Episode 1 - A Preview of Building Great Leaders

For this episode, I wanted to set expectations of who you will hear from and what you might learn. The purpose of the podcast is to share raw, insightful stories from leaders throughout the APi Family. Our goal is for you to be inspired to become a better leader after listening.

2020-03-30

Episode 2 - Why Building Great Leaders

In this episode, we get to hear from APi Group's CEO Russ Becker. He talks about growing up on the iron range, why he pursued a career in construction, and shares some of the most valuable leadership lessons he has learned. We also discuss how a construction company started down the path to Building Great Leaders.

2020-03-30

Episode 3 - Mission-Driven Leadership

Have you ever heard of mission-driven leadership? APi's CLO, Paul Grunau, shares his personal mission and how it has helped him make decisions. Plus, he tells us about the piece of feedback that changed his life and impacted his career.

2020-04-14

Episode 4 - Being a Safety Leader

Every single day, we make choices that impact the health and well-being of ourselves and those around us. In this episode, we hear from APi's Director of Corporate Safety about how everyone, regardless of role, can be a safety leader. We also learn about the family history that inspired her to pursue her career.

2020-04-28

Episode 5 - Servant Leadership

In this episode, we hear from International Fire Protection's President, Jerry Allen. He shares his journey through the construction industry and the moment he realized his managing style needed a change. Learn about his approach to customer service and servant leadership.

2020-05-12

Episode 6 - Emotional Intelligence

In this episode, we learn all about Emotional Intelligence from APi's VP of Succession and Development, Monica Seme. Why is EI important? How does your emotional intelligence impact the teams you lead? Listen in as she teaches us ways we can tune in to our own emotions and those around us to be better leaders.

2020-05-26

Episode 7 - Leaving a Positive Legacy

How often do you consider your reputation and the impression you are leaving on people, especially in stressful situations? That is one piece of advice we hear in this interview with Jim Lillie, co-founder of J2 and APi's board co-chairman. Learn more about Jim's leadership journey and his take on great team dynamics.

2020-06-02

Episode 8 - Building a Great Culture

This interview with Sir Martin Franklin covers the gamut of topics: from building great company cultures to running 100 mile races to being knighted. He shares the natural ability that has led to his success and his vision for APi Group.

2020-06-09

Episode 9 - Growing Your People

People are at the center of our business and investing in their growth is critical. CEO and President of Viking Fire Protection Group, Andy McCleery, shares the invaluable lesson he learned in the army about "Growing your people" and how that lesson has influenced his leadership style.

2020-06-23

Episode 10 - Leading through Grief

Our industry has one of the highest rates of suicide out of any American workforce. Mel Olson shares his personal story of losing his brother and why it is so important, as leaders, that we normalize talking about mental health. We also talk about leading when your entire company is grieving.

2020-07-07

Episode 11 - Harnessing your passion

Do you know your "why"? Davis Ulmer's Alan Crabtree talks about understanding your "why" and aligning your role with it. Hear Alan's energetic story and learn from the advice he shares about showing a standard.

2020-07-21

Episode 12 - Community Leadership

Manager of Inspections and National Accounts, Ed Pletsch, shares his experience as a leader in his community. As the chief of the volunteer fire department, his branch manager recognized his dedication and nominated him for the Mike Gifford Community Service Award in 2019. Ed talks about his commitment and the important part a company can play in volunteerism.

2020-08-04

Episode 13 - Finding the Right Seat on the Bus

Are you in the right seat in your company? APi's Vice President of Inspection Sales, Courtney Brogard, had a career epiphany, after giving birth to her daughter, when she questioned if she was in the right seat. A new career path opened up where she was able to leverage her positive attitude, her drive to win, and her ability to motivate others to succeed. Listen as she shares the secret to selling and the reason why she loves where she works.

2020-08-18

Episode 14 - Leading to Serve

In our new episode, AFPG's Division Leader in Dallas, Robert Seda, shares how an off-hand conversation with his friend changed the course of his career and introduced him to the safety services industry. Listen to learn about his approach to leadership and why his peers describe him as a servant leader.

2020-09-01

Episode 15 - Managing vs. Leading

Do you know the difference between managing and leading? Great leaders set direction, align resources and motivate their teams. Managers control and delegate. APi Segment Leader Gene Postma talks about this distinction and offers other leadership advice in this episode of our Building Great Leaders Podcast.

2020-09-15

Episode 16 - Finding Fulfillment

Joy Spatz has been a sprinkler fitter for over 25 years. In this interview, she shares how her experience at the Field Leadership Institute helped her find fulfillment in her role as a foreman. Joy shares how she has overcome the challenges of being a woman in the trades and why leaders should focus on the value that each teammate brings to the table.

