Red Light, Green Light

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Jim Johnson, a basketball coach known for the inspiring story of Jason 'J. Mack' McElwain, an autistic boy who scored 20 points in a high school basketball game. Jim shares the journey of coaching, the importance of empathy and leadership, and the life lessons learned from this unforgettable experience. The conversation delves into the impact of teamwork, personal growth, and the transformative power of believing in others, highlighting how these elements contribute to effective leadership both on and off the court. In this conversation, Jim Johnson shares his...

In this episode, Cindy Skalicky interviews Dr. Nidhi Arora, a leader in computational chemistry and drug discovery. They discuss the complexities of drug development, the role of AI in protein folding, and the importance of effective scientific communication. Nidhi shares her journey, the mentors who influenced her career, and the challenges faced in storytelling within the scientific community. In this engaging conversation, Cindy Skalicky and Nidhi Arora, PhD, explore the critical aspects of effective communication, particularly in scientific presentations. They discuss the importance of engaging the audience, the how-to model for delivering impactful messages, and the role of generative...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Raj Indupuri, CEO & co-founder of eClinical Solutions, who shares his journey in the clinical trials industry. They discuss the evolution of technology in clinical research, the importance of data, and the role of storytelling in effectively communicating scientific insights. Raj emphasizes the need for speed and efficiency in bringing new medicines to market and how technology can facilitate this process. In this conversation, Raj Indupuri and Cindy Skalicky discuss the integration of AI in data management, particularly in the life sciences sector. They emphasize the importance of...

🎤 From courtroom to comedy club - what a journey.

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky sits down with stand-up comedian and former trial lawyer Paul Farahvar for a candid, funny, and insightful conversation about risk, reinvention, and the art of making people laugh.

Paul shares how a chance encounter with Bob Saget launched his comedy career, why bombing on stage can actually make you better, and how his legal background sharpened his ability to read a room. From crafting jokes and testing material to navigating social media and building a fan...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky engages with Fred Brigham, an executive Director, to discuss the intersection of strategic storytelling and risk management in the financial sector. Fred shares his journey through banking, emphasizing the importance of leadership presence, effective communication, and understanding risk. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, the significance of mentorship, and the value of global collaboration in today's interconnected world.

Connect with Fred via https://www.linkedin.com/in/fred-b-10b284145/

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky welcomes back Deb Reuben, an innovation strategist and author of 'Enter the Tomorrow Zone.' They discuss the concept of the Tomorrow Zone, which emphasizes expanding future possibilities before making decisions in a rapidly changing world. Deb shares her experiences in technology and leadership, highlighting the importance of people, shared language, and clarity in navigating complex changes. The conversation also delves into the structure of Deb's book, the mindset shifts required for effective leadership, and the need for a commitment to innovation beyond just technology.

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In this episode, Cindy Skalicky interviews Jana Sanchez, who shares her eclectic background and expertise in conflict mastery and listening intelligence. They discuss the importance of effective communication in achieving quality outcomes, the various listening and conflict styles, and the significance of self-awareness in navigating these dynamics. Jana introduces her new program, Rusty to Ready, aimed at helping individuals articulate their professional value and overcome the challenges of job seeking, including the 'bragging trap' and 'clarity gap.' The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in communication and the tools available to enhance storytelling and self-presentation skills.

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In this episode, Cindy Skalicky interviews Dyami Starks, a prominent basketball trainer and former professional player. They discuss Dyami's journey in basketball, the evolution of women's sports, and the importance of mindset and confidence in young athletes. Dyami shares insights on teaching life skills through basketball, effective communication in coaching, and the challenges young athletes face, especially with the introduction of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) regulations. The conversation emphasizes the significance of clarity, patience, and maintaining focus on personal growth in the ever-changing landscape of sports.

Connect with Dyami via https://www.linkedin.com/in/dyami-starks-567a3...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, Cindy Skalicky interviews David Newman, author of 'Market Eminence'. They discuss the concept of market eminence, which goes beyond traditional thought leadership, emphasizing the importance of visibility, respect, and brand preference. David shares his journey from a corporate career to becoming a marketing expert, highlighting the significance of emotional branding and building trust in business. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI in marketing and the necessity of being remarkable in a crowded marketplace. David concludes with actionable advice for listeners to take steps towards their own market eminence.<...

In this episode of Red Light Green Light, host Cindy Scalicky interviews Tim Tiscornia, CEO of Chomp and founder of Half Life. Tim shares his diverse career journey, emphasizing the importance of communication, adaptability, and learning from experiences. He discusses the significance of tailoring communication to different audiences, building effective teams, and the art of pitching ideas. Tim also draws parallels between surfing and business, highlighting the preparation needed for success. The conversation concludes with insights on navigating the post-COVID world and the evolving nature of communication.

