R.O.G. Return on Generosity

“Generosity means that you give of the things that you really can't get back.”   “I was happiest and most fulfilled anytime I was giving or fully engaged with another person.”   “Generally when people hear generosity, they think you're asking them for money. So I specifically wanted to focus on generosity that had nothing to do with money, especially using an ROG.”   Episode summary | In this final episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, hosts Shannon Cassidy and Susan Jin Davis reflect on the journey of the podcast, discussing the importance of generosity in leadership, the insights gained from over 250 episodes, and the impact of generosity on personal and professional growth. They emphasize the need for self-care, the power of listening to diverse voices, and the call to action for listeners to live generously in their own lives.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | The importance of being present and listening to others is crucial in leadership. Generosity is often misunderstood and is not just about money. The Return on Generosity concept emphasizes the joy and fulfillment that comes from giving. Leaders set the tone for a culture of generosity within their teams. Listening to diverse voices can amplify underrepresented perspectives. Self-care is a crucial aspect of being able to give generously to others. Generosity can lead to better business results and stronger team dynamics. The podcast has highlighted the importance of mentoring and thoughtful feedback. Gratitude can serve as a gateway to a more generous mindset. The impact of generosity can be profound, changing lives and communities. Living generously can help combat feelings of loneliness and disconnection.    Chapters |  00:00 Farewell to ROG: A Reflective Goodbye 03:04 The Genesis of Generosity: Understanding ROG's Foundation 05:55 Defining Generosity: Beyond Money 08:50 The Impact of Generosity on Leadership and Culture 11:54 Lessons from 250 Episodes: Insights and Reflections 14:38 Diverse Voices: Amplifying Underrepresented Perspectives 17:28 The Transformative Power of Generosity 20:28 Generosity in Today's World: Challenges and Opportunities 23:17 Cultivating an Abundance Mindset: The Path to Generosity 27:44 The Power of Love as an Action 30:18 Generosity and Self-Care: A Holistic Approach 34:12 Leadership Lessons from the Podcast Journey 37:28 Stories of Generosity: Transformative Experiences 40:54 The Impact of Generosity on Listeners 42:39 Reflections on Achievements and Future Aspirations 47:33 Activating Generosity in Personal Life 50:28 A Call to Action: Embracing Generosity   Guest Bio | Shannon Cassidy is the Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc., a Certified Woman-Owned Business celebrating 25 years of helping leaders and teams thrive. A Certified Executive Performance Coach, Keynote Speaker, and High-Performance Team Facilitator, Shannon is an authority on behavioral change and the transformative power of generosity in leadership. As the host of the R.O.G. Return on Generosity podcast, Shannon amplifies the message that generosity isn’t just a virtue—it’s a competitive advantage. She believes that small, intentional acts of generosity—whether through time, attention, knowledge, or opportunity—can revolutionize workplace culture, drive engagement, and unlock extraordinary business results. Her keynote presentations are designed to equip audiences with actionable wisdom and practical frameworks that make their lives easier, more productive, and more fulfilling. Through compelling storytelling and real-world strategies, Shannon challenges audiences to embrace generosity as a powerful leadership philosophy—one that fosters trust, strengthens collaboration, and accelerates success. With a proven track record of coaching CEOs and senior executives, Shannon helps leaders integrate generosity into their daily practices, empowering them to step up as role models and create environments where teams feel valued, motivated, and inspired to give their best. She is the author of Grounded in Gratitude, V.I.B.E.—an in-depth self-discovery journey—and The 5 Degree Principle, a leadership fable illustrating how small changes lead to extraordinary results. Recognized for her practical, impactful, and authentic approach, Shannon is a sought-after speaker for conferences, leadership summits, and corporate events. Audiences leave her sessions feeling energized, empowered, and equipped to implement strategies that boost their productivity, fulfillment, and overall effectiveness.   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast Credits: Guest Host, Susan Jin Davis interviewing R.O.G. Host, Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

“When we give, in this case, presence, what we get is like genuine connection and we get to make that person feel as valued as they really are.” “Every act of generosity, especially giving your time, is meaningful.” “Truly in every moment, there are lots of things to be grateful for. Sometimes they're just harder to find, but they're always there if you look intentionally.”   Episode summary | In this heartfelt conversation, Tracy Davidson reflects on her remarkable 30-year career in journalism, emphasizing the importance of serving the community, resilience, and the power of presence. As she transitions from her role at NBC 10, she shares insights on leadership, generosity, and the impact of small acts of kindness. Tracy's journey is a testament to the value of connection and the significance of being present for others, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and service. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | The importance of being present and listening to others is crucial in leadership. Generosity can create ripples of positivity in people's lives. Resilience is a key skill that can help individuals navigate challenges. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can have a significant impact. The win in any situation is simply trying, regardless of the outcome. Authentic leadership requires bravery and vulnerability. Gratitude can be a powerful tool in overcoming adversity.   Chapters |  00:00 Celebrating a Legacy of Service 05:40 The Thread of Purpose and Connection 08:24 Resilience and the Power of Presence 11:08 Generosity as a Leadership Quality 13:52 Gratitude in Challenging Times 16:50 Listening and Supporting Others 19:43 Creating a Culture of Appreciation 21:26 The Next Chapter: Serving in New Ways 21:54 Embracing New Avenues 22:45 Engaging Employees and Building Resilience 24:09 The Importance of Authentic Leadership 24:43 Unpacking Layers of Leadership 27:17 Building Trust in Remote Environments 29:23 The Impact of Small Acts of Kindness 30:06 The Meaning of Generosity 30:54 Courage in Challenging Moments 32:50 The Power of Listening 34:29 Inspiring Figures and Personal Connections 35:35 Unexpected Career Paths 36:27 Looking Ahead to New Challenges Guest Bio | For more than three decades, Tracy Davidson has been a trusted voice guiding people through challenges and change. A 15-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, breast cancer survivor, and recipient of three Honorary Doctorates of Humane Letters, she has covered some of the most defining moments in modern history from the 1996 Olympic bombing and Pope Francis Conclave to national political conventions since 1988 and the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. Tracy now brings her signature clarity, warmth, and evidence-based strategies to help people rise stronger, sustain success, and lead with heart. Guest Resources:  https://www.tracydavidson.com/ https://liftingyourvoice.com/   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Tracy Davidson, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks for our Series Finale Episode: a special conversation to highlight the last five years as Susan Jin Davis interviews Return on Generosity’s very own, Shannon Cassidy.

“Empower everyone to do what’s right for our customers.” “If you take care of your employees, they’re going to take care of your customers.” “The roll up the sleeves factor. We want people who are going to get things done and not worry about credit.”   Episode Summary | In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Mark Moroz, the Executive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer at Live Oak Bank. They discuss the unique culture at Live Oak, which prioritizes employee well-being and collaboration, and how this culture translates into exceptional customer service. Mark shares insights on leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of generosity, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation emphasizes the significance of knowing your team, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a supportive environment for both employees and customers.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Collaboration and employee well-being are key to the success of the organization. Generosity during the COVID-19 pandemic showcased the bank's commitment to its customers. Feedback is essential for leadership growth and development. Knowing your team and their individual strengths is crucial for effective leadership. Mentorship plays a significant role in personal and professional growth. Leaders should empower their teams to take ownership and make decisions.    Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Mark Moroz and Live Oak Bank 02:30 The Unique Culture at Live Oak Bank 05:05 Collaboration and Employee Well-being 07:36 Serving Small Businesses with Purpose 10:14 Generosity During COVID-19 13:53 Leadership and Feedback 16:42 The Importance of Knowing Your People 23:24 Building Trust Through Generosity 27:22 The Importance of Feedback in Leadership 31:10 Mentorship: A Two-Way Street 32:36 The Return on Generosity in Leadership 36:09 Empowering Teams for Success 38:54 Closing Thoughts and Reflections Guest Bio | Mark Moroz brings more than 20 years of experience in banking with a strong focus on digital product innovation and implementation. As the current head of operations and payments, he leads the organization’s operational priorities and drives next-generation banking initiatives. Throughout his career, Mark has become known for his expertise in navigating complex change management within large financial institutions, guiding teams through transformation while fostering professional development and high-performance cultures. Before assuming his current role, Mark held several key leadership positions at Live Oak, including head of product and head of deposits. His earlier career includes serving as vice president of retail deposits for Barclaycard US, senior director of retail banking for Sallie Mae, vice president of marketing at JPMorgan, and senior manager of product and marketing at ING Direct US. Over the course of his two decades in the industry, he has emerged as an expert in online banking, helping secure billions in deposits to meet his organizations’ funding needs. In addition to his leadership experience, he has played a central role in supporting product development and integration across multiple banking platforms. Mark holds a bachelor’s degree in political science/criminal justice from the University of Delaware.   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Mark Moroz, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 251, Special Guest, Tracy Davidson.

