On this episode of One Step Beyond, we are joined by Dirk Lemmenes, Music Industry Professional.

In this conversation, Dirk Lemmenes reflects on his journey from musician to artist manager, illustrating how the values of punk and hardcore culture, community, grit, and authenticity, have shaped his career in music management. He and Aram discuss how his early experiences performing and touring taught him adaptability, collaboration, and the importance of building relationships grounded in trust and respect.

Dirk dives into the realities of being an artist manager, emphasizing the balance between supporting an artist’s creative vision and managing the business dynamics behind it. Dirk explains that effective management requires servant leadership: listening deeply, communicating clearly, and maintaining the artist’s goals as the central focus. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between friendship and professionalism in the music industry, where personal relationships often overlap with work. Through this lens, Dirk shares how strong communication and empathy are key to resolving conflicts and keeping a team aligned toward shared success.

The discussion also explores the emotional and personal aspects of career evolution, leaving a consuming role, rediscovering identity, and finding new meaning through change. Dirk reflects on how taking risks, embracing discomfort, and adapting to new environments have fueled his personal and professional growth.

Whether navigating team dynamics or redefining what success looks like, his story is a reminder that growth often comes from the unknown, and that authenticity remains the foundation of lasting impact.

ON THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT

• Feedback is a leadership tool. Honest, respectful communication, especially during conflict, builds trust and fosters innovation.
• Work-life balance sustains performance. Recognizing when to pause and reset prevents burnout and fuels long-term creativity and focus.
• Growth comes from discomfort. Taking risks, embracing uncertainty, and stepping outside comfort zones lead to personal and professional transformation.
• Community matters. Strong teams thrive when people feel seen, valued, and connected to a common purpose.

Connect with Dirk:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-lemmenes-456854277/

About Aram Arslanian:
Cadence was established in 2016 by Aram Arslanian, a coach, therapist, and executive with over 20 years of experience. His background in business, counselling, and performance has enabled him to build a firm uniquely positioned to support organizations in developing their talent. Aram’s approach to leadership and communication is informed by research, his therapeutic experience, and his lived experience as an executive leader.

Connect with Aram:
www.linkedin.com/in/aram-arslanian-cadencelc/

About the company:
Cadence Leadership + Communication is a professional development company dedicated to unlocking true leadership potential. We guide individuals to lead authentically and effectively with a unique blend of mindset and skill set development that is rooted in psychology. Our team is laser-focused on meaningful change and empowering clients to break free from limiting habits. Cadence has worked globally with leaders and their teams from the C-suite to the frontlines and has engaged with companies from a diverse range of industries. At Cadence, our passion is helping people become their greatest selves so they can create a lasting impact in the workplace and beyond.

Coaching | 360 Assessments | Team 360 A...

On this episode of One Step Beyond, we are joined by Dirk Lemmenes, Music Industry Professional.

In this conversation, Dirk Lemmenes reflects on his journey from musician to artist manager, illustrating how the values of punk and hardcore culture, community, grit, and authenticity, have shaped his career in music management. He and Aram discuss how his early experiences performing and touring taught him adaptability, collaboration, and the importance of building relationships grounded in trust and respect.

Dirk dives into the realities of being an artist manager, emphasizing the balance between supporting an artist’s creative vision and managing the business dynamics behind it. Dirk explains that effective management requires servant leadership: listening deeply, communicating clearly, and maintaining the artist’s goals as the central focus. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between friendship and professionalism in the music industry, where personal relationships often overlap with work. Through this lens, Dirk shares how strong communication and empathy are key to resolving conflicts and keeping a team aligned toward shared success.

The discussion also explores the emotional and personal aspects of career evolution, leaving a consuming role, rediscovering identity, and finding new meaning through change. Dirk reflects on how taking risks, embracing discomfort, and adapting to new environments have fueled his personal and professional growth.

Whether navigating team dynamics or redefining what success looks like, his story is a reminder that growth often comes from the unknown, and that authenticity remains the foundation of lasting impact.

ON THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT

• Feedback is a leadership tool. Honest, respectful communication, especially during conflict, builds trust and fosters innovation.
• Work-life balance sustains performance. Recognizing when to pause and reset prevents burnout and fuels long-term creativity and focus.
• Growth comes from discomfort. Taking risks, embracing uncertainty, and stepping outside comfort zones lead to personal and professional transformation.
• Community matters. Strong teams thrive when people feel seen, valued, and connected to a common purpose.

