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Leader U

Leader U

By Leader U Podcast

Welcome to The Leader U Podcast brought to you by Black River Performance Management where “we believe work should FUEL the human spirit, not drain it,” is a personal and professional development program aimed at helping people fuel their passions through self-discovery courses, retreats, curated experiences, and more. The Leader U podcast series features conversations with friends, colleagues, and mentors aimed at exploring topics that have been central to their development.
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CHANGING LIVES EVERYDAY BY PUTTING PEOPLE FIRST

Leader UApr 05, 2023

00:00
45:48
The Courage to Grow: Why it Requires Top-Down Buy-In Episode:47

The Courage to Grow: Why it Requires Top-Down Buy-In Episode:47

In this compelling episode of The Leader U Podcast, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management sits down with Marlene Robinson, a seasoned business coach and consultant with over two decades of experience, to explore “The Courage to Grow: Why it Requires Top-Down Buy-In”. This episode dives into the dark side of personal and professional development, shedding light on the all-too-common issue of the destructive nature of, do as I say, not what I do. Angie and Marlene engage in a candid discussion about what happens when the team embraces change, growth, and the vision of a collaborative work culture but leadership does not.

Tune in to “The Courage to Grow: Why it Requires Top-Down Buy-In” for a deep dive into the heart of leadership and the shadow side of growth fostering the desire for change. Whether you are a seasoned executive, a new manager, or someone committed to personal and professional growth, this episode promises to enlighten, inspire, and empower you to become a leader who role models a growth mindset and an empowerment approach to management.


After owning her own company and brand for 9 years, and producing large-scale events for the last 5 years, in addition to my 20 years in Corporate America, her perspective in business is broad. Marlene has had the gift of consulting and coaching some amazing entrepreneurs, coaches, authors and trainers onto the stage to share their message. She has become embedded into a variety of different organizations to help craft, optimize and launch marketing campaigns and executive-level projects. This experience has offered insight into how to identify opportunity for improvement in workflow, staffing and process development.


With 20 years of experience in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry Marlene is passionate about the corporate experience and employee engagement and can lend to her clients. The Corporate experience paired with her entrepreneurial endeavors affords her a unique perspective into the needs and concerns of businesses leaders and their teams.


Marlene is specialized in events that transform the audiences intellectually, emotionally, physically and spiritually (aka Personal and Professional Development). Managing every detail from the hotel negotiations, to the menu selections to the main stage production, speaker coaching, content creation and audience engagement. From Registration desks, to Swag Shops to Volunteer crew management; special performances and vendor forums, she's mastered the art of executing a life-changing event. Add to that Golf Tournaments, Corporate Events, Galas, Summits, Seminars and Symposiums, she's got this event thing down to an artform...which is ultimately project management at its best.


Marlene has completed my certifications in John Maxwell Speaker Training & Coaching, The 17 Laws of Invaluable Growth, Connecting with Audiences , Leadership Gold & Developing the Leader Within 2.0, and my TTISI Certifications in DISC, 12 Driving Forces and Emotional Intelligence. Marlene welcomes the opportunity to help optimize your organization and its people!



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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/





Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/





Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549





Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver





Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Mar 27, 202433:55
Lotus Adventure Retreats: A Powerful Partnership

Lotus Adventure Retreats: A Powerful Partnership

The Leader U Podcast Special Edition: Unveiling Lotus Adventure Retreats Welcome to the special edition of the Leader U Podcast. In this episode, we are excited to announce an extraordinary alliance. Join us as we sit down with Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management, along with Ali Gorny and Tiffani Wilson of On Point Performance. Together, they are unveiling Lotus Adventure Retreats, a venture born from a shared vision of fostering LOTUS: Love, Openness, Trust, Unity, and Surrender. Lotus Adventure Retreats isn't just a getaway; it's a meticulously crafted journey designed to challenge, inspire, and transform its participants. If you're feeling trapped in a cycle of repetitive habits, thoughts, or behaviors that no longer serve your growth or happiness, Lotus Adventure Retreats offers a sanctuary to break free. Immersed in nature and engaging in soul-fueled adventures, you'll be encouraged to shed old patterns, fostering openness and readiness for new, enriching experiences. Our guests will dive into the essence of Lotus Adventure Retreats, emphasizing the importance of creating time and space for soul-fueled adventures that not only push physical boundaries but also open hearts and minds to new perspectives and possibilities. For our inaugural event, we invite you to join us from September 16-20, in the breathtaking landscapes of Victor, ID, nestled in the serene Teton County. This retreat is more than an escape; it's an expedition towards self-discovery and growth, set against the backdrop of nature's unparalleled beauty. What Awaits You: • Dates: September 16-20 • Location: Victor, ID (Teton County) • Cost: $1,497 (Early Bird Pricing) • Availability: 16 adventure spotsLink to Registration https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1hWwj_LKZYMqjLPnnm4mgnNJjCwvfaL-lvJWC1WVx1aQ/viewform?ts=65f33101&edit_requested=truePayment Venmo @blackriverpm Secure your spot today and embark on an adventure that promises not just thrills and excitement, but a profound journey into the heart of what it means to be loving, open, trusting, unified, and surrendered to the experiences that shape us. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to reset, recharge, and reconnect. Lotus Adventure Retreats awaits those ready to take the leap. Secure your spot for a transformative experience that will leave you enriched, empowered, and eager for the next adventure. Tune in to The Leader U Podcast's special edition to hear firsthand about the vision, the journey, and the transformative experiences awaiting at Lotus Adventure Retreats. Discover how you can be a part of something truly extraordinary.

Mar 20, 202415:60
From Idea to Entrepreneur: Leveraging Community and Mentorship.Episode: 46

From Idea to Entrepreneur: Leveraging Community and Mentorship.Episode: 46

In this episode of Leader U, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management joins Ann Swanson, the Director of the Southeast Idaho Small Business Development Center at the ISU College of Business, to explore the journey "From Idea to Entrepreneur: Leveraging Community and Mentorship." This conversation covers essential steps for launching a successful business. In addition to a good idea, it demands the cultivation of a support system composed of mentors, advisors, and a community that champions your vision.


Angie and Ann unpack the multifaceted process of transforming an idea into a thriving enterprise. They discuss practical strategies for finding and connecting with mentors who can provide invaluable guidance, as well as ways to tap into entrepreneurial communities that can offer support, resources, and opportunities for collaboration.


Tune in for a discussion that will equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and inspiration to build a support system that not only propels their business forward but also sustains its growth and impact over time. Whether you're in the early stages of ideation or actively working to scale your business, this episode will help you view the process through a lean start-up lens. The conversation will leave you with great tips, perspectives for negotiation, and momentum to launch your idea.


Ann Swanson is the Director of the Region Five Small Business Development Center at the ISU College of Business. In this position, Ann is responsible for helping local businesses grow and improve their bottom lines.

She has had an “entrepreneurial” career path that includes work as a marketing director, gerontologist, health administrator, professor, actor, and consultant.

Ann began working in digital communications in 2000. Her career includes and marketing director at Portneuf Regional Medical Center; marketing director and teacher at Idaho State University’s College of Business, and small business owner.

She has two Master’s Degrees from the University of Southern California and lived for a year in Barcelona, Spain on a Fulbright. Ann joined the Idaho Small Business Development Center in 2012.

She has two children ages 14 and 16 and loves to travel, teach yoga, and find her keys.



Check out Our Links:





LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/





Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/





Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549





Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver





Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Mar 13, 202401:06:17
Delegate to Elevate Episode:45

Delegate to Elevate Episode:45

In the latest episode of Leader U, host Angie Lion from Black River Performance Management sits down with Kyle Walbrun, the innovative founder of EfficientAide, a company focused on the virtual assistance industry. This episode, titled "Delegate to Elevate," explores the transformative journey of Kyle from enduring jobs that didn't align with his passions to finding and fostering what he truly loves, ultimately leading to the creation of his successful business.Kyle shares his compelling story of commitment and perseverance, highlighting how he navigated through roles that were less than ideal by always showing up and giving his all. The core of their discussion, however, pivots to a crucial strategy that changed everything: delegation. Kyle opens up about the initial challenges of letting go and trusting others with his vision. He illustrates how this act of delegation was not just a task management strategy but a pivotal decision that propelled his business to new heights.Listeners will be captivated by Kyle's insights into the delicate balance between maintaining control and empowering others to take charge of certain aspects of the business. He emphasizes the importance of delegation in freeing up entrepreneurs to focus on growth, innovation, and the pursuit of personal passions that led them to start their businesses in the first place.Tune in to this episode of Leader U for an inspiring and instructive dialogue that will leave you ready to reassess your approach to delegation, leadership, and achieving a fulfilling balance in your work and personal life. Kyle Walbrun is the Founder & Visionary of EfficientAide, an assistant company. He has a huge passion for helping professionals work effectively and proficiently through a proven process of delegation. Throughout Kyle's career, he has partnered with a wide variety of business leaders, strategizing on how to buy back their time and eliminate their worry. Check out Our Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549 Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Mar 06, 202442:47
Change Your Mindset Change Your Life Episode: 44

Change Your Mindset Change Your Life Episode: 44

In a special episode of Leader U, we flip the script in an engaging and insightful exchange as Lisa Brian of Sagewood Media takes the reins as the host. This time Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management, becomes the guest of honor, sharing her remarkable journey in an intimate and revealing conversation.

Angie Lion opens up about the path that led her to become the influential figure she is today. From early challenges to pivotal moments of self-discovery, Angie dives deep into her personal and professional evolution, illuminating the passions, dreams, and drives that have shaped her.

This episode offers listeners a rare glimpse into Angie's mind, heart, and soul. Angie discusses her commitment to fostering environments where empathy and understanding are paramount, her ongoing quest for knowledge, and how she leverages her insights to empower others to lead with authenticity and impact.

Listeners will be inspired by Angie's story, gaining valuable mindset strategies, including understanding your emotions and your role in every story. Whether you're a long-time follower of Leader U or tuning in for the first time this episode promises to be a compelling journey into the experiences that drive transformational leadership and the pursuit of purpose.




