The Interviewing People Careercast: Recent Episodes
Brian Bratt
The focus of The Interviewing People Careercast is to introduce the world to Van Buren High School (OH) graduates and the work they are doing to impact the world. Van Buren's graduates have a wide variety of careers, and this provides a great opportunity for current students and others to learn from the graduates' career successes and mistakes. Enjoy the show!
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with 1997 Van Buren graduate Todd Bailey, the Senior Vice President - Director of Regional Economic Development at Huntington National Bank. In the interview, Todd shares how a typical day looks in his position, how his degree in communications provided a solid foundation for his career journey, the career opportunities there are in the banking field, and much more. Whether you are interested in a banking career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Todd shares will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!2:01 - A typical day for Todd at Huntington Bank3:41 - Much of Todd’s job involves connecting people so economic advancements can be made5:00 - Where Todd is today is much different from where he thought he would be when in high school5:20 - A communications degree from Ohio Northern University has opened many opportunities.5:53 - Todd also worked in the aviation industry early in his career.7:09 - What led Todd to the communications field originally9:00 - How Todd’s previous career experiences have led to where he is today11:19 - A solid foundation for how to communicate allows people to handle any situations they encounter.13:15 - Every day is slightly different in economic development.14:15 - There are some great economic development leaders working in Ohio, and Todd finds ways to support the work they are doing.15:21 - Travel is definitely a part of Todd’s current position as he visits various parts of the state.17:32 - There is professional value in not having all of the answers and figuring things out along the way.18:30 - Looking ahead at future career opportunities in the banking industry - there are many of them21:40 - When thinking about banking, remember that it goes beyond the financial side.22:14 - Openings right now at Huntington23:30 - When graduating from high school or college, students don’t need to have clear career paths right away.25:45 - Don’t look past the journey.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Todd on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/toddrbailey/) or by e-mail (todd.bailey@huntington.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with 2009 Van Buren graduate Jacob Sublett, the staff biologist at the Toledo Area Sanitation District. In the interview, Jacob shares how a typical day looks for him, how he focuses on mosquito control in his career, how the field of biology offers a plethora of career opportunities, and much more. Whether you are interested in a STEM or science-focused career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Jacob shares will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:43 - What a typical day looks like for a staff biologist.2:20 - Jacob is a mosquito biologist2:55 - What Jacob does during the winter when mosquitoes are not active3:50 - 30 species of mosquitoes are found in Northwest Ohio4:33 - Mosquitoes are the deadliest animal in the world.5:29 - Implementing an integrated mosquito management program7:55 - Larval control is also important9:43 - Mosquito activity and reproduction are impacted by the weather11:16 - Mosquitoes might be the closest to an “all-negative” species, but there are some benefits mosquitoes provide.12:50 - Jacob is the only staff biologist in Lucas County.13:34 - Jacob’s career plans when he left high school14:30 - Experiences in research led Jacob to becoming a biologist.15:35 - Jacob’s time with the Wood County Parks Department.16:35 - What Jacob did as a woodland specialist18:12 - STEM fields offer many career opportunities.19:45 - Qualities of those who might do well as biologists21:16 - The most interesting experiences Jacob has had as a biologist22:03 - What Jacob knows now that he wishes he had known while in high school - take courses that will give you a skill that you can apply in the workforceQuestions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Jacob by e-mail (sublettj33@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Sawyer Junge, a 2014 Van Buren graduate who is a Partnerships and Account Executive with LinkedIn Talent and Learning Solutions in Chicago, IL. Sawyer shares how a typical day looks for him, how to deal with rejection when making sales, what it’s like to live in Chicago, the importance of being a good listener, and much more. Whether you are interested in a sales career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Sawyer shares will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:37 - How a typical day looks for Sawyer in sales for LinkedIn2:45 - How Sawyer’s commute into the office looks3:29 - Sawyer’s plan upon graduating from VB - not sales4:58 - There are many degree options when it comes to working in business.6:13 - High school experience as a golfer is still useful to Sawyer today.7:11 - Good leaders early in Sawyer’s career helped him get to where he is today.8:40 - Dealing with rejection in sales9:49 - Sawyer’s first sales - they all come down to making a good impression.11:48 - In-person vs. Remote vs. Hybrid work13:19 - Life in Chicago15:32 - Being an active listener is a huge part of success in sales.17:36 - Sales offer opportunities to work almost anywhere18:47 - Experience as much as possible, even if it is uncomfortable at the time.19:14 - Join clubs/organizations - all experiences help19:39 - Great study abroad program at Miami UniversityQuestions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Sawyer on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/sawyer-junge) or by e-mail (sawyerjunge@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Jae Sutherland, a 2004 Van Buren graduate who is an Area Engineer for the US Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Conservation Service. Jae shares what she does as a civil engineer, how attending a camp at Notre Dame contributed to where she is today, and much more. Whether you are interested in an engineering career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Jae shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:34 - A typical day as a Civil Engineer3:28 - What NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) is and how it pertains to farmers in Wisconsin4:47 - Solving problems both before and after they become problems5:42 - Jae’s plans when she left high school6:20 - Engineering camp at Notre Dame exposed Jae to a variety of career options.7:25 - Aspects of Civil Engineering that people might not consider8:41 - Internships and the role they play in Jae’s career journey10:48 - Finding an internship in Oklahoma - connections help12:42 - Making the move to New York after finding a posting on USAJobs13:54 - The New York City watershed - a great training-ground15:58 - “Details,” or temporary promotions - a great way to try a new career17:00 - Becoming an area engineer in Appleton, Wisconsin17:45 - Acting as an area conservationist18:20 - The advancement steps for people in Jae’s position20:41 - Camps, volunteering, and other opportunities for students to get involved while in high school22:10 - Using AutoDesk and GIS to manage data23:17 - Students can start using AutoCAD and GIS even before they move into a career.24:40 - Job shadow and ask questions!Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Jae on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/jae-ann-sutherland-p-e-81411414) or by e-mail (jae.sutherland@usda.gov).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Alan Molyet, a 2010 Van Buren graduate who is a Senior 340B Coordinator at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Alan shares how a typical day in his position looks, how he balances his day job with a career as a soccer official at the high school and college levels, the importance of being a life-long learner, and much more. Whether you are interested in a healthcare administration career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Alan shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:39 - What does a Senior 340B Coordinator do?7:21 - How 340B money is currently being threatened, leading Alan to have to lobby for it9:10 - Hybrid position, meetings, work on a computer - all aspects of this career10:42 - Building this position11:29 - How previous experiences led Alan to where he is12:30 - 2+4 pharmacy program at the University of Toledo13:30 - BSPS degrees at UT - still in the pharmacy world but on the administrative side14:37 - Many of the degrees Alan did and could have earned at UT are going to be axed.15:50 - Sometimes a person just has to keep asking questions to get answers.18:29 - Balancing work with refereeing soccer at the high school and college levels19:58 - Dealing with the “grind” culture to find work/life balance21:44 - Labor shortage of soccer referees - make money and exercise at the same time22:55 - How to climb the soccer officiating ladder25:41 - Characteristics of people who are successful in healthcare administration27:05 - Constantly learning through attending conferences28:05 - Getting the job at Ohio State29:48 - “Nobody knows what they are doing.”Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Alan on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/alan-molyet) or by e-mail (alan.molyet@osumc.edu).