Host: Carrie Tuttle
Guest: Dan Bruinooge

If you’re craving stories of how a C-Suite leader handles tough employee situations with both caring and accountability, listen in!

Meet Dan Bruinooge, Chief People and Culture Officer, who understood early that “culture” isn’t just a corporate buzzword. In this episode, he shares detailed stories of difficult performance conversations, job insecurity, financial crises and fraud!

Dan explains his take on using humanistic accountability to address challenging employee situations with transparency, firmness and respect for each person. His mantra: treat others how they want to be treated, not how you want to be treated.

Dan is known for building organizations where people (and results) thrive together. We discuss everything from making the career leap up the ranks into the C-Suite to expanding responsibility outside your zone of expertise to cleaning flood-soaked basements in PPE – all while building credibility and loyalty that lasts.

Listen for the moment when Dan has the humility to share when he stumbled and what he learned.

QUOTE-WORTHY MOMENTS:

• “Never put yourself above somebody else. Always be willing to do whatever the job takes and care about people.”
• “You're going to hear things that you don't want to hear. …don't react.”
• “You always help others because your success will come from that.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Humanistic accountability balances caring for employees with holding them accountable.
• Building relationships is crucial for effective leadership and organizational growth.
• Real-world examples illustrate the balance between care and accountability in leadership.
• Caring leadership builds credibility and fosters a positive organizational culture.
• Listening to understand is a key skill for leaders to develop.
• Creating a safe space for communication encourages honest dialogue.
• Family should always come first, even in a demanding career.
• Credibility is earned through actions and willingness to help others.
• Organizational success comes from creating a positive employee experience.

LINKS FROM EPISODE:Connect with Dan on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-bruinooge-cphr-shrm-scp-icd-d-a3ba6434/

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Host: Carrie Tuttle

Guest: Paige Greenhough

In this episode, I sit down with Paige Greenhough, the Global Marketing Manager for Energy and Climate Change at Hatch, a global engineering and professional services firm with impact in over 150 countries.

Paige is always focused on making complex stories relatable and meaningful. Her approach blends strategic vision, real-world empathy, and a mentor’s heart; she’s deeply involved with youth, women in STEM, MBA alumni mentor programs and community development.

What I loved about talking to Paige was how approachable and real she is, while continuing to achieve high performance and highlight projects that shape communities. Listen for Paige’s field story from the Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission Project—a groundbreaking Indigenous-owned initiative.

Hatch’s visible commitment to gender diversity inspires, as does Paige’s advice: “Notice what’s not working, then be the solution. Don’t wait for a tap on the shoulder—step up and help.”

Paige shares an inside look at collaborating in a team that zigzags across time zones and cultures. Her “over-communicator” style and frank advice for setting clear roles is grounded in creating momentum and steady progress.

QUOTE-WORTHY MOMENTS:

• “If you see something’s not working, be part of the solution.”
• “Whether you have all the skills doesn't necessarily matter as long as you're willing to put your best foot forward.”
• “If you show up as someone who wants to help, it makes all the difference and people really appreciate and remember that.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Global collaboration presents challenges, such as time zone differences and communication barriers.
• The Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission Project connects 17 remote First Nations communities to the grid.
• Building relationships is crucial for success in a global organization.
• Telling impactful stories about energy projects that transform communities.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in career development.
• Taking initiative and being proactive can lead to career advancement.
• Effective time management and prioritization are essential skills for leaders.

• Giving back through mentoring is important for personal and professional growth.
• Continuous learning and being helpful to others are key to success.

LINKS FROM EPISODE:

Learn more about Hatch @ Website: https://www.hatch.com/

Paige on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-greenhough-mba-58211320/

Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission Project: https://www.hatch.com/About-Us/Publications/Performance-Innovations/2025/0303-Wataynikaneyap-Power-Transmission-Project

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Host: Carrie Tuttle
Guest: Josée Thibault

This one hit us right in the feels!

Josée Thibault, Practice Lead of Philanthropy and Social Innovation at The Discovery Group, is a social innovation leader, philanthropy pro, and longtime friend.

