R.O.G. Return on Generosity

• 252. Celebrating Five Years of Generosity

  “Generosity means that you give of the things that you really can't get back.”   “I was happiest and most fulfilled anytime I was giving or fully engaged with another person.”   “Generally when people hear generosity, they think you're asking them for money. So I specifically wanted to focus on generosity that had nothing to do with money, especially using an ROG.”   Episode summary | In this final episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, hosts Shannon Cassidy and Susan Jin Davis reflect on the journey of the podcast, discussing the importance of generosity in leadership, the insights gained from over 250 episodes, and the impact of generosity on personal and professional growth. They emphasize the need for self-care, the power of listening to diverse voices, and the call to action for listeners to live generously in their own lives.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | The importance of being present and listening to others is crucial in leadership. Generosity is often misunderstood and is not just about money. The Return on Generosity concept emphasizes the joy and fulfillment that comes from giving. Leaders set the tone for a culture of generosity within their teams. Listening to diverse voices can amplify underrepresented perspectives. Self-care is a crucial aspect of being able to give generously to others. Generosity can lead to better business results and stronger team dynamics. The podcast has highlighted the importance of mentoring and thoughtful feedback. Gratitude can serve as a gateway to a more generous mindset. The impact of generosity can be profound, changing lives and communities. Living generously can help combat feelings of loneliness and disconnection.    Chapters |  00:00 Farewell to ROG: A Reflective Goodbye 03:04 The Genesis of Generosity: Understanding ROG's Foundation 05:55 Defining Generosity: Beyond Money 08:50 The Impact of Generosity on Leadership and Culture 11:54 Lessons from 250 Episodes: Insights and Reflections 14:38 Diverse Voices: Amplifying Underrepresented Perspectives 17:28 The Transformative Power of Generosity 20:28 Generosity in Today's World: Challenges and Opportunities 23:17 Cultivating an Abundance Mindset: The Path to Generosity 27:44 The Power of Love as an Action 30:18 Generosity and Self-Care: A Holistic Approach 34:12 Leadership Lessons from the Podcast Journey 37:28 Stories of Generosity: Transformative Experiences 40:54 The Impact of Generosity on Listeners 42:39 Reflections on Achievements and Future Aspirations 47:33 Activating Generosity in Personal Life 50:28 A Call to Action: Embracing Generosity   Guest Bio | Shannon Cassidy is the Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc., a Certified Woman-Owned Business celebrating 25 years of helping leaders and teams thrive. A Certified Executive Performance Coach, Keynote Speaker, and High-Performance Team Facilitator, Shannon is an authority on behavioral change and the transformative power of generosity in leadership. As the host of the R.O.G. Return on Generosity podcast, Shannon amplifies the message that generosity isn’t just a virtue—it’s a competitive advantage. She believes that small, intentional acts of generosity—whether through time, attention, knowledge, or opportunity—can revolutionize workplace culture, drive engagement, and unlock extraordinary business results. Her keynote presentations are designed to equip audiences with actionable wisdom and practical frameworks that make their lives easier, more productive, and more fulfilling. Through compelling storytelling and real-world strategies, Shannon challenges audiences to embrace generosity as a powerful leadership philosophy—one that fosters trust, strengthens collaboration, and accelerates success. With a proven track record of coaching CEOs and senior executives, Shannon helps leaders integrate generosity into their daily practices, empowering them to step up as role models and create environments where teams feel valued, motivated, and inspired to give their best. She is the author of Grounded in Gratitude, V.I.B.E.—an in-depth self-discovery journey—and The 5 Degree Principle, a leadership fable illustrating how small changes lead to extraordinary results. Recognized for her practical, impactful, and authentic approach, Shannon is a sought-after speaker for conferences, leadership summits, and corporate events. Audiences leave her sessions feeling energized, empowered, and equipped to implement strategies that boost their productivity, fulfillment, and overall effectiveness.   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast Credits: Guest Host, Susan Jin Davis interviewing R.O.G. Host, Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

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• 251. How Presence Initiates True Generosity with Tracy Davidson

  “When we give, in this case, presence, what we get is like genuine connection and we get to make that person feel as valued as they really are.” “Every act of generosity, especially giving your time, is meaningful.” “Truly in every moment, there are lots of things to be grateful for. Sometimes they're just harder to find, but they're always there if you look intentionally.”   Episode summary | In this heartfelt conversation, Tracy Davidson reflects on her remarkable 30-year career in journalism, emphasizing the importance of serving the community, resilience, and the power of presence. As she transitions from her role at NBC 10, she shares insights on leadership, generosity, and the impact of small acts of kindness. Tracy's journey is a testament to the value of connection and the significance of being present for others, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and service. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | The importance of being present and listening to others is crucial in leadership. Generosity can create ripples of positivity in people's lives. Resilience is a key skill that can help individuals navigate challenges. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can have a significant impact. The win in any situation is simply trying, regardless of the outcome. Authentic leadership requires bravery and vulnerability. Gratitude can be a powerful tool in overcoming adversity.   Chapters |  00:00 Celebrating a Legacy of Service 05:40 The Thread of Purpose and Connection 08:24 Resilience and the Power of Presence 11:08 Generosity as a Leadership Quality 13:52 Gratitude in Challenging Times 16:50 Listening and Supporting Others 19:43 Creating a Culture of Appreciation 21:26 The Next Chapter: Serving in New Ways 21:54 Embracing New Avenues 22:45 Engaging Employees and Building Resilience 24:09 The Importance of Authentic Leadership 24:43 Unpacking Layers of Leadership 27:17 Building Trust in Remote Environments 29:23 The Impact of Small Acts of Kindness 30:06 The Meaning of Generosity 30:54 Courage in Challenging Moments 32:50 The Power of Listening 34:29 Inspiring Figures and Personal Connections 35:35 Unexpected Career Paths 36:27 Looking Ahead to New Challenges Guest Bio | For more than three decades, Tracy Davidson has been a trusted voice guiding people through challenges and change. A 15-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, breast cancer survivor, and recipient of three Honorary Doctorates of Humane Letters, she has covered some of the most defining moments in modern history from the 1996 Olympic bombing and Pope Francis Conclave to national political conventions since 1988 and the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. Tracy now brings her signature clarity, warmth, and evidence-based strategies to help people rise stronger, sustain success, and lead with heart. Guest Resources:  https://www.tracydavidson.com/ https://liftingyourvoice.com/   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Tracy Davidson, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks for our Series Finale Episode: a special conversation to highlight the last five years as Susan Jin Davis interviews Return on Generosity’s very own, Shannon Cassidy.

