

- 11
- Episodes
- 2024
- First episode
About Professionally Speaking
This is the go-to podcast for everyone who's eager to make their mark in the world of business and skilled trades. It's all about mastering the art of professionalism, whether you're in a suit or safety boots! Join us as we dive into the secrets of making a great impression, building a standout professional image, and creating a work atmosphere that rocks, no matter where you are on your career journey. We're talking real-life tips, expert insights, and a whole lot of fun along the way.
- Publisher
- Co-Hosts Beth Batts & Tedi Parsons
- Category
- business
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 25 Jan 2024
- Latest episode
- 1 Jul 2024
Latest episodes
11 episodes in the feed.

1 Jul 2024
S1-E-11: Crafting Spaces and Stories w/Hannah Venema
One Episode #11 of Professionally Speaking Beth, is joined by Hannah Venema, the creative force behind Walls and Whatnot, a company specializing in wallpaper installation, interior painting, and a variety of other design services. Growing up in a family-owned hardware store, Hannah has had a 17-year journey immersed in all things "handy," which has deeply influenced her passions—more than she ever could have imagined. Hannah shares with how her college years taught her to refine her skills and that meticulous attention to detail is crucial for any project's success. Beth and Hannah discuss the many challenges that Hannah faced during Pandemic and how she got through this. We learn that Hannah has always embraced a hands-on approach to work, unafraid to dive in and get her hands dirty. Her career journey has brought her to this precise moment in her life. She is nothing if not resourceful. Using her skills, she tackles challenges head-on and researches thoroughly to ensure every task is completed to perfection. Join me as we explore Hannah's fascinating journey and the artistic endeavors that define her career. To learn more about Hannah: Hannah Venema, Owner The Handywoman Eclectic, LLC, Allendale, MI Website: https://www.thathandywoman.com/ (https://www.thathandywoman.com/ ) Email: walls.whatnot@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WallsWhatnot (https://www.facebook.com/WallsWhatnot ) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahvenema/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahvenema/) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

13 Jun 2024
S1-E-10: Healing from Within: One Doctor's Mission to Transform Pre-Surgical Care
On Episode #10 of Professionally Speaking, Beth talks with Dr. Scott Russo a physician, surgeon, entrepreneur and life coach. Dr. Russo shares with us how his own health struggles as well as his own experiences as a surgeon helped him recognize some gaps in patient support within the healthcare system, inspiring him to found Recover Health, a company dedicated to empowering patients with comprehensive, holistic preparation for surgery. Dr. Russo and Beth discuss his transformative journey from a practicing surgeon to a visionary entrepreneur, reshaping how patients gear up for medical procedures with well-being at the forefront. This is one episode you do not want to miss. To learn more about Dr. Scott Russo: Recover Health (Website) (https://recoverhealth.net/) NutriFuel Nutrition (Website) (https://nutrifuelnutrition.com/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-s-russo-61110253/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-s-russo-61110253/) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