Her career spans corporate, nonprofit, and social purpose sectors. She's launched major initiatives (like the Mars Philanthropy Office), led purpose-driven strategy, and studied it deeply through her Master’s research in communication and leadership.

But what really stood out is how she’s done it: with intention, curiosity, and a deep respect for people. Josée shares how her path was intentional yet serendipitous — a path marked with moments of bravery, stretching just beyond her comfort zone to find meaning in work and life.

You’ll hear her thoughtful take on creating culture without big budgets, learning to let go when it’s time, and building a life that feels full — not just productive.

Josée has this way of reminding you that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking better questions, sharing what you know, and being wildly human!

Give this one a listen if you're building something that stretches you — and you want to do it with heart.

QUOTE-WORTHY MOMENTS:

• "Strong societies are built by strong communities and you area part of a community. So start there."
• "Purpose and profit can absolutely coexist, and indeed, they must, in order for the world to function in a way that we can all be at peace with.”
• "Revolution looks a lot like you."

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Purpose-driven leadership is essential for meaningful impact.
• Motivating teams in the nonprofit sector is similar to corporate – understand both intrinsic and extrinsic reasons.
• Building relationships and networks is crucial for success in leadership.
• Expectations must be clearly communicated to ensure team performance.
• Every job has its challenges, but finding fulfillment is key.
• Generational perspectives on work are evolving, focusing on balance and purpose.
• Leaders should trust their instincts while seeking mentorship and support.
• Community is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Control what you can control to create a positive impact.
• A life well lived is defined by you.

Learn more about TheDiscovery Group @ Website: https://thediscoverygroup.ca/

Josée Thibault on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseethibaultmacdonald/

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Host: Carrie Tuttle
Guest: Shama Walji

Carrie is joined by Shama Walji, Director of Human Resources at Royop Development Corporation. A human-centered HR professional and CPHR, she has a passion for developing organizational culture, employer branding, and occupational health and safety. She describes how she joined at a time post-Covid when Royop’s fragmented culture needed structure and “scaffolding” to support growth, and has now doubled the team size to over 80 employees and counting.

Shama explains how values like “respectful collaboration and entrepreneurial mindset” became more than just words, and how new initiatives in health, wellness, and team training helped bring employees together—and keep them engaged. Shama points out how they are gender-balanced and culturally diverse, not by design, but by focusing on hiring the right people for the job. She explains how intentional recruitment and bias checks set the foundation for meaningful Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

She is proud of the “Canada’s Best Managed” award, won for environmental, social, and governance standards—and she’s excited to keep building on that success. Listen in for more on how she’s been helping reshape a 60-year-old company’s culture from the inside out.

QUOTE-WORTHY MOMENTS:

"There's power in the pause."

"Some of the best HR work will never be shared because itlives in stories that can’t be told.”

"Clear is kind."

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Shama emphasizes the importance of understanding organizational culture before implementing changes
• Building relationships within the team is crucial for effective HR management
• Values should align with both personal and professional lives for better buy-in
• An entrepreneurial mindset can lead to innovative practices within a company
• Clear communication is a key aspect of effective leadership
• HR professionals must balance administrative and compliance duties with employee support
• Investing in employee development leads to higher retention rates
• Diversity in leadership roles can positively impact company culture
• AI can enhance HR processes but requires careful policy management
• Continuous improvement in health and safety practices is essential for employee well-being

LINKS FROM EPISODE:Learn more about Royop @ Website: https://royop.com/

Shama Walji on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shama-walji-b5825457/

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Host: Carrie Tuttle
Guest: Enrique Dubon-Roberts

What do family law and time accounting have to do with leadership? Enrique Dubon-Roberts, partner at BDL family law shares his take on leading law professionals with a gentle approach. As an award-winning lawyer, mediator and former high school teacher, he has a lot of experience reading the room and connecting with his team.

Enrique’s journey from a classroom to founding partner was anything but linear, and he explains how letting his “teacher heart” guide his leadership style leads to both team cohesion and client care. His firm is nothing like the popular legal drama “Suits”. They work to be proactive in client work, so that late nights aren’t the norm.