Check out Our Links:





LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/





Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/





Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549





Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver





Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Feb 28, 202447:60
Collaborative Strategies For Managing Retirement Transitions Episode:43

Collaborative Strategies For Managing Retirement Transitions Episode:43

In this compelling episode of the Leader U podcast, Collaborative Strategies for Managing Retirement Transitions, host Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management welcomes a visionary in the field of leadership and change management, Mary Christensen, CEO and Founder of LYNC3. Together, they embark on a deep dive into the complexities and nuances of planning for retirement, with a unique focus on the role of emotional intelligence (EI) and collaboration in this pivotal life transition.

Angie and Mary explore the often-overlooked aspects of retirement planning, and how to manage emotions that come with a change in identity. They discuss practical strategies for individuals and organizations to apply in preparing for the succession process, ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for all parties involved.

This episode is a must-listen for leaders, HR professionals, and anyone nearing or considering retirement, offering a holistic view of the transition process that combines strategic planning with emotional insight. Join Angie and Mary for a conversation that promises to change the way you think about retirement, showcasing the power of collaboration in creating fulfilling new chapters.

Mary has been working with C-Suite leaders for over 20 years. This work has grown out of her experience, purpose, and passion for working with individuals who like to learn and grow within their environment. These individuals have tended to be constant learners, curious, and growth oriented.

Mary understands that a leader’s successful performance does not simply end when he or she reaches the time for retirement. To the contrary, she knows that retirement invites a series of important psychological and emotional changes. Each of these requires thoughtful examination and resolution. Mary recognizes the importance of this critical transition. She also is prepared to guide leaders from any discipline as they create a purposeful and rewarding retirement for themselves and their loved ones.

Mary has committed her life and work to following Jesus. This includes helping individuals apply the gifts of God’s love to their lives and to the lives of those with whom they have relationships.

Mary received her human resource management education from Cardinal Stritch University, and her health care management education from the University of Central Florida. A respected leader in the health care community, she received the 2010 Emerging Women Business Owner of the Year award from the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). Additionally, she was a finalist for the 2016 Women’s Health Leadership TRUST’s Award for an Emerging Company Woman Leader in Health Care.

The combination of Mary’s education and broad experience has enabled her to develop a broad base of relationships in the health care world. This has empowered her to hand pick her team of exceptional talent. This level of talent comes prepared to transform her clients’ good leaders into great leaders. Mary’s gift for identifying expertise, evaluating client’s leadership needs, and matching her exceptional leaders with client partners empowers her to deliver extraordinary success for her clients.

Check out Our Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549

Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver

Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Feb 21, 202445:54
Demystifying Motivation Part II

Demystifying Motivation Part II

In this compelling episode of Leader U, host Angie Lion welcomes Rob Lion, her co-conspirator in life and business, for a deep dive into the often-misunderstood realm of motivation. As the driving force behind Black River Performance Management, the Lions have dedicated their careers to unlocking the potential within every individual and organization they touch. Today, they return to the Leader U podcast to build upon the critical insights shared in Part 1 of their exploration into motivation.

"Demystifying Motivation" promises to unravel the complexities surrounding the how’s and why’s of motivating ourselves and leading others. Angie and Rob will revisit the foundational elements of motivation discussed in their previous session, providing a comprehensive overview for those who may have missed it or need a refresher. This episode is set to illuminate the often-overlooked aspects of motivation that could be undermining your current efforts and intentions.

Drawing from a wealth of knowledge and experience, the Lions will discuss the scientific underpinnings of motivation, breaking down complex theories into digestible, actionable insights. Their discussion aims to equip listeners with the tools and understanding necessary to transform their approach to motivation, both in personal endeavors and professional leadership.

But that's not all – Angie and Rob will also engage with their audience directly, addressing motivation-related questions submitted beforehand as well as fielding live inquiries from the chat section. This interactive session is designed to foster a dynamic learning environment, where listeners can seek clarity, share experiences, and gain personalized advice from two of the most insightful minds in performance management.

Whether you're a leader seeking to inspire your team, an individual striving for personal growth, or simply curious about the science of motivation, this episode of Leader U is an essential listen. Join Angie and Rob Lion as they guide you through the maze of motivation, offering clarity, inspiration, and practical strategies to enhance your motivational toolkit. Don't miss this opportunity to redefine your understanding of what drives us forward and how to harness that power effectively.

Check out Our Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549 Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Feb 14, 202401:01:37
Empowering Her World: The Role of Women Leaders in Creating a Better World Episode:41

Empowering Her World: The Role of Women Leaders in Creating a Better World Episode:41

In this inspiring episode of the Leader U podcast titled "Empowering Her World: The Role of Women Leaders in Creating a Better World," hosted by Angie Lion from Black River Performance Management with guest Stephanie Adams, the esteemed owner of Pocatello Pet Lodge and is a prominent member of Zonta International, an organization renowned for its dedication to creating a better world through the empowerment of women. Stephanie’s notable achievements include receiving the prestigious Zontian of the Year award from her local club in both 2018 and 2022. Together, they explore the transformative journey of transcending one's best to achieve even greater heights.


Angie and Stephanie explore the unique challenges and triumphs faced by women in leadership roles. Our guest shares inspiring stories from Zonta International, illustrating how the organization has been a catalyst for change and a beacon of hope for women worldwide. With a focus on women's rights, Zonta’s initiatives have not only paved the way for greater gender equality but also demonstrated the profound impact that empowered women can have on society.


As we dissect the strategies and mindset required to excel beyond one's best, our guest emphasizes the importance of finding joy in this journey. The conversation highlights how Zonta’s supportive community of like-minded professionals from diverse countries and cultures has been instrumental in fostering an environment where women can thrive and lead effectively.


This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the pivotal role of women in leadership and how they are actively shaping a more equitable world. Join us to get inspired by the stories of resilience, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that define the essence of Zonta International and its mission.


Stephanie Adams is a wife, dog mom, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, volunteer, employer and activist. She grew up in Colorado, but has lived in many states throughout her life, some of them twice! She graduated from Idaho State University (which was the first time she lived in Idaho) in 2001 and took her degree in Biology to several zoos across the nation. She started at Zoo Idaho then moved to the Fort Worth Zoo (TX) and ended her zookeeping career in Caribbean Gardens (Naples, FL). Animals have always been a big part of her life. In 2008, she founded Pocatello Pet Lodge, a boarding and grooming facility & doggie daycare center for pets. The business grew and in 2017 they opened a second location. The businesses won the statewide winner for Best Pet Boarding in Idaho in 2022 and 2023. They consistently win or are a finalist in the Idaho State Journal’s Reader’s Choice Awards for Best Pet Groomer.

Stephanie is married and lives in Pocatello, ID (now, for the second time!). Her small menagerie currently includes one dog, three cats and an Amazon parrot.

Stephanie has earned several achievement awards including ISU’s Business Leader of the Year Award in 2020 and Zontian of the Year for the local club in 2018 and 2022. She is also a graduate of Leadership Pocatello, class of 2020.

Stephanie’s 8-year membership in Zonta Club of Pocatello has afforded her many opportunities to serve her community and beyond. She is currently the Lt. Governor for District 8 and the immediate past President of the local club in Pocatello. She is a past Rotarian and a current member of the Idaho State University Alumni Board, serving her second term. Stephanie is also a member of the Pocatello Chiefs. She is always looking for ways to continue to give back to her community through her business and personal time.


Check out Our Links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/


Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549


Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver


Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Feb 09, 202401:01:41
Art of Negotiations: Strategies For Success Episode: 40

Art of Negotiations: Strategies For Success Episode: 40

In this episode of the Leader U Podcast, titled "The Art of Negotiation - Strategies for Success," Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Paul Baker, CEO of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber discuss negotiation, a skill crucial for leaders in any field. Together they discuss the fundamental principles of effective negotiation.

Paul, a seasoned negotiator, shares his journey, recounting tales from his childhood and early life that unknowingly laid the foundation for his negotiation skills. He reveals how these early interactions shaped his approach to negotiation.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, "The Art of Negotiation - Strategies for Success" is packed with practical advice, insightful strategies, and inspiring stories to enhance your negotiation skills. Tune in to transform the way you negotiate and lead.


Paul was born in Dublin Ireland in 1980 to a typical large Irish family, his father was 1 of 18 children and his

mother was 1 of 9. His father was an engineer and designed rollercoasters, drop tower rides.


Paul got the entrepreneurial bug at 12 years of age, creating newspaper delivery routes to large Industrial Estates

around Dublin City. He sold it when he was 16 for $90k when he and his family moved to the UK. Paul then worked

at his fathers theme park until he graduated high school.


In 2019 Paul left the family theme park business to pursue a career in Music. He played principle guitar for Grease

'The Musical' in the West End, London and played session guitar for Virgin EMI working with several artists

including Neil Finn/Crowded House and Dolly Parton.


In 2001 Paul put the guitar aside and focused on a career in Social Work. He trained in Cognitive Behavioral

Therapy, Body Language, Conflict Resolution & served on a joint agency taskforce to prosecute child sex

offenders. Paul also wrote the white paper for the Children's Act and served on the UK UN Human Rights of the

Child Committee.


In 2010 Paul married Laura Baker, they have 3 children. Laura's father is the former US Ambassador to France,

she grew up living in various countries around the world due to her fathers work as a diplomat. Laura and Paul

first met as children during her fathers station in Ireland.


That same year, Paul was headhunted by UPS to work on improving dysfunctional and underperforming teams.

His work created an additional $2bn in profits. In 2011 UPS sponsored $50m for the London 2012 Olympic Games,

included in that deal was Paul. He was placed as Head of Logistics and Infrastructure and oversaw the

deployment of $16bn to develop and operate the games.


After the Olympics Paul became Executive Director of an Investment Bank called Rocksteady, facilitating over

$20bn of acquisitions across a variety of sectors including energy, natural resources, technology, resort

development , English Premier League Clubs and more.


In August of 2021 Paul exited from his day to day work to focus on his wife's health and move to Idaho Falls. In

May 2022 Paul was appointed as the President/CEO of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce utilizing his

experience across multiple sectors to focus on the economic growth of the Idaho Falls area.


