Belong

Building a Thriving Community for Women In Product, with Carmen Palmer

Belong Communications LLC — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0800

Join host Kevin as he sits down with Carmen Palmer, CEO of Women In Product, in this enlightening episode of the Belong Podcast. They discuss the journey and mission of Women In Product, a nonprofit organization founded in 2016 that now has a community of over 30,000 women and non-binary individuals. Carmen shares insights into the organization's growth from small networking dinners to an annual conference and extensive programs. She delves into the challenges and strategies of connecting a global community, the role of volunteers, and the importance of providing structure and support to help women thrive in their careers. Carmen also talks about the tools and platforms used to enhance connections and engagement within the community and the vision for the future of Women In Product. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on community building, leadership, and innovation in the realm of product management.

Links

Guest: Carmen Palmer, CEO, Women In Product
Host: Kevin Micalizzi
Women In Product
The Women In Product Community

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Chapters

(00:00) - Introduction to Women in Product
(00:49) - Carmen Palmer's Journey and Role
(02:35) - Growth and Challenges of Women in Product
(03:46) - Connecting Local and Global Communities
(06:24) - Leveraging Technology and Tools
(11:00) - Transitioning from Events to Online Engagement
(16:10) - Building a Sustainable Community
(21:32) - Mentorship and Giving Back
(39:14) - Future Vision for Women in Product
(43:47) - Conclusion and Next Steps

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.com.

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Fractional Leadership and Online Community, with Karina Mikhli

Belong Communications LLC — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0800

In this episode, we sit down with Karina Mikhli, Founder of the rapidly growing Fractionals United community. Karina shares her insights on what it means to be a fractional leader, distinguishing it from consulting and interim roles. We explore the founding and growth of the Fractionals United community, from a simple Slack channel to a thriving network of over 13,000 members. Learn how Karina maintained authenticity, engagement, and growth within the community, while balancing her professional commitments. This conversation offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in the rise of fractional roles and the challenges of building and sustaining an impactful online community.

Links:

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chapters

(00:00) - Interview with Karina Mikhli
(00:41) - Introduction and Welcome
(01:47) - Defining Fractional Roles
(04:39) - The Rise of Fractional Work
(05:40) - Building Fractionals United
(09:55) - Challenges and Community Engagement
(13:31) - Automation and Management
(30:06) - Future Goals and Sustainability
(38:45) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.com.

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Building Community Through Classic Films, with Genevieve McGillicuddy

Belong Communications LLC — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0800

Join us as we reconnect with Genevieve McGillicuddy, VP, Enterprises & Strategic Partnerships at Turner Classic Movies (TCM), to discuss her journey and the evolution of TCM's community engagement. We delve into the early days of TCM's online presence, the growth of message boards, and the impact of social media in building a passionate fan base. Genevieve shares insights on how TCM's fans have shaped the brand, the significance of in-person events like film festivals and cruises, and how the network adapted during the pandemic. We also touch on a remarkable story where legendary directors like Martin Scorsese, Paul Thomas Anderson, and Steven Spielberg intervened to support the TCM team during layoffs.

Links:

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chapters

(00:00) - Belong - Interview with Genevieve McGillicuddy
(00:07) - Introduction
(01:20) - Early Career at Turner
(01:58) - The Early Days of Community
(06:36) - Defining Classic Films
(08:00) - Cult Branding and TCM's Unique Identity
(10:40) - Expanding TCM's Reach
(12:53) - Engaging with Fans
(15:53) - TCM Events and Fan Interactions
(18:11) - Continuous Feedback and Staff Experiences
(21:44) - Reflecting on the Cruise Experience
(22:39) - Challenges of Hosting the Festival
(24:02) - Impact of the Pandemic
(24:51) - Transition to Virtual Events
(27:03) - The HBO Max Collaboration
(29:34) - Return to In-Person Events
(33:14) - TCM Layoffs and Community Support
(40:17) - Future Plans and New Initiatives

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.com.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Empowering Belonging and Amplifying Black Joy Through Art, with Kunya Rowley

Belong Communications LLC — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 06:30:00 -0800

In this engaging conversation, Kunya Rowley discusses his transition from a corporate job to founding Hued Songs, a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying Black joy, culture, and belonging through diverse artistic experiences. He shares insights into his mission to create inclusive spaces where artists of color can be seen, heard, and paid fairly, and how the arts can build empathy and community. Kunya reveals the challenges and triumphs of producing innovative performances and his vision for expanding Hued Songs beyond Miami. Join us as we explore the transformative power of art in fostering connection and belonging.