“I think Legacy is, did you positively impact someone’s life?” “Listen deeply and listen with various parts of you.” “There’s no failing, there’s just learning.”   Episode summary | In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Kate Paine, the Vice President of Corporate Marketing at Saint-Gobain North America. They discuss the principles of generous leadership, the importance of context and listening in marketing, and the value of collaboration as illustrated by the Stone Soup fable. Kate shares her insights on embracing imperfection, fostering mindfulness in leadership, and the significance of making a positive impact on others' lives. The conversation also touches on navigating personal challenges, purpose-driven marketing, and the legacy of leadership.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity is a mindset that drives effective marketing. Listening deeply is crucial for understanding customer needs. Collaboration can lead to innovative solutions, as shown in the Stone Soup fable. Progress over perfection encourages creativity and risk-taking. Mindfulness practices can enhance leadership effectiveness. Turning outward to help others can improve personal well-being. Navigating personal challenges with grace can inspire others. Purpose-driven marketing connects employees to a larger mission. Empowerment and trust are essential for effective leadership. A leader's legacy is measured by the positive impact on others.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Generous Leadership 02:50 The Role of Generosity in Marketing 06:49 The Importance of Context and Listening 10:40 The Stone Soup Fable: Collaboration in Action 14:35 Progress Over Perfection: Embracing Imperfection 16:43 Conscious Leadership in High-Stakes Environments 20:01 Turning Outward: Making Others' Lives Better 22:15 Mindset and Resilience Through Hardship 23:06 Navigating Personal Challenges and Community Support 26:12 Purpose-Driven Leadership in Marketing 28:30 Empowering Teams Through Trust and Collaboration 33:00 Legacy and Personal Impact in Leadership 35:26 Rapid Fire Insights on Leadership Values   Guest Bio | Kate Paine is the Vice President of Corporate Marketing at Saint-Gobain North America, a leading global manufacturer of sustainable building materials. In this role, she leads brand strategy, growth marketing, digital transformation, and customer experience initiatives for North America. With a career of twenty-five years spanning companies such as Ben & Jerry's, The Hershey Company, and Land O'Lakes, Kate's core passion has been building meaningful change through people-first design, curiosity, and mindful leadership. She has led innovation, technology, design, and growth strategy, and is a proponent of design thinking. She is a mother of two, runner, artist, gardener, and loves to escape into a DIY home project that involves building something. She and her husband now reside in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, after spending much of the last two decades in Vermont and New Hampshire.    Guest Resources: Art and Fear by David Bayles and Ted Orland: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Fear-Observations-Rewards-Artmaking/dp/0961454733   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Kate Paine, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 250, Special Guest, Mark Moroz.

