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When did everything start feeling so loud? The goals, the pressure, the constant push to keep going. This episode of Career Can Do slows things down in the best possible way. Mary Ann is joined by Elle Ballard, founder of Women of the World Network, for a conversation that feels more like a deep exhale than a career lecture. Elle shares how her journey from the corporate world to community building led her to create a global space where women can connect, share their stories, and grow with intention. They talk about how the idea of success changes over time. For Elle, it’s no longer about chasing external milestones at the expense of everything else. Real success, she explains, has to include inner fulfillment, energy, and alignment across all areas of life. When those pieces are out of sync, something always feels off. Elle also opens up about the new direction she’s taking with her work, bringing in more mind-body practices inspired by her own transformation through movement. It’s about reconnecting with yourself, restoring vitality, and finding your spark again - especially if you’re feeling burned out or stuck. When Mary Ann asks what one small shift could help someone move forward, Elle keeps it simple. Pause. Get quiet. Ask better questions. As she says, “I think it’s important to take time to pause, actually, and just go back to your voice.” Making space to check in with yourself can be more powerful than any big plan. Resources Elle Ballard on the Web | LinkedIn | Women of the World Network Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

As the new year begins, many of us start thinking about fresh starts. This episode of Career Can Do leans into what renewal actually looks like. Mary Ann is joined by Monnica Rose, Board President of Women of Visionary Influence, for a warm, thoughtful conversation about purpose, connection, and growing with intention rather than pressure. Monnica talks about how a true fresh start is not about becoming a brand-new version of yourself. It is about giving yourself space to grow, building confidence, and being deliberate about your personal development. She shares how WOVI supports that process by creating a place where women can pause, reflect, and learn from one another through mentoring, which she describes as the heartbeat of the organization. A big theme throughout the episode is connection. Monnica explains that renewed purpose is almost always rooted in relationships and community, reminding us that “no one does life alone.” Whether it is learning from someone who has already walked the path or being brave enough to ask for support, those connections help purpose take root and keep it moving forward. They also dive into career growth and what it really takes to stand out. Monnica encourages women to stop chasing perfection and instead focus on being visible, speaking up, and showing up as their authentic selves. Distinction, she says, comes from service and honesty, not from getting everything exactly right. Resources Monnica Rose on the Women of Visionary Influence (WOVI) | LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

What do you do when the job you were sure was your “dream job” suddenly ends? That’s the spot Ashley Jablow found herself in, and she joins Chris Sandland on this episode of Career Can Do to talk about how that moment knocked the wind out of her and also ended up opening an entirely new path. Today, she runs Wayfinders Collective, but the journey there definitely wasn’t a straight line. Ashley shares how she gave herself 60 days to sort out her next move, only to reach the end of that timeline feeling totally stuck. Then, on a red-eye flight where she couldn’t sleep, the phrase “creative wayfinding” popped into her mind. She didn’t know exactly what it meant yet, but it captured the feeling of navigating life without a map. That idea eventually became the heart of the work she does now. One thing she and Chris laugh about is how people always say they want clarity, when really they’re hoping for certainty - and certainty just doesn’t exist. Ashley encourages people to take small steps instead of waiting for some big, perfect answer. You learn by moving. She also talks about how important it is to get out of your own head when you’re stuck. A coach once told her to put her job search away for a few weeks and do things that actually brought her joy. It sounded ridiculous at first, but it changed everything. Chris chimes in with his own version of that - taking ten minutes to clean something when his brain feels scrambled - because somehow that simple shift resets his whole mood. Ashley also shares the story behind her 100 Days of Designing My Life journals, a pandemic project that started with watercolor postcards and turned into guided reflection tools people now use all over the place. Resources Ashley Jablow on the Life Design School | Wayfinders Collective | LinkedIn | Instagram Chris Sandland on LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