21 May 2024
S1-E-9: Empowering Administrative Professionals, w/ Lois Wilkins
On Episode #9 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes Lois Wilkins, Director Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center at the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, IL. With over 30- years of experience supporting C-suite leaders across diverse industries, Lois offers invaluable insights into the evolution and significance of the administrative professionals role. Beth and Lois explore the pivotal role of administrative professionals in the modern workplace, in this spicy conversation with a seasoned expert . From traditional administrative tasks to strategic support functions, this no-holds-barred discussion highlights the dynamic nature of admin responsibilities and the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Highlighting the diverse skill set of admins, emphasizing their role as drivers of organizational success beyond traditional duties, Lois and Beth touch on some of the inside scoop from the desk of an administrative professional. Listen in to gain practical advice on fostering collaborative relationships with C-suite leaders and maximizing efficiency within teams. Lois and Beth discuss valuable tips for aspiring admins, drawing from combined experience and passion for empowering those around them. You can learn more about Lois at: Lois Wilkins, Director Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center at YWCA Metropolitan Chicago LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlislois/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlislois/) Email: Lois.wilkins@ymail.com RESOURCES: 19 Essential Executive Assistant Skills for 2024 (teambuilding.com) (https://teambuilding.com/blog/executive-assistant-skills) 10 Important Skills For An Executive Assistant | Pocketbook Agency (https://www.pocketbookagency.com/transferrable-skills-for-executive-assistant-jobs/) Transferable Admin Skills to Help You Change a Career Path (monster.com) (https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/spread-your-admin-wings) Career transitions for Executive Assistants - Practically Perfect PA (https://www.practicallyperfectpa.com/career-transitions-for-executive-assistants/) The administrative profession history — Exceptional Admins (https://www.exceptionaladmins.com/executive-assistant-professional-development/secretary-profession-history) The Executive Assistant Career Path- A guide to becoming an EA (howigotjob.com) (https://howigotjob.com/career-advice/the-executive-assistant-career-path/) The Evolution of the Executive Assistant: How the role has changed in the digital age. | by Michelle Penczak | SquaredAway | Medium (https://medium.com/squaredaway/the-evolution-of-the-executive-assistant-how-the-role-has-changed-in-the-digital-age-dbf379196a22) The Case for Executive Assistants (hbr.org) (https://hbr.org/2011/05/the-case-for-executive-assistants) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

16 Apr 2024
S1-E-8: Shredding the Paper Ceiling
On Episode #8 of Professionally Speaking, Beth and Tedi are back together again and have a fascinating conversation about the 'Paper Ceiling' and why this may be a deterrent for so many professionals seeking positions that require a degree. Beth shares with us her dislike of 'Pedigree & Paper Hiring' and Tedi provides some Certified Career Coaching tips for those looking for a new career. This is a great conversation for those who are struggling with their job search and trying to decipher all the nuances of all the job description requirements. Included below are several articles that are discussed during this episode. You can connect with Beth & Tedi by visiting us online at: https://www.realtalkmi.com/professionally-speaking-podcast (https://www.realtalkmi.com/professionally-speaking-podcast). How much does a Skilled Trades Make in Michigan? (February 2024) (https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/michigan-skilled-trades-salary-SRCH_IL.0,8_IS527_KO9,23.htm) The Paper Ceiling (ww.tearthepaperceiling.org) (https://www.tearthepaperceiling.org/the-paper-ceiling) Are Degrees Dead? It's Time to Tear the Paper Ceiling & Prioritize Skills (www.fuel50.com) (https://fuel50.com/2024/03/its-time-to-tear-the-paper-ceiling/) Could 2024 be the Year we see the end of the Paper Ceiling? (Forbes, March 2024) (https://www.forbes.com/sites/karadennison/2024/02/20/could-2024-be-the-year-we-see-the-end-of-the-paper-ceiling/?sh=59fc4e7a543a) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

2 Apr 2024
S1-E-7: The Professional Blend: Mixing Teaching Savvy with Hospitality Grace
On Episode #7 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes the insightful Heidi O'Connor, current Manager/Caretaker at Farrell Lodge, located in Sandusky, Ohio. Heidi shares with us how her professional journey began with teaching in the public school classroom. Beth and Heidi discuss how this path allowed her (Heidi) to dive deep into the essence of professionalism, at the crossroads of of education and hospitality. Beth and Heidi discuss the unseen respect gap and stereotypes affecting educators and hospitality workers along with sharing real-life examples that illuminate these disparities. This conversation is one that will challenge, inspire, and elevate the occupations of educators, those in the hospitality industry and any/all professionals. This is one conversation you do do not want to miss. You can learn more about Heidi at: Heidi O'Connor Manager & Caretaker Farrell Lodge Website: https://farrellhouselodge.com/ (https://farrellhouselodge.com/) Phone: (419) 625-8353 The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