When there's a high degree of trust, especially in teams, the sky's the limit.   Flexibility, community, excellence, collaboration and growth, and then proximity to leadership. All those things kind of to me have an underpinning on gratitude.   We need to continue to grow and have the culture evolve.   Episode summary | In this week's conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Bill Straub, the founding principal and CEO of All4, an award-winning environmental consulting firm. Bill shares his journey from an environmental engineer to a successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of generosity, trust, and culture in leadership. He discusses the significance of partnerships, the meaning behind the name All4, and how employee ownership has shaped the company. Bill also highlights the role of mentorship and the unique cross-coaching program at All4, which fosters personal growth and collaboration among employees. Throughout the discussion, Bill's humility and commitment to generosity shine through, making for an inspiring dialogue about leadership and community.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity is the ultimate form of business trust. Building a company with trusted partners is crucial. Trust and transparency foster a positive company culture. Employee ownership enhances commitment and accountability. Feedback should be ongoing, not just annual reviews. Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and professional growth. A culture of collaboration leads to greater success. Generosity should extend beyond the workplace. Curiosity and humility are key traits of effective leaders.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Bill Straub and All4 02:51 Early Career and Overcoming Fears 05:31 The Meaning Behind All4's Name 08:42 Lessons in Partnership and Trust 11:32 Generosity in Leadership 13:16 The Importance of Company Culture 16:14 Cross Coaching Program and Personal Growth 19:22 Building a Collaborative Community 21:12 The Power of Generosity in Business 23:28 Building Trust and Psychological Safety 25:05 Cultivating Leadership Through Feedback 26:21 Employee Ownership and Collective Success 29:07 Generosity Beyond the Workplace 30:40 Rapid Fire Insights on Generosity   Guest Bio | Bill Straub is a founding Principal of ALL4 and a registered Professional Engineer with over 35 years of experience in environmental consulting. An accomplished entrepreneur, he has successfully launched and grown two environmental services companies, blending deep technical expertise with strategic business leadership. Bill has guided ALL4 through significant growth milestones, including the company’s 2018 partnership with a private equity firm and a successful recapitalization in 2025. He oversees the firm’s vision and day-to-day direction, leads mergers and acquisitions activities, and mentors the leadership team to foster the next generation of industry leaders. Passionate about creating an environment where seasoned professionals can grow, share knowledge, and deliver exceptional client service, Bill is recognized for his ability to combine technical rigor with sustainable business strategy. Outside of work, he enjoys time at the beach, on the golf course, and with his wife and three adult children.   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Bill Straub, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 249, Special Guest, Kate Paine.

“Luxury is about experiences, not things. We all have the opportunity to give someone a luxury experience.” “Personalization requires information, customization requires connection.” “Listen with your eyes.”   Episode summary | In this episode of ROG, Shannon Cassidy interviews Neen James, a leadership strategist known for her insights on generosity and luxury. Neen shares her background, emphasizing the influence of her mother’s generosity on her life. The conversation explores how generosity can elevate experiences in leadership and the importance of attention in making people feel valued. Neen discusses her research on luxury mindsets, revealing that luxury is a mindset that varies among individuals. The episode concludes with Neen's insights on creating exceptional experiences and the launch of her new book, 'Exceptional Experiences.'   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity transforms leadership and relationships. Attention is a powerful form of generosity. Luxury is a mindset, not just about money. There are four luxury mindsets: reluctant, pro prioritizer, confident, and luxury lover. Creating exceptional experiences requires understanding individual needs. Champagne moments can elevate everyday life. Listening with your eyes enhances communication. Personalization in leadership fosters connection. Generosity can be practiced in small, everyday actions. Luxury experiences can be created without high costs.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Leadership 01:54 Neen James: A Journey from Australia to Leadership 06:22 The Role of Generosity in Elevating Experiences 12:33 Redefining Luxury: A Mindset Shift 17:13 Exploring Luxury Mindsets 22:07 Insights from Luxury Research 23:55 The Power of the A Outfit 25:08 Creating Champagne Moments 27:33 The Ripple Effect of Self-Care 30:04 Leading with Intention and Attention 32:52 Understanding Team Mindsets 34:43 Elevating Experiences through Generosity 36:00 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections   Guest Bio | Neen James is a leadership strategist, dynamic keynote speaker, and the author of Folding Time, Attention Plays, and the upcoming Exceptional Experiences. With boundless energy, quick wit, and actionable insights, she serves as a confidante to C-suite leaders to help them elevate experiences and achieve greater focus, communication, and influence. Recently appointed to the board of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, James has been named one of the Top 30 Leadership Speakers by Global Gurus multiple years in a row for her work with some of the world’s most prestigious brands, including Viacom, Comcast, Virtuoso Travel, Four Seasons, and the FBI. She empowers individuals to prioritize what matters most so they can create exceptional experiences that drive results and foster lasting connections. Originally from Australia, James is living her best life in Tampa, Florida.   Guest Resources:  ExceptionalBook.com  NeenJames.com   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Bill Straub, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 248, Special Guest, Bill Straub.