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Tre Switzer, a 2017 Van Buren graduate who is an Assistant Superintendent of the Buffalo Ridge Springs Golf Course in Branson, MO. Tre shares how a typical day looks as an Assistant Superintendent, how he decided to earn a turf grass degree from ATI in Wooster, what the most rewarding aspects of his career are, and much more. Whether you are interested in a turf grass career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Tre shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:35 - A typical day for an assistant superintendent at a golf course2:27 - How the winter looks for a golf course3:16 - Managing other staff to keep the course in tip-top shape4:05 - Assistant Superintendent role vs. the Superintendent’s role4:58 - Tre’s original career plan when he graduated from high school6:22 - Work experiences led Tre to his current career path.7:05 - Schools that offer a turfgrass management program.8:07 - How relationships led to where Tre currently is at Buffalo Ridge9:15 - Advancing from Assistant Superintendent to Superintendent and beyond - knowing the right people helps.10:49 - Education vs. Experience - which is most important to this career?12:02 - Rewarding aspects of this career13:26 - Characteristics of people who are successful in this field14:11 - Where most people with the ATI turf grass career end up working15:00 - Living in Missouri vs. living in Ohio16:27 - What Tre knows now that he wishes he had known while in high schoolQuestions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Tre on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/stephen-tre-switzer-a56201173) or by e-mail (trey.switzer23@aol.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Callie Spears, a 2016 Van Buren graduate who is a Design Strategist and UX/UI Designer with LINK in Oregon. Callie shares how a typical day looks as a designer, how her experience with co-ops through the University of Cincinnati propelled her career, her experiences with both in-person and remote work, and much more. Whether you are interested in a design career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Callie shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:44 - A typical day as a design strategist / UX/UI Designer3:20 - Design Strategist is a new role at her company3:59 - A bit about LINK, where Callie works as a Design Strategist4:58 - Callie’s career plans when she was a senior in high school5:55 - Career options within graphic design8:13 - Callie’s co-op experiences through the University of Cincinnati - good professionally and personally10:30 - Other schools which have strong design programs11:56 - In-person vs. hybrid vs. remote work14:24 - Callie’s role in developing an AI chat feature three years ago (before the release of Chat GPT16:15 - Some knowledge of coding helps in a UX/UI career17:09 - Using “wireframing” as part of the design process18:17 - The role relationships have played in Callie’s career journey19:45 - Portfolios of work are important to a designer’s career.20:50 - The positives and negatives of this career22:24 - Advice for people considering this career field23:46 - Living on the West Coast25:12 - What Callie has learned that she wishes she had known in high schoolQuestions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Callie on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/calliespears/) or by e-mail (calliejspears@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Ryan Harmon, a 2002 Van Buren graduate who is a Critical Care Transport, ER, and Flight Nurse and Paramedic who is currently studying to become a Nurse Practitioner. Ryan shares how a typical day looks in the emergency room, how he became a flight nurse and what that means, how the military helped him choose his career path, and much more. Whether you are interested in a healthcare career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Ryan shares will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:42 - A typical day for Ryan as an ER nurse3:24 - The ages of patients at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital4:03 - The education a nurse receives covers all ages, and additional certifications can be earned.5:58 - Ryan’s experiences as a flight nurse came after many other career experiences in the military, as an EMT, etc.10:31 - Firefighting in the military and earning a professional firefighter’s certification at Vanguard Career Center in Fremont12:48 - A career in healthcare allows a person to find employment almost anywhere.16:00 - The most enjoyable experiences Ryan has had in his career and how all of his experiences helped him figure out what he really wants to do.18:00 - Life as a flight nurse - both in the air and on the ground21:22 - Determining when LifeFlight is needed23:22 - Deciding when the right time was to earn a college degree25:18 - All certifications are valuable and could lead to a higher salary.27:28 - Continuing education hours are also needed, and certifications can be a way to earn those hours in addition to the certifications.29:10 - Characteristics of people who are successful in the healthcare field, specifically in nursing and flight nursing30:23 - It can be hard to get into a flight nursing career.31:56 - Weirdly, the healthcare issues people face are different based on where people live.32:33 - The military gave Ryan a chance to figure out what he truly wanted to do.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/ryan-harmon-1a457684/) or by e-mail (harm2002@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Tori Bookwalter, a 2017 Van Buren graduate who is the social media coordinator for the National Hockey League’s Florida Panthers. Tori shares how a typical day looks for a social media coordinator, explains why she chose social media over journalism, discusses whether someone entering the social media field needs a college degree, and much more. Whether you are interested in a social media career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Tori shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:40 - What Tori does as a social media coordinator.3:11 - What Tori most loves about her career.5:09 - The social media platforms Tori handles.7:08 - Where Tori typically does her work.8:53 - What it’s like to cover a team competing for an NHL championship.12:02 - Tori’s career plans when she was graduating from high school.13:05 - Journalism didn’t provide the creative opportunities Tori wanted.16:05 - Experiences and opportunities that led Tori to her position with the Panthers.17:05 - Spending time as the Orange Bowl mascot, Obie, resulted in connections that mattered down the road.18:05 - Networking “internally” is just as important as networking “externally.”19:55 - College shouldn’t be the #1 priority for a career in social media. The focus should be on gaining experience.22:42 - Social media is everywhere, which means there are opportunities everywhere.24:08 - Yes, people who live in Florida can miss snow.25:45 - Try things to create opportunities.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Tori on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/toribookwalter/) or by e-mail (tbookwalter1@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Abby Allen, a 2005 Van Buren graduate who is a physician’s assistant and assistant professor in the PA program at the University of Findlay. Abby shares how a typical day looks for a PA and professor, gives advice on getting into PA school, explains how a PA is different from a nurse practitioner, and much more. Whether you are interested in a healthcare career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Abby shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:50 - A typical day as an assistant professor in the PA program at the University of Findlay3:46 - A typical day as a physician’s assistant5:13 - Working in a nursing home is somewhat different from working in a hospital or office.6:05 - The writing involved with being a PA7:00 - The differences between a PA, NP, MD, and DO7:39 - PA’s can switch specialties quite easily, which is a nice option.8:31 - Fellowships are typically reserved for MDs and DOs.9:00 - MDs and DOs don’t have quite as much flexibility.9:40 - Nurse practitioners have to be nurses first.10:20 - PAs can see all types of patients and don’t have to specialize.11:29 - What made becoming a PA the right choice for Abby after she planned to become a Spanish teacher12:34 - It is very competitive to get into PA school.13:26 - Colleges want PA professors to have five years of clinical experience before starting to teach.13:55 - Making the switch from Spanish education to exercise science12:55 - It wasn’t too difficult to get back into the swing of high-level science classes because of Abby’s study skills.16:00 - Helping people is definitely one of the best aspects of working as a PA.17:28 - Being a PA pays well.18:10 - Most PA graduates from UF have jobs soon after graduation.19:00 - “Get an undergraduate degree in something you want to do for a living.”20:28 - There are PA programs popping up because of the demand for the position.21:18 - What happens to those who aren’t accepted into a PA program the first time they apply?21:45 - Patient-care hours are like bonus points for admission, and those who are rejected the first time might retake classes or get more experience in the healthcare field to make acceptance more likely the next year.23:49 - Experience is important to being accepted to PA school.24:47 - Careers in medicine require good grades throughout college.26:08 - Students, you don’t have to have your career figured out when you graduate from high school.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Abby on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-allen-5b3374208/) or by e-mail (abigail.allen@findlay.edu).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Amanda Couchot, a 2010 Van Buren graduate who is a New Model Delivery Project Manager with Honda Manufacturing of Indiana. Amanda shares how a typical day looks in her career, how she isn’t in the career she expected to have when in high school, the characteristics of people who excel in this field, and much more. Whether you are interested in a supply chain or manufacturing career or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Amanda shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:36 - What Amanda does in New Model Delivery2:46 - The number of models of cars depends on the year.3:26 - Travel required for this career4:05 - Where Amanda works4:32 - Amanda’s career plan when she was in high school5:55 - Find a career that brings joy.6:34 - The politics of healthcare led Amanda to move away from that field.7:13 - Amanda’s role in the supply chain department at Honda has been dependent upon her graduate degree from BGSU.8:30 - Amanda had actually accepted another position before she accepted her position at Honda.9:24 - Multiple people do what Amanda does in her Honda plant.10:01 - Honda plants in North America10:44 - Characteristics of people who might excel in this career field12:14 - The process of developing a car takes many years.13:16 - High-demand careers at a company like Honda14:44 - Commuting to work15:47 - “Don’t put yourself in a box” when it comes to choosing a career.