Check out Our Links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/


Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549


Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver


Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Jan 31, 202401:03:02
Strategic Hiring Intelligence In Action: Practical Tips And Techniques Part 2 Episode 39

Strategic Hiring Intelligence In Action: Practical Tips And Techniques Part 2 Episode 39

Welcome back to the Leader U Podcast, for the second part of our Strategic Hiring Intelligence series! In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance and Mindy Bortness, founder of Communication Works, INC., put knowledge into action.

Angie and Mindy provide hands-on tips and techniques for every stage of the hiring process. They take the theories and principles from Part 1 and guide you through the practical implementation of Strategic Hiring Intelligence.

By the end of this episode, you'll be familiar with the practical tools and insights needed in your recruitment efforts with Strategic Hiring Intelligence. Join us as we bridge the gap between theory and action and empower you to build the teams that will move your organization forward.



Mindy believes hiring is an intelligence, not a routine. She is a recognized leader in leadership development, effective team communication and reducing employee churn. Since 2002, Mindy has consulted with organizations such as Bank of America, Meta, Yelp, Petco’s Unleashed, University of San Diego, Victra Wireless, College of Western Idaho, Aji Bio-Pharma Services, TaskUs, Home Advisor, Uber and Sempra Utilities.


Results clients have achieved include 50% internal team promoted within a 2-year, 22-person leadership cohort; a national retailer reducing churn by 33 percent, and the rebuilding of a non-profit BOD from two to eight directors in 48 hours.


Mindy is a WBENC Certified Woman-Owned Business. In 2023 she received her Master Axiology Certification, the science of understanding our value judgments. Mindy has taught DISC Behavioral Styles to 15,000+ professionals and students. She is certified in 7 sciences for Professional and Leadership development through TTI Success Insights®, the leader in validated assessments worldwide. She has been faculty for The Complete Leader Academy since 2017. She is the Past President of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) CA Education Fund, Past President of NAWBO CA and NAWBO San Diego and was a Top 10 Finalist for WBO of the Year for NAWBO 2019. She was selected for the WBEC-West Toyota Mentorship Program, WBENC IBM WeThrive and NAWBO Pathways for BOD readiness.


Mindy and her husband Brian, also a successful business owner, have three grown children – Bryce, Hayley and Mattie. They live in Escondido, CA with their two dogs, Ken Griffey and David. Her mission of dogs being in their right homes has her on Southern California highways, serving as transport between shelters and fosters.


Check out Our Links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/


Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549


Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver

Jan 24, 202427:18
Strategic Hiring Intelligence: Building a Strong Foundation of Success part 1 Episode 38

Strategic Hiring Intelligence: Building a Strong Foundation of Success part 1 Episode 38

In this episode of Leader U, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management has a fascinating conversation with the brilliant mind behind the trademark term "Hiring Intelligence," Mindy Bortness. Mindy Bortness founder of Communication Works, is a trailblazer in the world of recruitment, known for her innovative approach that combines a variety of sciences to assist with hiring decisions. Join us as Angie and Mindy dive into the concept of Hiring Intelligence, explaining how it serves as the cornerstone for building a resilient and successful organization. Discover how Mindy's unique blend of psychology, data analytics, and behavioral science creates a powerful framework for identifying and selecting the best-fit candidates. Whether you're an HR professional looking to enhance your recruitment methods or a business leader seeking to build a strong foundation for your organization's success, this episode is a must-listen. Join us for an engaging discussion that will change how you think about hiring and empower you to make more informed, strategic decisions for your team's future. Mindy believes hiring is an intelligence, not a routine. She is a recognized leader in leadership development, effective team communication and reducing employee churn. Since 2002, Mindy has consulted with organizations such as Bank of America, Meta, Yelp, Petco’s Unleashed, University of San Diego, Victra Wireless, College of Western Idaho, Aji Bio-Pharma Services, TaskUs, Home Advisor, Uber and Sempra Utilities. Results clients have achieved include 50% internal team promoted within a 2-year, 22-person leadership cohort; a national retailer reducing churn by 33 percent, and the rebuilding of a non-profit BOD from two to eight directors in 48 hours. Mindy is a WBENC Certified Woman-Owned Business. In 2023 she received her Master Axiology Certification, the science of understanding our value judgments. Mindy has taught DISC Behavioral Styles to 15,000+ professionals and students. She is certified in 7 sciences for Professional and Leadership development through TTI Success Insights®, the leader in validated assessments worldwide. She has been faculty for The Complete Leader Academy since 2017. She is the Past President of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) CA Education Fund, Past President of NAWBO CA and NAWBO San Diego and was a Top 10 Finalist for WBO of the Year for NAWBO 2019. She was selected for the WBEC-West Toyota Mentorship Program, WBENC IBM WeThrive and NAWBO Pathways for BOD readiness. Mindy and her husband Brian, also a successful business owner, have three grown children – Bryce, Hayley and Mattie. They live in Escondido, CA with their two dogs, Ken Griffey and David. Her mission of dogs being in their right homes has her on Southern California highways, serving as transport between shelters and fosters. Check out Our Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549 Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Jan 17, 202440:34
Learning Beyond Limits: Embracing Continuous Education Episode: 37

Learning Beyond Limits: Embracing Continuous Education Episode: 37

In this enlightening episode of Leader U, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Sarah Draper founder of Leading Well Strategies LLC, dive into the transformative world of continuous education. Angie and Sarah explore how ongoing learning can significantly impact our personal and professional lives, keeping us adaptable and relevant in an ever-evolving world. Whether you're looking to pivot your career, hone a long-standing passion, or keep your brain engaged and active, this episode is a treasure trove of motivation to help you keep learning and growing. Join us as we break down the barriers and show that education has no expiration date.

Sarah G. Draper is the founder of Leading Well Strategies LLC, a well-being coaching and training

business for leaders. Sarah knows that healthy organizational cultures start with healthy leaders, and

her purpose is to help leaders be well to lead well and create space for all to thrive!

Sarah is a retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent, having spent 20 years in the FBI serving in Oregon,

Virginia, and Idaho. Prior to the FBI, she was an officer in the U.S. Army Military Police Corps for eight

years and served in Germany, South Korea, and Washington, and led units on deployments to Croatia

and Kosovo.

Sarah has a B.S. in Environmental Science from the U.S. Military Academy and an M.A. in Organizational

Leadership from Gonzaga University. She has certifications as a Positive Psychology Practitioner, a

Resilience Practitioner, a Health and Well-being Coach, a Lifestyle Medicine Coach, a yoga instructor,

and an Executive Certificate in Business Communications.

Her final FBI assignment was as an instructor at the FBI National Academy, a residential education

program for law enforcement executives from around the world. As a University of Virginia adjunct,

Sarah taught graduate and undergraduate courses in leadership and wellness, allowing her to share her

passions for human performance, leadership, mindfulness, positive psychology, and well-being.

Sarah is married with two teenage daughters and her family lives in Boise, Idaho, where they love to do

all things outdoors – bike, ski, camp, hike, run, and cheer the kids on from the sidelines of their sports!


Check out Our Links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leaderublackriver/


Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555162806549


Tic Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leaderublackriver


Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Jan 10, 202448:30
Change Mastery: From Resilient Reaction To Courageous Action Episode:36

Change Mastery: From Resilient Reaction To Courageous Action Episode:36

In this thought-provoking episode of the Leader U Podcast, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Ryan Berman, the founder of Courageous, a change consultancy that develops Courage Brands and trains companies how to operationalize courage through Courage Bootcamp, dive into the heart of change management, exploring the transformation from simply reacting resiliently to changes, to proactively initiating them with courage. The journey begins by understanding the nature of resilience – how we adapt and bounce back from unexpected life events and professional challenges. But is resilience enough?

Then they shift their focus to the power of courage. Courage isn't just about bold actions; it's a mindset that drives us to become architects of change rather than mere responders. They discuss strategies to cultivate courage in your personal and professional life, enabling you to not just survive, but thrive and lead in times of change.

Whether facing a sudden shift in your career, or personal life or looking to create positive change within your organization, you'll find valuable lessons in courage and proactive change management. Tune in to embark on a journey to transform how you view and handle change. Let's move beyond resilience and embrace the courageous action needed to shape our destinies!

Remember to Subscribe/Follow for more insightful episodes on the Leader U Podcast.



Ryan Berman has more than 20 years in the courageous ideas space and an intimate understanding of the intricacies of emotional story telling for the purposes of driving courageous change. Ryan, a practitioner and authority on the subject, has had his methods featured in Entrepreneur, Fast Company, Inc and Forbes.


In addition to giving talks at Google, Snapchat and charity: water, Ryan speaks all over the country to C Suite, marketing and professional services audiences on the topic. He covers the learning’s found in his book Return On Courage: A Business Playbook For Change.


Living in San Diego, California, Ryan has had the good fortune of creating stories for household brands such as Caesars Entertainment, Johnson & Johnson, Kraft Heinz, Major League Baseball, PUMA, Qualcomm, and Subway.



He has been featured on a panoply of Podcasts including Adam Markel’s New Pivot Podcast, Bryan Kramer’s H2H podcast, Awesome At Your Job podcast and Rhett Power.


Ryan also has his own Courage Brand called “Sock Problems” – an altruistic sock company that strives to “sock” world problems with socks.


Finally, Ryan launched a Courage Bootcamp as an 8 week online course helping companies galvanize their staff and pinpoint their best talent.


Check out Our Links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Jan 03, 202401:12:38
Diplomatic Finesse in Sensitive Situations Episode: 35

Diplomatic Finesse in Sensitive Situations Episode: 35

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and James Rutchi, explore the intricate world of diplomacy and tact in leadership. Angie and James share their top strategies for maintaining composure and effectively using emotional intelligence in challenging situations. Discussing how emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in understanding and navigating sensitive issues.

Whether you are a seasoned leader or an aspiring one, this episode is a resource for learning how to navigate the complex landscape of sensitive situations with diplomatic finesse. Tune in to gain expert insights and enhance your leadership toolkit!


