Conversations of Candor

About Conversations of Candor

Welcome to Conversations of Candor! This isn't your typical advice show. Here, we ditch the egos and dive deep into real conversations with real people. We're a group of friends from all walks of life, brought together by this crazy journey called existence. We've got different goals, different experiences, but one thing unites us: a thirst for growth and a desire to understand life a little better. Each episode, we tackle a new topic, from relationships and careers to navigating the weird twists and turns adulthood throws your way. We share our perspectives, our stories, and the lessons we've learned along the way. Because let's face it, sometimes the best advice comes from the people who've been there, done that, and maybe even got the metaphorical T-shirt (though hopefully not one that says "World's Worst Date"). So, whether you're looking for a fresh take on life's challenges, a good laugh, or just some honest conversation from a group of friends who are figuring it out just like you, you've come to the right place. Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and get ready to join the conversation!

Publisher

Yao Thompson

Category

education · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

20 Sept 2024

Latest episode

6 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Jul 2026

   Shattering the Linear Myth: Why an Unconventional Path Is Your Greatest Asset

   We are often taught that the path to great leadership is a straight line—a predictable, textbook climb up a single corporate ladder. But what if the most impactful leaders are actually forged in the detours, the career pivots, and the unconventional training grounds? In this dynamic, unfiltered roundtable episode of Conversations of Candor, we are pulling back the curtain on what it actually takes to lead in today's complex world. We've brought together seven powerhouse leaders from vastly different sectors—spanning corporate technology, entrepreneurship, global audit, cybersecurity, the non-profit world, insurance, and public consulting. Featuring insights from individuals with military leadership backgrounds and community coaching experience, this panel delivers a masterclass in first-hand perspective, dismantling standard corporate cliches to reveal raw, real-world leadership lessons. In this episode, we dive deep into: The Evolution of a Leader: How our guests define their leadership style in a single sentence and how their philosophies have fundamentally shifted over time. The Unconventional Edge: Why non-traditional backgrounds, military disciplines, and diverse life experiences cultivate unmatched resilience and adaptability. Trust, Culture, and Conflict: Real-world strategies for building authentic trust, navigating messy team conflicts, and masterfully balancing executive authority with human approachability. Leading Through the Dark: How to make high-stakes, difficult decisions when there is no clear "right" answer, and how to maintain personal resilience through inevitable setbacks. Whether you are a seasoned executive looking to refresh your approach, an aspiring manager stepping into your first role, or someone navigating your own unconventional career pivot, this episode will challenge your assumptions and show you why your unique background is your ultimate leadership asset. Meet the Panel: Jammie Williams – Owner & Founder of Excel Construction Services, Inc. David Smith – Founder & Festival Director of Inthrive Film Festival Jeffrey Tharp – Director of Technical Infrastructure at Virginia Farm Bureau Charlie Rosario – Sales Engineer, Cyber & AI Practitioner, Instructor, and Soccer Coach Shawn Shields Sr. – Agency Owner at Allstate Jamie Sanderson Reid – Director, Global Internal Audit - Technology at Bunge Anthony Romanello – Managing Partner at S.I.R. Tune in to discover how to embrace your unique strengths, expand your self-awareness, and inspire an unstoppable team dynamic. Disclaimer: As always, the views and opinions expressed on this episode do reflect those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any of these guests' employers.

2. 

   19 Oct 2025

   Analog Wisdom in a Digital Age: Our Battle for the Reading Habit

   Episode Guests: Syncear(@syncear_philosophieez), Terri(@territalksofficial), Joedoei(@joedocei), Troy, Jason, In this thought-provoking episode of Conversations of Candor, the panel dives deep into the personal and cultural significance of reading, exploring how books have shaped their lives, careers, and perspectives. The conversation opens with reflections on early reading experiences, from mandatory school assignments to the gradual development of genuine curiosity and self-improvement. Each guest shares their unique journey—some finding solace and spiritual growth in reading, others using books as tools for professional advancement or personal healing. The discussion spans a wide range of topics, including the challenges of maintaining a reading habit in a fast-paced, technology-driven world, the impact of reading on communication skills, and the evolving relationship with both physical books and digital platforms like Audible. The guests candidly address the realities of information overload, the importance of intentional consumption, and the value of returning to meaningful texts that resonate with their current life stages. Listeners will hear stories of overcoming adversity, the role of reading in building self-worth and community, and the ways in which literature can inspire action, empathy, and growth. The episode is rich with book recommendations—ranging from biographies and self-help to spiritual classics and contemporary fiction—and offers practical insights on how to cultivate a love for reading, even for those who didn’t grow up with it. Whether you’re a lifelong book lover or someone looking to rekindle your reading habit, this episode offers a candid, relatable, and inspiring look at the power of books to transform lives, foster connection, and spark meaningful conversations. Keywords: reading habits, book recommendations, personal growth, self-improvement, literacy, community, black voices, technology, Audible, physical books, learning styles, communication skills, overcoming adversity, book club, inspiration, education, professional development, spiritual growth, information overload, intentional living

3. 