What happens when the world changes faster than the people leading it? In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth talks with Dr. Donald McNeeley - CEO, professor, and longtime voice in the steel industry - about what great leadership really looks like when everything around you is shifting. With his trademark mix of humor and hard-earned wisdom, Dr. McNeeley breaks down why every leader needs a “North Star,” how to navigate major transitions without losing your footing, and why small mistakes can sometimes teach the biggest lessons. Dr. McNeeley isn’t shy about calling things as he sees them. “Not all apologies have to be accepted,” he says, warning that accountability matters more than empty words. He also challenges the idea that more productivity always means more progress, arguing that true leadership takes a balance of strategy, perspective, and heart. His advice for anyone rising through the ranks? Don’t be afraid to be wrong - just don’t stay wrong for too long. The two also dive into artificial intelligence, and Dr. McNeeley’s take might surprise you. He sees AI not as a threat, but as a tool that can free up leaders to do the work that really matters - mentoring, developing people, and thinking for the long haul. But he’s quick to remind us that no amount of data can replace intuition or human connection. Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or just trying to stay adaptable in a world that won’t sit still, this one’s for you. Resources Dr. Donald McNeeley on Chicago Tube & Iron | Northwestern University Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

What does it really take to shine in a job interview? According to Ramon Santillan, it’s not about memorizing canned answers or trying to be someone you’re not. It’s about learning how to tell your story in a way that makes sense to the person on the other side of the table. Ramon is the founder of Persuasive Interview, and in this episode of Career Can Do he talks with host Chris Sandland about the unique challenges and strengths of neurodiverse candidates. Ramon explains that people who think differently, whether they have autism, ADHD, or another diagnosis, often struggle with interview questions that feel vague or misleading. A simple yes-or-no answer might feel right to them, while the employer is really looking for a full story. Ramon’s coaching helps candidates understand the “why” behind these questions and practice turning their skills into examples that resonate. He also reminds employers that good interviewing is a skill in itself. Too many strong candidates are overlooked because the questions don’t match the job. When hiring managers learn to ask better questions, they open the door to a wider pool of talent and often the very perspective their team needs most. Ramon shares one powerful success story of a student who went from being told he’d never make it to landing multiple offers and a career his family once thought impossible. For Ramon, moments like that are the reason he does this work. This episode is an inspiring look at how rethinking the interview process - on both sides - can create real opportunities and better results for everyone involved. Resources Ramon Santillan on Persuasive Interview | Persuasive Interview LinkedIn | LinkedIn Chris Sandland on LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

Maybe the secret to becoming a better writer isn’t about writing harder, but about finding the right people to write with? In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth welcomes Alicia Richardson, CFO of the Houston Writers Guild, to share how this long-standing community has been helping writers sharpen their skills, connect with peers, and stay motivated in a sometimes lonely craft. Alicia talks about the Guild’s open-door approach - you don’t need to be a published author to join - and how that inclusivity sets it apart from many other writing groups. Members can dive into critique groups, attend year-round events, or take part in the highly anticipated fall conference, which offers everything from business and tax insights for writers to workshops on craft and inspiration. Whether you’re polishing your first short story or managing a full publishing career, the Guild creates space for writers to grow together. She also shares success stories of members who found their voice, built confidence, and went on to publish their work after benefiting from feedback and encouragement within the group. Beyond the technical skills, Alicia stresses the importance of simply talking with other writers, having people who understand the challenges and joys of writing can be the boost that keeps you going. Resources Alicia Richardson on Houston Writers Guild | LinkedIn Houston Writers Guild offers: Social Saturday: Weekly Zoom call at 10:00 a.m. CST on Saturdays - (except conference weekend). Sign up via website Social Saturday Lunch Bunch: Monthly in-person luncheon for writers. Houston Writers Guild Fall Conference 2025: - Dates: September 27–28 - Location: Rice University, Houston - Friday night (26th): Book launch for the anthology at Brazos Bookstore - Saturday (27th): Main conference day with keynote and multiple sessions - Sunday (28th): Half-day workshop with keynote speaker Wolf Moon Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