2020-09-29

Episode 17 - Positioning yourself for a win

How are you differentiating yourself? What steps do you take to give customers a reason to build a relationship with you? Corporate Inspection Sales Leader Blake Sloan talks about pivoting careers and why it is important to think about how you are positioning yourself or your team for a win!

2020-10-13

Episode 18 - Overcoming Obstacles

Mike Goodman joined 3S through the Wounded Warrior Program. In this episode, he shares his story of consistently overcoming obstacles and embracing a "no-fear" attitude. Mike shares his advice for companies looking to hire other Wounded Warriors.

2020-10-27

Episode 19 - Leading with Hope

When things don't go well, do you look out the window at the group or do you look in the mirror? APi Group's Strategic Advisor, Dan Wooldridge, describes the behaviors of Jim Collins' Level 5 Leaders. He gives advice on how leaders can infuse hope during times of turmoil and the importance of truly being present.

2020-11-10

Episode 20 - Focusing on the right strategic initiative

APi's Senior Vice President, Brynne Smith, gives listeners advice on leading integrations and why focusing on the right strategic initiative can improve the process. He shares his unique experience working in Europe. Plus, we talk about ways in which he has doubled-down on his luck.

2020-11-24

Episode 21 - Building Great Relationships

Can you imagine spending 30 years in one organization? APi's Segment Leader Jeff Daane started at Western States Fire Protection and grew is career there for 3 decades. He shares the secret to retention at WSFP, why building relationships is critical, and what he finds to be one of the most important components of good leadership.

2020-12-08

Episode 22 - Season 1 Recap

Molly Landsteiner and Laura Seitz recap the inaugural season of the Building Great Leaders Podcast and take questions from listeners. They share how the podcast team pivoted when the global pandemic threw us all a curve ball. Plus, the two provide some sneak peeks into Season 2.

2020-12-22

Episode 23 - Building Great Habits

Do you have good habits? Do you know how to think win-win? Do you seek first to understand, then to be understood? In this episode, Lucie Stein-Cartford, the Training and Development Manager for United Piping, shares the impact of using Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

2021-01-05

Episode 24 - Aligning People and Processes

APi Group's Chief Information Officer, Julius Chepey, shares his experience with rolling out new tools and processes. He explains why a shared vision is so powerful and how to create momentum through alignment. He also talks about how to increase innovative thinking in your organization.

2021-01-19

Episode 25 - Leading with Humor

Sometimes on a stressful jobsite, you just need to laugh! Recent retiree, Pat Crain, who is a former Superintendent for Jamar Company is just the guy to lighten the work load with some well-timed humor. In this episode, we get to hear from some special guests as they reflect on the impact of Pat's leadership.

2021-02-02

Episode 26 - Inspiring the Next Generation of Builders

In this episode, Laura interviews our first guest from outside the APi Group Family: CEO of Bridgeworks and founder of the Trades Ambassadors program, Chuck Webster. Listen to hear his experience in the world of finance and investing, the point where he hit the wall and how he chose to pivot in his career. Plus, he shares the program that is inspiring the next generation of trades men and women.

2021-02-16

Episode 27 - Leading with Perseverance

Sue Congdon, President of Twin City Garage Door, shares her inspirational story of resilience and perseverance in this episode. Growing up in poverty, she has overcome many hardships but she never let that get in her way. Listen to her positive message and how she learned to change her perspective.

2021-03-02

Episode 28 - Leveraging Curiosity

In this interview with Summit Pipeline's Project Manager, Erin Kilar-Bearman, we talk about what emerging leaders can do to be successful in the industry. Erin shares her experience and explains how she uses curiosity to become a better leader.

2021-03-16

Episode 29 - Exploring APi's History

As a former board member and legal counsel, Bill Beadie has watched APi Group grow and flourish. He shares stories of when the company first started acquiring other businesses and some of the challenges faced along the way. Plus, he explains why integrity is the most important leadership quality.

2021-03-30

Episode 30 - Leadership in the Field

Mark Breslin, CEO of United Contractors and President of Breslin Strategies, talks about the growth he has witnessed in the industry. He shares the impact and importance of leadership and why everyone should routinely ask for feedback.

2021-04-13

Episode 31 - Learning from loss

APi's Director of Talent Development Technology, Heather Stuckey, shares her personal story of loss. The experience taught her to approach problems differently and made her realize there is always a path forward.