14 Mar 2024
S1-E-6: Skilled & Respected: Changing Perceptions in Construction
On Episode #6 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes special guest Lynne Spikes, Commercial Construction Superintendent at Balfour Beatty , located in Dallas, TX. Beth and Lynne delve into the core of professionalism and respect in the construction field. Lynne shares with us her dedication and rigor required in the trade, highlighting the importance of building a team through engagement and ownership as well as job site etiquette and its impact on client satisfaction. This fascinating conversation provides a focused look at leading with respect in a complex and sometimes challenging industry. You can learn more about Lynne at: Lynne Spikes Commercial Construction Superintendent Balfour Beatty Website: https://balfourbeattyus.com/teams/buildings/dallas (https://balfourbeattyus.com/teams/buildings/dallas) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BalfourBeattyUS/ (https://www.facebook.com/BalfourBeattyUS/) LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-rose-fresh-rise/) https://www.linkedin.com/company/balfour-beatty-us/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/balfour-beatty-us/) (https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthbaar-llc/)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balfourbeatty_us/ (https://www.instagram.com/balfourbeatty_us/) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

1 Mar 2024
S1-E-4: Nurses & Professional Respect w/Nathan Baar
On Episode #5 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes special guest Nathan Baar, Founder & CEO of HealthBar, located in Grand Rapids, MI. Beth learns that Nathan is a strong champion for nurses' professional respect and autonomy. Nathan shares with us how he brings visibility to the critical role of nurses as highly trained healthcare experts and why their presence is so important in today's ever-changing healthcare. He shares insightful perspectives on the profound impact nurses make beyond traditional settings, advocating for their autonomous practice. Tune in to hear how Nathan's approach fosters a new level of recognition for the indispensable contributions nurses make in the healthcare industry. You can learn more about Nathan at: Nathan Baar, MHA, BSN, RN, CEN Founder & CEO, HealthBar Website: https://healthbar.com/ (https://healthbar.com/) Email: n.baar@healthbar.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HealthBarGR/ (https://www.facebook.com/HealthBarGR/) LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-rose-fresh-rise/)https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthbaar-llc/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthbaar-llc/)Blog: https://healthbar.com/blog/ (https://healthbar.com/blog/) Phone: (616) 200-8435 The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

20 Feb 2024
S1-E-4: Wellness Led Leadership w/Sarah Rose
On this episode of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes Sarah Rose, the Founder & Owner of Fresh Rise Group located in Grand Rapids, MI. In an era where overworking is often seen as a badge of honor, Beth and Sarah unravel the concept of work-life harmony over balance. Sarah provides us with information on how to recognize the early-signs of burnout within ourselves and our teams, and boldly challenge the glorification of the "Go, Go, Go" mentality. Sarah teaches us how to lead with a wellness-first approach, transforming pressure into productivity without compromise. You can learn more about Sarah at: Sarah Rose MA, LPC, ACC Founder/Owner, Fresh Rise Group Owner, ReEnergizeHer: A Female Leadership Program Website: http://www.freshrisegroup.com/ (http://www.freshrisegroup.com/) Website II: https://freshrisecoaching.com/ (https://freshrisecoaching.com/) Email: sarah@freshrisecoaching.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRiseCoaching (https://www.facebook.com/FreshRiseCoaching) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-rose-fresh-rise/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-rose-fresh-rise/) Phone: (616) 745-3146 Resources: Current Priorities of the Surgeon General: Workplace Well-Being (https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/priorities/workplace-well-being/index.html) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