   21 Sept 2025

   Journeys in Progress: Honest Reflections on Career Paths

   Welcome to a new episode of Conversations of Candor, where we pull back the curtain on one of life's most complex and defining topics: careers. In this candid discussion, host Yao Thompson, along with special guest Gray and Judy, share their personal and often unexpected journeys through the professional world. What exactly is a "career"? While Webster defines it as an occupation for a significant period of one’s life, our hosts reveal a more personal definition. For Greg, it's about following passion and purpose, from Broadway advertising to her current role at SiriusXM. For Judy, it's a winding path of experimentation and self-discovery, from a math major in tech to a rewarding career as a professor at VCU. This episode challenges the traditional, linear path we're often taught to follow and proves that your career is a fluid, evolving journey of finding what you love and what serves others. The conversation gets real about the pressures of knowing your "end goal" right out of school. The hosts share their own experiences of not having a clear-cut plan, from a rescinded job offer after college to an entire year of unemployment. They share powerful stories of navigating these uncertain moments, from freelancing to finding mentors and building a support network. You'll hear how seemingly "unrelated" skills, like a background in customer service or theater, can be invaluable assets that set you apart. We also explore the critical role of transferable skills and how every job—even a temporary one—can provide essential lessons. The hosts share personal stories about using past experiences to excel in new fields, highlighting how a diverse skill set leads to a unique and innovative approach to problem-solving. Finally, we discuss the profound importance of community and networking. Hear how one of our hosts strategically sought out professional organizations and cold-called people to get her foot in the door, while another's career path was naturally forged by genuine connections. The conversation serves as a powerful reminder that professional relationships are not just about who you know—they are about building authentic connections that can lead to unexpected and incredible opportunities. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt lost in their career journey, wants to make a change, or needs to be reminded that every experience is a valuable step forward. Key Themes Explored in This Episode: The Nonlinear Career Path: Why it's okay not to have a plan and how to embrace experimentation. The Power of Transferable Skills: How your unique background can be your greatest asset. Networking vs. Community: The difference between a strategic move and an authentic connection. A Career as a Journey of Self-Discovery: Finding your passion and what you're truly good at. The Role of Mentors: How a strong support system can guide you in the right direction. #Podcast #NewEpisode #ExpertInsights #IndustryTrends #Leadership #Innovation #Productivity #Learning #Growth #Success #Motivation #Inspiration LEAVE A REVIEW + SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/51mef9FUeBrsW9HwY05u54?si=3eda86c89b7f499a Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conversations-of-candor/id1763621750

4. 

   22 Aug 2025

   The Imposter Syndrome Antidote

   In Episode of Conversations of Candor, the hosts dive into a powerful and universal struggle that often goes unaddressed: imposter syndrome. They open the discussion by revealing that this feeling of self-doubt, of being a fraud despite one's achievements, has plagued them for a while, and for some, it was a feeling they didn't even have a name for until recently. The conversation quickly moves beyond a simple definition as the hosts share their unique and profound perspectives. For some, imposter syndrome is a feeling that creeps in when they know they could be doing more. It's not about resting on past laurels but about the internal drive to constantly move forward. For others, it's a form of doubt that has tangible impacts, like delaying key decisions—such as waiting four or five years to begin investing out of state due to a fear of the unknown. The hosts delve into the powerful antidotes they've found. They discuss how action is the ultimate cure, echoing the philosophy of doing "so much volume that you outwork that feeling." This idea is reinforced with a clever analogy about a college ceramics class: the students who focused on making the most jars ended up with the most perfect ones, while those who obsessed over making a single flawless jar failed. The lesson? Perfectionism and overthinking are breeding grounds for doubt. The episode also highlights the profound importance of a supportive ecosystem. The hosts share how being part of masterminds and communities of like-minded high-achievers has shown them they aren't alone in their struggles. They also emphasize the priceless value of having a supportive partner who believes in you, acting as a constant source of encouragement and a mirror for your own self-doubt. Ultimately, this episode frames imposter syndrome not as a weakness, but as a byproduct of ambition. It's a badge of honor for those who are pushing the envelope and refusing to play it small. The conversation is a must-listen for anyone who has ever questioned their own success, offering a roadmap to overcome doubt, find your tribe, and embrace the discomfort of growth to unlock your full potential. Key Insights From This Episode: The Antidote is Action: Consistent, high-volume work can push imposter syndrome to the side and build genuine confidence. Community is Key: Surrounding yourself with other high performers provides validation and shows you're not alone in your struggles. The Power of a Partner: A supportive partner who believes in you can be a priceless source of confidence, helping you push through moments of self-doubt. Embrace Discomfort: The feeling of being "uncomfortable" is a sign that you're growing and moving in the right direction. Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #ConversationsOfCandor #Podcast #ImposterSyndrome #PersonalGrowth #Mindset #SelfDoubt #Motivation #CareerTips #SuccessMindset #Confidence #LifeLessons