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/amanda-couchot-mba-7680a3106/) or by e-mail (amanda_couchot@na.honda.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Ryan Fennell, a 2001 Van Buren graduate who is a licensed home inspector and owns his own business, Acuity Inspections. Ryan shares how a typical day looks, how he went to school to become a computer-aided designer but decided that was not the right career for him, how to get started in the inspection field, and much more. Whether you are interested in a career in construction or inspection or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Ryan shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:34 - A typical day as a home inspector2:54 - Ryan doesn’t do any of the repairs, just the inspections.3:27 - Ryan thought he would be working with CAD when he graduated from high school.4:19 - Ryan attended Owens Community College to earn a CAD associate degree.5:38 - How Ryan gained the training he needed to become an inspector6:58 - Ryan worked for Norfolk-Southern Railroad and really liked it, but the lifestyle was difficult for his family.7:40 - Ryan earned his InterNACHI certification and studied for his national licensing exam.8:59 - Ryan can only work in Ohio currently because he is only licensed here, but Michigan does not require a license, so he could do inspections there.9:40 - Ryan was a conductor for Norfolk-Southern.11:46 - The most difficult part of starting the business was the decision to do it.12:16 - Meeting realtors is very important to Ryan’s career.12:36 - There are 4-5 other inspectors in the Findlay area.14:21 - Characteristics leading someone to be successful as an inspector.16:09 - How to get started as a home inspector17:43 - Thoroughly evaluate what you want out of a career.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/ryanfennell22) or by e-mail (ryanfennell22@icloud.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with 2015 VB graduate Brianna (Orchard) McAlister, who is a registered dietician who currently works as a nutritionist for Community Action Pioneer Valley in Massachusetts. In the interview, Brianna shares how a typical day looks, the differences between being a dietitian and a nutritionist, the many career options in this field, and much more. Whether you are interested in a career in dietetics and nutrition or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Brianna shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:32 - A typical day for a nutritionist3:41 - What is WIC?4:47 - How being a nutritionist is different from being a registered dietitian6:00 - 18 patients a day vs. 6-8, different lengths of appointments - a few of the differences7:32 - Bree knew she wanted to be a dietitian since her freshman year of high school8:13 - Sports nutrition was also something she was interested in doing, but she didn’t consider WIC until she was in college.8:52 - Ohio State was a great place for Bree to start her career journey.10:15 - The process of pursuing an internship in this field12:00 - The process of pursuing a master’s degree13:20 - What Bree learned from her time as a nutrition aide at The Heritage Nursing Home in Findlay as she was starting her career15:26 - There are MANY different opportunities in this field to specialize and gain additional certifications.18:40 - People in this field don’t have to stick to one path.19:45 - Bree has a dietetics intern who is in her 40s.20:19 - Becoming a dietitian can be strenuous, but it is possible to over prepare.21:25 - Bree did not get accepted into the dietetics program at OSU when she applied the first time.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Bree on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brianna-orchard) or by e-mail (bnorchard@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with 2019 VB graduate Megan Muzy, who is a merchandise associate with the Atlanta Braves and a competitive figure skating coach with Georgia Tech University. In the interview, Megan shares how a typical day looks in both of her positions, how these aren’t the careers she expected when she was in high school, the importance of internships and networking, and much more. Whether you are interested in a career in merchandising or coaching or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Megan shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:39 - What Megan does as a merchandise associate with the Atlanta Braves3:23 - Megan is at the bottom of the ladder and working her way up.4:28 - What happens when the Braves are out of town?6:37 - How a typical day looks for Megan as a figure skating coach at Georgia Tech7:44 - Georgia Tech’s skating program is very new.8:50 - How Georgia Tech’s skating season looks.9:49 - Megan didn’t foresee herself working for a professional baseball team or being a skating coach when she was in high school.11:12 - Megan chose to attend Adrian College because of the skating program there.12:00 - Other schools in the area that offer figure skating teams12:38 - The process of trying out for a figure skating team13:48 - “Get all of the experience you can.” - Megan’s internships and experiences with campus organizations were highly valuable to her growth.15:40 - Networking is an important result of gaining experience.16:35 - Making the move to Atlanta, GA.17:34 - Megan has won multiple awards in the time she has worked for the Braves.19:18 - Megan likes merchandising and plans to climb that ladder in that field.19:58 - Trainee programs with the Braves21:48 - Interacting with Braves players23:23 - Take advantage of teachers, family, shadow days, etc., when making decisions about the future.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Megan on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/meganmuzy) or by e-mail (meganmuzy@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Noah Schumacker, a 2017 Van Buren graduate who has worked in sales and now owns Noah's Ark Boat Wash. In the interview, Noah shares about what he did as an outside sales consultant, what his first sales internship was like in Duluth, GA, how he started his boat wash business, and much more.Whether you are interested in a career in sales or entrepreneurship or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Noah shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys.2:34 - What an Outside Sales Consultant does.
3:45 - Noah didn’t know what he wanted to do when he graduated from high school.
5:07 - Sales are more than selling used cars.
5:35 - Sales competitions can be terrifying.
6:55 - Noah finished third in his first sales competition.
8:18 - Noah’s first internship in Duluth, GA, selling pest control
10:15 - Failing is the best thing that can happen to someone in sales because it is the start of learning.
11:10 - People in sales don’t have to be extroverts.
11:44 - The more humility you have, the better salesperson you will be.
14:18 - Michigan has a lot of bodies of water, which was great for starting Noah’s Ark Boat Wash.
17:50 - It is important to build relationships..
19:05 - Starting the business wasn’t something Noah did because he was an expert at washing boats; he just started.
20:23 - The ability to network and move out of your comfort skill are important for people going into sales and entrepreneurship.
21:23 - Engineers often go into sales because they know their products so well and know how to create value for their customers.
22:11 - The potential roadblocks to overcome in sales careers or entrepreneurship.
23:25 - People can be their own biggest roadblocks.
24:40 - Follow your dreams right away.
Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Noah on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-schumacker-051b97148/) or by e-mail (noahts@bgsu.edu).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Luke Kohls, a former Van Buren High School math teacher who is an account manager for Palo Alto Networks. In the interview, Luke shares about what he does at Palo Alto, what it was like to change careers after seven years as a teacher, what teaching skills have served him best in his new career, and much more. Whether you are interested in a career in business or cybersecurity or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Luke shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:52 - What is Palo Alto Networks, and what do business development representatives and account managers do?4:25 - What Luke thought his career would be when he was leaving high school.6:22 - The decision to transition from teaching to business8:45 - “I want to give something else a try.”9:36 - Stepping a bit backward to continue going forward10:15 - Working as a teacher developed skills that were useful in business.11:00 - Showing value and networking are huge when making a career change.13:15 - Types of opportunities available in the business/cybersecurity fields16:25 - Gaining the education needed for a business/cybersecurity career18:05 - Most positive aspects of tech sales19:53 - Tech sales are very competitive, which can make the career difficult.22:00 - What Luke knows now about careers that he wishes he had known when he was in high school.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Luke on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-kohls/) or by e-mail (lkohls@paloaltonetworks.