2021-04-27

Episode 32 - Empower the Team

If you had three words to describe your leadership journey, what words would you use? "Empower the team" is how APi's Chief Financial Leader of the Safety Services Segment, Luke Cope, describes his journey. He shares his passion for serving people and how he got to where is he today. We talk about the value of data and understanding the patterns in the business, as well.

2021-05-11

Episode 33 - Taking Initiative

In this episode, Grunau Company's Manuela Burtscher describes how it felt to be new in the industry, new in the role and new in the branch. She excelled by taking initiative, asking questions, and including herself in as many aspects of the business as she could. Her "can do" attitude is infectious!

2021-05-25

Episode 34 - Taking ownership of your development

CMS (Jamar) Journeyman, Erin Mcquaid, describes the serendipitous experience that led him to become an HVAC technician. He also shares how he takes ownership of his development and the valuable lesson he learned about storytelling. Plus, hear an uplifting message from his story about the value of random acts of kindness.

2021-06-08

Episode 35 - Growing up and Growing through--Adjusting your worldview

Join father-son duo Paul and Colin Javorina as they discuss their paths to their current positions (Chief Financial Leader for the Industrial Services Segment and Support and Systems Leader respectively), what it is like working with family, and navigating what it means to be a trans individual. This week’s episode crosses borders of courage, family, and allyship. Episode contains mention of gender dysphoria that may be triggering to certain listeners.

2021-06-22

Episode 36 - Connecting with the Field

Tune in to Phil Harein, the VP of API Construction as he takes us through his leadership journey; from his childhood to now. He discusses his blind spots, how he ended up as VP, and how to bridge gaps between office and field. Most importantly, he highlights the importance of being pushed out of your comfort zone and what it means to truly listen.

2021-07-07

Episode 37 - Inclusive Leadership

Velma Korbel, APi's Vice President and Chief DEI Officer defines diversity, equity, and inclusion for listeners. Velma leads us through her childhood in a segregated town in East Texas and shares how she remains hopeful in the face of discrimination. She reminds us that the key to long lasting inclusion policy is people who are willing to do the work.

2021-07-20

Episode 38 - Trusting the Team

Greg Fredlund, president of Northland Constructors, discusses the pathway that brought him to APi and what he learned as a new leader taking over the president role at a company. He shares the importance of teamwork, engaging employees and the role of friction in decision making.

2021-08-03

Episode 39 - Taking a Leap of Faith

In this episode of the Building Great Leaders Podcast, Kelly Nissenbaum, the manager of Business Development for Mid-Ohio Pipeline Services discusses how she made the shift from her previous career in hospitality to business development. She describes how someone saw her potential and pushed her to make a big and scary change. She also clears up misconceptions about business development, the importance of connection, and how each person plays a vital role in the future of a company.

2021-08-17

Episode 40 - Embedding recognition in a company

Matt Euson, outgoing president of 3S, describes how the practice of recognizing employees became embedded in the company DNA. Laura and Matt discuss 3S's engagement flywheel, created by the Talent Magnet team, and what 3S does at each step to create their unique company culture. Plus, he shares advice on focusing on the right strategic initiatives.

2021-08-31

Episode 41 - Values-driven Leadership

Mark Stein, Area Manager for VFP in Houston Texas, shares his experience entering APi Group as a former military officer, offering insight into his transition to a completely new corporate role. Mark and Laura discuss the importance of integrity, honesty, loyalty, and the value in hiring individuals with different perspectives.

2021-10-05

Episode 42 - A Dose of Wisdom

Going back over the two decades that she has worked at APi Group, Shannon Swanson-Arend, VP of Employee Services, shares insights she has learned along the way: from showing up consistently to actively listening so that employees can be their whole selves at work. She also reminisces about becoming the first female Vice President at APi Group headquarters and what that meant to both her and the organization.

2021-10-19

Episode 43 - Self Knowledge Leads to Successful Acquisitions

APi's Vice President of Acquisitions, Scott Hatfield, shares his insights on learning to know ones' company and using that knowledge of self to connect with others and successfully acquire new companies. Scott also walks us through his own personal journey with APi Group, reflecting on his many critical years with the company.

2021-11-02

Episode 44 - Operational Excellence

Have you ever wondered how businesses achieve operational excellence? Diana Eestermans, the Business Performance Manager at SK Fire, discusses her own journey to her role in helping businesses evolve. She shares insights into working as a team and highlights effective ways to help those around her. Plus, she talks about her company and gives listeners an understanding of SK Fire and what it will add to the APi family.

2021-11-16

Episode 45 - Learning to Lead through Change

Tim Daly, the Executive Vice President at Metropolitan Mechanical Contractors sits down with Laura to talk about his journey to APi group and the transition into the family. He shares insights on changing leadership at a company, the growth at MMC and introduces their new residential service offerings.