Connect with Dirk:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-lemmenes-456854277/

About Aram Arslanian:
Cadence was established in 2016 by Aram Arslanian, a coach, therapist, and executive with over 20 years of experience. His background in business, counselling, and performance has enabled him to build a firm uniquely positioned to support organizations in developing their talent. Aram’s approach to leadership and communication is informed by research, his therapeutic experience, and his lived experience as an executive leader.

Connect with Aram:
www.linkedin.com/in/aram-arslanian-cadencelc/

About the company:
Cadence Leadership + Communication is a professional development company dedicated to unlocking true leadership potential. We guide individuals to lead authentically and effectively with a unique blend of mindset and skill set development that is rooted in psychology. Our team is laser-focused on meaningful change and empowering clients to break free from limiting habits. Cadence has worked globally with leaders and their teams from the C-suite to the frontlines and has engaged with companies from a diverse range of industries. At Cadence, our passion is helping people become their greatest selves so they can create a lasting impact in the workplace and beyond.

Coaching | 360 Assessments | Team 360 A...

On this episode of One Step Beyond, we are joined by Dara Waitkus, Founder, The Piped Peony Academy.

On this episode, Aram sits down with In this episode, Dara Waitkus, founder of The Piped Peony Academy. Dara shares how she turned her love for buttercream flower piping into a
thriving global community for bakers and artists. A self-taught expert, Dara began as a cottage baker and quickly became overwhelmed by orders, until she discovered her true passion: teaching. Through her signature Blooming Buttercream, Dara has empowered thousands of bakers to create realistic, detailed floral designs. Her Academy, launched in 2022, now offers a comprehensive learning platform filled with unlimited classes, exclusive recipes, and an engaged support
community.

Aram and Dara delve into her story, one of connection, resilience, and purpose. She emphasizes that meaningful learning happens through human connection, not isolation, and believes that community is the key to mastering any craft. By fostering an environment where “I” becomes “we,” she’s built a space where bakers help one another grow, blending
storytelling, empathy, and shared experience into every lesson. Her approach integrates systematic, step-by-step teaching with encouragement and a growth mindset, reminding students that failure is a natural part of mastery.

Throughout the conversation, Dara reflects on leadership lessons learned from others in her field: focus on your strengths, lead with passion instead of competition, and commit to the long game. She also opens up about her struggles with impostor syndrome, the challenges of scaling a growing platform, and balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood. Her journey reminds us that expertise isn’t defined by formal education, it’s built through passion, persistence, and community.

THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT

• Mastery comes from curiosity and adaptability, not just formal education. The best leaders learn every angle of
  their craft and make it their own.
• Expertise is both technical and human. Understanding people, context, and communication is what elevates skill to
  mastery.
• Listen to demand signals. Repeated requests can reveal unmet market needs and hidden growth opportunities.
• Overcoming imposter syndrome is an ongoing process of reframing effort as evidence of worth.

About Dara Waitkus:
As a mom, wife, foodie, and artist, Dara turned her passion for flower piping into something more. After watching endless unhelpful YouTube videos, she knew The Piped Peony Academy had the potential to help cottage bakers of all skill levels refine their techniques petal-by-petal. Additionally, members can connect with other decorators through their online community to share creations and learn from others.

Connect with Dara:
https://thepipedpeony.com

About Aram Arslanian:
Cadence was established in 2016 by Aram Arslanian, a coach, therapist, and executive with over 20 years of experience. His background in business, counselling, and performance has enabled him to build a firm uniquely positioned to support organizations in developing their talent. Aram’s approach to leadership and communication is informed by research, his therapeutic experience, and his lived experience as an executive leader.

Connect with Aram:
www.linkedin.com/in/aram-arslanian-cadencelc/

About the company:
Cadence Leadership + Communication is a professiona...

On this episode of One Step Beyond, we are joined by Ki Seok Seo, Chief Marketing Officer.

In this episode, Aram sits down with Ki, a seasoned Chief Marketing Officer and longtime member of the influential South Korean punk band The Geeks. Ki shares his journey from the underground punk scene to the boardroom, reflecting on how the DIY ethos and resilience of hardcore music shaped his career in marketing. His story illustrates how creativity, discipline, and conviction can serve as a bridge between artistic passion and professional success.