Get in touch with Tim here:
https://www.linkedin...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky engages with Dr. Roque 'Rocky' Martinez, a technology leader with a rich background in AI and finance. They discuss Rocky's journey from the Bronx to becoming a CTO, the importance of direct communication, and the value of understanding P&L in technology. Rocky shares insights from his MBA in Technology Management and highlights current trends in AI, emphasizing the need for businesses to focus on value creation. The conversation concludes with Rocky's advice on overcoming challenges and the importance of initiative in career advancement.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky speaks with Tim Dumas, an executive coach and football coach, about the art of storytelling, effective communication, and leadership. Tim shares his journey from aspiring football coach to executive coaching, emphasizing the importance of brevity in communication and the need for personal growth. They discuss overcoming fear, the significance of hiring the right people, and the necessity of confronting brutal facts in leadership. Tim introduces the concept of neutral thinking as a strategy for success and offers valuable advice for emerging leaders.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky engages with Emily Lopez, a leader in HR and change management. They discuss Emily's journey from education to HR, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership and effective communication. The conversation explores the challenges leaders face in guiding others, the significance of understanding audience needs, and strategies for successful communication. Emily shares insights on red light moments in communication and highlights the importance of aligning expectations in meetings for productive dialogue. In this conversation, Cindy Skalicky and Emily Lopez discuss the significance of having clear objectives in meetings, the...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky sits down with Jessica Hilton, a seasoned senior executive with over 30 years of leadership experience across highly regulated industries, including finance and pharma. Together, they explore the realities of modern leadership, the power of communication, and what it takes to lead with authenticity in complex, fast-evolving environments.

Jessica shares her remarkable career journey from finance to the pharmaceutical industry, highlighting how continuous learning, adaptability, and curiosity fueled her success. The conversation dives deep into women in leadership, the challenges and opportunities female executives face, and the...

In this episode, Cindy Skalicky interviews Dr. Seth Dobrin, who shares his eclectic career journey from being a geneticist to leading innovative projects in various industries, including biotech and AI. Seth discusses the importance of authenticity in leadership, the transition from being a manager to a true leader, and how to motivate teams through engagement and value propositions. He emphasizes the need for vulnerability and the significance of understanding individual motivations within a corporate culture. The conversation also touches on the future of AI at ARYA Labs, where Seth is currently working on deterministic world models that promise mathematical...

In this episode, Cindy Skalicky interviews Heath Naquin, Senior Vice President of New Ventures and Innovation at the Science Center in Philadelphia. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the fields of innovation and energy, particularly focusing on the importance of communication, fundraising, and the transition from lab work to leadership roles. Heath shares insights on the emotional aspects of leaving the lab, the significance of building trust in relationships, and the necessity for founders to understand various business functions to succeed. The conversation emphasizes the need for honesty and transparency in communication, especially when seeking investment and navigating...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Giselle Tavares, a vice president at Takeda Pharmaceuticals. Giselle shares her journey from Brazil to a successful career in pharmaceutical science, discussing her educational background, specialization in biochemistry and physical chemistry, and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field. The conversation explores her transition from lab work to leadership, emphasizing the importance of humility, curiosity, and effective communication, especially as a non-native English speaker. Giselle also highlights the significance of mentoring the next generation and her commitment to continuous learning, including her current...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Nick Karaskiewicz, a leader in technology and cybersecurity. They discuss Nick's journey into cybersecurity, the importance of spotting talent, and how to effectively communicate and sell oneself in a professional setting. Nick shares insights on the significance of transparency, self-assessment, and the mindset needed for leadership. The conversation also touches on the future of AI in business and the necessity for continuous personal and professional growth.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews James (Jim) Edwards, CEO of Elite Strategic Services and author of 'To Invent Is Divine.' They discuss Jim's journey from politics to intellectual property, the importance of creativity and ownership, and how these concepts relate to human flourishing. Jim shares insights from his book, including the biblical perspective on invention and the reactions he's received from readers. The conversation also touches on the structure of the book, the role of innovation in everyday life, and Jim's future plans for promoting his work.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Michael Yinger, a senior RPO director at Korn Ferry. They discuss Michael's diverse career path in talent acquisition, the intricacies of recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), and the importance of understanding client needs. Michael shares insights on training and mentoring in recruitment, navigating challenges in hiring, and the significance of storytelling and authenticity in presentations. The conversation also touches on generational skills in the workforce and the lessons learned from influential figures in Michael's career.