What if the secret to great leadership wasn’t about having all the answers - but knowing the right questions to ask? In this episode of Career Can Do, host Chris Sandland sits down with Ken Smith, executive and leadership coach, founder of Bel Air Leadership, and a firm believer that leadership is less about telling and more about listening. Ken’s approach flips the old-school command-and-control style on its head, showing how “ask more, tell less” can transform not only the way you lead, but the way your team responds to you. Ken makes the case that true leadership isn’t about being born with some mystical charisma, it’s about building a toolkit of skills, and then putting them into practice. Whether you’re guiding a seasoned team through challenges or stepping into your very first management role, the same core principles apply: earn trust by giving trust, create accountability by setting clear expectations, and lean on feedback as the gift it truly is. As Ken puts it, “trust is gained by the inch and lost by the mile,” and the little moments - your consistency, your follow-through, your empathy - add up to big leadership wins. One of the most compelling parts of this conversation is Ken’s perspective on tough times. Anyone can lead when business is booming, but real leaders show up when the pressure’s on. He shares how staying deliberate, prioritizing people over busywork, and making space for meaningful one-on-one conversations can steady a team even in the middle of chaos. And for those who think they don’t need a coach? Ken draws a clear line between looking back to unpack the past and looking forward to sharpen your skills, making the case that even the best performers - from star athletes to seasoned executives - need someone in their corner. If you’ve ever wondered how to stop micromanaging without losing control, how to turn feedback into fuel for growth, or how to step up from “doing the work” to truly leading, this episode is packed with insight you can put into practice right now. Resources Ken Smith on Belair Leadership | LinkedIn | Email: [email protected]. Chris Sandland on LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

What does it really mean to be a trailblazer? Elle Ballard, founder of Women of the World Network, joins Mary Ann Faremouth on this episode of Career Can Do to share how women from across the globe are coming together to support, uplift, and grow - together. Elle is hosting a special event on October 18th in Houston called Trailblazer Woman, designed to celebrate women who pursue their passions with courage and resilience. She explains how the WOW community has created a space for women to gain visibility, build lasting relationships, and share lessons from their journeys in life and business. “We can grow together faster,” Elle says, “if we have that circle that we can come to, that we can share, that we can just be in.” Mary Ann shares her own experience with WOW, including how contributing to the group’s collaborative books helped her land new opportunities and expand her reach. From speaking engagements and podcast features to powerful new friendships, WOW has helped her - and many others - step into their full potential. The upcoming event will feature speakers from diverse backgrounds, dancing, networking, and time for reflection as we begin to look toward the year ahead. Elle encourages women to come ready to connect, learn, and be inspired. Two things you’ll walk away with? New relationships that can grow into something meaningful—and fresh ideas to carry you into 2025 with clarity and confidence. Resources Trailblazer Woman Event in Houston - 18th of October Elle Ballard on LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

What if making the world a better place was more than just a dream - and became your purpose? Dr. Tom Kelchner joins Mary Ann Faremouth on this episode of Career Can Do to share how a lifelong commitment to service led him from classrooms to community leadership, and now, to his newest role as District Governor for Rotary District 5890. After 33 years in public education, Tom found a new mission through Rotary - one that aligned perfectly with his passion for helping others. “Why do I serve? Because it’s needed,” he says. For Tom, service isn’t a side project. It’s a way of life. Rotary’s reach is massive, with 1.4 million members worldwide and initiatives that span from eradicating polio to addressing food insecurity and mental health. But the power of Rotary, Tom explains, is also local. Whether it’s mentoring students, helping veterans, or improving access to clean water, the impact is real and personal. Tom also highlights Rotary’s work with youth through programs like Interact and youth exchange, showing how service can start early and last a lifetime. Under his leadership, he hopes to grow membership, amplify support for veterans and trafficking awareness, and make Rotary more visible to the wider community. This episode is a powerful reminder that service isn’t just noble - it’s necessary. And joining an organization like Rotary might just be the start of something much bigger than yourself. Resources:Tom Kelchner on Rotary District 5890 | LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

What makes a candidate truly stand out in today’s job market? On this episode of Career Can Do, guest host Chris Sandland turns the mic around and interviews yours truly, Mary Ann Faremouth, to explore what separates top performers from the rest and why the human element in recruiting still matters more than ever. Mary Ann is the CEO of Faremouth & Company, a nationally recognized recruiting firm, and a passionate advocate for a more holistic approach to hiring. Rather than focusing just on resumes and job descriptions, Mary Ann looks at the full picture - who the candidate is, what motivates them, and how they’ll fit into a company’s culture. She shares stories of candidates who went above and beyond, doing detailed research and presenting thoughtful plans at their interviews, and explains why humility and a “we, not me” mindset are powerful assets. Technology and AI may have changed the recruiting landscape, but Mary Ann argues that relationships, instincts, and real conversations still lead to the best hires. “The applicants are in the driver’s seat,” she says, “so companies need to start looking beyond the resume and take a fresh look at how they hire.” Resources Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter) Chris Sandland on LinkedIn

