In this episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Sunny Myers, a multifaceted leader and community builder at Fastly, Inc. Sunny shares her incredible journey from a technical engineering background to her current role as Senior Manager for Employee Experience and Belonging.

Throughout the conversation, Sunny articulates the nuances of balancing technical prowess with a people-centric approach in leadership. She discusses not only her professional challenges and triumphs but also her personal experiences as a mother of four, including her journey of parenting children with disabilities. This episode dives deep into the mental and emotional aspects of leadership, the value of community, and the necessity of self-care—all while maintaining authenticity in both personal and professional realms.

• (00:00) - - Welcome to Ask Ashley Podcast
• (01:00) - - Introduction of Sunny Myers
• (02:45) - - Sunny's Background and Community Work
• (04:30) - - Transition from Engineering to HR
• (06:15) - - Early Career Challenges and Discoveries
• (08:50) - - Importance of Diversity in Tech
• (11:20) - - Balancing Technical and Human Focus
• (15:00) - - Data-Driven Decision Making
• (18:30) - - Fastly's Unique Company Culture
• (21:10) - - Navigating Polarizing Topics at Work
• (24:40) - - Protecting Company Culture and Values
• (28:15) - - Personal Challenges in Leadership
• (32:45) - - Parenting and Work-Life Balance
• (35:50) - - Supporting Kids with Disabilities
• (39:00) - - The Role of Community in Parenting
• (42:30) - - Lessons from Personal and Professional Life
• (45:15) - - Advice to Younger Self
• (48:00) - - Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

In this inspiring episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Dorion Baker, a leader in HR and People Operations at BTI360. Dorion shares his compelling journey from an early fascination with human connections to becoming a pivotal figure in shaping inclusive workplace cultures. He reflects on the importance of presence over titles, emphasizing that true leadership lies in the genuine connections we make with others.

Dorion’s experiences, including growing up in a single-parent household and navigating the complexities of diversity in the workplace, have shaped his approach to leadership. He discusses the significance of mentorship, both in his personal life and in the professional realm, revealing how he aims to provide the support he lacked during his own career journey. This conversation is a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on others when we lead with empathy, humility, and a commitment to uplifting those around us.

• (00:01) - - Introduction to Ask Ashley Podcast
• (00:34) - - Meet Dorion Baker from BTI360
• (01:00) - - Dorion's Professional Journey
• (02:14) - - Early Influences on Leadership Values
• (03:39) - - Key Moments of Pride in Career
• (05:00) - - Building Inclusive Workplace Cultures
• (07:09) - - Strategies for Supporting Minority Groups
• (09:49) - - Importance of Mentorship in Leadership
• (11:00) - - The Role of Presence and Representation
• (12:38) - - Personal Stories of Mentorship
• (14:11) - - The Impact of Life Experiences
• (15:36) - - Finding Meaning through Service
• (18:27) - - Slowing Down in a Fast-Paced World
• (20:56) - - Prioritizing Relationships Over Speed
• (22:53) - - The Role of Gratitude in Success
• (25:07) - - Influences and Mentors in Dorion's Life
• (27:08) - - Advice to Younger Self on Asking for Help
• (29:07) - - Conclusion and Reflection on Impact

In this enlightening episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo welcomes Jyl Feliciano, the Global Vice President of People, Culture, and Belonging at Highspot. With over 20 years of experience, Jyl shares her inspiring journey from the financial services sector to becoming a leader in culture and belonging. She reflects on the challenges she faced, including impostor syndrome and the pressure of conforming in a male-dominated industry, and how these experiences shaped her mission to create workplaces where authenticity thrives.