12 Feb 2024
S1-E-3: Introducing OakMAC SHRM
On this episode of Professionally Speaking, Tedi welcomes special guests Karen Bathanti and Shannon Hensel from OakMAC SHRM, located in Southeast Michigan. Karen provides us with the history of OakMAC SHRM and how the organization started and the phenomenal growth of the their membership. Karen and Shannon provide us with some great information on what Human Resource professionals can expect in 2024. Karen shares information with us about the upcoming OakMAC SHRM Annual HR Summit, taking place on Thursday, April 25, 2024 and Shannon tells us all about a great new program for those who want to receive their SHRM HR designation (Session One begins on March 7, 2024. You can connect with OakMAC SHRM, Karen & Shannon at: OakMAC SHRM Website: https://oakmac-hr.org/ (https://oakmac-hr.org/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oakmac-shrm/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/oakmac-shrm/) Karen Bathanti Senior Consultant, People Most Email: kbathanti@peoplemost.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bathantik (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bathantik) Shannon Hensel Hensel HR Consulting Email: shannonhensel@yahoo.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henselhrconsulting (https://www.linkedin.com/in/henselhrconsulting) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

2 Feb 2024
S1-E-2: Navigating the Day w/Healthy Choices
On this episode of Professionally Speaking, Tedi welcomes Amy Bragagnini a Clinical Oncology Dietitian at Trinity Health Lacks Cancer Center, located in Grand Rapids, MI. Tedi and Amy talk about getting through the work day by making healthy choices when it comes to our food intake. Amy shares with us some great tips on how to start the day with a balanced, energy-packed breakfast, having a healthy (sensible) lunch and what snacks are good for us to have while at work. Tedi and Amy discuss everything from the 'fist' method of food proportioning to walking clubs at work. Please join us for another amazing conversation about food and how it can 'work' for us. You can connect with Amy at: Website: https://www.mercyhealth.com/location/trinity-health-richard-j-lacks-cancer-center (https://www.mercyhealth.com/location/trinity-health-richard-j-lacks-cancer-center) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrinityHealthMI (https://www.facebook.com/TrinityHealthMI) Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrinityHealthMI (https://twitter.com/TrinityHealthMI) Email: Amy.Bragagnini@trinity-health.org Phone: (616) 685-5237 Catch Amy on the Real Talk w/Tedi Podcast (Season 3, Episode #21) at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/13722435 (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/13722435) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).

25 Jan 2024
S1-E-1: Welcome to the Professionally Speaking Podcast
On the inaugural episode of the Professional Speaking podcast, we meet our two co-hosts, Beth Batts, BB Consulting LLC and Tedi Parsons, 2b Inclusive LLC. Beth and Tedi discuss what the Professionally Speaking podcast is all about and share their thoughts on what it means to be professional. Discussion takes place on future episodes and what is Beth and Tedi's go to piece of professional advice. You can connect with Beth and Tedi at: Beth Batts, Co-Host BB Consulting LLC Website: (https://peoplesyogastudio.com/)https://www.bb-consultingllc.com/ (https://www.bb-consultingllc.com/) Phone: (616) 581-6715 Email: beth@bb-consultingllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-batts-b489a514/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-batts-b489a514/) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089918557298 (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089918557298) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BBConsult23 (https://www.instagram.com/BBConsult23) Tedi Parsons, Co-Host 2b Inclusive LLC Website: (https://peoplesyogastudio.com/)https://2binclusive.com/ (https://2binclusive.com/) Phone: (517) 348-4144 Email: tedi@2binclusive.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2binclusivellc/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/2binclusivellc/) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2bInclusive (https://www.facebook.com/2bInclusive) (https://www.facebook.com/2bInclusive)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealtalknetwork/ (https://www.instagram.com/therealtalknetwork/) The opinions and statements made by guests on Professionally Speaking are/or do not necessarily reflect those of Professionally Speaking or the Real Talk Network . To learn more, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/%20https://www.teditalks.com%20)The Professionally Speaking intro/exit recording provided by Brian Derry. www.brianderry.com (https://www.brianderry.com/). The music used for this podcast was provided by: In the Moment by Sascha Ende at: https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde (https://filmmusic.io/u/SaschaEnde) . License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license (https://filmmusic.io/standard-license).
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