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In this conversation, Sridharan Muthuswamy shares his journey from being a PhD student at Virginia Tech to becoming a chief architect in the tech industry. He discusses his experiences in startups, the transition from engineering to leadership roles, and the importance of hands-on experience in technology. Sridharan highlights key projects, including a successful collaboration with Google, and reflects on his aspirations for future leadership roles. He emphasizes the significance of mentorship and inspiring the next generation of leaders in the tech space.

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In this episode of Red Light Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Arun Dharan, a global account manager at Cisco. Arun shares his diverse career journey, from his early aspirations in medicine to his current role in tech. He discusses the importance of effective communication, the art of presentations, and the influence of key figures in his life. Arun also delves into his passion for Muay Thai, highlighting the discipline and growth it has brought to his personal and professional life. The conversation touches on the future of AI in business and concludes with valuable advice on preparation and...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews John Wolf, CEO of Dubois Chemicals, discussing his journey from a chemical engineer to a leader in the specialty chemicals industry. They explore the importance of mentorship, the transition from technical roles to leadership, and the skills necessary for effective communication and presentation. John shares insights on the significance of authentic leadership, the challenges of engaging an audience, and the evolving landscape of business in the face of technological advancements. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning and skill acquisition in leadership roles.

I...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Joe Jacobi, a gold medalist in whitewater canoeing from the 1992 Olympics. Joe shares his journey to winning the gold medal, the dynamics of teamwork in a two-person canoe, and the importance of communication and trust in partnerships. He emphasizes the lessons learned from the river, including the concept of surrender and the significance of internal conversations for leaders. Joe also recounts the story of his lost gold medal and how it was found by a young girl, highlighting the unexpected turns in life and the relationships built...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Chris Letsos, the CEO of Kids Chance of America. They discuss the organization's mission to provide scholarships to children affected by workplace injuries and the personal experiences that drive this mission. Chris shares insights on the challenges faced by nonprofits, the importance of community involvement, and the need for collaboration to create a supportive network for young people. The conversation highlights the significance of mentorship and leadership principles in fostering a culture of empowerment and innovation within the organization.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews boundary expert Sheryl Green, who shares her journey from burnout to empowerment through the establishment of healthy boundaries. Cheryl discusses the importance of recognizing personal limits, the impact of leadership on workplace culture, and the necessity of self-care. She emphasizes that boundaries are not just about saying 'no' but are essential for maintaining mental health and fostering healthy relationships. The conversation also touches on the significance of authenticity in leadership and the lessons learned from others' experiences.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky speaks with Derek Eberhart, Associate Vice President for Research and Executive Director of Innovation Gateway at the University of Georgia. They discuss the journey of innovation and technology transfer, the importance of effective communication in pitching ideas, and the role of the Innovation Gateway in supporting researchers and startups. Derek shares insights on common pitfalls in presentations, strategies for effective communication, and inspiring stories of innovation from UGA. The conversation also touches on the future of UGA's innovation ecosystem and the importance of collaboration with industry partners.

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Greg Crumpton, Vice President of Safety and Industry Liaison at ServiceLogic. With over 40 years of experience in the HVAC industry, Greg shares his journey from growing up in the field to leading in a major company. The conversation explores the evolution of data centers, the impact of AI, effective communication strategies for leaders, the importance of storytelling, and the need for continuous improvement in leadership. Greg emphasizes the value of skilled trades and encourages youth to consider careers in this field.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky speaks with Nelisha Firestone, a seasoned financial advisor and founder of Firestone Financial Group. They discuss the critical importance of exit planning for business owners, the challenges they face, and the overwhelming feelings that often accompany the transition process. Nelisha shares insights on the maturity trajectory of businesses, the significance of trust in advisory relationships, and the need for education in exit strategies. The conversation highlights the personal stories that drive Nelisha's passion for helping business owners navigate their exit planning effectively.

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Sura Al-Naimi is an innovation psychology expert and former Disney Innovation Director who helps Fortune 500 leaders solve a fascinating paradox: why smart, capable teams consistently default to safe thinking—and how to systematically unlock breakthrough innovation.
After 20+ years building innovation programs at Disney and with Fortune 500 companies, Sura discovered that sustainable innovation isn't about creative talent or brainstorming techniques—it's about understanding the neuroscience behind breakthrough thinking and creating the psychological conditions where smart teams permission themselves to think differently.
She's the founder and CEO of HiHelloSura, and has worked with companies like Sony, AARP, Gap, and Kais...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Ellen Robinson, an executive coach with a rich background in corporate leadership and entrepreneurship. Ellen shares her journey from working with major brands to discovering her passion for coaching. The conversation delves into the importance of self-discovery, the role of mentors, and effective communication strategies in leadership. Ellen introduces her 'Lights System' for navigating conversations and emphasizes the significance of building relationships in professional settings. The episode concludes with actionable advice for leaders facing challenges in today's complex environment.