The conversation dives into the responsibilities of a CMO, highlighting the balance between strategic thinking, cross-departmental collaboration, and shaping brand perception. Ki underscores that marketing is more than just selling products, it’s about creating demand, driving cultural relevance, and building trust with audiences. He also reflects on how The Geeks inspired a generation of Asian hardcore musicians to embrace their passions and the lasting impact of their work on the global punk scene.

Beyond music and marketing, Ki shares insights into the evolution of Korean society and the changing face of leadership and business culture. From navigating the challenges of living straight edge in a culture where drinking is the norm, to fostering compassionate, collaborative leadership styles, Ki emphasizes perseverance, vision, and teamwork as essential drivers of growth. His current work in personal branding continues this mission, using marketing as a tool for positive change and authentic self-expression.

ON THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT

• 
  
• Branding and marketing are powerful tools for shaping culture and driving positive change inside and outside organizations.
  
• Shifts in Korean business culture reflect a broader trend toward compassionate, collaborative leadership styles.
  
• Resilience in challenging environments and staying true to personal convictions models integrity in leadership.
  
• Creativity fuels strategy. Lessons from the punk scene show how unconventional thinking can drive innovative marketing and business approaches.
  

Connect with Aram:
www.linkedin.com/in/aram-arslanian-cadencelc/

About the company:
Cadence Leadership + Communication is a professional development company dedicated to unlocking true leadership potential. We guide individuals to lead authentically and effectively with a unique blend of mindset and skill set development that is rooted in psychology. Our team is laser-focused on meaningful change and empowering clients to break free from limiting habits. Cadence has worked globally with leaders and their teams from the C-suite to the frontlines and has engaged with companies from a diverse range of industries. At Cadence, our passion is helping people become their greatest selves so they can create a lasting impact in the workplace and beyond.

Coaching | 360 Assessments | Team 360 Assessments | Courses | Keynote Speaking

Connect with Cadence Leadership & Communication:

On this episode of One Step Beyond, we are joined by Ki Seok Seo, Chief Marketing Officer.

In this episode, Aram sits down with Ki, a seasoned Chief Marketing Officer and longtime member of the influential South Korean punk band The Geeks. Ki shares his journey from the underground punk scene to the boardroom, reflecting on how the DIY ethos and resilience of hardcore music shaped his career in marketing. His story illustrates how creativity, discipline, and conviction can serve as a bridge between artistic passion and professional success.

The conversation dives into the responsibilities of a CMO, highlighting the balance between strategic thinking, cross-departmental collaboration, and shaping brand perception. Ki underscores that marketing is more than just selling products, it’s about creating demand, driving cultural relevance, and building trust with audiences. He also reflects on how The Geeks inspired a generation of Asian hardcore musicians to embrace their passions and the lasting impact of their work on the global punk scene.

Beyond music and marketing, Ki shares insights into the evolution of Korean society and the changing face of leadership and business culture. From navigating the challenges of living straight edge in a culture where drinking is the norm, to fostering compassionate, collaborative leadership styles, Ki emphasizes perseverance, vision, and teamwork as essential drivers of growth. His current work in personal branding continues this mission, using marketing as a tool for positive change and authentic self-expression.

ON THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT

• 
  
• Branding and marketing are powerful tools for shaping culture and driving positive change inside and outside organizations.
  
• Shifts in Korean business culture reflect a broader trend toward compassionate, collaborative leadership styles.
  
• Resilience in challenging environments and staying true to personal convictions models integrity in leadership.
  
• Creativity fuels strategy. Lessons from the punk scene show how unconventional thinking can drive innovative marketing and business approaches.
  

Connect with Aram:
www.linkedin.com/in/aram-arslanian-cadencelc/

About the company:
Cadence Leadership + Communication is a professional development company dedicated to unlocking true leadership potential. We guide individuals to lead authentically and effectively with a unique blend of mindset and skill set development that is rooted in psychology. Our team is laser-focused on meaningful change and empowering clients to break free from limiting habits. Cadence has worked globally with leaders and their teams from the C-suite to the frontlines and has engaged with companies from a diverse range of industries. At Cadence, our passion is helping people become their greatest selves so they can create a lasting impact in the workplace and beyond.