2021-11-30

Episode 46 - Meet the Team!

For the final episode of 2021, the Building Great Leaders Podcast Team sits down and shares how they got to where they are now, their goals for 2022, and their favorite holiday traditions. We are so excited for you to meet the team!

2021-12-14

Episode 47 - Following What Excites you!

Stephanie Flencher, a Project Leader at American Fire Protection Group, shares her enthusiasm, her story of navigating her career pivots, and what she is learning about her new field. She walks us through her journey as a student and professional, emphasizing the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking new opportunities in all aspects of life.

2022-01-18

Episode 48 - Leading with Gratitude

Mike Leidholm, newly appointed Vice President of Risk at APi Group, dives into his leadership journey from being a safety professional at an operating company to leading APi's National Service Group (NSG). He discusses mentorship, leadership, and the community that he is so thankful to be a part of. He shares the secret ingredient that led to the growth of APi's National Service Group over the past year.

2022-02-01

Episode 49 - Being a good human

Heather Salfer, a Project Manager at Jamar Company, dives into her professional journey. She shares insights into her passion for community service and the impact it has had on the business and why she decided to take on a leadership role within her community.

2022-02-15

Episode 50 - Pressure-tested Leadership

Have you ever started a career with no knowledge but with a positive attitude and a desire to learn? Mike Farren, the President and CEO of Vipond Inc., describes his start as an apprentice in the life safety industry. Farren shares examples of when the business has successfully "fired bullets" and leveraged wins. Plus, he and Laura talk about the Gettysburg Leadership Training and dive into the importance of working as a team to achieve our greatest goals.

2022-03-01

Episode 51 - The Unwavering power of reflection

Mike Shands, vice president of learning and development at APi Group, shares his powerful anecdotes about the importance of self-reflection. He offers insights on the importance of mentorship and how other individuals have helped him shape a career he now loves. Finally, Shands reflects on embarking on a new journey moving to Europe as APi Group expands.

2022-03-15

Episode 52 - The art of prioritizing yourself

Mindy McKean, the Corporate Safety and Risk Leader at International Fire Protection, discusses her journey to finding a job and lifestyle that feeds her soul. She offers insight into the importance of mental health and shares her personal habits she uses to take care of herself, on and off the job. McKean shares anecdotes and offers advice to listeners about not limiting oneself and ensuring that your "cup is full" so that you can better assist those around you.

2022-04-05

Episode 53 - Leading through Change

Mike Gengler, the President of American Fire Protection Group, discusses his professional journey and his experience with key individuals that have shaped him, both personally and career wise. Gengler offers insights into change management and the use of guiding coalitions to implement new ideas into AFPG. Finally, Gengler shares his opinions on learning from failure and encourages listeners to take calculated risks, even if failure is a possibility.

2022-04-20

Episode 54 - The Power of Lifelong Learning

Rajesh Bhat, Chief Technology Officer at APi Group, discusses the importance of continuously possessing a student mindset. He dives into how he has learned from his international experiences, how he believes APi Group can best utilize technology, and shares his own take on leadership journeys. Rajesh pushes listeners to think of ways technology can help businesses and unite all of APi's companies, both new and old.

2022-05-03

Episode 55 - The Power of Vulnerable Leadership

Ellen Meyer, APi Group's Deputy General Counsel, discusses a overcoming a life-altering struggle with insomnia. She dives into the importance of being vulnerable and how that, in turn, creates a safe space for others to do the same. Meyer shares how she has tried to create a positive culture between APi Group's companies and the legal team on board and offers insights into her own professional journey through Law School and beyond.

2022-05-17

Episode 56 - Pivoting Careers and Chasing Challenges

Tony Lucia, the president of Tenet, transitioned from professional hockey to APi Group and shares what he as learned along the way. Tony talks about the many forms leadership can take and emphasizes the importance of asking good questions. He also discusses the art of balance, specifically in relation to his growing family. Plus, he shares his experiences with the programs and resources offered at APi Group.

2022-06-01

Episode 57 - Combining Compliments and Curiosity

Annie Wernert, the Regional Controller at Davis - Ulmer and U.S.A. Fire Protection, shares her story about searching for a job where she wanted to stay long term. She dives into the power of giving compliments, being vulnerable, self-deprecating humor, and creating fun. She offers listeners information on the upcoming Women's Summit, emphasizes the importance of constantly pursuing new learning, and discusses her experiences with some of the enrichment programs offered at APi Group.

