Speak with Presence
From the co-founders of Voice First World, the Speak with Presence™ podcast is an interview show where perfection is overrated, leaders listen, and we all speak up to influence change. If you want advice from powerful speakers on using your voice with confidence, without being perfect, subscribe so you don't miss an episode!
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95. Emergency Resilience - Alex Jabr
05/28/2024
95. Emergency Resilience - Alex Jabr
In Episode 95, Emergency Resilience, Alex Jabr sits down with Jen V and JRT to discuss the heavy–but invaluable–topic of death communication and staying present during extremely uncomfortable end-of-life discussions. Alex has experience as a paramedic, public speaker, and online course designer for her company, . She turned her own experiences from her mother’s passing and her career in emergency medicine into a life mission to teach others how to empathetically and effectively deliver what may be the hardest words an individual may hear in their lifetime. She pulls back the curtain through stories, revealing shocking statistics highlighting just how little guidance there is for medical professionals on end-of-life communication. She has become an expert in getting comfortable in uncomfortable situations. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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94. Empathy in Action - Alan Verrill, MD
05/21/2024
94. Empathy in Action - Alan Verrill, MD
In Episode 94, Empathy in Action, we speak with Dr. Alan Verrill, President and CEO of . Alan has led multiple award-winning hospitals after working for 25 years as a trusted and compassionate physician. Dr. Verrill shares triumphs and obstacles experienced throughout his professional career; how he unexpectedly became a prominent leader after his military appointment, the changes he’s seen in medicine in recent years, and a heart-warming story about a patient who had a tremendous impact on him. Warning: The Jens cry in this episode. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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92. House Flip to Leadership - Tamara Day
05/07/2024
92. House Flip to Leadership - Tamara Day
In Episode 92, House Flip to Leadership, we had the pleasure of connecting with Tamara Day, host and designer of Tamara is an expert home renovator both on-camera and off. Hear about her incredible leadership growth and the vital lessons she’s learned as star and lead designer of a multi-season TV show. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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91. Passport to Peace - Kathy Sudeikis
04/30/2024
91. Passport to Peace - Kathy Sudeikis
In Episode 91, Passport to Peace, we host our second Sudeikis and the matriarch of her family, Kathy Sudeikis. Kathy is VP of Corporate Relations at , she’s a travel expert, and a leader in the benefitting Children’s Mercy Hospital. Kathy shares some of her many stories collected throughout her career in the travel industry, including a surprise plunge into Arctic waters and her start in booking travel for celebrities. Hear her involvement in the incredibly impactful Big Slick event in Kansas City and how they’ve grown to donate nearly $22 million in 15 years. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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88. Start Where You Are - Lindsey Roy
03/26/2024
88. Start Where You Are - Lindsey Roy
In Episode 88, we had the delight of speaking with Lindsey Roy, Senior Vice President - Strategy and Brand at Hallmark. She’s a global digital leader, public speaker, and author of “” Lindsey bestows some of this incredible wisdom on us, detailing how she takes gratitude to another level. She breaks down her hardships and how they completely shifted her perspective on life. She shares mindset challenges that anyone–regardless of their own life’s story–can try. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company. They train leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to lead and speak confidently, book a discovery call .
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87. Divine Femininity - Lindsay Sudeikis
03/12/2024
87. Divine Femininity - Lindsay Sudeikis
In this episode 87, we were literally blessed when speaking with Lindsay Sudeikis–educator, ancestral healer, and spiritual counselor. Lindsay shares her incredible and surprising journey from studying math, then philosophy, then becoming a nun. She's no longer physically in the convent, yet she embodies presence in her full and faithful life. We are thrilled to share a tiny glimpse into the mystical labyrinth of knowledge that Lindsay inhabits through the human–and spiritual–connection. Learn more at Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company. They train leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to lead and speak confidently, book a discovery call .