James Ruchti was born and raised in Pocatello and is a West Point graduate. He served as a military intelligence officer in the U.S. Army from 1993-98. His military service took him to Germany, Jordan, Kuwait and throughout the United States. James graduated from the University of Idaho law school in 2001. He worked as a law clerk for federal district court Judge B. Lynn Winmill prior to entering private practice. He and his law partner, Joel Beck, own a thriving plaintiffs’ practice in Pocatello, serving clients throughout southeast and east Idaho in personal injury, wrongful death, workers’ compensation and insurance claims. James served in the Idaho House from 2006-10, including a term as the Assistant Minority Leader. He was elected to the Idaho House again in 2020 and served on the Agriculture Committee, the Judicial and Rules Committee, and the Revenue and Taxation Committee. James was elected to the Idaho Senate in 2022; is presently the Assistant Minority Leader; and serves on the Judicial and Rules Committee, the Commerce Committee, and the State Affairs Committee. James is a past president of the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association. His wife, Wendy, has a Ph.D. in education and is a professor at Idaho State University. They have been married since 1993 and are the proud parents of two adult children, Spencer and Drew.



Check out Our Links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Dec 20, 202344:02
Life's Unscripted: Mastering The Art Of Improv Practice Episode 34

Life's Unscripted: Mastering The Art Of Improv Practice Episode 34


In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Megan McCaleb, creator of Improv Team Culture and Ovation Speakers, delve into the nuanced art of improvisational practice, not just on stage, but in the numerous scenarios life throws our way. In this episode, Angie and Megan explore the crucial space between stimulus and response - that fleeting moment where our reactions and decisions are born. We unravel the mystery of how improv techniques can help us navigate this space more mindfully, leading to more fulfilling interactions and outcomes.

Next, they explore the differences between fixed and growth mindsets. How does a fixed mindset limit our responses in unscripted life moments? Can a growth mindset enhance our ability to improvise effectively? Through their discussion, we see how these mindsets shape our ability to adapt, learn, and grow in the face of life's unpredictability.

Whether you're an improv enthusiast, a professional looking to sharpen your adaptability skills, or just someone curious about navigating life's unscripted moments more gracefully, this episode offers valuable insights and strategies. Join us as we learn to embrace the unexpected, transform challenges into opportunities, and master the art of improv practice in our daily lives.



Megan McCaleb is a leadership communication specialist and speaker coach. As the creator of Improv Team Culture and Ovation Speakers, she has built stages and safe places for individuals and teams to share true stories merged with effective tools to help people transform “Yeah, but” challenges into “Yes, And” solutions.


She’s an award-winning author, an award-winning comedian, and the host of the “I Hardly Know Her” podcast. She resides in Boise Idaho with her four children, two cats, and her bright orange Jeep, “Jeff.”


Check out Our Links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com


Dec 06, 202353:45
Building From Within: Demystifying Leadership Concepts For Personal Growth

Building From Within: Demystifying Leadership Concepts For Personal Growth

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Anca Trifan, CEO and strategist behind Tree-Fan Event LLC, delve into the intricacies of personal growth and leadership in the context of demystifying leadership concepts for personal growth. Join us as we unravel the myths surrounding leadership and explore how understanding and nurturing your inner self can pave the way for effective leadership. Discover practical insights, actionable strategies, and inspiring stories that will empower you to cultivate your authentic leadership style. It's time to break down barriers, embrace growth, and build a foundation that strengthens both your inner world and your ability to lead others. Tune in for a transformative journey toward becoming the leader you aspire to be. Anca Platon Trifan (pronounced [anka plato treefun]) - is the dynamic CEO and strategist behind Tree-Fan Events LLC, a woman-led boutique event planning and production agency rooted in the Treasure Valley. Anca, a Certified Event Professional and Digital Event Strategist, is an acclaimed leader in the industry, earning multiple awards, including the 2023 Smart Woman in Meetings Award, 40 under 40 BizBash Connect Corporate Meetings 2022, and the 2022 #womentowatch. She also won the 2021 Quickest Virtual Event Pivot Award for her ability to adapt and innovate swiftly. Beyond her leadership role at Tree-Fan Events LLC, Anca is the producer and host of the top technology podcasts for #eventprofs: "Events: Demystified" Podcast and the founder of the online community "Women Behind The Scenes in Events (tech + prod). She co-authored several books and as an engaging speaker, emcee and entrepreneur, she fervently advocates for women in tech-focused industries on stages around the world. Complementing her professional pursuits, Anca is a natural bodybuilding competitor and first place winner, passionately promoting mental and physical fitness among entrepreneurs, women in business, and event professionals. Check out Our Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ Website: https://blackriverpm.com

Nov 22, 202301:00:32
The Art of Listening: How Leaders Excel by Prioritizing Customer Focus

The Art of Listening: How Leaders Excel by Prioritizing Customer Focus

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Keith Zundel, VP Commercial Lending Manager and Sr. Commercial Lender with the Bank of Idaho, dive into the crucial role that customer focus plays in contemporary leadership. Customer focus is the ability of leaders and organizations to understand, anticipate, and consistently meet the evolving needs of their clients. This concept is not just about service delivery; it is a principle that integrates Emotional Intelligence to forge strong, enduring relationships with customers.

Angie and Keith explore how a leader's capacity for customer focus, enabling them to harness empathy and self-awareness to create a responsive and adaptable business strategy. This can transform an organization's approach to problem-solving, innovation, and customer experience. These leaders are adept at reading emotional cues and effectively managing their own emotions to engage with clients in a way that is both genuine and beneficial for business growth.

Tune in to learn the actionable steps you can take to cultivate a customer-centric culture and how to leverage Emotional Intelligence to not only listen but truly hear what your customers are saying. This episode is a must-listen for any leader aiming to elevate their customer engagement and drive their organization to new heights.


Keith Zundel, VP Commercial Lending Manager and Sr. commercial Lender with the Bank of Idaho brings over 12 years of banking and leadership experience that include retail, treasury management, various leadership roles, and commercial related roles. He’s found his passion in being a key partner helping team members and business's find success. This ultimately led him to specialize in many facets of commercial lending and leadership over several years. Keith has direct experience with organizing training courses, personal/professional development, many lending fields including SBA, Medical/Professional, Commercial Real Estate (IRE, OO, CELOC, New Construction, Cross Collateralizing, etc.), Equipment Finance, Lines of Credit, Acquisition/Start Up, Non-profit/Not-for-profit, and more. He also has direct experience helping clients with the various other banking needs that come with owning a business such as Cash Management, Savings, International buying/selling, Sweeps, Merchant Services, Payroll, etc. He takes pride in offering the highest level of service to his clients and team members becoming an advocate for them as they navigate their business and professional needs. He takes a personal approach with those he works with by earning a relationship so they know they are working with someone that genuinely cares about them and their success. Providing value to his family, team members, clients, and community is what he considers most important.



LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Nov 01, 202342:38
Goal Orientation: Sticking It Out Through Thick And Thin

Goal Orientation: Sticking It Out Through Thick And Thin

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Ryan Harris, the CEO, visionary, and founder of RizeX, discuss goal orientation. The podcast celebrates the unwavering spirit of resilience and determination. In a world filled with challenges and unpredictability, how do some individuals stay committed to their objectives and see them through, no matter the odds? Angie and Ryan explore the mindset, strategies, and habits of individuals who've exhibited exemplary perseverance in their personal and professional lives. Through the interview they uncover the essence of what it truly means to remain goal-oriented in the face of adversity. Tune in and be inspired to push forward, maintain your focus, and achieve the goals you've set for yourself, regardless of the obstacles that stand in your way.


Ryan Harris is a highly motivated and accomplished business leader with extensive experience in areas like customer acquisition, sales consulting, business development, coaching, and social media marketing. His main goal in life is to create meaningful impacts both in people's lives as well as in organizations and communities.


As the CEO, Visionary and Founder of RizeX, Ryan is committed to bringing business leaders together from all across the region to connect with each other on a deeper level and learn more about how they can help build value in each other's business. According to him, RizeX is created to challenge business owners to "Become More, Live Higher, Elevate Business."


Ryan Harris has a proven track record of leading a team of professionals in designing, developing, and implementing cutting-edge marketing solutions for clients across various industries. Prior to founding RizeX, he worked as the Director of Marketing and PR for Silver Star, and as the Chief Innovation Officer and Co-Founder of Arcane Marketing.


Ryan is regarded as one of the top marketing leaders and innovators in the area, and he consistently delivers thoughtful, dynamic presentations. His ability to relate to others and teach them what drives people to make decisions and take action is uncanny.


When he is not working, Ryan likes to engage with like-minded individuals who share the same passion for success as he does. He is also known for being collaborative, selfless, sincere, spiritual, and a true friend.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Oct 18, 202354:11
Intune Leaders navigating with emotional intelligence tools

Intune Leaders navigating with emotional intelligence tools

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Ron Oltmanns, founder of Leadskill, discuss leadership and Emotional Intelligence tools. But first, what are emotional quotient assessment results? They represent a measure of an individual's emotional intelligence level, gauging one's ability to recognize, understand, manage, and reason with emotions. These results provide a clear benchmark for understanding how well someone can interpret and navigate emotional scenarios, crucial for leadership.So, how do leaders stay in tune with both their teams and their own emotions? Angie and Ron examine EQ tools that can transform the way leaders connect, communicate, and create impact. Whether you're just beginning your leadership journey or you're at the helm of a vast organization, these insights, backed by the understanding of emotional quotient assessment, offer a fresh perspective on leading your team. Join us as we navigate the resonant frequencies of emotionally intelligent leadership. Ron Oltmanns is the founder of Leadskill, a leadership consulting firm that develops leaders and teams for business impact. Ron has more than 25 years’ experience in consulting and education, much of that time coaching and training business people. In enterprise, small business and startups in the US and Asia he’s gained deep perspective on what makes people successful and what gets in their way. Ron is a longtime partner of TTI-Success Insights. Ron was born in Venezuela and grew up in the US. He lived 5 years in Singapore and 3 years in Shanghai. He and his wife currently live in Houston, Texas, and they have two grown sons. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Oct 04, 202357:13
Changing The Narrative Through Diversified Influence