Links

Guest: Kunya Rowley, Founder and Executive Artistic Director, Hued Songs
Host: Kevin Micalizzi
Hued Songs
A Celebration of Black Belonging | Kunya Rowley | TEDxMiami
Othering and Belonging Institute

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Chapters

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.com.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Fitness and Belonging–The Man Flow Yoga Journey, with Dean Pohlman

Belong Communications LLC — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0800

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Man Flow Yoga, a yoga-based fitness program created by Dean Pohlman. Starting from creating YouTube videos for his lacrosse teammates to building a comprehensive online community, Dean shares how he tailored yoga for men who may feel out of place in traditional yoga settings. We discuss the evolution of Man Flow Yoga, the surprising demographic it attracted, and the launch of community-driven projects like the Better Man Podcast and Man Flow Yoga Engage. Dean emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, supportive communities, and the integration of holistic wellness into fitness regimes. This conversation offers valuable insights for anyone interested in building a community-focused fitness brand.

Links

Guest: Dean Pohlman (he/him), CEO & Found, Man Flow Yoga
Host: Kevin Micalizzi (he/him)
Man Flow Yoga
The Better Man Podcast
Man Flow Yoga YouTube Channel

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Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chapters

(00:00) - Interview with Dean Pohlman
(00:39) - Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast
(01:10) - The Origins of Man Flow Yoga
(03:25) - Reaching a Broader Audience
(05:04) - Building a Facebook Community
(13:51) - The Better Man Podcast
(16:49) - Man Flow Engage and Future Plans
(26:48) - The Importance of Vulnerability
(30:14) - Future Vision

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.com.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Asking for Help is a Superpower, with Phyl Terry

Belong Communications LLC — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:28:00 -0800

In this episode, we explore the concept of belonging in business with Phil Terry, the Founder and CEO of Collaborative Gain, and author of 'Never Search Alone' and ‘Customers Included.’ Phil shares their extensive experience of fostering peer councils professionally and how that work has extended into a number of pro-bono projects. From Phil’s beginnings inspired by their mother's first council initiative to work with senior leaders and job seekers, Phil discusses the power of asking for help, creating structured support systems, and building long-term, meaningful connections. Phil also touches on their work with Slow Art Day, the World of Business Reading Group, and future projects including 'Never Lead Alone' and a potential memoir. Join us for an insightful conversation on the importance of vulnerability, trust, and community in navigating careers and personal growth.

Links

Guest: Phyl Terry (they/them)
Host: Kevin Micalizzi (he/him)
Never Search Alone
Never Search Alone Volunteer Opportunities
Collaborative Gain
World of Business Reading Group (WBRG)
Slow Art Day
A Personal History, by Katherine Graham

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Chapters

(00:00) - Belong-Interview with Phyl Terry
(00:55) - welcome
(01:20) - Phyl's Journey and Early Influences
(02:21) - Building Communities and Movements
(03:12) - The Power of Asking for Help
(04:43) - Collaborative Gain and Career Councils
(06:19) - Innovative Programs and Initiatives
(07:33) - Warren Buffett: The Community Organizer
(09:05) - Dead or Distant Mentor
(10:19) - Creating Structure and Positive Politics
(17:54) - The Dot-Com Bust and Collaborative Gain's Origin
(23:28) - Reinventing the Job Search
(26:21) - The Journey to Candidate Market Fit
(27:53) - Building a Lasting Community
(30:00) - Creating the Never Search Alone Community
(32:05) - The Role of Moderators in Job Search Councils
(33:14) - The Value of Diverse Perspectives
(38:39) - Future Plans and Projects
(41:40) - The Importance of Asking for Help
(43:33) - Phyl's Memoir and Personal Journey
(46:38) - Expanding the Never Search Alone Platform
(47:51) - Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.com.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Discovering What's Really Possible–From Sales to Inspiring Change, with Jill Konrath

Belong Communications LLC — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0800

In this episode we’re speaking with Jill Konrath, a former sales professional who is now exploring 'What's Really Possible' to create positive changed in our polarized world. Jill shares her motivation behind quitting sales and her mission to bring people together despite political polarities. She delves into her initiative to foster collaboration and creativity by focusing on creating rather than fixing problems. The conversation covers her experiences with building communities, her approach to meaningful conversations, and her hopes for involving grandmothers in healing the world. Join us as we explore Jill's inspiring journey and her efforts to instigate positive change.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Links

Guest: Jill Konrath (she/her)
Host: Kevin Micalizzi (he/him)
What’s Really Possible
The Highest Goal: The Secret That Sustains You In Every Moment, by Michael Ray
I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times, by Mónica Guzmán
Sales Wiz - A Business Novel by Jill
Sales Books by Jill

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Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chapters