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86. Mind the Gap - Ebony Reed
02/27/2024
86. Mind the Gap - Ebony Reed
In this episode, E86, we sit down with Ebony Reed, seasoned journalist, editorial leader, news strategist, author and executive. Ebony tackles some difficult subjects with us as we wrap our heads around the recent tragedy after the Super Bowl victory parade in Kansas City. We also focus on her incredibly important book ‘,’ which is available for pre-order now. Hear how Ebony’s impressive career in journalism and dedication to her community has improved Kansas City for the better. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company. They train leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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82. Focus On Your Audience - Sidonie Garrett
01/23/2024
82. Focus On Your Audience - Sidonie Garrett
In this episode, Focus On Your Audience, we sit down with Sidonie Garrett, Executive Artistic Director at . Sidonie dives into how preparation and presence go hand-in-hand, highlighting how she finds success in honing her story when captivating an audience. Be inspired by her mission, vision, and hard work in helping the performing arts flourish in Kansas City. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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80. Christmas in Cincinnati
12/22/2023
80. Christmas in Cincinnati
On E80, Jen V. hosts a special guest to learn about the impact her work/life choices had on her family. Go back in time with us to 2007 and hear about a unique Christmas in Cincinnati! Jen V. & JRT will be back in January for more interviews with powerful leaders in the Kansas City area and with Kansas City natives. We wish you all a very happy holiday and a prosperous 2024. May this be the year that you realize you don't have to be "perfect" to be successful. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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79. Trust Your Partner - Angela Gieras
12/12/2023
79. Trust Your Partner - Angela Gieras
In this episode, Trust Your Partners, we are back on stage with Angela Gieras, Executive Director/Co-CEO at . Angela is a performing arts leader, executive coach, strategist, fundraiser, and leadership development expert. She breaks down how recognizing and embracing her core values make her powerful presence known in the workplace. Hear about her expertise as well as high-and-lows in the nonprofit world, including how she’s found success and strength as a co-leader–not without some lessons along the way! Learn more about Angela's research: Want to support KC Rep: Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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78. Don't Miss Your Opportunity - Brenda VanLengen
12/05/2023
78. Don't Miss Your Opportunity - Brenda VanLengen
In this episode, Don’t Miss Your Opportunity, we interviewed Brenda VanLengen, Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, play-by-play announcer, women's basketball analyst, studio host and telestrator producer. She speaks on her journey to document women’s basketball in her role as producer of the series ‘If Not for Them.’ Experience Brenda’s contagious passion and enthusiasm for women’s sports–which rallies even the most nonathletic. Hear about her stellar career and the “What on Earth” moment that changed the trajectory of her life. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at
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77. Lead with Love - Christine Kemper
11/28/2023
77. Lead with Love - Christine Kemper
In this episode 77, Lead with Love, we spoke with Christine Kemper, Marketing Professional, Board Member, and Founder of , a school that teaches young women to use their voices, succeed in college and lead impactful, meaningful lives. It's giving Tuesday! This is where to give: Education - Arts - In Christine’s inspiring story, she sees a need in her community and takes matters into her own hands to meet the need. Find out how the students in her school are encouraged to put their own presence into the world. Following a fifteen-year career that began in the U.S. Department of Justice and evolved to include roles in business communications, politics and higher education, Christine founded a marketing and research consultancy that has advised local, national and global brands since 2002. She is co-founder of The Collectors Fund and The Kansas City Collection, two enterprises that invest in art and build markets for artists, as well as YEP, an internship and scholarship organization focused on nurturing entrepreneurship among high school students. She has served in leadership roles for dozens of regional nonprofit organizations, including the Women’s Foundation, Women’s Employment Network, WIN for KC, the WWI Museum and Memorial, DeLaSalle Education Center, the Symphony Foundation and University Academy Charter School. Her current passion is in her role as a founder and board chair of Kansas City Girls Preparatory Academy. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at
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75. Spectrum of Authenticity - Lindsey Rood-Clifford
11/14/2023
75. Spectrum of Authenticity - Lindsey Rood-Clifford
In this episode 75, Spectrum of Authenticity, we interviewed Lindsey Rood-Clifford, President and CEO of in Kansas City, MO. We met with her on location at Starlight in her office overlooking the audience seating. Lindsey shares her experience being unanimously voted to be the new—and first female—CEO at Starlight, and how she creates change authentically in her role. Hear her philosophy on inspiring teams and constantly connecting with community. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at .
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74. Tell the Truth - Kiona Sinks
10/31/2023
74. Tell the Truth - Kiona Sinks
E74: In this episode, Tell the Truth, we interviewed Kiona Sinks, Community Engagement Manager for the . We met with her on location in the heart of the museum in Kansas City, MO. Kiona explains how she earned her spot as a prominent change-maker and storyteller in Kansas City, giving a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into her seemingly effortless, resolute presence. She shares stories and experiences that made her ask, “If I don’t believe in myself, who will?” and “Why not now?”. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at
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67. Talk Nicely to Yourself - Shon Ruffin
09/12/2023
67. Talk Nicely to Yourself - Shon Ruffin
Talk Nicely to Yourself features actor/singer, Shon Ruffin, a Kansas City-based performer. Jen V. & JRT spoke with Shon on location at the in Overland Park, KS before she prepared for her nightly performance of Effie in the musical DREAMGIRLS. The show closed on Sept, 10, 2023 after a sold out run. You can find Shon singing with the bands and Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World, a communication and executive coaching company. If you want to learn more, book a discovery call at .
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66. The Same Game - Dani Welniak
09/05/2023
66. The Same Game - Dani Welniak
Dani Welniak is the Vice President of Communications for the KC Current, the Kansas City soccer team for the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). Dani has an impressive career as an on-air reporter for the Kansas City Chiefs and as a superbowl champion with the Dallas Diamondz - Women's Professional Full-Contact NFL Rules Football. Dani is a confident speaker and shares her stories of overcoming failures and being supported by allies in a male-dominated industry. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World, a communication and executive coaching company. If you want to learn more, book a call at .
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17. Whom Do You Make Significant? - Dr. Mary Guindon
05/03/2022
17. Whom Do You Make Significant? - Dr. Mary Guindon
Episode 17: Mary H. Guindon, PhD (Dr. Mary) is former chair and associate professor in the Department of Counseling and Human Services at Johns Hopkins University where she created programs in organizational counseling, counselor clinical supervision, and contemporary trauma response. Her over 30 years of clinical practice, consulting, and teaching experience include counselor training and supervision, mental health and career development, adult transitions, grief and loss, and global counseling issues. She has authored several books, including . She is also Jen V.'s mom!
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