2022-06-14

Episode 58 - APi Origin Story

Mr. Lee Anderson, the former owner of APi Group, dives into the history of the organization and his own personal journey to building a successful company. He discusses his upbringing, family life, and experiences preceding his time at APi Group. Listeners will be inspired by his leadership journey and his humility as he attributes luck's role in his business endeavors. Mr. Anderson answers longstanding questions and shares valuable wisdom about honorable leadership, relationships, and life at large.

2022-06-28

Episode 59 - Involved Leadership

How do you make yourself known to the people around you? Brendan McNulty, Vice President - Europe at Chubb Fire & Security, has a hands-on approach to leadership. In his episode, McNulty shares his most powerful leadership lessons and discusses his use of communication and fun to ensure Chubb's success. He emphasizes the importance of getting involved and the power of holding firm in one's expectations.

2022-07-12

Episode 60 - Acting on Feedback to Build Trust

Kevin Krumm, the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at APi Group, shares his personal story of growing up on a farm and his professional journey to a career in Finance. Kevin discusses a time when he received critical feedback and had to take a step back and learn from his own mistakes. He learned the importance of establishing trust and genuine human connections in a work space. Finally, Kevin describes the path to APi Group and transitioning into his role as CFO.

2022-07-27

Episode 61 - Adapting to Change

Travis Sticka, the Vice President of Western States Fire Protection, discusses the immense changes he has adapted to throughout his career and what he has learned from those experiences. From an autobody shop to a corporate office, Travis shares his main leadership takeaways from his sixteen years in the business. Plus, he talks about development opportunities at Western States Fire Protection that he was instrumental in creating.

2022-08-09

Episode 62 - The Importance of Approachability

Ryan Spinti, Cybersecurity Director at APi Group, shares insights on far more than online safety. Ryan describes his own journey from being the target of bullies to hanging out with the wrong crowd to finding himself, both personally and professionally. Listeners hear about ways to ensure their online presence is secure and about how to act as an approachable, positive leader, even in a field where that is rare. Finally, Ryan discusses how APi's resources have impacted his own life.

2022-08-23

Episode 63 - Resiliency in Field Leadership

Jimmy Rachal, a Superintendent and Project Manager at Western States Fire Protection, reflects on his 22 years in the life safety industry. Jimmy shares with listeners some of his most memorable projects and his overall experience in the field. He talks about being resilient in the face of adversity, raising children, and prioritizing mental health in both his work life and home life. Finally, Jimmy opens up about his own practices that allow him to be a life-long learner and some of the leadership lessons he has learned throughout career.

2022-09-06

Episode 64 - The Power of Thoughtful Feedback

Katie Hunt, the IT Director of Business Systems at APi Group, offers listeners her incredible story. Hunt discusses the importance of optimizing processes and seeing improvement in the IT Field. She also shares her focus on honest leadership and the power of providing and receiving thoughtful feedback. Outside of the office, Katie is just as involved and successful as she is inside of it. Hunt is defending her championship title in skeet shooting this year. She tells listeners some of the most important lessons her sport has been able to teach her, including the fact that failure is okay, and it does not take away from your previous accomplishments.

2022-09-20

Episode 65 - Proactive Project Management

Cori Prokopowicz, a Project Manager at APi Construction, deep dives into the twelve years she has spent with the organization. Cori recently completed a four year project, combating exhaustion, and finding ways to motivate the team throughout. She identifies learning opportunities from the experience and shares how the team built positive customer relationships along the way. Finally, Cori shares the importance of proactive planning, listening to her intuition, admitting one's mistakes, and constantly learning.

2022-10-05

Episode 66 - Trust but Verify

Chuck Martin, the Regional Manager for Viking Fire Protection Group, reflects on the lessons he has learned as he enters the final few years of his career. Chuck experienced many different jobs and has overcome less than ideal situations. From getting laid off, to moving across the country, Chuck has been able to learn and grow as both a business man and a person. Chuck expresses his gratitude for these moves, understanding now how pivotal they have been in his career and his life's journey. He shares with listeners the importance of trusting but verifying the work of those on the team. He also shares the importance of simplifying processes, understanding what one's company is good at, and capitalizing on it. Martin closes with sharing what excites him about the coming years, as he begins to think about his own retirement.

2022-10-19

Episode 67 - The Power in Reaching One's Potential

Rashid Kadir, the President of Tessier's Inc., discusses his educational, professional, and personal journeys with host Laura Seitz. Rashid traveled overseas from Malaysia to Massachusetts to earn his college education. Along the way, he developed his personal leadership style, constantly pushing those around him to reach their full potential, even if they don't see their own capabilities. Additionally, Rashid dives into the culture of Tessier's, the progression of the company, and why it is important to be comfortable with new ideas and environments.