5. 

   21 Jul 2025

   From Office Culture to AI: Evolving Workplace Dynamics

   In this episode of 'Conversations of Candor,' hosts Rich Hackman, Chance Threat, Gray Crenshaw, and David Lett delve into the intricacies of professional relationships, emphasizing how context, company culture, and individual boundaries play crucial roles. The discussion transitions into exploring the impact of AI in professional settings, debating its potential benefits for efficiency and its implications on human-centered tasks. They address the ethical considerations of AI, its role in the creative space, and the long-term effects on human skills and work-life balance. The conversation highlights the balancing act between technological innovation and maintaining human touch in professional communications. LEAVE A REVIEW + SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/51mef9FUeBrsW9HwY05u54?si=3eda86c89b7f499a Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conversations-of-candor/id1763621750 Visit our website: https://conversationsofcandor.com/ 00:00 Introduction to Professional Relationships 00:22 Defining Professionalism: Rich's Perspective 03:17 Chance's Take on Professional Boundaries 04:30 Greg's Experience with Professional Relationships 05:48 David's Short and Sweet Definition 13:01 The Role of Company Culture 17:30 Navigating Remote Work and Culture Shifts 24:26 Impact of AI on Professional Relationships 26:42 The Role of AI in the Workplace 28:22 AI in Customer Service: The Human Touch 29:38 AI in Creative Spaces: A Controversial Topic 31:08 The Ethical Dilemma of AI 32:23 AI as a Transformative Tool 38:30 The Future of AI in Professional Communications 41:41 The Philosophical Debate on AI's Role 45:57 AI and Capitalism: A Double-Edged Sword 50:08 The Purpose of AI: Efficiency vs. Humanity

6. 

   21 Jun 2025

   Navigating Friendships in Adulthood: Defining, Maintaining, and Evolving Connections

   This episode explores the complexities of adult friendships, examining how they form, evolve, and require maintenance through shared values and communication, offering insights into navigating these vital connections.

7. 

   25 Apr 2025

   Passion and Persistence: The Entrepreneur's Journey

   We had some technical difficulties on this episode and lost some audio, a few of our guests that were affected were @rva_slim @therodpowell; Thank you Jammie & Jarrard for your perspective and input and although our listeners will not be able to hear the gems you dropped the insight and perspective will continue to have positive impacts on those involved in the conversation. In this captivating episode, a remarkably diverse panel of entrepreneurs—ranging from seasoned veterans with multiple successful exits to enthusiastic newcomers just launching their first ventures—engage in a profound and multifaceted discussion about the entrepreneurial experience. The conversation weaves together deeply personal narratives that transcend typical business advice, offering listeners intimate insights into both the psychological and practical aspects of building something from nothing. The panel begins by unpacking their individual "origin stories," revealing the varied catalysts that propelled them into entrepreneurship. One participant describes leaving a prestigious corporate position after recognizing a significant market gap that large companies were too risk-averse to address. Another shares how personal hardship created an unexpected pathway to entrepreneurship when traditional employment options disappeared. A third describes the generational inspiration of watching immigrant parents build a family business despite language barriers and limited resources. The discussion on resilience proves particularly compelling as participants candidly detail their darkest moments—from nearly bankrupting failures and devastating partnership dissolutions to the isolation of decision-making when everything seems to be collapsing. One entrepreneur movingly describes maintaining external confidence while privately selling personal possessions to make payroll, while another recounts the painful process of closing a business they had poured three years into developing. Work-life integration emerges as a nuanced theme, with the panel challenging the notion of perfect "balance" and instead offering frameworks for intentional imbalance during different phases of business growth. They share practical approaches to preserving important relationships and maintaining physical and mental health while acknowledging the inevitable sacrifices entrepreneurship demands. One participant's story about implementing strict boundaries after a health crisis resonates deeply with the panel, sparking a rich discussion about sustainable entrepreneurship. The exploration of mentorship reveals surprising perspectives, with several entrepreneurs detailing how they've cultivated "mentor networks" rather than seeking single guides. They describe creative approaches to accessing wisdom through carefully structured advisory boards, peer mastermind groups, and what one calls "mentorship through literature"—the practice of deeply studying entrepreneurial biographies. Throughout the episode, the critical importance of purpose surfaces repeatedly. Participants articulate how their foundational "why" has evolved over time, with several noting how initial motivations around financial freedom or recognition matured into deeper desires for impact, legacy, or creative expression. This evolution of purpose, they suggest, often parallels the entrepreneur's personal growth journey. The conversation concludes with each participant offering a single piece of advice they wish they'd received earlier in their journey, creating a powerful distillation of wisdom for listeners at any stage of entrepreneurial development. #EntrepreneurialJourney #BusinessInsights #StartupStories #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessGrowth #ResilienceInBusiness #FounderStories #EntrepreneurialPurpose #BusinessMentorship #WorkLifeIntegration #BusinessLessons #StartupChallenges #EntrepreneurLifestyle #BusinessSuccess #EntrepreneurialWisdom LEAVE A REVIEW + SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