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Bailei Hoyng, a 2015 Van Buren High School graduate who is a Process Development Engineer for Boston Scientific living in Israel. Bailei shares about what she does as a process engineer, how her co-ops in college helped her identify the specific type of engineering she enjoyed, what it is like to live in Israel, and much more. Whether you are interested in a career as a engineer, are still exploring your options, or want to live overseas someday, I hope that what Bailei shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:40 - What Boston Scientific does and what Bailei does as a process engineer.2:39 - Process development goes beyond the creation of a new product.3:35 - New product for which Bailei helped develop the process for it to be produced.5:25 - Process developers have to consider how any changes they make will impact the later development processes.7:05 - Bailei did a co-op with an orthopedic company in college and learned a lot from that experience that she now applies in her job.8:07 - As a high schooler, Bailei randomly thought she wanted to go into biomedical engineering.9:30 - As an engineer, Bailei is still able to help people.10:00 - Attended the University of Akron because it was the lowest cost - the degree is what matters, not the name of the school on the degree.11:30 - The various paths/majors Bailei could have pursued12:43 - Five co-ops is not typical for most biomedical process engineers.13:45 - Co-ops gave Bailei the opportunity to learn about her skills and those that she needed to improve as she headed into her career.15:23 - Bailei had multiple co-ops with Zimmer in three different fields.18:00 - Co-ops are about the company and the student learning from each other. 19:28 - Bailei suggests having co-ops/internships with various companies to be able to compare the experiences and be able to make better employment decisions.20:40 - The confluence of Covid and Bailei’s first job with Boston Scientific.21:33 - Things that are unexpected lead to route modification, and that has worked well in Bailei’s career.22:55 - Being in a sink or swim position leads to growth.25:42 - Bailei wanted to make a move, but she hit some significant delays26:40 - The opportunity to go to Israel28:25 - Becoming acclimated to Israeli culture29:55 - Getting gas in Israel is a process.31:05 - Concerns Bailei had about going to Israel were unfounded.34:28 - Bailei’s advice for people considering this career.36:52 - Connections are EVERYTHING.39:22 - If you aren’t learning and you are feeling stuck in your job, make a change.39:55 - Being uncomfortable is what leads a person to grow.40:36 - Don’t be afraid to communicate what you want.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Bailei on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/bailei-hoyng-151178149/) or by e-mail (bailei.hoyng@bsi.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Bret Nye, a 2007 Van Buren High School graduate who the Community Editor at The Courier, the daily newspaper in Findlay, OH. In the interview Bret shares about how a typical day looks for him (hint - no day is typical in journalism), why he has multiple master's degrees, the positive and negative aspects of journalism careers, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing a career as an author or journalist will find information related to starting down those paths in this episode. Enjoy the show!2:00 - Life as the Community Editor at The Courier3:48 - By the end of every night, the goal is to have the paper ready for the next.4:18 - Much of Bret’s day as editor is spent in front of a computer.4:43 - As a reporter, much more of the day is spent outside the office.5:30 - In high school, Bret knew that he loved writing, so he considered both journalist and creative writer as a career.6:20 - Went to grad school at Miami for creative writing8:07 - Bret loved teaching creative writing at the college level.8:40 - Anyone can be a creative writer and publish works.9:05 - The Master of Arts in Fiction Writing from Miami (OH) was similar to the degree he earned at Notre Dame.9:58 - Using education to find his voice as a writer10:18 - There are also PhD programs in creative writing.11:06 - Being a creative writing professor is not an easy career path.11:55 - Adjunct professors are part-time professors.12:38 - Was also an adjunct professor at BGSU14:09 - Bret taught some business-leaning classes at George Mason University.15:00 - Even learning to use a university library is a herculean task.16:08 - The best aspect of being in journalism.18:51 - Potential negatives of being in journalism19:48 - The way we consume news today is different from how we consumed it five years ago.20:57 - Journalism is not a 9 to 5, every day is the same-type of career.23:25 - There are many careers in journalism that DON”T involve writing.24:44 - It is tough at the moment for Bret to work on personal writing projects, but he still keeps working on them.26:08 - He did publish some short stories back in college.26:55 - What Bret has learned: Lean on those who are already in the career field which interests you in order to learn from their experiences and avoid your own mistakes.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Bret on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/bret-nye-a55993119) or by e-mail (bret.nye1@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Lacey Simon, a 2009 Van Buren High School graduate who is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Blanchard Valley Medical Associates. In the interview Lacey shares about how a typical day for her looks, the various levels of nursing including LPN and RN, how she spent nine and a half years working at Whirlpool before deciding to go to school to become a nurse, what college life was like as a non-traditional student, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing a career in healthcare or nursing specifically will find information related to starting down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:51 - Lacey’s typical day as a nurse at Blanchard Valley Medical Associates2:42 - The various levels of nursing (CNA, STNA, LPN, RN, etc.)3:54 - Transition programs in nursing4:44 - Lacey’s plans when she left high school5:17 - Spent 9½ years at Whirlpool Corporation before getting into nursing6:48 - Heading back to school in Lacey’s late 20s7:18 - Lacey attended Rhodes State in Lima for her nursing degree9:03 - Life as a non-traditional college student11:30 - The best parts of being a nurse13:16 - The difficult parts of being a nurse14:30 - Lacey suggests earning the necessary education for a career as early as possible.15:53 - What Lacey knows now about life and careers - don’t miss opportunities to explore careers while in high school.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Lacey by e-mail (laceysimon7@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Ian Kern, a 2016 Van Buren High School graduate who is a Client Services Manager with Premier Bank. In the interview Ian shares about what a Client Services Manager does, how he ended up in banking because of his love for math, the difference between banking and finance careers, the characteristics of people who would likely excel in banking, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing a career in the banking industry will find information related to starting down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show! #banking #careers 1:38 - What Ian does as a Client Services Manager.2:40 - Premier bank locations3:08 - Ian’s plans as a high school senior - communications3:43 - Applied to 45-50 openings after college4:10 - Math was enjoyable in high school, but he didn’t think he would pursue it.4:49 - Banking was not high on his priority list, but finance was.5:22 - Banking vs. Finance6:47 - How the job market looks for someone who wants to enter the banking industry7:53 - Starting as a teller and climbing the ladder in banking8:38 - Best aspects of working in the banking industry10:07 - The potential negative aspects of working in the banking industry11:49 - Willingness to grow is important; growing into a variety of other positions is possible.13:18 - Working in the banking industry does not always mean being focused on numbers.14:04 - Differences in banks based on their sizes15:12 - What Ian knows now that he wishes he had known in high school - networking is a key.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Ian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-kern-41ab3194/) or e-mail (doublebubba97@yahoo.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Abbey Phillips, a 2015 Van Buren High School graduate who is a Digital Graphic Designer with Designer Shoe Warehouse, more commonly known as DSW. In the interview Abbey shares about her life as a graphic designer, how she changed her career goals after her freshman year at Ohio University, how an internship she completed after college set her up to earn an opportunity with DSW, what skills are essential to becoming a graphic designer, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing a career as a graphic designer will find information related to starting down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:52 - Life as a digital graphic designer2:38 - Thousands and thousands of eyes see Abbey’s work daily3:29 - Some days are monotonous, and others allow for a lot of creativity4:05 - Photography, designing concepts, developing a library of concepts - all part of the career4:50 - Merchandising departments come up with the ideas; Abbey designs the ads for those ideas.5:40 - Every day is on a computer; 3-4 meetings a day in addition to six hours of work6:35 - It might take 7-9 days to develop an e-mail before it goes out to the consumer.7:28 - Art for four years, yearbook for two years, and graphic arts for one year - helped Abbey decide what she wanted to do8:08 - Started college as a fashion merchandising major at Ohio University9:21 - Fashion design was also a passion, but OU didn’t offer that specific major.10:17 - Found publication design as a sophomore in college and fell in love with it11:17 - For Abbey’s career goals, college was a necessity, but certifications can also be a path to the career.12:21 - Abbey also learned a lot about photography as part of her degree, which has been helpful.13:13 - Using Canva to design - useful for high school students, but Adobe will likely be the focus once a graphic designer15:15 - Coding experience (UX/UI) is not a prerequisite for becoming a graphic designer.16:25 - Creativity, an ability to communicate effectively, being a problem-solver, working efficiently - essential characteristics for a graphic designer to have.18:42 - The value of internships and other experiences - a way to differentiate from other candidates for a career opportunity23:15 - Internships often lead to full-time opportunities.25:30 - It’s okay for students to not know what they want to do while they are in high school.