2022-11-01

Episode 68 - Rome wasn't built in a day

Craig Carpenter, the Assistant to the Director of Telecom at Mid-Ohio Pipeline Services, reflects on his 25 years with the Mid-Ohio family. Craig shares the importance of developing personal and professional relationships in your place of work and explains why he has stayed with the same company for so long. He also offers young listeners advice as they embark on their careers. He explains that one is not owed anything as soon as they walk in the door but he encourages new teammates to put in the work and earn the respect of their peers. Finally, Craig gives information on the new department at Mid-Ohio and shares some of his funniest stories throughout his time in the field.

2022-11-14

Episode 69 - Leveraging "The Gift of Gab"

Patrick Conlin, or Pat, is the Tools & Equipment / Buildings & Grounds Manager at The Jamar Company. Conlin speaks to his ability to converse with anyone, making them feel heard and seen. He stresses that this "Gift of Gab" has allowed him to learn valuable communication skills and understand the importance of having both simple and difficult conversations with one's peers each and every day. Pat also emphasizes the importance of delegating and making sure one's employees know what they are supposed to be doing, but also allowing space for them to complete those tasks in their own way. Conlin has learned a lot over the years, but leadership and developing deep relationships with those around him have always been a constant.

2022-11-29

Episode 70 - Attracting, Engaging, and Retaining Talent

Three of APi Group's Talent Magnet Team participants share their leadership stories through the lens of their continued involvement and dedication to helping APi attract, engage, and retain talent. David Wolf of Western States Fire Protection, Chris Lillie of the Grunau Company, and Emily Work of American Fire Protection Group and Viking, sit down to discuss how they got involved with the Talent Magnet Team, and why it has become such an essential part of their APi experience. The three touch on some of their favorite projects, describe the purpose of the team in their own words, and share advice for young leaders entering the professional field.

2022-12-13

Episode 71 - Team Reflection

Caralie Roisum, Kevin Hazard, and Sadie Grunau talk with Laura Seitz about their experiences as members of the Building Great Leaders Podcast Team. The three reflect on their accomplishments in 2022, their plans for 2023, as well as engage with feedback from the APi community about their work on the podcast. After a busy and successful year, Roisum, Hazard, Grunau, and Seitz take this opportunity to reminisce on the past and get excited about the futures' endeavors, both in the office and their personal lives.

2022-12-28

Episode 72 - Shaping Your Story

What are you doing to shape your own story? In this episode, Bill Ball, President of APi Mechanical Division, shares pivotal moments that have impacted the course of his leadership journey. He talks about the lessons he learned while serving in the military, how mentors have helped shape his story, and why it is important for young leaders to share their aspirations with their leaders.

2023-01-17

Episode 73 - How to Innovate and Outdo

Shane Shipman, president of Lejeune Steel, shares his path from growing up in a small town in Wyoming to joining the military to becoming leader of "special projects" for APi Group.  Listen as he describes his approach to innovation and how they involve people at the the point of the problem in the change.  Shane shares the philosophy at LeJeune about “outdoing.” How can you outdo what is expected of you?

2023-02-08

Episode 74 - People-first Leadership

What does it mean to put people first?  In this episode, APi Group’s Chief People Officer, Kristina Morton, talks all about her goals for the People People Leadership Team.  APi’s focus on Individual Development Plans and the impact to the business are discussed.  She explains her view on APi’s lofty goal to become the #1 people-first company. Kristina also gets into some tougher subjects around loss, so this episode may be triggering for anybody who’s lost a loved one recently.

2023-03-01

Episode 75 - Bloom where you are planted

What can you do in your current role to really grow and be the best that you can be, where you are right now? In this episode, APi Group’s Senior Vice President and U.S. Safety Services Segment Leader, Don Brown, shares how he has been able to do this throughout his career, as well as what he has done to answer the call when needed. Plus, he shares what he has learned to about being present for his colleagues and team members that he leads on a daily basis.

2023-03-21

Episode 76 - Making an Impact

In this episode, Chubb CEO Andrew White shares some of the lessons he learned on the rugby pitch, like the importance of making an impact and being a visible leader. Like APi Group as a whole, Andrew and Chubb are dedicated to investing in each of their team members, developing great leaders in order to make the world a safe place. He also shares Chubb’s new values and discloses which one resonates with him the most.

2023-04-11

Episode 77 - Communicating and Adapting

In this episode, Service Manager for Western States Fire Protection, Jim Stewart, reveals the value of clear communication, adaptable leadership, and the importance of recognizing others while you invest in yourself. He also shares the tremendous opportunities that exist for younger generations to develop and advance to leadership roles within the organization, and so much more.