Changing The Narrative Through Diversified Influence

In this episode Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Diane Bevan of Diane Bevan Consulting discuss women the leadership competency Influencing Others. We define Influencing Others as personally affecting others actions, decisions, opinions, or thinking. Diane shares her story and her experience in becoming a leader of what she calls Diversified Influence. She shares what she has learned over the years that has made her successful in accomplishing her mission by joining arms with others that share that same vision. She shares valuable wisdom, insights, and perspectives that we can all use to gain more self awareness around our own circle of influence and use those skills to lead others toward a shared vision. Diane Bevan, Founder and CEO of the National Women's Business Community Network and NWBCN Foundation, is driven by her passion for empowering women in entrepreneurship. With a focus on bridging inequities, she champions women-owned businesses, women-led nonprofits, and the nation’s Women’s Business Centers. As former CEO of the Idaho Hispanic Chamber and Foundation, Diane recognized diverse communities’ barriers and founded the Idaho Women's Business Center and Idaho Connect Programs. Her leadership secured nearly $10M in grants for Idaho, catalyzing change. Diane's commitment to community service is evident as an urban renewal commissioner and the Idaho Rural Success Summit co-chair. Her dedication shines through her involvement in creating nonprofits, notably Idaho Women for Education, her passion nonprofit focused on at-risk women and girls. She earned accolades like Idaho Business Review's Top 50 Women of the Year, CEO of Influence in 2021, and a spot among Idaho's Top 50 Most Influential Business Leaders in 2022. She received the prestigious 2022 Marsha Bailey Leadership Award from the Association of Women's Business Centers. Diane loves it when her friends become friends and believes success is often just one connection away. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Sep 21, 202342:48
More Women In Leadership: The Tide That Will Raise All Boats

More Women In Leadership: The Tide That Will Raise All Boats

In this episode Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Diane Bevan of Diane Bevan Consulting share the challenges that many women face in the business world, including gender bias, stereotypes, and unequal opportunities. They explore their strategies for empowering women to take on leadership roles, build confidence, and overcome obstacles in their career path. They are both passionate about changing the narrative surrounding women in leadership roles across small business, non-profit organizations, and more. They both believe in creating environments where women are supported, encouraged, and empowered to reach their full potential. They both believe that by uplifting women, it changes workplaces, families, and entire communities (it's the tide that raises all boats).


Diane Bevan, Founder and CEO of the National Women's Business Community Network and NWBCN Foundation, is driven by her passion for empowering women in entrepreneurship. With a focus on bridging inequities, she champions women-owned businesses, women-led nonprofits, and the nation’s Women’s Business Centers. As former CEO of the Idaho Hispanic Chamber and Foundation, Diane recognized diverse communities’ barriers and founded the Idaho Women's Business Center and Idaho Connect Programs. Her leadership secured nearly $10M in grants for Idaho, catalyzing change.



Diane's commitment to community service is evident as an urban renewal commissioner and the Idaho Rural Success Summit co-chair. Her dedication shines through her involvement in creating nonprofits, notably Idaho Women for Education, her passion nonprofit focused on at-risk women and girls. She earned accolades like Idaho Business Review's Top 50 Women of the Year, CEO of Influence in 2021, and a spot among Idaho's Top 50 Most Influential Business Leaders in 2022. She received the prestigious 2022 Marsha Bailey Leadership Award from the Association of Women's Business Centers. Diane loves it when her friends become friends and believes success is often just one connection away.



LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Sep 06, 202342:24
No One Does It Alone: Building A Great Team

No One Does It Alone: Building A Great Team

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Dr. Dinu Mistry discusses the importance of the leadership competency TEAMWORK. Teamwork is defined as cooperating with others to meet objectives.


Dr. Mistry shares her experience of hiring, developing, and building a great team that optimally performs for better patient outcomes. She also shares the roadblocks she has observed over the years working in healthcare and as a woman in a leadership role. Teamwork is essential for any successful outcome. It is also a skill that can be grown.


Dr Dinu Mistry is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who has been practicing in Boise since 2001. She is a Fulbright Scholar and received her medical degree from Washington University in St Louis. She pursued General and Plastic Surgery training at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston and continued her training with a fellowship in cancer reconstruction at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, both in Houston. Dr Mistry practiced for six years with the MacGregor Medical Association, a large multi-specialty physician group also located in Houston, where she served as section chief of the Department of Plastic Surgery and Chairman of the Department of Surgery.


She practices the full spectrum of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, but her areas of special interest are breast surgery (augmentation, reduction, lifts and reconstruction) and body contouring (tummy tucks and liposuction).

Check out our links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Aug 09, 202359:14
Being Intentional About Customer Focus

Being Intentional About Customer Focus

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Connie Miller of Credible Advantage discuss the leadership competency, customer focus. We define customer focus as anticipating, meeting and/or exceeding customer needs, wants, and expectations. Together Connie and Angie dive into an impactful conversation around being strategic about customer focus. They discuss customer focus from the bottom to the top of the organization including board effectiveness, and building a culture of legendary service. They discuss leadership challenges that they see across industries that require skill building and courageous leadership.


Connie Miller is the CEO of Credible Advantage, a leadership and board development consulting business. Prior to Connie’s recent retirement, she served as the President/CEO of Icon Credit Union. Connie is an author, and enjoys sharing her insight through her book, “Don’t Sabotage YourCareer”. Connie was honored as one of Idaho’s CEO’s of Influence for her leadership, integrity, vision, diversity, and influence.In addition to her many awards, Connie was also awarded the ThanksBadge II, the highest award in Girl Scouting and most recently MeridianChamber of Commerce’s Business Leader of the Year for 2021. Connie’sgift is helping others discover joy in life and grow in their leadership and career journey. Her passionsinclude building strong leaders and strong cultures in the workplace. Connie has served on many localboards and committees, including board positions for Junior Achievement, Federal Reserve BankCommunity Council, College of Western Idaho Foundation, St. Alphonsus Finance Committee, GirlScouts, and the Arid Club.Under Connie’s leadership, Icon Credit Union was named the 7th healthiest credit union from more than5,400 credit unions in the nation. Icon Credit Union was a recipient of the Best Places to Work forseveral years, just one of the many community recognitions received.Check out our links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Jul 19, 202301:07:21
 Emotional Intelligence: Developing Your Interpersonal Skills & Conflict Management Skills

Emotional Intelligence: Developing Your Interpersonal Skills & Conflict Management Skills

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Dr Michelle Bennett of Boise State University discuss two leadership competencies “interpersonal skills and conflict management skills.” Both of these skills are enhanced by understanding our emotions and how they impact our moods, motivation, our decision making, and much more.

Michelle shares the latest research, skills, and tools for effective communication in personal and professional relationships. They discuss the important role communication plays in organizational culture as well as our own personal lives and relationships. Communication, like any skill, can be cultivated, grown, and improved across our entire lifespan.


Dr. Michelle Bennett serves as faculty in Interdisciplinary Studies and Bachelor of Applied Science and University Ombudperson at Boise State University. Bennett has 16 years of experience as communication faculty and six years as a department chair. Her academic training is in interpersonal communication, listening, conflict management, emotional intelligence, and public speaking. Prior to higher education, Bennett spent 20 years in professional communication roles in a variety of industries. She also volunteers as an interviewing and public speaking coach to youth.

Bennett earned her Bachelor and Master of Arts in Communication and a Ph.D. in Education with the emphasis on Leadership from the University of Idaho.


Check out our links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Jul 05, 202301:26:39
If You Take Care of Your Business, Your Business Will Take Care of You

If You Take Care of Your Business, Your Business Will Take Care of You

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Brett Gettman of Red Hog Media discuss the leadership competency “coaching & development”.

Brett shares how compassion for others and genuine interest in their success is key to building confidence and competence in others.

Brett and Angie share their love of photography as a way of looking at coaching and developing from a variety of perspectives and through a variety of different lenses.


Brett Gettman started taking professional photographs in 1987, helping with his dad’s wedding photography business. In college, this skill grew to include video when he worked in broadcast media as a camera operator and sports news reporter. After he got his pilot’s license in 2006, it further evolved with a desire to record his flights which required him to learn how to edit, leading him to develop his concise and compelling visual style.



Brett was an active real estate agent for over a decade and saw a clear connection between digital media and being competitive in the market. Now, with his real estate experience, along with a degree in Communication Advertising, he has an expert understanding of what goes into selling a property and how Red Hog Media fits into the equation. This combined expertise ultimately helps his clients achieve their goals. This career allows Brett to take his passion for helping businesses and combines it with his love of photography and video.



When Brett isn’t working, he’s coaching his daughters’ various sports teams, which reinforces the importance of small details and teamwork. Both these aspects of coaching overlap with his business, which is why Brett is so good at it!



Check out our links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Jun 21, 202301:05:51
 The Appreciation Effect

The Appreciation Effect

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Douglas Tsoi of The Appreciation Effect discuss the leadership competency “appreciating others”.

Douglas is one of the founders of The Appreication Effect that was founded during the pandemic out of interest in people’s health and wellbeing. Douglas and Angie discuss how appreciating others creates meaning, joy, and connection for both the senders and the receivers. He offers suggestions and has a system for being more intentional about building the skill of showing the appreciation we may feel, but often forget to share with those people.

Douglas shares his wisdom, compassion, and how we all have a part in creating a world we want to live in. He also shares the benefits of appreciation, gratitude, and psychological safety in the workplace.



Douglas Tsoi, J.D. is the co-founder of The Appreciation Effect, a platform that allows users to create a daily feed of gratitude and recognition for a loved one from their friends and family. He also runs The Gratitude Dojo, twelve research-based and heart-centered practices for recognizing (re-cognize) all the good there is in your life, even in times of insecurity and instability. A former lawyer, Quaker school teacher, and entrepreneur, Douglas is a Franciscan spiritual director. Douglas’ mission is to help people participate in grace. Appreciation is a grace manifesting through our loved ones, connecting us in a web of meaning, joy, and connection.


Douglas also teaches personal finance as a path to financial and personal liberation. You can find him on the popular Substack newsletter, Meaning and Meaning, where he writes about the intersection of personal finance and spirituality.