8. 

   25 Mar 2025

   Cyber Security: Diverse Backgrounds, Unified Goals

   This episode illuminates the remarkably diverse entry points into cybersecurity, showcasing professionals who pivoted from chemical engineering, firefighting, pre-med studies, and other seemingly unrelated fields. Their stories challenge the conventional notion that cybersecurity requires a traditional computer science background, instead highlighting how varied experiences can provide unique perspectives and strengths in the industry. The professionals emphasize that cybersecurity's multifaceted nature creates space for diverse talents. They share how boot camps, certification programs, and formal degrees served as different but equally valid bridges into the field. Many describe moments of discovery where they realized their transferable skills—critical thinking from scientific backgrounds, crisis management from emergency services, or communication skills from client-facing roles—provided unexpected advantages in cybersecurity contexts. Continuous learning emerges as a universal thread throughout these narratives. The field's rapid evolution means that regardless of entry path, successful professionals commit to ongoing education. They discuss balancing formal training with hands-on experience, highlighting how practical application often proves more valuable than theoretical knowledge alone. The conversation also explores networking's crucial role in career advancement, with many attributing pivotal opportunities to connections made at industry events, online communities, or through mentorships. They describe how building relationships helped them navigate the sometimes overwhelming array of specializations within cybersecurity—from threat hunting and penetration testing to governance, risk management, and compliance. Perhaps most valuable is their candid discussion about integrating technical proficiency with soft skills. They explain how effective communication, especially translating complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders, often determines project success more than technical brilliance alone. This balanced skill set proves particularly valuable as professionals advance into leadership positions where strategic thinking and team management become increasingly important. LEAVE A REVIEW + SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

9. 

   21 Feb 2025

   Breaking the Stigma: A Conversation on Mental Health

   In this episode of 'Conversations with Candor', the participants explore the concept of mental health and its evolution from a stigmatized topic to one of normalized conversation. They delve into personal experiences and cultural perspectives that illustrate the challenges and benefits of addressing mental health. This discussion includes the generational viewpoints on therapy, the impact of work on mental health, and the importance of physical activity and boundaries. It also highlights the role of self-reflection, therapy, and personal growth in maintaining mental wellness. 00:00 Reflecting on Mental Health Stigmas 00:59 Personal Upbringings and Mental Health Awareness 01:45 College and the Journey to Understanding Mental Health 02:24 The Importance of Regular Mental Health Check-ins 07:17 Entrepreneurship and Mental Health Challenges 12:29 Seeking Therapy: Personal Experiences 28:18 Generational Perspectives on Therapy 31:08 Gym Routine and Mental Health 31:45 The Role of Physical Activity in Mental Health 33:50 Personal Background and Professional Experience 36:05 The Importance of Normalizing Mental Health 38:01 Therapy and Overcoming Stigma 40:58 Different Levels of Mental Health Care 42:34 Historical Perspective on Mental Health 45:06 Religion and Mental Health 48:10 Coping Mechanisms and Substance Use 50:01 Accepting Bad Days and Learning from Experiences 53:50 Work and Its Impact on Mental Health 01:01:45 Comparison and Personal Growth 01:05:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts LEAVE A REVIEW + SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

10. 

