WRK & WIN

Hosted by Corinne Milien

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Mar 2025

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This is WRK & WIN podcast where top founders, entrepreneurs and people leaders share their inspiring stories of success.

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48 recent

March 19, 20251 hr 6 min

WRK & Win: Fore Hire Special - Part 2

Golf is more than just a sport—it's a thriving industry full of opportunities. In Part 2 of this special two-part series with Fore Hire, we explore the business side of golf and the people leading innovation, growth, and change in the industry. While some of our guests have backgrounds as athletes, others found their way into the golf world through business, technology, and leadership. These conversations reveal how the golf industry is evolving, the careers shaping it, and the opportunities available for those looking to break in. Fore Hire's mission is simple: "We educate, guide, and inspire athletes to transition from golf to successful careers in the business world." Learn more about Fore Hire → forehireus.com Episodes Episode 5 - The Business of Golf at Bridgestone Guest: Dan Mackin, Vice President of Golf Sales, Bridgestone Golf Topics Covered: Sales, industry growth, golf business strategy Dan Mackin has spent over 20 years at Bridgestone Golf, leading sales and developing partnerships with major retailers and athletes like Tiger Woods. He shares how the business of golf is evolving, the increasing participation of women and junior golfers, and what it takes to succeed in sports sales. He also gives insights on how branding, partnerships, and reputation play a role in growing a global golf brand. Episode 6 - Managing and Growing a Golf Course Guest: Elizabeth Clarkson, PGA Member & General Manager, Chimney Golf Course Topics Covered: Golf course management, leadership, diversity in golf Running a golf course takes more than just keeping the greens in shape—it's about managing finances, people, and the bigger vision for the facility. As General Manager of Chimney Golf Course, Elizabeth Clarkson has transformed the municipal course into a $2.5 million community asset. She discusses the challenges of municipal golf management, the importance of delegation and work-life balance, and why she's passionate about increasing opportunities for women and minorities in the golf industry. Episode 7 – How Technology is Changing the Golf Experience Guest: Mike Perry, Customer Support Manager, Golf Genius Software Topics Covered: Golf technology, networking, company culture Technology is reshaping how golf tournaments are organized and experienced, and Golf Genius Software is at the forefront of that change. Mike Perry shares insights on how tech is streamlining tournament operations, the importance of strong relationships in the golf business, and how company culture plays a role in long-term success. He also talks about the lessons he's learned in leadership and the value of authentic networking. Episode 8 – Creating a Permanent Home for College Golf Guest: April Workman, Executive Director, College World Golf Championships Foundation Topics Covered: Sports entrepreneurship, event planning, fundraising April Workman is on a mission to create a permanent home for college golf. As Executive Director of the College World Golf Championships Foundation, she's working to build a lasting venue for college golf championships. She shares how the idea was inspired by her father, the challenges of securing funding in non-revenue sports, and what it takes to build a large-scale sports initiative from the ground up. Key Takeaways from Part 2 The business of golf is evolving, with new opportunities in sales, technology, course management, and entrepreneurship. Leadership and networking are key—whether you're in golf sales, course operations, or tournament technology, relationships drive success. There's no one way to build a career in the golf industry—whether you start as an athlete or enter from the business side, there's room to make an impact. If you missed Part 1, go back and check it out for insights on athletes transitioning into the business world. Catch all episodes here → letsdowrk.com/podcast Learn more about Fore Hire → forehireus.com