“If you give credit to people who deserve it, you will be recognized as a great leader giving your team members the ability to have a voice.” “Trusting your team leads to better outcomes.” “Being able to read a room, understand an audience, disarm when you need to, and uplift when you can is the best gift I can give or offer.”   Episode summary | In this episode of Return on Generosity, host Shannon Cassidy speaks with Jon Sichel, Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Hallmark Media Family Networks. They explore the themes of generosity in leadership, the importance of humor, the value of mentoring, and the balance between compliance and innovation in high-stakes environments. Jon shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing, the influence of his parents, and the lessons learned from both good and bad leadership experiences. The conversation emphasizes the significance of creating a supportive workplace culture where individuals feel valued, their voices heard, and empowered to contribute their best.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Humor can change the dynamic in stressful situations. Generosity in leadership fosters a positive workplace culture. Mentoring relationships are mutually beneficial. Learning from both good and bad experiences shapes effective leaders. Navigating change requires empathy and support for colleagues. Generosity can manifest in small acts of kindness at work. Listening and understanding are key to effective leadership. Creating a safe environment encourages innovation and collaboration. Generosity in the workplace leads to happier employees. Most challenges in business are solvable with the right mindset.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Generosity in Leadership 02:49 The Role of Humor in Leadership 05:40 Navigating Personal Loss and Growth 07:57 Empowering Teams Through Trust 10:14 Creating a Positive Work Culture 11:19 The Importance of Mentoring 14:23 Learning from Good and Bad Leadership 19:23 Embracing Change and Unexpected Opportunities 22:33 Choosing Positivity in Adversity 25:04 Generosity in High-Stakes Environments 29:50 Navigating Change and Supporting Colleagues 30:07 Balancing Compliance and Innovation 37:19 The Longest Banana Split: A Leadership Feat 41:08 Rapid Fire Insights on Leadership Guest Bio | Jon Sichel is executive vice president, general counsel and head of Business Affairs for Hallmark Media Family Networks, home of three linear networks, Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and Hallmark Drama; and subscription video-on-demand streaming service, Hallmark+. Sichel is based in New York and reports to Hallmark General Counsel Erin Kobler and President John Matts. In this role, Sichel leads all business and legal affairs matters associated with Hallmark Media, while also providing strategic guidance to the senior leadership team on issues impacting ad sales, marketing, digital, strategic alliances, production, international, and distribution. His oversight includes negotiating content rights, production and distribution agreements, talent deals, entertainment content acquisition, and development-related activities. Sichel serves as the primary legal liaison for the legal team at parent company Hallmark Cards, Inc. Sichel also consults on matters of corporate litigation, intellectual property, employment law, and compliance. Prior to joining Hallmark Media, Sichel was executive vice president of distribution sales and strategy at AMC Networks. Previously, he held various ascending roles at Discovery Inc. and Scripps Networks Interactive (SNI), including general manager of content acquisitions and operations at Discovery. His tenure with SNI also included the international role as managing director of global commercial affairs and managing director of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Sichel earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors from Princeton University and graduated cum laude from Harvard Law School.   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Jon Sichel, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 247, Special Guest, Neen James.