2023-05-02

Episode 78 - Empowering teams

In this episode, Managing Director of Vipond Fire Protection in the UK, Alastair Wilson, shares his leadership journey and what it was like to transition into his role, empower a team, and embrace change along the way. Plus, Alastair reveals the importance of providing a safe environment and space for all team members to ask questions in order to understand why something is being done.

2023-05-24

Episode 79 - Making a Seat for Yourself at the Table

In this episode, Jennifer Bradley, President of International Fire Protection, discusses the importance of believing in yourself regardless of your role. Jennifer talks about being inspired by how accounting teams could be valuable business partners. She also shares the concept of “making space for yourself at the table”, and how if you have valuable information and thoughts, you owe it to yourself and the organization to contribute your ideas proactively, without waiting to get asked for them.

2023-06-13

Episode 80 - Leading Through Influence

In this episode, Paul Akins, Technical Talent Development Lead at Davis-Ulmer, shares about his experiences transitioning from a branch leader to his current role, as well as what he’s learned on his journey about leading through influence, contributing at a higher level and what it really takes to make a bigger impact.

2023-07-06

Episode 81 - Representation and Mentorship

In this episode, Tasha Lawrence, Fabrication Shop Operations & DEI Leader at MMC reveals the ways that she took control of her future and advanced in her own career, and how she now gives back and helps other women build success in the trades.

2023-07-25

Episode 82 - Purposeful Behaviors, Purposeful Culture

In this episode, Paul Grunau, our first repeat guest, shares about the importance of creating an environment where people feel comfortable. He also discusses the biggest factors he sees for what makes a strong organizational culture.

2023-08-15

Episode 83 - You Are Not Alone

In this episode, Angela Sunderland, Segment Talent Lead for APi Group’s Mechanicals Division, shares her path to APi Group, as well as her personal experiences with the tougher subject of suicide. This episode may be triggering, and this is a tough conversation, but it’s an important one to have. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, there are resources available, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and we also have a mental health first aid training course that’s available to APi Group employees.

2023-09-05

Episode 84 - Who is Next?

In this episode, Dave Dunnigan, Managing Director of UK and Ireland for Chubb, talks about his 30 years with the company and why it’s so important to always be thinking about what you are doing to build that next person, the future leaders, up on your team.

2023-09-26

Episode 85 - Valuing diverse mindsets

In this episode, Vashma Bolton, Global Director of HR Technology at Chubb, shares her leadership journey, the challenges that she’s overcome and what she is so passionate about right now. Vashma reveals the role that having diverse mindsets coming together has played in the success of the teams she’s led, and the importance of fostering an environment where everyone can openly collaborate with each other to generate cutting edge ideas.

2023-10-17

Episode 86 - Taking on Challenges

In this episode, Rick Charles, Chief Operating Officer of Chubb, shares the journey he’s taken throughout his career to get to where he is today, and he reveals the mindset he has adopted over the years to take on the many new challenges he has faced and overcome.

2023-11-07

Episode 87 - Redefining Leadership

In this episode, Dave Saffrin, President of APi Garage Door, reveals what he has learned about what a good leader truly is versus what he initially thought. He describes the role that listening has played in him becoming the leader that he is today and how he has grown through self-awareness.

2023-11-28

Episode 88 - End of 2023 Episode

Today is our end of year podcast episode, where host Laura Seitz is joined by her behind-the-scenes team, Kevin and Maddy, as they reflect on the year that is wrapping up and what they’re looking forward to in 2024.

2023-12-20

Episode 89 - Adopting a Leadership Mindset

To kick off a brand-new season of the podcast in 2024, Pery Zerbinos, Technical Support Supervisor for Chubb Canada, shares the insights he’s learned on his personal and professional journey, including the power of collaboration, how to begin adopting a leadership mindset, the vital role that feedback plays and so much more.

2024-01-16

Episode 90 - Seeing the Forest and the Trees as a Leader

In this episode, Kristin Schultes, Vice President of Corporate Development at APi Group, shares her fascinating path through the organization and the major milestones she’s achieved over the past couple of years. Kristin reveals what it was like to compete with someone on her team for a role while discovering they complimented each other, and she gives her advice around facing realities, the brutal facts and being able to see the forest through the trees.

2024-02-06

Episode 91 - Leadership Lessons from Two Decades at APi Group

In this episode, Craig Fellman, Sr. Vice President and Specialty Services Segment Leader and also the first participant through the Leadership Development Program, reveals how that program started and how his 20-year-plus career journey throughout APi Group unfolded. Above all, he unveils the fundamental philosophies that form the cornerstone of his business practices.

