Q: Tell us about yourself.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

Q: Can you share a specific experience that has significantly shaped your career?

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

Q: Can you share an example of a project or initiative that you’re particularly proud of?

Tansey Cregan

Q: Tell us about yourself.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

Q: Can you share a specific experience that has significantly shaped your career?

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

Q: Can you share an example of a project or initiative that you’re particularly proud of?

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

Crystal Whalen

Chief Compliance Officer, Gate City Bank

Q: Tell us about yourself.

Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?

Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?

Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?

Q: Can you share a specific experience that has significantly shaped your career?

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?

Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?

Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?

Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?

Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?

Q: Can you share an example of a project or initiative that you’re particularly proud of?

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?

Q: Do you have any book or podcast recommendations?

Kristi Huber

Founder & Executive Coach, Perspective Shift Consulting

Q: Tell us about yourself