(00:00) - Belong-Interview with Jill Konrath
(00:07) - Introduction and Background
(01:17) - The Birth of 'What's Really Possible'
(03:43) - Challenges and Realizations
(06:50) - Creating Community and Instigating Change
(13:03) - The Power of Grandmothers
(17:39) - Future Plans and Reflections
(22:02) - The Journey of Success
(22:52) - Engaging Conversations
(26:04) - The Power of Questions
(26:48) - Organic Encounters
(30:17) - The Spirit of Possibility
(33:13) - Writing with Purpose
(36:57) - Facing Challenges
(38:19) - A Call to Action

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Building Community One Neighborhood at a Time, with Mary Jaron Kelley, Portland Office of Community & Civic Life

Belong Communications LLC — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Join us as we speak with Mary Jaron Kelly, a seasoned community advocate with over 20 years of experience in Portland's Office of Community and Civic Life. This episode delves into Mary's transition from landscape architecture to volunteer leadership, exploring her work with neighborhood associations and various impactful community projects. We discuss overcoming challenges, the importance of empathy, collaboration, and humor in community building, and the joy of connecting with and learning from volunteers. Discover practical insights on fostering trust, respect, and empowerment within communities.

Links

Guest: Mary Jaron Kelley (she/her)
Host: Kevin Micalizzi (he/him)

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chapters

(00:00) - Interview with Mary Jaron Kelly
(00:59) - Bringing Communities Together
(02:08) - Challenges and Rewards of Community Work
(03:32) - Personal Journey and Professional Growth
(05:24) - Impact of Volunteering and Community Engagement
(09:05) - Background and Early Influences
(23:00) - Adapting to Change and Building Resilience
(27:51) - Empowering Communities and Giving Credit
(34:14) - Final Thoughts

Credits
Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Create Connections Through Storytelling and Inclusivity, with Daniel Midgley, Because Language

Belong Communications LLC — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Join us on Belong as we chat with Daniel Midgley, linguist, author, science communicator, and host of the Because Language podcast. In this episode, Daniel shares his expertise on creating an inclusive and thriving podcast community. We discuss the importance of diverse guests, minimizing jargon, and using inclusive language to foster a sense of belonging. Daniel highlights the value of interactive components, storytelling, and community contributions, drawing from his experiences with both radio and podcasting. Learn about effective use of platforms like Discord, challenges of transitioning to an independent podcast, and the significance of respect, creativity, and adaptability in producing compelling content. Discover insights and strategies for building a supportive and engaging community.

Links

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chapters

(00:00) - Interview with Daniel Midgley, Because Language
(00:46) - Make it Interactive
(02:57) - Build and Engage the Community
(04:12) - Using Social Media and Discord
(07:08) - Collaborations and Inclusivity
(11:46) - Language Sensitivity and Respect
(14:19) - Creating a Conversational Atmosphere
(15:52) - Flexibility and Spontaneity
(17:47) - Reading the Room: Knowing When to Change Up
(18:44) - The Power of Storytelling in Linguistics
(22:05) - The Evolution of Live Shows
(24:48) - Building a Community Through Patreon
(28:21) - The Importance of Community in Linguistics
(31:45) - Final Thoughts

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Exploring Community Insights, with Kim Larson, Luminoso

Belong Communications LLC — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Many of us don’t think of data when we think about cultivating belonging. In this conversation with Kim Larson from Luminoso we dig into how data, text analytics, and surveys can transform our community engagement. Kim and I dig into the insights we’ve gained from surveying our communities and we discuss how to balance AI and the human connection.

Links

Guest: Kim Larson (she/her)
Host: Kevin Micalizzi (he/him)
St Johns 2024 Culture Survey
Represented. How to get accurate identity data (ethically) - webinar
Luminoso

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chapters

(00:00) - 2024-10-07-Interview with Kim Larson
(00:41) - Introduction and Background
(01:45) - Educational Journey and Community Involvement
(03:09) - Neighborhood Survey Initiative
(06:48) - Survey Design and Implementation
(11:36) - Analyzing Survey Results
(16:12) - Community Connection and Challenges
(18:30) - Livability and Change Management
(25:26) - Connection and Community Building
(29:10) - Transportation and Infrastructure Needs
(36:53) - Reflections on Survey Design and Impact
(40:00) - Balancing AI and Human Connection
(43:46) - Final Thoughts and Advice

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Welcome to Belong

Belong Communications LLC — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 17:45:45 -0700

Hi, I'm Kevin. Welcome to Belong. I'm excited to have you join me on this journey as we explore how people are cultivating a feeling of belonging in business, community, and life. In the coming weeks I'll be speaking with some incredible guests.

Thank you for coming on this journey with me.

Links

Host: Kevin Micalizzi (he/him)

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chapters

Credits

Music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★