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Abbey on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbeyphillips0/) or e-mail (abbeybphillips@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Justin Tiell, a 2003 Van Buren High School graduate who is a UX/UI Developer with Betco Corporation. In the interview Justin shares about what UX and UI are and why they’re important to all of us even if we’ve never heard of them, how his Visual Communication Technology degree from BGSU has helped him in his career, why it is important for developers to have portfolios sharing their work, why curiosity is important for a developer, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing a career as a web developer will find information related to starting down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:44 - What are UX and UI?2:45 - Justin builds apps, so he utilizes UX/UI daily.3:22 - At the beginning of development, time is spent with others helping Justin determine how an app should be created.3:52 - When creating the code, there’s a lot of time alone.4:14 - Time at Root was focused on developing the marketing website for the company, but he has created apps.5:30 - AI’s impact on UX/UI7:10 - Justin was interested in programming while in high school8:25 - Development requires a lot of practice, and much of it can be self-taught.8:55 - Visual Communication Technology (VCT) degree - a focus on design10:05 - Working at Taco Bell during high school led him to appreciate the contributions of everyone.11:36 - Pixel-perfect designs, user-testing, programming languages12:15 - Get comfortable with JavaScript, but any language is valuable.13:22 - MySpace led to some students learning basic programming14:33 - Never accept your first results.16:00 - Start to build a portfolio of your work in a place like GitHub.16:52 - Dribbbl, other social media, websites - all great ways for people to show their work17:38 - Curiosity is huge for someone in UX/UI18:22 - Empathy is important for a programmer to get into the shoes of a consumer.19:20 - Very proud of the work done at Root20:32 - High school probably doesn’t matter as much as people think it does.20:46 - Enjoy high school, but plan for the future.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Justin on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/justintiell/) or e-mail (tielljustin@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Tom Rowles, a 2016 Van Buren High School graduate who is a Concert Tour Manager, Audio Engineer, and Production Manager in Nashville, TN. Tom has worked with artists like Ashley Cooke, Clinton Kane, Bren Joy, Lathan Warlick and Walker County, and in the interview he shares about life as a freelancer in the music industry, the role his time at Belmont University has played in his career journey, the glamour and grind of his career, his advice for people entering the music industry, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing a career in the music industry will find information related to starting down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!1:48 - No typical day for Tom since he is a freelancer2:12 - Primarily a tour manager and front-of-house engineer3:17 - As a high schooler, Tom didn’t foresee this career for himself despite being heavily involved in the music programs.5:18 - Belmont University’s Showcase Series helped Tom start down his career path.6:28 - Working in local venues (typically unpaid) also contributed to gaining experience.7:05 - Connections/relationships have played a huge role in Tom’s career development.8:56 - How music tours work and the role Tom plays in those tours9:44 - Weekend Warriors vs. standard tours (month-long, etc.) in the industry11:05 - The glamor of the music industry11:56 - The grind of the music industry13:54 - Belmont University and other schools offer opportunities to enter the music industry15:25 - The education/experiences that could be used to get into the industry16:30 - Tom’s program at Belmont helped him develop his path.17:00 - “Fake it until you make it” - there’s truth to that phrase18:16 - Most important skill for someone in Tom’s position to have - be a sponge.18:45 - Being cool under pressure is also very important19:45 - The most rewarding times in Tom’s career21:00 - Coolest venues where Tom has worked22:14 - Tom’s advice - Be a risk-taker.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).Connect with Tom on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/thomasjrowles/) or e-mail (thomasjrowles@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Grace Heitkamp, a 2021 Van Buren High School graduate who is a nursing student working toward a debt-free degree. Grace shares about where she currently is on her career journey, how she decided to start working toward graduating from college debt-free, what steps are helping her achieve that goal, how BGSU is actually paying her to attend school, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing a debt-free degree will find information related to starting down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:53 - Update on Grace’s post-high school path
2:06 - Planned to major in interior design but felt a pull toward nursing
3:12 - Grace’s purpose - healthcare
3:25 - Doubts led to Grace not starting college with a nursing focus
4:05 - What led to Grace pursuing a debt-free degree
5:18 - Started to earn CCP credits as the first step
6:00 - Scholarships are very important in the debt-free degree process
6:43 - Grace filled out 150 scholarship applications while in high school.
7:14 - How much money Grace earned through scholarships
7:53 - BGSU actually pays Grace to attend school.
9:07 - The hardest part about graduating from college debt-free
9:46 - Continuing to fill out scholarships even after starting college
10:17 - Some friends are also working toward debt-free degrees.
11:08 - Excitement about being able to help other people
11:27 - Graduating debt-free is freeing
12:17 - Positives of attending BGSU
13:03 - If attending BGSU, apply for the Thompson Scholarship
13:55 - Grace’s advice - Don’t fear change or failure.
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Grace by e-mail (gmheitkamp@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Brent Hendricks, a 2000 Van Buren High School graduate who has held many positions within the technology sales arena and is current the Director of Pre-Sales Consulting for Aptos Retail. Brent shares about life in technology sales, the impact internships with Disney and NCR had on his career path, how certifications could be a path to a career, the positive and negative aspects of sales, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing a sales career will find information related to starting down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:50 - A typical day for Brent in sales
3:35 - Helped build the technology infrastructure of VB when he was still in high school
3:56 - Knew he wanted to something in technology as a career
5:20 - Helping people was a big part of starting Brent down his career path
5:56 - Internship with NCR Corporation led to an extended internship and ultimately a full-time job
6:46 - An interesting interaction with someone in HR 7:41 - Working for Disney as an intern opened other doors
9:30 - Application process for the Disney internship
12:25 - Some spend entire careers in one place; others move from one opportunity to another.
13:07 - Working with different companies has led to working with many different types of customers.
13:52 - The economy often influences sales opportunities - ebb and flow
15:18 - Guidance regarding education when it comes to sales
16:03 - College is about how to think and reason, and some of the education can become obsolete, especially in a field like technology.
16:42 - Using certifications to continue adding knowledge and value
17:26 - It is possible for someone to turn certifications (Cisco, Amazon, Microsoft, etc.) into a career for a low cost.
19:43 - The best part of Brent’s career? Working with customers to solve their problems
22:32 - Dealing with difficult customers and competition are some negative aspects of Brent’s career.
23:35 - Continuing to work toward success even when the sale appears to be hopeless
24:12 - Compensation comes from how well the business does
24:54 - Having self-confidence is important
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Brent on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brenthendricks) or e-mail (brent.hendricks@monorailyellow.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Chance Conley, a 2022 Van Buren High School graduate who is an engineering apprentice at GROB Systems in Bluffton, OH. Chance shares about life as an apprentice, the various types of training he is receiving in mechanical and electrical engineering, the many benefits that are part of the apprenticeship, advice he has for future apprentices, and much more. Anyone interested in pursuing an apprenticeship at GROB will find information related to getting started down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:42 - A typical day as a GROB apprentice - 7:00 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.
2:15 - Rotations in the first two months - mechanical and electrical engineering
3:09 - Building cool gadgets to practice skills
3:38 - “If you’re a hands-on person, this is a lot of fun.”
3:50 - Chance’s second rotation - wiring
4:25 - Programmable Logic Controllers - rotation three
5:26 - Mechanical Rotations
6:55 - Chance started as an apprentice as a blank slate, but he is learning every day.
7:38 - Introduced to GROB as a junior
8:19 - The interview process for the apprenticeship
9:22 - Apprentices start the college portion of the apprenticeship immediately.
10:33 - All apprentices earn the same engineering degree.
10:55 - Deciding which route to take at GROB
11:55 - Positives - work hours and outstanding food
13:22 - Advice for those applying for the apprenticeship
14:27 - What Chance knows now that he wishes he had known in high school (though it wasn’t that long ago).
Questions? Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Chance at chanceconley27@gmail.com.
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Sarah Benson, a 2013 Van Buren High School graduate who is a General Surgery Resident at Trinity Health as she prepares for her career as a surgeon. Sarah shares about life as a surgery resident, how she almost decided to not become a doctor but is glad she persevered, how her life isn’t quite like what is seen on Grey’s Anatomy and other television shows, how struggle can be good, and much more. Anyone interested in a career as a doctor or surgeon will find information related to getting started down those paths in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:40 - Life as a General Surgery Resident
2:56 - The teams and what it means to “Round” - meet to talk about each patient.
3:28 - Sarah originally thought she would be a sports reporter; science classes changed all of that.
4:47 - Hillsdale College - Biochemistry Major - great pre-med major
5:05 - Biology, Chemistry, Kinesiology - All potential majors for future doctors
5:34 - Ran track for all five years at Hillsdale
5:56 - Getting into medical school
6:23 - Attended medical school at the University of Toledo - in-state
7:26 - Starting a residency - “The Match”
7:45 - Trinity Health in Ann Arbor - a five-year residency
8:07 - Sarah’s program is a hybrid - no research required
8:20 - Fellowships are a step beyond residency - not required
9:55 - The types of surgeries Sarah does has a resident (and will do after her residency)
10:20 - The residency still provides opportunities to experience various types of medicine
10:55 - Becoming a small-town general surgeon = freedom to Sarah
12:00 - What Sarah wishes someone had told her about the medical field when she was in high school
12:22 - Respiratory Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Medical Case Manager, Physician’s Assistant, Nurse Practitioner - all cool medical careers in a hospital that don’t require 15 years of college.