March 12, 20251 hr 11 min

WRK & Win: Fore Hire Special - Part 1

Athletes spend years developing discipline, resilience, and a drive to win. But when the competition ends, what's next? In Part 1 of this special two-part series with Fore Hire, we explore the journeys of athletes and industry leaders who have successfully transitioned from the course to the corporate world. Fore Hire's mission is simple: "We educate, guide, and inspire athletes to transition from golf to successful careers in the business world." These conversations highlight the challenges and opportunities of career transitions, the importance of networking, and how sports skills translate to business success. Learn more about Fore Hire → forehireus.com Episodes Episode 1 – From College Athlete to Corporate Success Guest: Morgan Nadaline, Territory Service Manager, ISCO Topics Covered: Job search strategies, career transitions, networking After competing as a college athlete, Morgan Nadaline was unsure of her next steps. But through the Fore Hire Virtual Career Fair, she found an opportunity at ISCO, where she's thriving in the corporate world. She shares how she leveraged networking to land her job, the challenges of transitioning from sports to business, and advice for athletes who are unsure of their next career move. Episode 2 – Breaking into Finance After College Golf Guest: Nicole Hansen, Fort Sheridan Advisors Topics Covered: Career growth, mentorship, networking in finance Former college golfer Nicole Hansen knew she wanted a career in finance but wasn't sure how to break in. Now, after passing the Series 65 exam, she's making moves at Fort Sheridan Advisors. She discusses the power of mentorship in career development, how she navigated the transition from student-athlete to finance professional, and what she wishes she knew before stepping into the corporate world. Episode 3 – Helping Athletes Transition with the LPGA Guest: Sam Sallie, Coordinator of Athlete Development & Player Services, LPGA Topics Covered: Career transitions, athlete development, mentorship Many athletes don't start planning for life after sports until it's too late. That's where Sam Sallie comes in. As part of the LPGA's athlete development team, she helps golfers transition into careers beyond competition. She shares why early career planning is crucial for athletes, the biggest challenges they face when stepping into the workforce, and how to build a network and find the right opportunities. Episode 4 – Why Athletes Make Great Hires Guest: Rick Ruiz, President, American Hole-in-One Topics Covered: Business development, hiring former athletes, the golf industry As the President of American Hole-in-One, Rick Ruiz knows the value that former athletes bring to the business world. He discusses the business of golf promotions and event insurance, why athletes have an edge in the job market, and the key skills that transfer from sports to business success. Key Takeaways from Part 1 The skills developed through sports—resilience, adaptability, teamwork—are competitive advantages in business. Networking is everything. The right connections can open doors to career opportunities you never considered. There's no single path to success. Whether in finance, sales, or another field, an athletic mindset can take you far. This two-part series continues in Part 2, where we dive into the business side of golf and the leaders shaping the industry. Catch all episodes here → letsdowrk.com/podcast Learn more about Fore Hire → forehireus.com

July 17, 2024Episode 4339 min

WRK & Win: Nzinga Shaw

Nzinga Shaw, a seasoned C-suite executive renowned for her pioneering work in human capital management, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and change management, joins host Corinne Milien in this special episode of WRK & WIN. As the President and CEO of Attack the Glass, Nzinga brings extensive experience in strategic planning, employee relations, and community engagement. In this episode, Nzinga shares her journey from Spelman College to becoming a leader at four blue-chip organizations, including Edelman, Starbucks, Marsh McLennan, and the Atlanta Hawks. She discusses the importance of impact leadership, the value of soft skills, and her approach to fostering inclusive and empowering work environments. In this episode… How can leaders create lasting organizational impact? Nzinga Shaw, a trailblazer in human capital management, believes in the power of impact leadership and creating spaces for meaningful conversations. She shares her journey from an intellectually curious child of educators to a transformative leader in major organizations. Nzinga emphasizes the importance of soft skills, empathy, and listening in leadership, and provides insights into how individuals and organizations can drive positive change.

July 3, 2024Episode 4231 min

WRK & Win: Jay Bailey

Jay Bailey, the President and CEO of the H.J. Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), joins host Corinne Milien in this special, in-person episode of WRK & WIN. Jay shares his inspiring journey of transforming RICE into a global hub for Black entrepreneurs in Atlanta, supporting over 360 businesses and generating significant economic impact. In this episode... How does a visionary leader transform a space into a beacon for Black economic mobility? Can authentic leadership and community drive significant change? Jay Bailey believes in the power of community, authenticity, and resilience. He discusses the challenges of building RICE, the importance of partnerships, and the need for resilient and collaborative leadership. Jay emphasizes the significance of finding your tribe and the impact of creating a supportive ecosystem for Black entrepreneurs.