He and his partner make intentional choices in their physical space, services they offer and how they choose who they work with to ensure alignment throughout. We talked about the differences between individual contributor vs. the mindshare of ownership and leading a team.

Enrique is candid about his time and priorities and having his family’s support after moving from El Salvador.

Listen in to hear where he gets his inspiration!

QUOTE-WORTHY MOMENTS:

• “As lawyers we’re taught that our productivity has to be measured in six-minute intervals all day, every day. And the reality is we're not machines.”
• “Be a little gentler on yourself.”
• “It takes me 40 minutes to get my coffee. Not because it takes that long to make a cup of coffee. But because I want to sense how the office is.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Creating a supportive culture is essential for employee satisfaction.
• Work-life balance is prioritized in Enrique's law firm.
• Mentorship is a key focus for developing young lawyers.
• Gentle leadership fosters a positive work environment.
• Personal well-being is vital for effective leadership.
• Alignment of vision is crucial for team dynamics.
• Teaching experience enhances social awareness in the workplace.
• Setting clear expectations helps avoid misunderstandings.
• Inspiration can be drawn from public figures and their wisdom.

LINKS FROM EPISODE:

Learn more about BDL Family Law @ Website: https://bdlfamilylaw.com/

Enrique on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/enrique-dubon-roberts-a2281a70/

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Host: Carrie Tuttle
Guest: Sandra Kokotovic

Discover how a quest for freedom and travel led Sandra Kokotovic, Co-founder and Creative Director of Snap Advantage, from startup employee to a role driving the future of biohacking and wellness marketing as a Fractional CMO.

Whether dealing with team members who instinctively “get it” before she asks, or facing resistance from entrenched staff (“I don’t work for her!”), Sandra’s candid stories reveal the importance of top-level endorsement and providing a genuine ‘why’ behind every decision, especially when managing cross-culturally.

Ever had a client light up a cigarette during a Zoom call? Sandra drops nuggets from around the globe, using analogies like the old “smoke break” for stress relief, and how different cultures embed flexibility in remote professionalism. As an immigrant from Romania, and an avid traveller, she has international perspectives and experience.

Leading contractors and staff in a remote work environment has its challenges and she talks about having to fire someone quickly. Sandra leads a lean team spanning Ecuador, the Philippines, Bosnia, Tunisia, Portugal, and beyond. She shares the pitfalls and the upsides!

QUOTE-WORTHY MOMENTS:

• “To keep everyone excited and on track, we're breaking that [company goal] down and explaining at every stage of the funnel, what moves the needle.”
• “I can buy time; I can’t buy attention.”
• “I’m very protective of the quality of my team.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Data-driven marketing strategies are critical to achieving sustainable growth
• Build trust in remote teams for effective collaboration and project success
• Metrics should be tailored to each role within the team to ensure accountability and clarity
• Hiring the right team members is essential; founders should focus on sales before bringing in help
• Leaders should back their team members publicly while addressing issues privately
• Delegating tasks sooner leads to better focus on high-leverage activities

LINKS FROM EPISODE:

Learn more about Snap Advantage @ Website: https://snapadvantage.com/

Sandra on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandrakokotovic/

Sandra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrakokotovic/

Sandra on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sandrakokotovic

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Host: Carrie Tuttle
Guest: Markku Kauppinen

What if you focused on making a life, instead of making a living? That is one of the deep topics Carrie discussed with Markku Kauppinen, President and CEO of Extended DISC North America. Markku shares the unexpected story of how a $12 dare and a family emergency led him from Helsinki to the helm of his company. Extended DISC has become one of the top assessment companies in the world that provides data to develop self awareness, make better decisions, build better teams and support improved results.Quick reference on DISC styles:

• D (Dominance/Driver): Fast-paced, risk-takers, focused on immediate results.
• I (Influence): Outgoing, social, energized by people and excitement.
• S (Steady-relater): Team-oriented, patient, focused on long-term plans and stability.
• C (Compliance): Detail-oriented, analytical, driven by accuracy and facts.
  Every leader and team member is a blend of all four, but one usually feels most natural.