Coaching | 360 Assessments | Team 360 Assessments | Courses | Keynote Speaking

Connect with Cadence Leadership & Communication:

On this episode of One Step Beyond, we are joined by Klint Kanopka, Assistant Professor of Applied Statistics, New York University.

In this episode, Aram sits down with Klint Kanopka, an assistant professor of applied statistics at NYU, to unpack lessons from his journey navigating the world of academia. Klint shares insights on balancing multiple roles, the importance of long-term vision, and how tenure provides the freedom to pursue meaningful projects. The conversation also explores how mentorship drives growth, the true value of education, and strategies for fostering critical thinking and adaptability in professional settings.

They dive into the evolving landscape of higher education, highlighting how diverse perspectives shape organizational dynamics. Klint discusses the importance of strong measurement and data-driven insights in decision-making, as well as ways to make assessments and feedback more efficient. The discussion emphasizes understanding human behavior, appreciating diverse viewpoints, and using these insights to lead with impact and foster innovation.

The episode also touches on personal growth and professional identity, including lessons from navigating challenging environments and subcultures. Klint and Aram explore how lifestyle choices, community, and self-awareness influence leadership presence and communication. They wrap up with practical mentorship advice: set clear expectations, respect others’ time, and approach relationships with alignment and authenticity to drive meaningful professional development.

ON THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT

• Leaders who invest in one-on-one development create stronger, more capable teams.
• Exposure to diverse perspectives fuels stronger choices and innovation.
• Encouraging team members to pursue real-world experiences alongside education builds sharper decision making and adaptability.
• Apprenticeship and mentorship accelerate learning beyond formal training.

About Klint Kanopka:

Klint is Assistant Professor of Applied Statistics in the department of Applied Statistics, Social Science, and Humanities at NYU Steinhardt. His work centers around joining psychometric modeling with computational methods. In practice, this includes using process data to understand how respondents interact with computerized tests, modeling features (like item order) that may hamper the comparability of scores, and using natural language processing to make sense of respondent generated text. Research-wise, he is also interested in applications of network methods and probabilistic graphical models to problems in measurement and the social sciences.

Connect with Klint:
https://klintkanopka.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/klint-kan...

On this episode of One Step Beyond, we are joined by Klint Kanopka, Assistant Professor of Applied Statistics, New York University.

In this episode, Aram sits down with Klint Kanopka, an assistant professor of applied statistics at NYU, to unpack lessons from his journey navigating the world of academia. Klint shares insights on balancing multiple roles, the importance of long-term vision, and how tenure provides the freedom to pursue meaningful projects. The conversation also explores how mentorship drives growth, the true value of education, and strategies for fostering critical thinking and adaptability in professional settings.

They dive into the evolving landscape of higher education, highlighting how diverse perspectives shape organizational dynamics. Klint discusses the importance of strong measurement and data-driven insights in decision-making, as well as ways to make assessments and feedback more efficient. The discussion emphasizes understanding human behavior, appreciating diverse viewpoints, and using these insights to lead with impact and foster innovation.

The episode also touches on personal growth and professional identity, including lessons from navigating challenging environments and subcultures. Klint and Aram explore how lifestyle choices, community, and self-awareness influence leadership presence and communication. They wrap up with practical mentorship advice: set clear expectations, respect others’ time, and approach relationships with alignment and authenticity to drive meaningful professional development.

ON THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT

• Leaders who invest in one-on-one development create stronger, more capable teams.
• Exposure to diverse perspectives fuels stronger choices and innovation.
• Encouraging team members to pursue real-world experiences alongside education builds sharper decision making and adaptability.
• Apprenticeship and mentorship accelerate learning beyond formal training.

About Klint Kanopka:

Klint is Assistant Professor of Applied Statistics in the department of Applied Statistics, Social Science, and Humanities at NYU Steinhardt. His work centers around joining psychometric modeling with computational methods. In practice, this includes using process data to understand how respondents interact with computerized tests, modeling features (like item order) that may hamper the comparability of scores, and using natural language processing to make sense of respondent generated text. Research-wise, he is also interested in applications of network methods and probabilistic graphical models to problems in measurement and the social sciences.

Connect with Klint:
https://klintkanopka.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/klint-kan...