13:30 - The most challenging aspect of being a general surgeon - surgery is VERY complex.
14:15 - Sarah has been the “first assist” for over 90 surgeries so far
15:15 - How realistic is Grey’s Anatomy?
16:08 - The most rewarding experience Sarah has had as a general surgeon resident
17:07 - “You can’t expect the right things to be easy.” - Embrace the challenge
18:02 - Sarah struggled in the first year of college, but she persevered to get to where she is today.
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Sarah at Sarah.Benson001@trinity-health.org.
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Jennifer Irving, 2015 Van Buren High School graduate who will be a dentist after finishing dental school at The Ohio State University and will be moving into the U.S. Navy to serve as a dentist. Jennifer shares about how she decided to join the Navy, how her life will look as a dentist, advice she has for current students who want to be dentists, how important it is to take initiative when pursuing an internship, and much more. Anyone interested in a career as a dentist will find information related to getting started down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:30 - How life looks for someone finishing dental school
2:34 - Dentistry unique when it comes to passing Board exams
3:24 - Not a shortage of dentists, but there aren’t many schools that offer dentistry as a major
3:56 - Dental school graduates don’t have many problems finding jobs
4:52 - Originally wanted to be an orthodontist
5:35 - Intended to go to dental school when she graduated from high school
5:50 - Attending a school that has a graduate school in your desired field leads to a smoother transition
7:00 - Started on the pre-dental track, which led to hearing about the Navy in a pre-dental club meeting
8:05 - Interned at The American Dental Association in Washington D.C. after her junior year of college, which led to her thinking about the potential debt of dental school
9:05 - Many dentists encouraged her to go into the military
9:30 - Reached out to a recruiter, who helped her apply for the Health Professional Scholarship, which carries a four-year commitment to the Navy with the Navy paying for her dental schooling.
10:06 - Commissioning into the Navy - what that means
11:00 - There are some options for Jen as she prepares to graduate
11:25 - Jen will be working on a base as a dentist upon graduation
11:52 - Officer Development School is what Jen will do as a new officer in the Navy
12:48 - Perks of staying in the military if a person chooses to do that
13:25 - ROTC can be a path to pay for an undergraduate degree
14:10 - Average student debt for dental school is $300,000
14:40 - Having a good recruiter is important
15:30 - Jen will have two hats - dentist and officer
15:58 - A grant through Ohio State led to Jen’s summer internship
16:25 - The ADA created an internship for her simply because she reached out to them
17:18 - The hardest part of becoming a dentist is being accepted to dental school
17:37 - Learn how to study because grades really matter when getting into dental school.
18:16 - Be involved and well-rounded
19:31 - The biggest time of struggle on the path to becoming a dentist was her freshman year of college.
20:45 - Grading on a curve was a surprise
21:22 - The culture of Ohio State is one of the best parts of attending the school
22:00 - Professional careers (like dentistry) are different from other careers, so people need to figure out strategies to achieve their goals
23:01 - “The more you know, the better off you are going to be.” - Starting to volunteer, etc.
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Jennifer at irving.33@.osu.edu
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Michelle (Long) Fissell, a 2009 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a licensed professional counselor for Family Life Counseling & Psychiatric Services in central Ohio. Michelle shares what she does as a counselor, what led her to a counseling career after intending to become a math teacher, what it was like to earn a counseling degree through Grand Canyon University’s online program, and much more. Anyone interested in a career as a counselor will find information related to getting started down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:58 - Becoming a licensed professional counselor
3:03 - A typical day for Michelle as a counselor
5:50 - Learning how to deal with the weighty issues counselors are helping patients manage
7:09 - Original plan - become a math teacher
7:37 - A New Testament class led Michelle in a different direction
8:33 - Dealing with loss in her own life contributed to Michelle becoming a counselor
10:00 - Worked at Dick’s Sporting Goods after college while “trying to figure out life”
10:42 - Chose Grand Canyon University because she wanted an accredited counseling program
12:23 - Working 60+ hours a week while completing her master’s degree
13:25 - Positives and negatives of online schooling
14:48 - An online group counseling class required some fancy logistics
15:39 - Advice to someone considering a counseling career
16:29 - The feeling of helping someone makes all of the work worth it
17:04 - There are many career options in the world
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/michelle-fissell-563659a9/) or e-mail (mrlong4290@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Kristina Rowles, a 2008 Van Buren High School graduate who is now the Director of Home Repair for Appalachia Service Project (ASP) in Tennessee. Kristina shares about what she does as the Director of Home Repair, how her experiences with ASP during the summer while in high school and college helped lead her to this career, how she started her career journey as a music therapist, internship opportunities with ASP for young adults, and much more. Anyone interested in a career with a service organization or in music therapy will find information related to getting started down those paths in this episode. Enjoy the show!
1:42 - A typical day as Director of Home Repair at Appalachia Service Project (ASP)
2:19 - Home repair is mostly done by volunteers at no cost to the homeowners.
3:08 - 8,000 volunteers in the summer of 2022
5:05 - Kristina did volunteer with ASP while in HS but didn’t anticipate someday working for ASP full-time.
5:46 - Kristina’s focus was on becoming a music therapist. 6:51 - Experience often leads to opportunity, which is true for Kristina.
8:07 - Activities in college gave her good practice juggling many different projects/events, which help Kristina in her current job.
9:15 - Music therapy led Kristina to where she is today.
9:42 - Music therapy as a career
10:00 - Proficiency in guitar, piano, and voice helpful as a music therapist
10:57 - Music therapy internship required; Kristina did hers in Maine.
11:15 - Music therapy certification lasts five years before re-certification.
11:42 - Music therapists can own their own businesses, private practices, school systems, etc.
12:24 - Winter in Bar Harbor, ME - an interesting experience
13:48 - After thinking she was done with ASP after her college experience, a new door opened.
15:00 - Headed to the University of Tennessee to earn a master’s degree in social work, and that coincided with moving into a new position with ASP
17:00 - There are internship opportunities for young adults who have been out of high school for at least one year and are 18
17:30 - The internship is a great way for young adults to take on real responsibilities that will help them develop both personally and professionally.
18:00 - Interns meet and lead people from all over the country.
18:41 - Project management - a big part of the internship and a great learning experience
19:20 - Kristina was in charge of a $40,000 budget as a college student with ASP.
20:25 - There is usually a stereotype with Appalachia, but there are some really cool people doing some really cool things there.
22:03 - High school students don’t have to have life all figured out before they graduate.
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Kristina on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-rowles-mssw-mt-bc-6a90bb88/) or e-mail (rowles.kristina@gmail.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Matt Mutchler, a 2002 Van Buren High School graduate who is now an architect with the architecture firm F5 Design. Matt shares about what he does as an architect, how many people who graduate with architecture degrees don’t become licensed architects, how he focuses on creating buildings that use as little energy as possible, and much more. Anyone interested in an architecture career will find information related to getting started down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net)
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-mutchler-326a5b2b/) or e-mail (mutchler@f5design.com)
1:29 - Typical day for an architect
5:30 - Architecture - a mix of art and science
9:32 - Education to become an architect
12:10 - Attending The University of Cincinnati, the best architecture school in the country at that time
20:25 - His focus on building energy efficient buildings
22:22 - Difficult parts of a career as an architect
26:59 - Words of wisdom from Matt
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Ryan Brauneller, a 2013 Van Buren High School graduate who is now the Environmental, Health, and Safety Manager for ICU Medical. Ryan shares about what an EHS manager does, how he changed career paths halfway through college, the personal characteristics which make EHS managers successful, how a former coach helped him on his career path, and much more. Anyone interested in an environmental, health, or safety career will find information related to getting started down those paths in this episode. Enjoy the show!
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail (bbratt@vbschools.net).
Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-brauneller-aa4754141/) or e-mail (ryan.brauneller@icumedical.com).
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This episode features a conversation with Jon Tropf, a 2008 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a men's basketball coach at Ohio Northern University. Jon shares about what he does as a coach, what it is like to win a league championship at a Division I university, the importance of building relationships, the unglamorous parts of coaching, and much more. Anyone interested in a coaching career will find information related to getting started down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/
Connect with Jon - j-tropf.1@onu.edu
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers Podcast! This episode features a conversation with Lane Kuhlman, a 2001 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a Staff Interaction Designer with Google. Lane shares about what she does as a designer, the pioneers of the internet she has worked with at Google, the importance of failing fast, and much more. Anyone interested in design, art, or computer careers will find information related to getting started down those paths in this episode. Enjoy the show!
Questions?
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/
Connect with Lane on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekuhlman/
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers Podcast! This episode features a conversation with Brooke (Conroy) Nissen, a 2007 Van Buren High School graduate who is now the Executive Director of Focus Recovery and Wellness Community. Brooke shares about what she does as an executive director, how her work in criminal justice led her to this point on her career journey, how she deals with stress, and much more. Anyone interested in social work or criminal justice careers will find information related to getting started down those paths in this episode. Enjoy the show!
Welcome back to the Joust About Careers Podcast! This episode features a conversation with Nicholas DeBouver, a 2009 Van Buren High School graduate who is now an Associate Scientist of Structural Biology for the biopharmaceutical company UCB. Nicholas shares about what he does as a scientist focusing on crystallography, how he turned a co-op position into a full-time job, what his career taught has him about failure, and much more. Anyone interested in a science career will find information related to getting started down that path in this episode. Enjoy the show!
The Interviewing People Careercast is now the Joust About Careers Podcast! This episode features a conversations with Wade Schimmoeller, a 2015 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a Senior Financial Analyst with NetJets, the largest private jet company in the world. In the episode, Wade shares about what he does as an analyst, how he arrived at this place in his career, advice he has for future analysts, and much more. Anyone interested in an analytics career will find information to getting started down that path in this episode.
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Kristin Conner, a 2015 Van Buren High School graduate who earned her Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) and is now a registered nurse working in the coronary care unit at Blanchard Valley Health System. In the interview, Kristin discusses what she does as a coronary care nurse, the different levels of education a nurse can gain, the places other than a hospital that a nurse can work, and much more. Anyone interested in a nursing career will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Lauren Brown, a 2016 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a law student at Capital University Law School after earning an undergraduate Political Science/Government degree from The Ohio State University. In the interview, Lauren discusses how she originally went to school to become a pharmacist, how a Van Buren graduate influenced her to consider becoming a lawyer, how important words really are, and much more. Anyone interested in attending law school/becoming a lawyer will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Kathryn (Wolfinger) Patterson, a 2001 Van Buren High School graduate who is now the Marketing and Engagement Lead for Visit BG Ohio. In the interview, Kathryn discusses what she does to market Bowling Green's attractions, how an internship after her freshman year of college impacted her life, how important it is to be a life-long learner, and much more. Anyone interested in a marketing career will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Ian Rafferty, a 2015 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a misdemeanor investigator for the Hancock County Public Defender's Office. In the interview, Ian discusses how he had never considered working for a public defender as a way to utilize his criminal justice degree, what exactly he does as a misdemeanor investigator, the importance of building rapport with his colleagues, and much more. Anyone interested in a criminal justice career will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Evan Haffenden, a 2006 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a Commodity Manager focused on supply chain for Accuride Corporation. In the interview, Evan discusses how he ended up in supply chain even though it was never on his radar in high school, how much he has to travel in this career, what has been most rewarding in his career, and much more. Anyone interested in a commodity/supply chain career will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Austin Essinger, a 2014 Van Buren High School graduate who is now an IT Support Technician at Wyandot Memorial Hospital. In the interview, Austin discusses why he chose a career in IT, how he used freelance IT work as an opportunity to build his skills, what a typical day looks like for him, and much more. Anyone interested in an IT career will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Ben Etzler, who serves in the U.S. Navy and is a 2005 Van Buren High School graduate, and Ryan Caligiuiri, who serves in the U.S. Army and is a 2004 Van Buren High School graduate. In the interview, Ben and Ryan discuss why they chose to join the military, why they chose their branches, what has been most fulfilling about their lives in the military, how they have both spent time teaching in the military, how much emphasis they each put on the Army/Navy football game, and much more. Anyone interested in serving in the military or having a military career will find information relevant to getting started down those paths in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Kailey (Leal) Gilliland, a 2015 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a registered diagnostic medical sonographer. In the interview, Kailey discusses why she chose to attend the University of Findlay to earn her degree, the differences in degrees available to sonographers, what role sonographers play in the medical field, other certifications sonographers can earn, and much more. Anyone interested in a career as a sonographer or in the health care field will find information relevant to getting started down those paths in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode of The Interviewing People Careercast features a conversation with Jon Farling, a 2000 Van Buren High School graduate who is now an entrepreneur and self-storage investor. In the interview, Jon discusses how working a 9-5 job led him to become a self-storage investor, the freedom his career provides to him and his family, how experience has been a valuable teacher, and much more. Anyone interested in a career as an entrepreneur or investor will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with Holly Kendrick, a 2009 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a civil engineer and project manager for the Whiting-Turner Contracting Company. In the interview, Holly discusses how she chose an engineering path to pursue, how she used her internships to learn both what she did and didn't want in a future full-time position, why her work is fulfilling, and much more. Anyone interested in a career as an #engineer will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with Kerri Hauman, a 2002 Van Buren High School graduate who is now an Associate Professor of Writing, Rhetoric, and Communication at Transylvania University in Lexington, KY. In the interview, Kerri discusses how she went to college with a pre-med major, how working at Wright State's writing center started her down the path to becoming a professor, how she achieved tenure, and much more. Anyone interested in a career as a college professor will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with Jessica MacMurray, a 1999 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a Clinical Research Coordinator at The Ohio State University's James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. In the interview, Jessica discusses her time as a member of the OSU marching band, how her Animal Science degree has contributed to various roles she has held, the cancer research to which she has contributed, the advice she has for current students, and much more. Anyone interested in a science-focused career will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with Jordan Sattler, a 2005 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a diesel mechanic for Tawa Mulch & Landscape Supply. In the interview, Jordan discusses his college experience at UNOH, the role science and math play in his career, how his feelings about being a diesel mechanic have evolved over his career, the current high demand for diesel mechanics, and much more. Anyone interested in a career as a mechanic will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with Brandi Hoyng, a 2013 Van Buren High School graduate who is now a clinical pharmacist for Health Partners of Western Ohio. In the interview, Brandi discusses the University of Findlay's 0-6 pharmacy program, the difference between a pharmacy internship and a pharmacy residency, how she works directly with patients much more than a person might expect, the various career options for pharmacists, and much more. Anyone interested in a pharmacy career will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, so enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with Terry Leibold, a 1971 Van Buren High School graduate who spent the majority of his working career as a NASA photographer at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL. In the interview, Terry discusses how, despite originally planning to be an accountant, he ended up working for NASA; how his willingness to continue to learn opened up new opportunities for him; how his career allowed him to visit many unique places and meet many well-known people; and much more. Anyone interested in a photography career will find information relevant to getting started down that path in this episode, but much of the advice Terry shares would be useful in any career. Enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with Dr. Breanna (Benjamin) Barney, a 2004 Van Buren High School graduate who is a physical therapist and massge therapist with a variety of other certifications (Parkinson's Disease, Fall Prevention, etc.). Dr. Barney also owns her own business, VIP Therapy (www.viptherapy.org). In the interview, Dr. Barney discusses what being a physical therapist entails, why she started her own business after working for a different physical therapy provider, the successes she's experienced as a physical therapist, and much more. Anyone interested in physical therapy and healthcare-related careers will find information relevant to getting started down those paths in this episode. Enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with John Drerup, a 2002 Van Buren High School graduate who is now the Garment Wash and Fabric Manager for Target in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In the interview, John discusses what his job entails, what it is like to work for a large company like Target, the role travel plays in his career, what he has learned about relationships, and much more. Anyone interested in fashion and science-related careers will find information relevant to getting started down those paths in this episode. Enjoy the show!