2024-02-27

Episode 92 - Finding a Love for Fire Protection

In this episode, Orestes Quintana, Fire Alarm Superintendent with International Fire Protection, shares his story of coming to the United States from Cuba. He describes the process of realizing his lifelong career dreams and what he’s doing to instill the passion he has for the industry into the next generation of fire alarm technicians.

2024-03-19

Episode 93 - The Care Factor

In this episode, Lesley Leach, Director of Human Resources at Chubb Fire & Security, shares her remarkable journey from HR business partner in Johannesburg to a leadership role in the UK. She provides her insights on how the culture is evolving, as well as the tremendous opportunities that are available to team members at this time.

2024-04-09

Episode 94 - Rising through the Ranks: From Individual Contributor to Leader

In this episode, Joshua Luera, El Paso Area Manager for Western States Fire Protection, describes how he got into the life safety industry. He shares his trepidation of moving from a role as an individual contributor to a role as a leader. Joshua describes the leadership competencies that have helped him over the years and the people who have made an impacted his journey.

2024-05-01

Episode 95 - Being True to Yourself as a Leader

In this episode, Lauren Thompson, Vice President of APi National Service Group, shares how the company is balancing the needs of the external customers and those of our operating companies after restructuring. After experiencing trauma in her own life, she shares how she learned to show up authentically and how it helped her become the resilient leader that she is today. She also reflects on her experiences of becoming a mom and how she re-frames blending work life and personal life.

2024-05-21

Episode 96 - Leadership, Service, and Life After the Military: Lessons from Clint Romesha

In this episode, Clint Romesha, Medal of Honor recipient and bestselling author of Red Platoon, shares his incredible story of enlisting in the military and his deployment, the transitions he went through after leaving the military and the invaluable life and leadership lessons that he has learned along the way.

2024-06-14

Episode 97 - Intentional Planning and Learning

In this episode, Jon Sanders, Sheet Metal Superintendent for The Jamar Company, shares the importance of pre-planning for projects, his thoughts on leadership development and the importance of learning something new every single day.

2024-07-09

Episode 98 - AWARE

In this episode, Velma Korbel, VP and Chief DEI/Sustainability Officer for APi Group returns to the podcast to talk about global events and how each one of us can support our fellow team members through potential disruptions.

2024-07-30

Episode 99 - How True Leadership Makes All The Difference

In this episode, Mike Landes, President of Classic Industrial Services, shares his journey and how mentorship helped him from a young age, how he’s come to see that true leadership makes all the difference, and the ways that he’s developed as a leader and allowed him to overcome the challenges he’s faced.

2024-08-20

Episode 100 - Celebrating Resilience, Learning, and Co-conspirators

In this episode, Stacy Nealy, Business Architect and the Co-Chair of APi’s Network of Women, shares the path she took from a career in teaching music to APi Group, how she’s now helping to bring stories to life in her current position, and the important role that APi Group’s Network of Women is playing in engaging, educating and mentoring women in our organization.

2024-09-10

Episode 101 - You’re Where You’re Supposed to Be, Every Step of the Way

In this episode, Jenni Cerrito, Inspections Account Manager at International Fire Protection reveals how getting out of her comfort zone has led her to a fulfilling career with APi Group, and the key lessons she has learned along the way that has allowed her to build trust in relationships with clients, and with herself.

2024-10-01

Episode 102 - Adopting a Growth Mindset while Navigating Change

In this episode, Pat deGrood, Mechanical Segment Leader for The Jamar Company discusses the changes he’s seen over the years since starting out as an intern with the company, and the difference that approaching change with a growth mindset has made during his career.

2024-10-22

Episode 103 - Accountability, Mentorship, and a Leadership Mindset

In this episode, Pat Bougourd. Service Superintendent for Reliance Fire Protection shares the lessons he’s learned on his journey about accountability, mentorship and the importance of involving others as he continues to develop a leadership mindset.

2024-11-12

Episode 104 - The Power of Connection and How to Build More of It

In this episode, Laurent Matthys, VP of People Leadership for APi International, shares his fascinating life and career journey and reveals the magic that happens when we start connecting with people to truly develop together as a team.

2024-12-03

Episode 105 - Converting Obstacles to Opportunities

In our final episode of 2024, Rasheed Harris, Vice President of Global IT Infrastructure for APi Group, shares the most impactful lessons he’s learned on his personal and professional journey, including how he’s learned to convert obstacles to opportunities.

2024-12-23