Jyl emphasizes the importance of courage in leadership and the necessity of data-driven decision-making within DEIB initiatives. She also discusses the role of mentorship in her career and how her upbringing as the granddaughter of civil rights activists influenced her passion for advocacy. Throughout the conversation, Jyl encourages leaders to prioritize human connection while navigating the complexities of modern workplace dynamics. This episode is a powerful reminder that fostering an inclusive culture is not just a trend but a vital component of organizational success.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to Ask Ashley Podcast
• (01:15) - - Meet Jyl Feliciano
• (02:30) - - Jyl's Career Journey
• (05:00) - - Inspiration for Focus on Inclusion
• (08:20) - - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
• (10:40) - - The Role of Mentorship
• (13:15) - - Impact of Upbringing on Leadership
• (15:30) - - Balancing Data and Human Elements
• (18:45) - - Navigating Skepticism in DEI
• (21:00) - - The Importance of Language in DEI
• (23:15) - - The Influence of Parenting on Leadership
• (26:30) - - Practicing Self-Care as a Leader
• (29:00) - - Courage in Leadership
• (31:45) - - Advice to Younger Self
• (35:00) - - Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

In this enlightening episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Ari Gett, the Head of People Operations at mabl, a company dedicated to software test automation. Ari shares her unconventional journey from executive assistant to HR leader, highlighting the pivotal experiences that shaped her career in human resources. With a background in healthcare technology and a passion for theater, Ari emphasizes the importance of empathy and connection in the workplace, advocating for a culture that values inclusivity and support.

Ari also addresses the complexities of the current work environment, particularly the intersection of financial health and mental well-being. She discusses the impact of a scarcity mindset on employees and the necessity of fostering an atmosphere where individuals feel secure and valued. As the conversation shifts toward the evolving role of AI in the workplace, Ari offers insights on how organizations can navigate this technological revolution while maintaining the human touch that is vital for success.

Join Ashley and Ari as they explore themes of authenticity, adaptability, and the importance of creating policies that genuinely support employees in their personal and professional lives.

• (00:01) - - Welcome to Ask Ashley
• (00:30) - - Introduction of Guest Ari Gett
• (01:00) - - Ari's Career Journey
• (02:30) - - Early Career Experiences
• (03:40) - - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
• (05:20) - - Family Background and Influences
• (06:30) - - Financial Health and Mental Health Connection
• (08:40) - - Diversity and Inclusion Challenges
• (10:40) - - Importance of Authenticity in DEI
• (12:00) - - Personal Experiences Shaping Policies
• (13:30) - - Navigating AI in the Workplace
• (16:00) - - Human Skills in the Age of AI
• (18:30) - - Balancing Speed and Thoughtfulness
• (20:00) - - Influential Leaders and Lessons
• (22:30) - - Staying Grounded as a Leader
• (24:00) - - Advice to Younger Self
• (30:00) - - Closing Remarks and Takeaways

In this episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Kafi Payne, a dynamic leader in human resources, to explore the transformative power of empathy and connection in the workplace. Kafi, who has journeyed from being a middle school teacher to a director of HR in the tech industry, shares her inspiring story of adaptability, leadership, and the importance of creating a sense of belonging for all employees. Growing up in multiple countries and moving frequently, Kafi developed a unique perspective on the human experience, which she leverages to foster inclusivity and understanding in her workplace.

Throughout the conversation, Kafi emphasizes the value of being seen and heard within corporate culture. She discusses the challenges and lessons learned during her company’s rapid growth and highlights the significance of creating safe spaces for employees to take risks and learn. With insights on how to engage in hard conversations and the necessity of curiosity over judgment, Kafi's passion for nurturing personal and professional growth shines through, reminding us that the human element is irreplaceable, even in an age dominated by artificial intelligence.

• (00:00) - - Welcome to Ask Ashley Podcast
• (00:36) - - Introduction of Guest Kafi Payne
• (01:15) - - Kafi's Early Life Journey
• (04:00) - - Transition from Educator to HR
• (07:15) - - Impact of Moving on Leadership Style
• (10:00) - - Creation of Internal Employee App
• (12:45) - - Importance of Seeing Employees
• (15:20) - - Challenges of Rapid Company Growth
• (18:30) - - Balancing Growth with Employee Belonging
• (21:00) - - Creating Safe Work Environments
• (24:00) - - The Importance of Learning in Workspaces
• (26:45) - - Encouraging Risk-Taking in Learning
• (29:00) - - Teaching Leaders Hard Conversations
• (32:30) - - Feedback Culture in Dance
• (35:15) - - Grounding Mantra from Mentors
• (38:00) - - Embracing Curiosity over Judgment
• (41:00) - - Navigating AI and Human Interaction
• (43:30) - - Advice to Younger Self
• (46:00) - - Closing Reflections and Takeaways
• (48:00) - - Thank You and Farewell

In this episode of *Ask Ashley*, host Ashley Russo sits down with Jenilee Angeles-Pasco, the Director of Operations at Runpod, Inc., to explore the intricate balance between work and family life. Jenilee shares her inspiring journey from Hollywood to HR, where she has been a pioneering force in shaping organizational culture and employee well-being. With a background that spans various industries, including biotech and entertainment, she emphasizes the importance of being the first HR hire in establishing foundational practices that support diverse employees.