Connect with Ellen on LinkedIn :
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In this episode of Red Light Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Nona Prather, an expert in the speaking industry and author of '24 Ways to Get Paid to Speak.' Nona shares her journey into the speaking world, the differences between speaker bureaus and booking agencies, and the evolving trends in speaker representation. The conversation delves into the importance of audience engagement, the challenges of imposter syndrome, and the significance of having a demo reel. Nona also discusses the red and green lights that decision makers look for in speakers, emphasizing the need for speakers to serve their...

In this episode, Anne Dooley shares her extensive career journey in advertising, discussing her experiences from working at Leo Burnett to leading global accounts at BBDO. The conversation explores the evolution of advertising, the importance of passion in work, and the skills necessary for effective persuasion and presentation. Anne emphasizes the need for leaders to adapt to fast changes in the industry and the significance of inspiring teams to achieve their best. The discussion also highlights the importance of storytelling in data presentation and the challenges of navigating change in a complex work environment.

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In this episode of Red Light Green Light, host Cindy Scalicky interviews Deb Rubin, CEO and founder of Tomorrow Zone, a leader in equipment finance and digital transformation. Deb shares her journey through the industry, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of communicating complex technology concepts. The conversation also delves into the future of AI in equipment finance and how it can be leveraged to create innovative solutions. Deb emphasizes the need for curiosity and a mindset shift to thrive in an AI-driven world.

Connect with Deborah Reuben on LinkedIn :
https://www.linkedin.com/in...

In this episode of Red Light Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Tim Beshears, Vice President of Fox Search Group. Tim shares his unique career journey from nonprofit management to executive recruitment, emphasizing the importance of process improvement in hiring. He discusses the challenges faced by organizations in filling IT roles and the need for effective communication and storytelling in job applications. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding client needs, the role of technology in recruitment, and strategies for candidates to stand out in a competitive job market.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, Cindy Skalicky interviews Dr. Nell Masey O'Neill, an executive coach specializing in scientific communications. They discuss Dr. Nell's journey from academia to the corporate world, the cultural aspects of innovation, and the importance of effective communication in presenting scientific ideas. Dr. Nell shares her experiences with influential mentors, the challenges of transitioning to industry, and the lessons learned from her presentation failures. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity and understanding of audience expectations in communication. In this conversation, Dr. Nell Masey O'Neill and Cindy Skalicky explore the intricacies of effective...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Buck Bradberry, founder of Entrepreneurial Performance Labs. They discuss the intersection of psychology and entrepreneurship, exploring Buck's journey from a pre-med student to a consultant in organizational psychology. The conversation delves into the importance of assessments in leadership development, the role of motivation in entrepreneurship, and the significance of building trust in the assessment process. Buck shares insights on how assessments can provide valuable data for personal and professional growth, emphasizing that while no single tool is perfect, a combination of assessments can offer a comprehensive view...

In this episode, Nichole Bui shares her journey from immigrating to the U.S. from Vietnam to becoming a senior executive in IT consulting. She discusses her early career experiences, the importance of relationships and mentorship, her educational background in aerospace engineering and computer science, and her passion for problem-solving. Nichole emphasizes the significance of stakeholder buy-in in consulting and how understanding client needs is crucial for success. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of storytelling in presentations, particularly in analytical fields. They discuss the necessity of connecting emotionally with audiences to drive change and...

In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews Missy Jenkins, Assistant Vice President for Research at Texas Tech University. They discuss Missy's journey to Texas Tech, the role of universities in fostering innovation, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges and successes in grant funding. Missy shares insights on how researchers can improve their pitches and the future aspirations of Texas Tech as it aims to become an AAU institution.

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In this episode of Red Light, Green Light, host Cindy Skalicky interviews executive coach Brenda Abdilla, discussing her journey from a challenging corporate experience to becoming a successful coach and author. They explore the concept of 'Crazy Town' in the corporate world, the importance of managing stress, and the four buckets that can help individuals navigate their careers effectively. Brenda shares insights on self-awareness, networking, and identifying personal strengths to thrive in challenging environments. In this engaging conversation, Brenda Abdilla and Cindy Skalicky explore the themes of personal growth, leadership, and the importance of vulnerability in the workplace. They...