Check out our links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Jun 07, 202344:33
Can’t Never Did A Damn Thing!

Can’t Never Did A Damn Thing!

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Lisa Adams of Rockwood Stone Wealth Management discusses the leadership competency “self-starting”. Lisa is a self-starter, and she shares some great perspectives and tips on how to lead yourself more effectively even when you don’t feel like it. Lisa shares her belief that no matter where you come from, or what your past is, you always have an opportunity to make a change in your own life and create a new path forward. She shares her own experiences of overcoming hardships that have helped her become more focused on what matters most and then creating a system for prioritizing those things first. Lisa Adams is a Co-Owner and Financial Advisor at Rockwood Stone Wealth Management where she utilizes her passion of finance to empower others to take control of their money, and create realistic financial plans to grow a comfortable nest egg for their future goals. She specializes in encouraging women to become involved with their personal finances so they can feel confident with financial decisions down the road. Lisa is also the Co-founder of Business Women of Pocatello where she advocates for local business women to get involved with each other's professions, cheer for one another and encourage women to commit to leadership roles within their companies as well as the local community. In 2018, a year after establishing her non-profit, Lisa was a recipient for the Idaho State Journal 20 under 40 Award. Because she thrives on the feeling of being involved within the community, Lisa is a past board member of Zonta Club of Pocatello and a current member. She enjoys attending Chamber events and is a 2021 Graduate of the Pocatello-Chubbuck Leadership program. Lisa is also DISC certified, a certified Community Leadership Practitioner through the Association of Leadership Programs, a mentor for the Chamber Gate City Young Professional program and is the incoming President for the Pocatello-Chubbuck Leadership program. Outside of her commitment of helping others, Lisa enjoys spending time with her husband, their two golden retrievers, close friends and family, especially her nieces and nephews. Game night, gardening, travel, skiing, adventure, nature and long hikes with her husband excite her soul, when it comes to her hobbies. After her time at Idaho State University where she studied Human Psychology, Lisa realized her real passion was in economics and finance. Her dream was to assist others in making savvy financial decisions to avoid the financial troubles she witnessed growing up. Lisa carries a Series 7, and a Series 66 FINRA license as well as a Life Insurance license that were all obtained through Kaplan University. She has been with Rockwood Stone Wealth Management since 2015. In January 2020, along with her business partner Ken Clark, Lisa purchased the firm from Barbara Stone and Tressa Rockwood. Check out our links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

May 17, 202345:19
Being Intentional About Appreciating Others

Being Intentional About Appreciating Others

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Shane Hunt of Idaho State University discuss the leadership competency appreciating others. Shane shares his personal stories and experiences about how he intentionally appreciates people daily and why he feels this is so important. Shane and Angie discuss the challenges of worker shortages that the industry is currently experiencing and how the importance of not only being able to recruit great talent but also retaining that talent is crucial. People want to feel appreciated in their homes and in their workplaces, which is a skill we can all continue to develop in ourselves to make sure that we are intentional about communicating our appreciation of others in our lives. Shane gives some practical tips and wisdom for becoming someone who shares his appreciation often. Dr. Shane Hunt is the Dean of the College of Business and Michael C. Ruettgers Professor of Marketing at Idaho State University. Shane is the recipient of the 2010 National Inspire Integrity Award from the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, the 2010 Lt. Col. Barney Smith Award as Professor of the Year and the 2015 Honors Professor of the Year at Arkansas State University, and the 2019 National Teaching Innovation Award from the Association of Collegiate Marketing Educators. Shane’s research has appeared in The Journal of Personal Selling and Sales Management, The Journal of Business Logistics and he has presented to numerous organizations including the American Marketing Association and the National Conference in Sales Management. Shane is also the co-author of four Principles of Marketing textbooks and a brand new Professional Selling textbook published by McGraw Hill that are being used by students across the country and throughout the world. After completing his MBA at the University of Oklahoma, Shane went to work for a Fortune 500 company in Tulsa, OK and spent eight years working as a pricing analyst, product manager, and business development manager overseeing numerous Mergers and Acquisitions initiatives before completing his Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University. Shane lives in Pocatello, ID with his wife Jenifer and their two children, Andrew and Sarah. Check out our links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

May 03, 202349:18
THE ART OF NEGOTIATION

THE ART OF NEGOTIATION

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Alex Bolinger of Idaho State University discuss the leadership competency negotiation. The skill of negotiation is about discovering where there is opportunity for creating value for both parties.

Dr. Bolinger shares three main ideas for resolving disputes, a way to get better deals,or a way to manage interdependencies. Negotiation is a skill that can be cultivated with the right mentorship, role playing, and having a better understanding of others’ emotions and personalities.


Alex Bolinger is the ICCU Endowed Professor of Management at Idaho State University. He earned his Ph.D. in Management from the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah and teaches classes on leadership, negotiation, and decision-making. Bolinger's research focuses on team dynamics, leadership, and entrepreneurship and has appeared in the Harvard Business Review and Academy of Management Review, among other outlets. An advocate of active approaches to learning, students in his classes have raised over $10,000 for the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Idaho, have worked in teams to write multiple popular press books about the histories of local organizations, and have taken home more than a dozen trophies from the International Collegiate Business Strategy Competition in Anaheim, California. Bolinger is a three-time finalist for ISU's Outstanding Faculty awards (for teaching, research, and service) and has been named ISU Professor of the Year by the Associated Students of ISU.

Check out our links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Apr 19, 202343:03
CHANGING LIVES EVERYDAY BY PUTTING PEOPLE FIRST

CHANGING LIVES EVERYDAY BY PUTTING PEOPLE FIRST

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Amy Little of Jannus discuss the leadership competency decision making. In this podcast Amy shares the model she uses for decision making. Amy shares stories about when she made decisions that didn’t turn out so good and what she learned from each of those decisions. She also shares stories of making really great decisions that weren’t popular when she first made the decisions, but looking back they were the right decision.



Amy Ridenour Little is an award-winning nonprofit executive leader with over 20 years of service in the nonprofit sector, with experience in operations, financial management, human resources and talent management. She is also a seasoned development professional with more than 12 years of fundraising, fund development, and grant writing experience. Amy has twice been honored by the Idaho Business Review as an honoree for their annual Woman of the Year program and received the 2016 Alpha Gamma Delta Talent of Leadership award. Most recently Amy earned the recognition as one of the 50 most Influential Business Leaders in Idaho by the Idaho Business Review. Amy currently serves as the chief executive officer of Jannus, Inc. Prior to Jannus, Amy served in a variety of leadership roles including as CEO of the Idaho Nonprofit Center, Director of Education Impact for RISE: Treasure Valley’s Education Partnership and the CEO of the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce. In addition to her professional role, she was appointed by Governor Little to the Serve Idaho Commission in December 2021, is a regional board member for Thrivent, a financial services organization, and is on the board of directors for the Boise Nice Project.



Check out our links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Apr 05, 202345:48
Time is the Ultimate Investment, Where Are You Spending It?

Time is the Ultimate Investment, Where Are You Spending It?

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and John Kunz who has worked for Intuit, T-Mobile, and most recently Highspot, discuss strategies to organize your days in a very powerful way. John suggests stopping to ask yourself a few questions before you get started in the planning process and then learning how and what  to procrastinate, “on purpose”. They discuss the idea of being present and in order to be present we must take time to reflect and be truly honest with yourself about what is really important. From there, establishing the practice of scheduling time to check-in with yourself. Time is a finite resource and when we say “yes” to something, we are saying “no” to something else. Showing up as the best version of yourself, for yourself and others, requires self leadership.

John Kunz is an enablement manager, facilitator, and lifelong sport fanatic living outside Boise, Idaho with his 5 children, two cats, and a Great Dane. John works primarily with Go-to-Market leaders focusing on application, and theory. 


Check out our links:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/


Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ 


Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Mar 15, 202353:48
Everything goes according to plan, until it doesn’t

Everything goes according to plan, until it doesn’t

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Tiffani Wilson and Ali Gorny of Radon Professionals discuss the leadership competency Flexibility. Crawling around in crawl spaces has improved their yoga practice and taught them how to remain flexible! They are certified pros that give some amazing “pro tips” on how to adopt a mindset of flexibility, which they say is their biggest strength. They believe that flexibility is power, and once you have the power to remain flexible, a whole new world of opportunities presents itself.  If you are looking for ways to incorporate flexibility, fun, and joy into your personal and professional life, tune in to their frequency, see the world through a totally different perspective, and watch how your life changes and opens up.



Check out our links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ 

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Mar 01, 202348:36
Appreciating Others: Stay a Chapter Ahead on the Journey
Feb 15, 202340:31
Mindfulness as Habit: Becoming A Peaceful Warrior

Mindfulness as Habit: Becoming A Peaceful Warrior

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and George Pitagorsky of Self Aware Living discuss the benefits of mindfulness and the paradox of being fully engaged, rather than reactive. George provides multiple tips on creating new mindfulness habits that will help one stay skillful in tough situations, and help people increase focus and concentration so they can more frequently get into flow. These tips have lead many of his clients to live more happy and peaceful lives.


George Pitagorsky brings over 50 years of personal experience

applying mindfulness, yoga, a servant leadership orientation, and

systems and process thinking to helping individuals, teams and

organizations to perform optimally.

He is a master coach, facilitator, and consultant. He shares insights,

tools and techniques in his articles and books - The Zen Approach to

Project Management, Managing Conflict in Projects, Managing

Expectations: A Mindful Approach to Achieving Optimal Performance,

and How to Be Happy Even When You are Sad, Mad, or Scared.

Throughout his decades-long career George has played roles as:

 A globally recognized project, program and process

management expert, teacher, speaker, coach, and executive

CIO for a multi-billion-dollar government agency

 A principle in two technology start-ups

Executive Director of Program Development for an

international learning organization, and

Executive, manager and consultant in large scale IT systems

implementation, organizational change, and process

improvement programs across multiple industries.