Jenilee opens up about her upbringing as an immigrant and how it has influenced her perspective on work and motherhood. She discusses the challenges of being a working mom, the realness of juggling responsibilities, and the importance of flexibility in the workplace. Throughout the conversation, Jenilee highlights the need for empathy in leadership and the proactive measures her company takes to create a supportive environment for all employees. Tune in for her insights on fostering emotional safety and prioritizing well-being in today’s fast-paced work culture, as she candidly shares both the challenges and rewards of her journey.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to Ask Ashley Podcast
• (01:15) - - Meet Jenilee Angeles-Pasco
• (02:30) - - Jenilee's Career Journey Overview
• (03:45) - - Early HR Experience in Hollywood
• (05:15) - - Impact of the Me Too Movement
• (07:00) - - Upbringing and Its Influence
• (09:30) - - Balancing Work and Motherhood
• (11:45) - - Realities of Self-Care as a Mom
• (13:00) - - Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
• (15:15) - - Navigating a Fast-Paced Startup Environment
• (17:30) - - Addressing Employee Burnout Proactively
• (19:45) - - Importance of Employee Support Systems
• (22:00) - - Scaling Challenges at Runpod
• (24:00) - - Personal Growth Through Self-Doubt
• (25:45) - - Essential Soft Skills in HR
• (28:00) - - Final Advice for Jenilee's Younger Self
• (29:30) - - Closing Remarks and Takeaways

In this powerful episode of *Ask Ashley*, host Ashley Russo sits down with Chuck Thompson, the Vice President of People and Operations at SimuTech Group, to explore his remarkable journey from a troubled childhood to a leadership role in a thriving engineering firm. Chuck opens up about the challenges he faced growing up—struggling with homelessness, addiction, and family trauma—and how these experiences shaped his understanding of empathy, resilience, and the importance of human connection in the workplace.

Through candid storytelling, Chuck shares the pivotal moments that influenced his journey, from the compassion of a stranger during a dark time to the profound lessons learned from his personal and professional relationships. He emphasizes the need for leaders to be adaptable and empathetic, especially in an era where technology increasingly intersects with human experiences. Chuck's insights serve as a reminder that every choice we make can either lead us closer to our desired legacy or take us further away from it, ultimately inspiring listeners to reflect on their own paths and the impact they wish to create.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to Ask Ashley Podcast
• (01:00) - - Meet Chuck Thompson
• (02:30) - - Chuck's Early Life and Challenges
• (05:15) - - Overcoming Homelessness and Addiction
• (10:00) - - Pivotal Moments in Chuck's Journey
• (15:45) - - The Importance of Human Connection
• (20:30) - - Chuck's Path to Leadership
• (25:00) - - The Role of Leadership in Change
• (30:15) - - Technology and Leadership Intersection
• (35:00) - - Diversity and Inclusion Strategies
• (40:45) - - Facing Pushback in Leadership
• (45:00) - - Self-Care Practices for Leaders
• (50:15) - - The Importance of Community Engagement
• (55:30) - - Reflections on Life and Legacy
• (01:00:00) - - Advice to Younger Self
• (01:05:00) - - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Welcome to Ask Ashley, the podcast where we shine a light on the unsung heroes of the workplace. I’m your host, Ashley Russo—financial AI board member, thought leader, and wealth management advisor.

Each week, we sit down with the inspiring leaders, exploring their journeys, motivations, and the real challenges they face, from job insecurity to the evolving role of AI. In a world where many feel overlooked, these guests are building hope and connection for their colleagues. Join us as we uncover their stories and discover how they’re making a difference, one conversation at a time.