What can golf teach us about business, leadership, and personal growth? A lot more than you might think. In this special episode of Career Can Do, Chris Sandland, Director of Operations at Faremouth & Company, steps in as our host, Mary Ann. Chris sits down with Joe Bronson, CEO of The Bronson Group and author of books Golf Chronicles, Through The Green, and Pardon Me. 50 Years of Gold, One Hole at a Time. With decades of experience in both the boardroom and on the golf course, Joe shares stories and insights that show how the game mirrors life, from ethics and decision-making to handling setbacks and building relationships. Joe has played 93 of the top 100 golf courses in the U.S. and even had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of playing a round with golf legend Arnold Palmer. But beyond the prestige and unforgettable moments, Joe sees golf as a powerful tool for connection and leadership development. Whether he's navigating a challenging par three or a major business decision, the mindset is often the same: know your skill set, take smart risks, and stay focused on the present. He explains, “In business, just like in golf, emotion can ruin you. You have to keep things in balance, stay disciplined, and respond to the situation in front of you, not the one behind you.” Chris and Joe also explore how golf can still be a relevant networking tool, even in today’s digital-first world. Joe argues that spending four hours on a course with someone tells you more about them than a dozen Zoom meetings ever could. And he’s seen firsthand how a well-timed piece of advice from someone who believes in you, even a caddie, can shift your entire approach. Now retired from corporate life, Joe focuses on giving back. All proceeds from his book support youth golf and university programs, including The First Tee, which helps underprivileged kids learn the game while gaining life skills. If you’re a leader, a golfer, or just someone trying to make good decisions in work and life, this episode offers timeless lessons, and a few great stories, from someone who’s walked both the fairway and the executive floor. Resources Joe Bronson on the Web | Buy Joe's Books on Amazon Chris Sandland on LinkedIn

What if your big career break isn’t hiding in a job board or behind a perfect résumé—but sitting across from you at a coffee shop? In this special episode of Career Can Do, we switch things up as Chris Sandland steps in for Mary Ann Faremouth to host a lively and insightful conversation with Marc Reede—lecture agent to the stars and author of The Coffee Code. Marc’s mission is clear: help college seniors and recent grads stop spinning their wheels and start making real connections that lead to opportunities. Forget stuffy interviews and formal networking events. Marc breaks down how a simple coffee chat—yes, really—can open doors you didn’t even know existed. He shares how reaching out for advice, not a job, often leads to something far more powerful: relationships. And when it comes to building your career, relationships are everything. Chris and Marc also unpack the idea of personal branding—not in a buzzwordy kind of way, but in a “what’s your story and how do you tell it?” kind of way. Marc brings it home with a moving story about his daughter, a towel from Venus Williams, and a lesson that turns into the heartbeat of The Coffee Code: touch one person, share your gift, and watch what happens. This episode is packed with the kind of advice you wish someone had told you years ago, whether you’re 22 or 42. Marc reminds us that professors are more connected than we think, that LinkedIn isn’t just for job seekers, and that the power of “being nice” never goes out of style. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or unsure of your next step, this one’s for you. It’s not about being the loudest person in the room—it’s about being the most memorable. And sometimes, all it takes is a coffee. Resources Marc Reede on Web | The Coffee Code Book | LinkedIn | Email:[email protected] Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

What happens when someone dares to speak up—not just clearly, but confidently—in the moments that matter most? Aletta Rochat, International President-Elect of Toastmasters International, joins Mary Ann Faremouth on this episode of Career Can Do to explore how powerful communication and leadership skills can shape careers, strengthen confidence, and create lasting personal impact. Aletta shares insights from her global leadership journey, emphasising the unifying nature of Toastmasters: “We come from different countries who might speak different languages and have different cultures. But as Toastmasters, we unite and connect. And we're there for a common purpose. And that's why it works so well.” In times of crisis, communication can be your greatest tool. Aletta recalls a moment shared by a longtime Toastmaster she mentored: “Suddenly, with the confidence she built up through Toastmasters, she was able to take charge in a very stressful moment… and to keep calm in the midst of something that could have been exceptionally stressful.” Experiences like these, she says, highlight how communication skills, built over time, become instinctive when you need them most. She also tells the inspiring story of Emil, a new member who gave his first speech—despite a profound stutter: “It took him 16 agonizingly long minutes to get those words out.” With ongoing support, Emil went on to become a confident leader. “He learned, and he improved because of the support of the members around him. He couldn't have done that by himself.” Looking ahead to her conference session, Building Clubs That Are Member Magnets, Aletta promises to keep things practical and impactful: “I'm not going to give you the theory. I'm going to give you the stuff that works.” Reflecting on her 16-year Toastmasters journey, Aletta sums it up in one word: “Enriching.” She explains, “Toastmasters is not a spectator sport. The more you get involved, the better the return on investment.” This episode is a powerful reminder that communication isn’t just a skill—it’s a life-changing asset, and one that’s more essential now than ever. Resources Toastmasters on the Web | District 65 Annual Conference 2025 Aletta Rochat on the Web | LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