June 26, 2024Episode 4128 min

WRK & Win: Alice Chen

Alice Chen is a seasoned marketing professional currently serving as the Senior Director of Culture Marketing at Adidas. With extensive experience in brand strategy, culture marketing, and influencer relations, Alice has been instrumental in driving campaigns that resonate globally. In this episode, Alice discusses her journey from a pop culture enthusiast to a leading figure in culture marketing, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and mentorship in professional growth. Through her mentorship in the Adidas Cultivate and Bloom program, Alice has inspired and guided upcoming leaders, including our host, Corinne Milien. In This Episode How does a career rooted in pop culture and communication evolve into a leadership role at one of the world's leading sports brands? Can mentorship truly transform professional trajectories and foster authentic leadership? Alice Chen, a dynamic leader in culture marketing, believes that being your authentic self is key to success. She shares her experiences from her early days as an intern to becoming a Senior Director at Adidas, highlighting the importance of staying true to oneself and continuously seeking opportunities to mentor and connect with others. Alice's involvement in the Adidas Cultivate and Bloom program allowed her to mentor Corinne, shaping her perspectives and strategies for leadership. In this episode of WRK & WIN, host Corinne Milien and Alice Chen dive into the essence of culture marketing, the significance of authentic leadership, and the transformative power of mentorship. They reflect on their mentorship journey, discuss the challenges and triumphs of balancing professional and personal life, and explore how authentic connections can drive impactful change in the corporate world.

June 12, 2024Episode 4040 min

WRK & Win: Etienne Maurice

Etienne Maurice is a Los Angeles native dedicated to building community and advocating for racial equality through the arts, health, and wellness. Following the death of Ahmaud Arbery and ongoing racial and social injustice, he founded Walk Good LA, a nonprofit organization curating healing spaces for all. Walk Good LA pays homage to his grandmother, Ivy Ralph, and aims to foster community healing and social change. In this episode… How does a passion for filmmaking and acting transform into a powerful movement for community healing and social change? Can creative arts become a catalyst for racial equality and wellness? According to Etienne Maurice, a visionary leader and community organizer, the arts can drive significant social impact by creating spaces that connect creative expression to broader community goals. He emphasizes the importance of initiatives like Walk Good LA, which foster healing and wellness through mindfulness practices and community engagement. These efforts promote inclusivity, support mental health, and build stronger community bonds. By strategically engaging with communities and focusing on impactful programs, the arts can transcend their traditional roles and become a powerful force for positive change. In this episode of WRK & WIN, host Corinne Milien sits down with Etienne Maurice, founder of Walk Good LA, to discuss leadership, community building, and the transformative power of mindfulness. They explore Etienne's journey from filmmaker to community leader, his strategies for decolonizing wellness practices, and his vision for expanding Walk Good LA to create healing spaces across the nation.

June 5, 2024Episode 3932 min

WRK & Win: Scott Geary

Scott Geary is the CEO of the Georgia PGA section and the Executive Director of PGA REACH Georgia Foundation. Originally from Wisconsin, Scott began his career with an internship at the American Junior Golf Association in 2011. He held multiple roles within the AJGA before starting his current position with the Georgia PGA in 2021. In this episode… How does a love for golf translate into a powerful movement for change? Can the sport of leisure also become a touchstone for community development and diversity? According to Scott Geary, a seasoned leader in the golf industry, a passion for golf can drive significant social impact by creating programs that connect the game to broader community goals. He highlights the importance of initiatives like PGA HOPE for veterans and partnerships aimed at introducing young girls to golf. These efforts enhance inclusivity, create career opportunities, and build stronger community ties through the game. By strategically engaging with communities and focusing on impactful programs, golf can transcend its traditional role and become a catalyst for positive change. In this episode of WRK & WIN, host Corinne Milien sits down with Scott Geary, CEO of the Georgia PGA section and the Executive Director of PGA REACH Georgia Foundation, to discuss leadership, diversity, and growth in golf. They dive into Scott's journey in the golf industry, his strategies for engaging board members and fostering strong partnerships, and his vision for a more inclusive and vibrant golf community in Georgia.