From elevator rides to emergency rooms, Markku brings the DISC behavioral model to life with real-world analogies and stories, showing leaders how to spot—and leverage—the unique communication styles on their teams. He discusses how the sports world is set up to break down roles and identify improvement areas, but in our personal and professional lives, we can do a better job of that. Having a system like DISC helps. Markku reminds us the most successful leaders don’t just know their own style—they adapt their communication and leadership to meet others where they are. Listen in for life lessons and wisdom to live by, like treating time as the most precious currency!

QUOTE-WORTHY MOMENTS:

• “One thing I've noticed observing successful people… that they all have in common. They are all confidently self-aware.”
• “Don’t build a happy life—build a happy today.”
• “If you want success in any part of your life, you need to develop good habits.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Self-awareness is crucial for successful leadership.
• The DISC model helps in modifying behavior and communication.
• Leaders must adapt their communication to differentstyles.
• Different DISC styles impact team dynamics andcommunication.
• Integrating DISC into organizational culture enhances teamwork.
• Understanding DISC styles aids in better hiring decisions.
• Good habits are essential for effective leadership.
• Time is a valuable currency that should be spent wisely.
• Clarity in personal and professional goals leads to fulfillment.
• Leadership is a collective effort, not a solo act.

LINKS FROM EPISODE:

Learn more about Extended DISC @ Website: https://www.extendeddisc.org/

Markku on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markkukauppinen/

Extended DISC on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/extendeddisc/

Extended DISC on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/extendeddisc/

Resources mentioned:

Book: What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by MarshallGoldsmith https://amzn.to/4lqRbfY

Book: Triggers by Marshall Goldsmith https://amzn.to/3G38k07

Extended DISC Quick explainer videos - https://www.extendeddisc.org/videos/

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Host: Carrie Tuttle
Guest: Shauna MacDonald

This episode of Suits & Sneakers pulls back the curtain on the PR world with Shauna MacDonald, the powerhouse founder and principal of Brookline Public Relations. Their client roster spans major brands, hotels, and community organizations like the Edmonton Oilers Ice District, The Brick, Sobey’s Inc. and Calgary Public Library.

Shauna nurtures talent, builds culture and leads with both heart and backbone. You’ll hear how her leadership philosophy is rooted in empowerment and clarity—she’s direct, but always gives her team plenty of rope to grow. She explains why being “all in” is the only way to make it as an entrepreneurial leader.

Shauna talks about the importance of over-communicating with intention, and why authenticity and respect are the secret sauce for both brands and leaders. She shares her take on personal branding, and the risks of leader-as-brand (hello, Elon Musk).

Whether you’re a new leader or just someone who loves a good story about grit and growth, you’ll leave this episode inspired to own your journey—and maybe even take a few risks of your own.

QUOTE-WORTHY MOMENTS:

• “Whether you win or lose, you need to own it no matter what.”
• “Even if you feel that you've given the rationale of this is why we're doing it, there still might be some people that just don't understand it. And you have to be okay with that.”
• “I will look for someone and I will hire someone that's passionate and eager versus someone who knows exactly what to do… but also willing to accept the consequences if it's not done right and learn from that.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Brookline PR offers a full range of services, from crisismanagement to media relations.
• Leadership involves making tough decisions and listening to different perspectives.
• Mentorship is crucial for developing new talent
• Leaders can’t over-communicate when setting expectations
• Clear communication of expectations is essential for effective leadership.
• Brand communication should tell a compelling story and connect with audiences.
• Motivating teams requires understanding individual needs and celebrating successes.
• Authenticity in communication builds trust and respect in leadership.
• Leaders should embrace change and be adaptable.
• Entrepreneurs must be all-in and ready for continuous engagement.

LINKS FROM EPISODE:Learn more about Brookline Public Relations @ Website: https://www.brooklinepr.com/

Shauna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunamacdonald/

Brookline on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/brookline-public-relations-inc./

Shauna’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaunabpr/

Brookline on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/brookline_pr/

Beyond PR podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4rexC3J2jkd4LJEA4p1LTF?si=c5c37e453b4e42a7

Resources mentioned:

Book: “Good to Great” by Jim Collins - https://amzn.to/4l38lQp

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