    21 Jan 2025

    Fitness Chronicles: From Half Marathons to Healthy Eating

    In this episode of 'Conversations of Candor,' a diverse group of friends dives deep into the complexities of health and eating. The discussion spans personal health goals, balancing taste and nutrition, the impact of food on relationships, and the role of alcohol in social and professional settings. The friends share their unique experiences and strategies for maintaining health amidst busy lifestyles, with insights into dietary preferences and challenges like food allergies. The episode wraps up with practical advice on healthy eating practices and the importance of regular medical check-ups. 00:00 Welcome to Conversations of Candor 01:14 Introducing Today's Topic: Health and Eating 01:32 Matt's Personal Health Goals 03:06 Balancing Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercises 07:47 Grocery Shopping Habits and Challenges 09:34 Navigating Food Delivery and Meal Prep 10:46 Managing Sugar Intake and Alternative Sweeteners 22:34 Intermittent Fasting and Eating Patterns 27:05 Food's Role in Relationships 28:22 Exploring Food Culture in Chicago 29:03 Food and Relationship Dynamics 31:27 Professional Relationships and Food 34:23 Alcohol in Social and Professional Settings 39:41 Food Allergies and Sensitivities 42:46 Healthy Eating Habits and Preferences 51:05 Final Thoughts on Food and Heal LEAVE A REVIEW + SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

11. 

    20 Dec 2024

    Exercise Realities: Adult Fitness Myths and Truths

    Kofi, Denise, and David share candid insights on adult fitness realities, exploring how to stay consistent, manage injuries, and prioritize mental well-being through exercise.

12. 

    21 Nov 2024

    Beyond Borders: Experiencing Life Through Travel

    Travel experts Rachel and Michael discuss the transformative power of international travel, sharing cultural insights, personal growth, and unforgettable moments that broaden perspectives and enrich lives.

13. 

    21 Oct 2024

    Social Media: The Double-Edged Sword of Connection

    In this episode of 'Conversations of Candor' the hosts dive into an authentic discussion about social media's evolution and its impact on personal lives. They reflect on the early days of platforms like BlackPlanet and MySpace, and discuss how social media has shaped self-discovery, connection, and community. They touch on both the positive aspects, like public acts of kindness and accessible information, and the negatives, such as privacy concerns and the pressure to portray idealized images. They also explore the future of social media, considering technologies like AI and the potential rise of virtual reality. Finally, the hosts share their personal experiences and useful resources from podcasts and social media influencers that have provided them with valuable insights. 00:00 Introduction to Conversations of Candor 01:12 Diving into Social Media's Evolution 04:06 Personal Experiences with Social Media 07:55 The Impact of Social Media on Self-Discovery 09:03 Imagining a World Without Social Media 13:34 The Pressure to Portray a Certain Image 22:40 The Future of Social Media and Technology 27:53 Privacy Concerns with Social Media Apps 30:46 The Concept of Private Social Media 32:17 The Trade-Offs of Free Services 34:47 Paying for Social Media Features 37:52 The Impact of Social Media on Self-Perception 39:44 Positive Aspects of Social Media 43:16 Information Overload and Managing Content 47:47 Favorite Social Media Influencers and Channels 55:12 Exploring the Digital Nomad Lifestyle 57:03 Final Thoughts and Legal Considerations LEAVE A REVIEW + SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

14. 

    20 Sept 2024

    Navigating High School Life: Social and Academic Choices

    In this episode, David, Matt, and Gio discuss their high school experiences and how they shaped their social and academic lives. David reflects on his academic-focused high school that lacked extracurricular involvement, Matt reminisces about balancing sports, work, and academics, and Gio talks about attending a technical high school. The conversation covers the influences of their educational and social environments, the evolution of their career paths, and the importance of being true to oneself. They also delve into the cultural differences between the US and Europe and offer advice to their younger selves about focusing on the journey rather than the destination. 00:00 Reflecting on High School Social Life 02:33 Matt's High School Experience 04:46 Gio's High School Reflections 07:14 Technical High Schools and Their Impact 15:20 Cultural Exposure and Personal Growth 23:57 Advice to High School Self 24:24 Reflecting on Life's Journey 25:04 Embracing Individuality and Acceptance 26:22 Perceptions and Living Abroad 30:36 Career Expectations vs. Reality 37:41 Influences and Career Choices 46:42 Final Thoughts and Advice LEAVE A REVIEW + SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Who has been a guest on Conversations of Candor

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Kofi
• Denise
• David

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

1,954

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 25 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

10

Social presence

0

YouTube

65

Engagement

32

Contact Conversations of Candor

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.