May 29, 2024Episode 3850 min

WRK & Win: Sandeep Rajan

Sandeep Rajan is the Founder and CEO of Grandstand, a pioneering platform akin to Patreon for athletes, designed to forge direct connections with fans. With a history that spans from aspirations of being the next Tiger Woods to making his mark in the tech world, he led product teams at notable companies such as Patreon and Dropbox. Before founding Grandstand, Sandeep was at the helm of Wiser, a startup at the crossroads of machine learning and news aggregation. His passion for both sports and technological innovation has positioned him as a key influencer shaping the future of athlete-fan engagement. In this episode… The relationship between athletes and their fans has evolved dramatically in the digital age. How can athletes foster deeper connections and create meaningful engagement beyond the field? According to Sandeep Rajan, a visionary in sports tech, the key to enhancing athlete-fan engagement lies in leveraging technology to create authentic and interactive experiences. He highlights the limitations of traditional media and social platforms, which often fail to capture the full spectrum of an athlete's journey. By offering exclusive content and creating community spaces, athletes can share their stories more intimately, providing fans with unprecedented access and involvement. This approach not only strengthens fan loyalty, but also opens new revenue streams for athletes. In this episode of WRK & WIN, host Corinne Milien sits down with Sandeep Rajan, Founder and CEO of Grandstand, to discuss the future of athlete-fan engagement. They explore how Grandstand is transforming the way athletes connect with their audiences, the importance of building a strong team, and the role of innovative features like interactive live events. Tune in to discover how technology is driving athletic engagement beyond the field and reshaping the sports industry.

May 22, 2024Episode 3748 min

WRK & Win: David Wagner

David Wagner is the Associate Vice President of Player Operations for the NBA G League. He transitioned early in his career from legal operations to leadership roles within professional sports leagues. David's unique perspective shapes the NBA G League through strategic player contract management and compliance. Based in Tampa, Florida, he previously spent six years with the United Soccer League and now dedicates his expertise to nurturing talent and driving success within the NBA's development sphere. With a strong belief in innovative team management and proactive talent retention, David continues to push the boundaries of sports administration. In this episode… The sports industry is evolving rapidly, and so are the strategies for developing top talent. How can innovative leadership strategies drive success and cultivate high-performing teams? According to David Wagner, a seasoned expert in player operations and development, embracing innovation and inclusivity is key. He highlights the importance of creating an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas and contributing across various areas. This approach not only fosters creativity, but also empowers team members, leading to a more dynamic and collaborative workplace. By encouraging open communication and valuing diverse perspectives, organizations can drive growth and cultivate high-performing talent. In this episode of the WRK & WIN, host Corinne Milien sits down with David Wagner, Associate Vice President of Player Operations for the NBA G League, to discuss cultivating high-performing sports talent. They explore different ways to innovate in talent development, the significance of providing constructive feedback, and strategies for retaining top talent in the competitive sports industry.

May 15, 2024Episode 3641 min

WRK & Win: Tasmin Plater

Dr. Tasmin Plater is the Senior Vice President and Global Head of Human Resources at FIFTH SEASON, a prominent studio in the entertainment industry. With over 15 years of experience at Fortune 500 companies like The Walt Disney Company and Quest Diagnostic, Dr. Plater provides a fusion of operational and HR expertise. He holds a Master's in Human Resources from Strayer University and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Capella University. A proponent of inclusive workplace cultures, he is recognized for his work with the inclusion rider initiative and his approach to human-centered HR management. In this episode… Have you ever considered the human element in human resources? How does one foster a work environment that not only meets bottom lines, but genuinely cares for the well-being of every individual? Can HR truly become less about compliance and more about connection? According to Dr. Tasmin Plater, a seasoned expert in human resources and business administration, shifting HR's focus from rigid compliance to fostering genuine connections is essential for modern organizations. He emphasizes the power of data-driven insights to not only track progress, but to identify and address gaps in employee satisfaction and diversity. Dr. Plater also underscores the importance of creating inclusive workplace cultures by implementing initiatives like the inclusion rider, which sets diversity standards across all levels of production. These strategies collectively contribute to a dynamic and supportive work environment, positioning HR as a catalyst for meaningful change. In this episode of WRK & WIN, host Corinne Milien sits down with Dr. Tasmin Plater, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Human Resources at FIFTH SEASON, to discuss transforming workplace culture. They explore how data-driven insights enhance HR decision-making, the role of AI in the future of HR, and strategies for sustaining employee engagement amid industry changes.