From administrative services to driving cultural change, Caitlin Stene has crafted a career dedicated to the advancement of local governments. In this episode, Caitlin explains why the City of Sun Prairie is a progressive and economically diverse community where risk-taking and growth are encouraged. She unpacks the city’s transition from traditional management styles to a dynamic coaching culture tied to core values, such as “Show up and Step up” and “Collaborative Heart.” Tune in to learn how Sun Prairie is setting the standard for local government leadership through a values-driven approach.

Guest Polina Makievsky, President and CEO of Penfield Children’s Center, actively operationalized and created a nurturing environment for employees to thrive. In this episode, Polina shares insightful perspectives on balancing motherhood with a demanding career, the significance of leading with love, and the power of re-teaching organizational values. Polina’s emphasis on growth, impact, and operationalizing values provides a blueprint for creating a thriving workplace.

From origami to ballroom dance, Jen Bauer and Dave Walsh from Miron Construction highlight the significance of caring for people, building a resilient workplace culture, and using AI and new technologies to drive growth. In this episode, hosts Shawn Gulyas and Jason Cochran delve into how Miron Construction’s dynamic duo shapes the company’s culture and fosters employee well-being. Jen, an origami-loving introvert, and Dave, a ballroom-dancing former police officer, reveal the importance of integrating core values, promoting diversity, and embracing new technologies. They also touch on recognizing employee contributions, mentoring young project managers, and introducing diversity initiatives such as the allyship program “Build Like a Girl.”