Check Out Our Links 


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ 

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Feb 01, 202347:13
Creating Space for Wisdom in the Workplace

Creating Space for Wisdom in the Workplace

In this episode, Rob & Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and rebel hospitality entrepreneur, mentor for Airbnb CEO Brian Cheskey, and New York Times Best Selling author Chip Conley discuss the importance of creating an environment where wisdom can be distilled and dispensed. Chip explains what a “Modern Elder” is and how to look for someone with these qualities to cultivate and foster the wisdom in yourself and within your organization. 

Chip shares his story on how he became an “mentern” (and he defines the term) at Airbnb and what it looks like to create a space for wisdom to be valued and how it helps cultivate organizational knowledge and new perspectives. Since we are living in a time with 5 generations in the workplace it is crucial for organizations to understand the strengths and weaknesses of individuals and create a system that supports diversity of age and steers clear of agism.


The iconic boutique hotelier who helped Airbnb's founders turn their fast-growing tech start-up into a global hospitality brand, Chip Conley is a New York Times bestselling author whose manifesto on ageism, Wisdom@Work: The Making of a Modern Elder, is inspired by his experience of being both a mentor and an intern in his 50s. After selling the company he started as a rebel entrepreneur at age 26, Joie de Vivre Hospitality, Chip wasn't sure what was next. He could have retired at age 52. But the young founders of Airbnb came calling. He served as Airbnb’s Head of Global Hospitality & Strategy for four years — while also being CEO Brian Chesky’s mentor — and continues today as a Strategic Advisor to the company’s leadership. While writing Wisdom@Work, Chip was inspired to build the world's first "midlife wisdom school," the Modern Elder Academy, with a 3-acre oceanfront campus in Baja California Sur, Mexico. Chip is an active mentor to six young CEO founders in the hospitality/tech world, and serves on the board of Encore. org and the advisory board for the Stanford Center for Longevity. He believes curiosity is the elixir of life and started learning Spanish and surfing at age 58.



 Check Out Our Links 


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ 

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Jan 18, 202343:29
People Helping People: Creating a Culture of Care

People Helping People: Creating a Culture of Care

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Amy Cicilliot of Lookout Credit Union discuss the importance of leadership as a skill.

Amy shares her view that we all have human struggles we deal with at work and in our personal lives. She stresses the importance of leading yourself by asking for help, and letting go of the belief that you have to know everything as a leader, and modeling the behavior you want to see in others. Learned early, she takes responsibility for her own education, training, and skill development. She emphasizes that leadership is not a title, it’s a way of being that requires taking ownership of your own mistakes, being vulnerable, and building trust in all relationships. “Our opportunity as leaders is that we get to create a world that we want to live in.” 


Amy Ciciliot is the SVP/COO at the Lookout Credit Union . This is Amy’s 24nd  year in the credit union industry. All her years in the industry have been served at Lookout. Amy has held numerous positions at Lookout. She started as a teller and quickly moved to the lending department as a loan processor, loan officer, senior loan officer, indirect lending officer, and for seven years held the title of branch manager. During that time she managed three different branches for the credit union. She is the recipient of the credit union’s President’s Award in 2008 as well as 2015. She is also the 2019 Eastern Idaho Women of Influence in Banking and Finance award winner. Amy has been a Business Women of Pocatello member since 2019. She was an Executive Board member during 2020 and the Vice President during 2021. She currently holds the position of Vice President for 2022.


Amy is a 2010 graduate of ISU and holds a degree in finance. She is also a 2017 graduate of the Western CUNA Management School. (WCMS). WCMS is a credit union specific 3-year management school. Amy held the office of secretary for her class during her final year and returned to the school as a graduate assistant in 2018 and 2021, when the school was held virtually.


Amy is a chapter president for the Greater Idaho Falls chapter of the ISU alumni, is a member of the Idaho Falls Civitan Group, and is a frequent volunteer at the Idaho Falls Soup Kitchen with the Civitan group.


Amy is the bonus mom to three wonderful kids, and Meme to five grandchildren. When not working or volunteering, Amy can be found riding around the mountains with her husband in their CanAm, spoiling her grandkids, reading books, or working out. 


Check Out Our Links 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ 

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Jan 04, 202343:43
Letting Go of Justifications, Excuses, and “I Know”.

Letting Go of Justifications, Excuses, and “I Know”.

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Mona Bourbonnais of College of Western Idaho discuss the importance of the leadership skill, personal accountability. Mona talks about how she and her team provide critical feedback and develop accountability in students they send to work in the operating room. They discuss tips on developing accountability in individuals, teams, and organizations by creating an environment where you admit your mistakes, don’t make excuses, and break the snap-back-response habit of saying, “I know”.     


Bourbonnais began her surgical career after graduating from Boise State University in 1989 as a member of the Saint Alphonsus neurosurgical, general, and peripheral vascular teams.  During the early part of her career, she also worked as a private surgical technologist for an orthopedic surgeon. In addition to her certification as a surgical technologist, she has a B.S.Ed. in Professional/Technical Education and a M.S. in Adult Learning and Organization Leadership from University of Idaho.   In 1999 she was offered the opportunity to teach at Boise State University as a clinical instructor in the surgical technology program, where she began her academic career.  She was appointed as Program Director in 2002 for the program and oversaw several changes during the past 20 years.  One of the major changes occurred in 2008 when College of Western Idaho became the first community college in the Treasure Valley and all CTE programs, including the Surgical Technology program at Boise State transferred to CWI.  She was named the first “Faculty of the Year” for CWI in 2010.  She served on the Faculty Senate and the Honorary Doctorate Committee at Boise State University, and currently sits on the Faculty Promotions Committee at CWI.  She was appointed to the Educational and Professional Standards Committee for the Association of Surgical Technologists and served on that committee from 2015-2022. She was also awarded the Fellow-Association of Surgical Technologist award in 2015 and most recently she was promoted from Associate Professor to Full Professor at CWI.        

Check Out Our Links 

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Dec 21, 202252:56
Purposefully Taking Pause to Think About The Future

Purposefully Taking Pause to Think About The Future

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management and Kevin Bailey of the Idaho Nonprofit Center discuss the importance of the leadership skill, futuristic thinking.  Kevin shares his story on risk taking and how doors opened up for him due to him saying yes to lots of opportunities that came his way.  He shares ways that nonprofits can think futuristically and how mission-specific causes are the drivers for fundraising success.  With nonprofits collectively being one of the largest employers in many communities, it is important to understand how the ability to think ahead prepares individuals and organizations to be strategic and work with more purpose. This speaks to the importance of taking time to slow down and reflect on where we have been, to help us chart the path forward.  


Kevin joined the Idaho Nonprofit Center in July of 2021 after previously serving as CEO of the United Way of Southeastern Idaho. He brings past experience in both the education and social impact sector both internationally and domestically having worked in both Uganda and Chile. Kevin has directed federal grant programs related to college access for first-generation students and also directed community programs supporting financial stability for families immigrating to the US. In his free time he and his family love exploring the great beauty in the West by hiking, biking, and getting outside into nature. On Saturdays in the fall, you can find Kevin avidly cheering on his Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team!   


Check Out Our Links

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Dec 01, 202236:59
Finding Purpose Through Service, Kindness, and Non-Profit Work.

Finding Purpose Through Service, Kindness, and Non-Profit Work.

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River and Vanessa Moos CEO of The Children’s Village discuss the importance of the leadership skill planning and organizing. Vanessa shares her experience of planning events and fundraising over 1 million dollars per year to fulfill the mission of The Children’s Village to keep the doors open to serve children who experience abuse, neglect, or are in crisis and need temporary safe housing. Vanessa shares her own leadership frameworks that help her to navigate barriers and create a culture of service that she has picked up through her Non-profit education and a variety of roles she has held across the United States. The Children’s Village is a very special place in Angie’s heart, as she worked there in college and got to see first hand what an amazing and safe space this is for kids and families, and what important work this is.    

A career nonprofit professional, Vanessa Moos has been living a life in professional service since 2008. She graduated from John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio with a bachelor's degree in Communications and earned a master's degree from California State University in Public Administration with a specialty in Public and Non-Profit Management.   Vanessa worked for the American Cancer Society for 12 years at the start of her career, growing from community level partnerships to the director of the regional market in San Diego. In 2016 she was promoted to a national role of writing and activating global volunteer onboarding processes for the American Cancer Society as well as training national staff on volunteer engagement strategies and practices. In 2019 Vanessa joined Children's Village, a federally accredited residential treatment program for children as the role of Director of Charitable Giving and promoted to Chief Executive Officer in May of 2021.  Vanessa spent 12 years moving around the country in partnership with her husband, Eric, while he served as an F/A-18 pilot in the United States Marine Corps. Married since 2009, Vanessa and Eric, now a pilot with a major airline, are parents to Baron, aged 6 and Everett, aged 4. Vanessa is a 2020 winner of Kootenai County Top 30 Under 40 awards, Coeur d’Alene Rotarian, board member for the Idaho Nonprofit Center, and member of the Leadership Committee at the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber of Commerce.  

 Check Out Our Links  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/ 

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Nov 23, 202232:35
Title: Discovering Purpose, Partnerships, and Possibilities

Title: Discovering Purpose, Partnerships, and Possibilities

In this episode, Angie Lion of Black River and Michael Krause Imposter Syndrome coach & organizational development consultant and trainer discuss their experiences of being coached and coaching others through their struggles.

They share a common belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to honor their authentic self by exploring and pursuing their life’s purpose. They discuss mindset, values, sustainability, reflection, and the transformational power of hiring a coach.

Mike Krause is a new Imposter Syndrome coach & organizational development consultant and trainer. He believes everyone deserves the opportunity to honor their authentic self by exploring and pursuing their life purpose.

Mike guides high-achieving and passionate leaders to find the clarity and confidence to uncover the future they want, through helping people understand who they are (i.e., what they value, their strengths, their life purpose) and the obstacles that get in the way of where they want to be (i.e., self-sabotaging behaviors such as not feeling good enough, seeking permission from others, not trusting oneself, professionally masquerading in one’s job, living a life of expectations, etc.). His goal is to help individuals and organizations make choices and take action toward feeling safer, empowered, and aligned.