This episode features my conversation with Colin Causey, a 2014 Van Buren High School graduate, a University of Findlay graduate (computer science/philosophy double major, mathematics minor), and a current computer science graduate student at Case Western Reserve University. The focus of our discussion is on Colin's work in the computer science field, which includes working at both the Argonne and Oak Ridge National Laboratories. Colin also talks about his internships, why he decided to go to graduate school, his interest in the NBA, what his work has led him to learn about communication, and much more. If anyone is interested in science-related careers, this episode will offer information relevant to getting started down that path. Enjoy the show!
This episode features my interview with Jared Smith, a recent graduate of the University of Cincinnati with an Aerospace Engineering degree. Jared is a 2016 Van Buren graduate, and the focus of our discussion is on his experience with the co-op program at UC. Throughout the interview Jared also discusses what being an aerospace engineer entails, what he did during his co-op experiences, what advice he has for those currently looking for jobs, and much more. If anyone is interested in becoming an aerospace engineer or participating in co-ops while in college, this episode will offer information relevant to getting started down those paths. Enjoy the show!
This episode features my interview with Abbie (Mingus) Doan, a Senior Marine Mammal Trainer at the Indianapolis Zoo. Abbie is a 2004 Van Buren graduate, and in the interview she talks about her college experience as a biology major at Bowling Green State University, her internship with the Navy, how the timing of her graduation aligned with an opening for an animal trainer at the Indianapolis Zoo, and much more which provides insights into her career path. If anyone is interested in becoming a marine biologist or entering a different science field, this episode will offer information relevant to getting started down that path. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features my interview with Rachel Adolph, a physician's assistant who works at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Spine Health. Rachel is a 2011 Van Buren graduate, and in the interview she talks about the sacrifices she had to make when she decided to change her focus from becoming a physical therapist to a physician's assistant, the support she received from her graduate school professors, what she is able to do as a physician's assistant, and much more. If anyone is interested in becoming a PA or entering a different facet of the medical field, this episode will offer information relevant to getting started down that path. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features my interview with Adysson Miller, a Sport Management major and intern for the LPGA Solheim Cup, which is coming to Toledo August 31-September 6. Adysson is a 2017 Van Buren graduate, and in the interview she talks about the opportunities which came about from connecting with BGSU graduates, why she focuses on relationships, meeting former University of Michigan football standouts Desmond Howard (a Heisman Trophy winner) and Denard Robinson, and much more. If anyone is interested in working in sports as a future career, this episode will offer information relevant to getting started down that path. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features my interview with Isaac Smith, founder and president of Five Start Detailing LLC, a vehicle detailing company in Findlay, OH. Isaac is a 2018 Van Buren graduate, and in the interview he talks about what led him to start a business, how his experience as a firefighter and EMT helped him grow as a leader, how he has developed his brand, and much more. If anyone is interested in becoming an entrepreneur, this episode will offer information relevant to getting started. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features my interview with KiaLynne Bland, a recent college graduate who has a degree in social work and is a program manager at Bittersweet Farms in Whitehouse, OH. KiaLynne is a 2017 Van Buren graduate, and in the interview she talks about what led her to switch from journalism to social work, what she does at Bittersweet Farms, how people interested in a social work career can start down that path, and much more. If anyone is looking to serve others in a social work career, this episode will offer information relevant to getting started. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features my interview with Lacie Kern, a recruiting specialist for Nationwide Insurance. Lacie is a 2012 Van Buren High School graduate, and in the interview she talks about what led her to work in human resources as a recruiter, how this career helps her achieve the purpose she sees for herself, what people should and shouldn't include on their résumés, and much more. If you are looking for résumé advice or are interested in an HR career, this episode will offer relevant information in both areas. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features my interview with Alex Kane, a software developer, 3D artist, and teacher in Tokyo, Japan. Alex is a 2013 Van Buren High School graduate, and in the interview he talks about his initial career goal of working at Pixar, what led him to live in Japan, his development of the Cloth Weaver application, and much more. If you are interested in becoming a freelance digital artist or traveling and living overseas, Alex's story is one you will find especially beneficial. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features my interview with Ryan Randall, a Project Manager Scrum Master for MI-GSO PCUBED in Detroit, MI, and a 2005 Van Buren High School graduate. Ryan talks about what a scrum master does, how being in the Army National Guard impacted where he is today, and how his first visit to IKEA actually occurred in Kuwait City. If you are interested in how the National Guard can help propel you to career success, Ryan's story is one you will find especially beneficial. Enjoy the show!
This episode features my interview with Tiffini Gallant, a creative writer for A&E Design in Billings, Montana, and a 2006 Van Buren High School graduate. Tiffini talks about her non-traditional college path which led her to earn associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees; the winding career path that led to her becoming a creative writer; and the beauty of living in Big Sky country. If you've ever thought about writing for a living, Tiffini is proof that it can be done, and she is loving every minute of it. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This video features my interview with Chaz Hatfield, an entrepreneur who is the CEO and co-founder of HatBerg Collective, a contract and private label manufacturer of skincare, haircare, and personal care products. Chaz talks about his experience working both in the U.S. and overseas for Accenture, attending graduate school in Spain, becoming an entrepreneur and opening his own business, and much more. If you've ever thought about becoming an entrepreneur, this episode will hopefully answer many of the questions you have. Enjoy!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This video features my interview with Zach Hiris, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Boulder, CO. Zach talks about his career as a meteorologist, how he chose to attend SUNY-Oswego for his undergraduate and Iowa State for his graduate degrees, how being a National Weather Service Pathways student contributed to where he is today, and much more. If you've ever thought about becoming a meteorologist, this video will hopefully answer many of the questions you have. Enjoy!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. Today's guest, Kelli McKinley (bakery@charlestonhospitalitygroup.com) is an executive chef with Charleston Hospitality Group in Charleston, SC. Kelli talks about her career, which includes time as a pastry chef; her college experiences, both at a traditional four-year school and a culinary school; her favorite type of food to make; and much more. If you've ever thought about becoming a chef or working in the food service industry, this video will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. Today's guest, Kevin Davis (@kdavissti), is a wheelsman for the Interlake Steamship Company. Kevin talks about his career working on a ship carrying iron ore on the Great Lakes, what a person working on a ship does during down time, the characteristics of people who might enjoy working on a ship, etc. If you've ever thought about working on a ship, this video will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. Today's guest, Tyler Akers, a Demand Planning & Analysis Manager at Groove Life in Spring Hill, Tennessee, attended the University of Toledo on an ROTC scholarship and was an Army Intelligence Officer before moving into civilian life. In the interview he shares how the ROTC scholarship helped him earn his undergraduate degree with no debt and how the skills he learned in the military have transferred to his current career.
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I will talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. Today's guest, Macy (McCartney) Miekstyn, an Operations Manager at ProMedica Toledo and Russell J. Ebeid Children's Hospitals, discusses what she did when she encountered failure, how her biology degree led her to where she is today (but it wasn't a direct path), why experience matters, and how people could get an employer to pay for education. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I will talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. Today's guest, Emily (Lammers) Hebein, a legislative assistant in the U.S. House of Representatives, talks about the path she took to arrive in Washington D.C. and what it is like to work in the Capitol. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. Today's guest, Sydney Jameson of Young & Laramore, a marketing firm in Indianapolis, is with us to talk about her career journey, so enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, a #careercast where I talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. Today's guest, Dustin Drerup of Beastcraft Animatronic Props, is with us to talk about his career journey. Dustin has an interesting story, so enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, where we will talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, where we will talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features Van Buren graduates Tori Bookwalter and McClain Brown talking about their internship experiences as college students. Enjoy the show!
Welcome to Interviewing People, where we will talk to a variety of people with a focus on how they ended up where they are today, what they learned from their mistakes, and what advice they have for our futures. This episode features my discussion with Van Buren graduate Brittany (Ramsey) Busse, an account executive with the WNBA's Chicago Sky. Enjoy the show!