Is work-life balance real, or just an elusive myth? In this episode of Career Can Do, guest host Chris Sandland speaks with Kathy Oneto—founder of the Sustainable Ambition Movement and host of the Sustainable Ambition podcast—about how we can align our ambitions and energy to create a fulfilling and sustainable career. Kathy shares practical insights from her upcoming book, Sustainable Ambition, and offers a fresh, realistic alternative to the outdated notion of work-life balance. Kathy challenges traditional thinking: “The challenge that I have with work-life balance is... it sets the wrong expectations.” Instead of striving for perfect equilibrium, she introduces a method focused on aligning the right ambitions at the right time with the right effort. This approach leads to goals that are “self-defined, meaningful, and motivating,” helping individuals sustain energy and purpose over time. Through their conversation, Chris and Kathy explore the concept of “right ambition”—tapping into what truly motivates you based on your personal values, purpose, vision, and passions. Kathy explains, “What we all are really striving for is how do we navigate the conflicts across all we want to do in our life and with our work.” Avoiding burnout and managing ambition are key themes throughout the episode. Kathy provides tools for protecting your time and energy, such as prioritizing your work based on what truly requires your best effort, leveraging your strengths for efficiency, and even reminding you of the power of the 80/20 rule. “You can get 80% of the way there with 20% of the effort,” she reminds listeners. Whether you're highly driven or feeling like your ambition has shifted, Kathy’s message is clear: it’s never too late to redefine success. “My hope with my work is to really bring more joy, peace, and ease to people navigating their lives and work.” Learn more about Kathy’s work and upcoming book at sustainableambition.com, or follow her on LinkedIn. Her powerful insights will help you redefine your ambition on your own terms—and do so sustainably. Resources Kathy Oneto on Web | Sustainable Ambition Podcast | Sustainable Ambition Book | LinkedIn Chris Sandland on LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)

Have you ever considered that something as innocent-looking as a golf cart could change lives—and take one, too? That’s the sobering truth at the heart of this heartfelt episode of Career Can Do. Host Mary Ann Faremouth sits down with longtime friend and guest Mark Contreras, co-founder of the Bo Cipra Foundation, to talk about a life lived generously, a tragic accident that sparked a movement, and the surprising importance of safety awareness—on and off the golf course. Mark shares the story of Bo Cipra, a beloved father, friend, and oil and gas industry professional who left an enormous mark on everyone who knew him. After Bo’s untimely passing in a golf cart accident, those closest to him turned their grief into purpose, founding a 501(c)(3) organization in his name. What began as a tribute has grown into a meaningful platform—one that financially supports petroleum industry families in crisis and also educates the public about the very real dangers of golf cart misuse. But this episode isn’t just about tragedy—it’s about community, action, and honoring someone’s legacy in a way that makes the world a little better. Mary Ann and Mark talk about the upcoming golf tournament on April 28th, 2025, at Wildcat Golf Club in Houston—a day that brings together industry professionals, friends, and supporters for more than just a round of golf. It’s about connection, awareness, and giving back. And yes, it’s also about remembering Bo, whose larger-than-life personality made everyone around him feel like family. From safety reminders to the emotional power of volunteerism, this conversation hits home. Mark gets real about how easy it is to forget that golf carts are vehicles—and how normalizing careless behavior can have devastating consequences. More than that, he talks about the ripple effect of generosity, how giving back heals both the giver and the receiver, and how Bo’s daughters, Reese and Isla, are still being supported by the community their father built. Resources Mark Contreras on The Bo Cipra Foundation Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)