Over the past 20 years, Mike has been committed to the non-profit and education fields, holding various executive leadership and program management roles. he had the good fortune of serving 4 ½ years through the U.S. Department of State’s Peace Corps program in Southern and Central Africa  by working on public health initiatives. For the past 9 years he has been working with the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho helping grow levels of support for families in need. Mike received my undergraduate degree in psychology from the College of Idaho and a Graduate Certificate in Teaching from Boise State University.

Check Out Our Links  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/


Mikes website https://www.globalbound.org/


Nov 16, 202257:15
From Surviving to Thriving: How to Move on From Difficult Situations

From Surviving to Thriving: How to Move on From Difficult Situations

Chandra Upreti is a Small Business Owner and Realtor. He gives his perspective from his experience of growing up in  a refugee camp in Nepal for 17 years to thriving in Idaho. He shares how important being persistent, disciplined, and focusing on what you can control and letting go of the things you have no control over. Now that he has overcome so many obstacles, he gives back in a variety of meaningful ways that bring meaning and purpose to his life and his community and abroad. 


 After spending 17 years of life full of struggles and challenges, Chandra moved to Twin Falls, Idaho in 2008 where he was resettled in Twin Falls through CSI Refugee Programs. Upon moving to Twin Falls at the age of 17, Chandra started working as a volunteer at the Refugee Programs, and later he started working for the same program that helped in resettled in his new home. During his decade-long service at the CSI Refugee Programs, he held different positions including Reception and Placement Co-ordinator, Case Manager, and Fiscal Specialist. To continue his passion for education, Chandra started attending classes at CSI and later at Idaho State University. Chandra holds a Bachelor of Science and a Masters Degree in Business Administration. Today, Chandra Upreti is a multi-million dollar agent-producer in the Magic Valley area. He also owns an Indian Restaurant in Twin Falls Called called ‘Saffron’, where he partners with non-profit organizations to provide free food vouchers to people who are fighting food insecurities. 


 Check Out Our Links 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Nov 02, 202250:37
Creating an Environment Where Good Decisions Can be Made

Creating an Environment Where Good Decisions Can be Made

In this episode, Angie Lion of Website - Black River and Brigadier General, Shannon D Smith, United States Air Force discuss Decision Making in emergent and non-emergent situations in civilian and military environments. Shannon gives his experiences of leading at every level in the military throughout his entire career as a military aviator. He shares how mistakes and life lessons have taught him humility as a leader and how creating a space where everyone belongs and is a contributor is essential in gaining credibility to make decisions that affect people’s lives.  He shares his experiences around the importance of knowing the difference between important decisions and urgent decisions. He stresses the importance of getting out of a winning and losing mindset/mentality and really spending more time connecting with your team to understand their perspectives. He also shares the accuracy of the new movie Top Gun! You don’t want to miss the wisdom in this episode!



Brig Gen Shannon D. Smith is the Commander, 113th Wing, District of

Columbia Air National Guard, Joint Base Andrews, Md. His

responsibilities encompass a wing with over 1,300 members. Units

include the 113th Operations, Maintenance, Mission Support, and

Medical Groups. Flying units within the wing include the 121st Fighter and

201st Airlift Squadrons. The 121st is responsible for F-16C missions

including overseas combat operations and the 24/7 National Capital

Region Aerospace Control Alert duty and the 201st utilizes the C-40 to

execute worldwide special air missions for cabinet members, Congress,

and other senior military leaders.

Brig Gen Smith began his military career in May 1992 when he earned a

regular commission through the Montana State University Reserve Officer

Training Corps Program. He then served 10 years on active duty. Brig

Gen Smith is a graduate of the USAF Weapons School, Class 98BIV, and

later returned as an instructor. He has served over 20 years as an Air

National Guardsman. Brig Gen Smith has served multiple combat tours

and flown combat missions in support Operations IRAQI FREEDOM and

ENDURING FREEDOM.

Prior to his current position, Brig Gen Smith served as Chief of Staff, Idaho

Air National Guard, Joint Force Headquarters, Gowen Field, Idaho.


Check Out Our Links 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ 

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Oct 19, 202251:27
The Worst Day is the First Day: The Best Day is the Last Day

The Worst Day is the First Day: The Best Day is the Last Day

In this episode Craig Chatriand  of Idaho State University and Angie Lion of Black River Performance Management discuss how education creates generational impact and how moving to a new area, finding your lifelines and discovering a sense of belonging help student’s tap into the resilience potential that already lies within. Drawing upon his own experiences, and the experience of others, Craig explains how the university environment is an ideal place to incrementally develop resiliency due to its lower-risk, high-support environment; something we can integrate into many of our own home and work experiences.     Craig 

Chatriand has over 20 years of experience working in higher education focusing on student success, behavioral intervention, and student mental health. He currently serves as the Interim Vice President for Student Affairs & Enrollment Management at Idaho State University.  


 Check Out Our Links  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Oct 05, 202249:37
Becoming Intentional: Talent, skills, and passion around Futuristic Thinking

Becoming Intentional: Talent, skills, and passion around Futuristic Thinking

In this episode, Angie Lion of Website - Black River and Ron Price of TTI Success Insights, discuss values & purpose and their importance in developing the skill of futuristic thinking as a leadership competency.  He gives insights on ways he has cultivated this skill and he also discusses the shadow side of our talents, skills and passions by recognizing the dark side of anything we tend to overdue. Any strength overused can be a weakness:. If you want to build your skills in futuristic thinking, you won’t want to miss this message. 


Ron has a varied and extensive background as an entrepreneur, corporate executive, author, speaker, executive coach, and organizational advisor.  Prior to taking the role of president at TTI Success Insights, Ron was the founder and CEO of Price Associates, an international leadership advisory firm with expertise in leadership development, innovation, and strategy.  He also founded TTI Success Insights China in 2009, the master distributor for TTI SI in greater China.  Ron is also the author of five books over the past 14 years, including three best sellers. 


Check Out Our Links 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ 

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Sep 21, 202237:02
Creating Possibilities: Shifting Your Mindset From Why Me To Why Not Me?

Creating Possibilities: Shifting Your Mindset From Why Me To Why Not Me?

In this episode, Angie Lion of BRPM and Jeet Kumar, CEO of In Time Tec located in Meridian, Idaho, discuss overcoming mental and emotional roadblocks we all face as human beings. Jeet and Angie have known each other for over 20 years and they both have a passion for developing people. 

Jeet shares his model for creating new possibilities and abundance in work and in life. He shares his story of growing up poor in India and having to shift his mindset to live out his higher purpose of serving his people at In Time Tech. There, he inspires employees, satisfies customers, and creates an impact by achieving peace inside and results outside. They discuss the importance of developing people in the workplace to create a better life for everyone. 


Jeet has dedicated his life to creating abundance and has mentored hundreds of people all over the globe to become their most powerful selves. His passion for supporting and growing others has led his mentees to finding financial freedom, building successful companies, becoming healthier, fostering authentic relationships, and creating a meaningful life for themselves and others.

Check out Jeet's book!  https://www.amazon.com/Create-Impact-Achieve-Results-Outside-ebook/dp/B09YCJWTKS\


 Check Out Our Links 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/ 

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Sep 07, 202248:30
Cultivating Resilience with Passion, Purpose, and Emotional Intelligence

Cultivating Resilience with Passion, Purpose, and Emotional Intelligence

In this episode, Angie Lion of BRPM and the CEO of United Way of Southeast Idaho (former CEO of SEICAA), Shantay Bloxham, discuss ideas for growing resilient teams by helping them to understand their own emotions, the emotions of others, and how passion and purpose drive work and overall life satisfaction and retention of great employees and impact our communities in meaningful ways.  


 Shantay Bloxham, CEO at the United Way of Southeastern Idaho, a native of Pocatello, where she resides with her husband and their two children. Bloxham has long been guided to help create outcome-based solutions that address the barriers of poverty, always driven by a call to action. When she entered the nonprofit community in late 2007, she knew instantaneously that this line of work is what fuels her human spirit, in the way she had always imagined a harmonious work/life balance would be. Outside of work, Bloxham can be found volunteering, buried in a good book, or doing just about anything in the great Idaho outdoors with family and friends. 


  Check Out Our Links 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Aug 17, 202250:30
The Joy is in the Journey

The Joy is in the Journey

In this episode, Angie Lion of BRPM and Bannock County Commissioner, Jeff Hough, discuss building resilience in teams at work, in sports, and in our families. They discuss life lessons and the wisdom from thought leaders Brene Brown, Peter Crone, Eric Greitens, and TV personality Ted Lasso. 

 Jeff Hough grew up in rural Idaho where he learned the value of hard work and perseverance. He has a BA in Finance and has worked for JR Simplot, US Robotics, Key Bank as a financial analyst. He gained a passion for human performance and team building when he began coaching high school basketball and became a trainer for Idaho State Universities office of Workforce Training. He has been an entrepreneur with two different businesses and is currently a Commissioner at Bannock County. Jeff loves leadership, personal development and team building and has been studying and practicing these skills for the past 20 years. He prides himself in being able to build strong teams and get the most out of those around him. Jeff and his wife Debbie have been married for over 30 years and have 4 kids and 5 grandkids.  His favorite quote is “Have a take and don’t suck” from Jim Rhome.  

Check Out Our Links  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Aug 03, 202248:48
Grateful for the Struggle The Ripple Effect of Building Resilience

Grateful for the Struggle The Ripple Effect of Building Resilience

In this episode, Angie Lion of BRPM and Cherisse Brown of ISU discuss how important it is to be intentional about cultivating resilience for themselves and then sharing those tools for building resilience and sharing that wisdom with others to create a ripple effect in our families, workplaces, and beyond. 

 Cherisse Brown, is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Public Administration. She is certified to teach and train on Emotional Intelligence and DISC Behavioral Assessments. She is the proud mother of 4 amazing kids and enjoys spending time with family, traveling, cooking, music, reading, crafting, and being outdoors.  Her Professional experience includes managing divers teams, working in mom-profit sector, and many years working closely with at-rick populations. Cherisse is most passionate about compelling, empowering, and inspiring others to recognize their value and maximize their potential.  

Check Out Our Links  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brpm/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackriverpm/  

Website: https://blackriverpm.com/

Jul 20, 202241:16