“Mateship is essentially a code of conduct that embodies friendship, equality, solidarity, and it's often forged in adversity.” “We all have something to give one another.” “Be generous with your time when you can.”   Episode summary | In this episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy speaks with Shayna Goodworth, a yoga teacher and community builder, about the importance of generosity in both personal and professional settings. Shayna shares her journey from Australia to the United States, her understanding of mateship, and how she fosters community through her initiative, Seagulls. The conversation delves into the healing power of the ocean, the significance of connection, and practical ways to be generous in our daily lives. Shayna emphasizes that generosity is not just about financial giving but about investing time and creating meaningful relationships.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | We grow when we give. Generosity is about being of service. Mateship is a code of conduct that embodies friendship and equality. Creating community is essential for combating loneliness. Time is the most precious resource we have. The ocean has profound healing effects on our well-being. Mindfulness is about being aware of what's going on around us. We all have something to give one another. Home is where you make it, and it's in your heart. Meditation is a crucial part of personal wellness.  Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Community 02:53 Shayna's Journey: From Australia to North Carolina 06:02 Understanding Mateship: Building Connections at Work 09:01 The Mateship Pyramid: Social Connections and Loneliness 12:13 Practical Ways to Be a Good Mate 14:53 Generosity in the Workplace: Personal Experiences 17:47 Seagulls Community: Women, Ocean, and Connection 22:06 Space Holding as Generous Leadership 24:52 Balancing Care for Others and Self-Care 28:05 Lessons from the Ocean: Healing and Growth 31:00 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Reflections   Guest Bio | Shayna Goodworth has been a student of yoga since 2012 and to deepen her practice, she took part in a RYT200 hour program in the United Kingdom in 2021 and is passionate about Vinyasa, Yin & Trauma Informed styles of yoga along with meditation as a way to heal the body. Yoga is integral in her daily life and she is currently Longwave’s Yoga resident SeaGal facilitator, devoted to fostering community through a shared connection with the ocean.    Raised on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, her spiritual path began early through learning about the local environment and waterways. This instilled in Shayna a profound respect for nature and the power of place-based connection. Her vision for SeaGals at Longwave and Wrightsville Beach is rooted in this philosophy: to cultivate meaningful bonds among women and create space to ground, reflect, and honor ourselves in unity. Or simply, her mission is centered around Ocean, Women & Community. These three pillars have helped Shayna inform and hone her leadership styles of inclusion, authenticity and humility and she enters her first year as a 30 year old.   Guest Resources:  Find Seagals at https://longwaveyoga.com/schedule  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/longwaveyoga/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plasticoceanproject.inc/ A Different Kind of Power by Jacinda Ardern Figuring out Thirty by Bridget Hustwaite Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz    Credits: Shayna Goodworth, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 246, Special Guest, Jon Sichel.

“Take more risks. Take them early and often.” “I think a generous leader is someone that looks at you for the long view and they see you.” “Generosity is having the courage to also have that moment when you have to deliver that moment that isn’t inspiring, the honest truth that we all sometimes need to hear as well… and encourage them along the way.”   Episode summary | In this episode of ROG, Shannon Cassidy speaks with Gemma Toner, founder and CEO of Tone Networks, about her journey from being an immigrant in the U.S. to becoming a leader in the tech and media industries. They discuss the importance of generosity in leadership, the need for accessible personal development, and the role of feedback in growth. Gemma shares her insights on navigating competition, daily acts of kindness, and the necessity of adaptability in a rapidly changing world. The conversation wraps up with rapid-fire questions that reveal Gemma's personal philosophies and favorite resources.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity in leadership is about seeing potential in others. Feedback is a gift that can lead to personal growth. Taking risks early in your career can open new doors. Learning should be a continuous and enjoyable process. Not everyone has access to mentorship; we must create opportunities. Daily acts of kindness can have a ripple effect on others. Embracing change and adaptability is crucial in today's world. Collaboration can lead to unexpected friendships and opportunities. Curiosity drives innovation and personal development. You don't have to know everything; asking for help is key.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction and Farewell to ROG 05:04 Career Journey: From Media to Technology 10:51 Understanding the Needs of Leaders 16:37 Generosity in Leadership 27:15 The Power of Generosity in Community 32:23 Embracing Risks and Learning Opportunities 38:49 The Importance of Feedback and Continuous Growth   Guest Bio | Gemma Toner is a media and telecommunications leader known for driving innovation at the intersection of big data and digital media. As a senior executive in the cable industry for more than 20 years, Gemma experienced firsthand the transformative power of executive coaching and mentoring. With an eye toward helping others advance in the workplace, Gemma therefore created TONE Networks, an award-winning video content platform empowering diverse employees to reach their full potential through virtual, on-demand personal and professional development. Before founding TONE Networks, Toner was SVP of Business Insights and Strategy at Cablevision, where she also held roles in Marketing, Business Development, and Product Management. She led the launch of award-winning, first-to-market products including Optimum Online, Wifi, Rewards, Voice, and Select (interactive ads). Before Cablevision, Toner rose through the ranks at AMC Networks to become SVP, New Media Development. While there, she led the development of new media and interactive opportunities for AMC Networks, positioning the company to capitalize on emerging entertainment platforms. Her entrepreneurial spirit has awarded her a patent for The System and Method for Set Top Box Viewing Data, which enables the use of set top box data to measure audience viewing patterns. Currently, Toner is an active Advisory Council member for the Women’s Business Collaborative and also serves on the Board of Concern Worldwide, an international humanitarian organization. She has also served on the board of publicly traded companies including Sandvine and Engagement Labs, chairperson for CTAM and board member of multiple women’s organizations such as WICT (Women in Cable Television).   Guest Resources:  TONE Network: www.tonenetworks.com Daring Greatly by Brene Brown   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz    Credits: Gemma Toner, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 245, Special Guest, Shayna Goodworth.  

“We should always test rigorously new innovation before putting it out in the wild to ensure stability.” “You can't really go after the really big things that you want to achieve if you don't get the small things right.” “One way to think about generosity is about exceeding, you know, expectations of what you're supposed to do and doing things over and above what you're supposed to do.”   Episode summary | In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy interviews Kenon Chen, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Growth at Clear Capital. Kenon shares his unique journey that intertwines music and technology, emphasizing the importance of generous leadership and company culture. He discusses how Clear Capital aims to empower confident real estate decisions and the role of AI in the industry. The conversation also touches on networking with a generous spirit and the legacy Kenon hopes to leave for future leaders.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Kenon Chen emphasizes the importance of a generous company culture. Generosity in leadership involves exceeding expectations. Networking should focus on genuine connections, not just transactional relationships. Empathy is a crucial leadership value in times of change. AI can help remove mundane tasks in the housing finance industry. Kenon believes in the power of music to inspire and energize. Leadership is about being authentic and true to oneself. Creating space for others to grow is essential in leadership. The future of real estate will be shaped by technology and human connection.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Keenan Chen and Clear Capital 03:35 Keenan's Journey: From Music to Technology 05:52 The Intersection of Art and Leadership 08:44 Defining Generous Leadership 11:55 Culture of Generosity in Action 13:55 Networking with a Generous Spirit 19:49 Understanding Clear Capital's Mission 22:10 Practicing Generosity in Leadership 26:11 Legacy and Future Aspirations 27:49 Navigating Disruption: Thriving in a Changing Landscape 28:28 The Human Element in AI: Embracing Change 32:00 Reframing the Narrative: AI as a Catalyst for Growth 34:59 Empathy and Innovation: Balancing Change with Stability 37:09 The Role of AI in Housing Finance: A Vision for the Future 39:33 Authenticity in Leadership: Lessons Learned 41:27 Rapid Fire Insights: Personal Preferences and Reflections   Guest Bio | Kenon Chen, EVP of Strategy and Growth for Clear Capital, embodies the company’s mission of building confidence in real estate decisions to strengthen communities and improve lives. In his current role, Chen sits at the intersection of Clear Capital’s executive, product, marketing, and sales teams, guiding growth and ensuring the delivery of consistent and long-term value to customers and partners alike.    His curiosity and entrepreneurial focus on intuitive, people-first solutions have brought financial technologies to market that have transformed the valuation space. As the industry continues to evolve, Chen remains at the forefront of solutions-driven conversations centered around holistic modernization and innovation – including the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and how to incorporate it into housing finance strategically.    His dedication in these areas has earned him a regular column in HousingWire, a seat at the table on Business Insider’s Workforce Innovation Board, a role as Team Lead in the FHFA Tech Sprint in 2023 and 2024, and speaking slots at prestigious industry conferences across the U.S. Prior to Clear Capital, Chen honed his engineering and tech leadership skills in San Francisco as a director of technology for Roundpeg. He was introduced to the mortgage industry in the early 2000s leading tech projects for a large lender. Chen has been a crucial member of Clear Capital’s leadership team for more than 20 years.   Guest Resources:  https://www.clearcapital.com/company/about-clear-capital/   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz    Credits: Kenon Chen, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 244, Special Guest, Gemma Toner.