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• 250. How Empowering Your Team Drives Peak Performance with Mark Moroz

  “Empower everyone to do what’s right for our customers.” “If you take care of your employees, they’re going to take care of your customers.” “The roll up the sleeves factor. We want people who are going to get things done and not worry about credit.”   Episode Summary | In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Mark Moroz, the Executive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer at Live Oak Bank. They discuss the unique culture at Live Oak, which prioritizes employee well-being and collaboration, and how this culture translates into exceptional customer service. Mark shares insights on leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of generosity, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation emphasizes the significance of knowing your team, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a supportive environment for both employees and customers.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Collaboration and employee well-being are key to the success of the organization. Generosity during the COVID-19 pandemic showcased the bank's commitment to its customers. Feedback is essential for leadership growth and development. Knowing your team and their individual strengths is crucial for effective leadership. Mentorship plays a significant role in personal and professional growth. Leaders should empower their teams to take ownership and make decisions.    Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Mark Moroz and Live Oak Bank 02:30 The Unique Culture at Live Oak Bank 05:05 Collaboration and Employee Well-being 07:36 Serving Small Businesses with Purpose 10:14 Generosity During COVID-19 13:53 Leadership and Feedback 16:42 The Importance of Knowing Your People 23:24 Building Trust Through Generosity 27:22 The Importance of Feedback in Leadership 31:10 Mentorship: A Two-Way Street 32:36 The Return on Generosity in Leadership 36:09 Empowering Teams for Success 38:54 Closing Thoughts and Reflections Guest Bio | Mark Moroz brings more than 20 years of experience in banking with a strong focus on digital product innovation and implementation. As the current head of operations and payments, he leads the organization’s operational priorities and drives next-generation banking initiatives. Throughout his career, Mark has become known for his expertise in navigating complex change management within large financial institutions, guiding teams through transformation while fostering professional development and high-performance cultures. Before assuming his current role, Mark held several key leadership positions at Live Oak, including head of product and head of deposits. His earlier career includes serving as vice president of retail deposits for Barclaycard US, senior director of retail banking for Sallie Mae, vice president of marketing at JPMorgan, and senior manager of product and marketing at ING Direct US. Over the course of his two decades in the industry, he has emerged as an expert in online banking, helping secure billions in deposits to meet his organizations’ funding needs. In addition to his leadership experience, he has played a central role in supporting product development and integration across multiple banking platforms. Mark holds a bachelor’s degree in political science/criminal justice from the University of Delaware.   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Mark Moroz, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 251, Special Guest, Tracy Davidson.

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• 249. Building Your Leadership Legacy with Kate Paine

  “I think Legacy is, did you positively impact someone’s life?” “Listen deeply and listen with various parts of you.” “There’s no failing, there’s just learning.”   Episode summary | In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Kate Paine, the Vice President of Corporate Marketing at Saint-Gobain North America. They discuss the principles of generous leadership, the importance of context and listening in marketing, and the value of collaboration as illustrated by the Stone Soup fable. Kate shares her insights on embracing imperfection, fostering mindfulness in leadership, and the significance of making a positive impact on others' lives. The conversation also touches on navigating personal challenges, purpose-driven marketing, and the legacy of leadership.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity is a mindset that drives effective marketing. Listening deeply is crucial for understanding customer needs. Collaboration can lead to innovative solutions, as shown in the Stone Soup fable. Progress over perfection encourages creativity and risk-taking. Mindfulness practices can enhance leadership effectiveness. Turning outward to help others can improve personal well-being. Navigating personal challenges with grace can inspire others. Purpose-driven marketing connects employees to a larger mission. Empowerment and trust are essential for effective leadership. A leader's legacy is measured by the positive impact on others.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Generous Leadership 02:50 The Role of Generosity in Marketing 06:49 The Importance of Context and Listening 10:40 The Stone Soup Fable: Collaboration in Action 14:35 Progress Over Perfection: Embracing Imperfection 16:43 Conscious Leadership in High-Stakes Environments 20:01 Turning Outward: Making Others' Lives Better 22:15 Mindset and Resilience Through Hardship 23:06 Navigating Personal Challenges and Community Support 26:12 Purpose-Driven Leadership in Marketing 28:30 Empowering Teams Through Trust and Collaboration 33:00 Legacy and Personal Impact in Leadership 35:26 Rapid Fire Insights on Leadership Values   Guest Bio | Kate Paine is the Vice President of Corporate Marketing at Saint-Gobain North America, a leading global manufacturer of sustainable building materials. In this role, she leads brand strategy, growth marketing, digital transformation, and customer experience initiatives for North America. With a career of twenty-five years spanning companies such as Ben & Jerry's, The Hershey Company, and Land O'Lakes, Kate's core passion has been building meaningful change through people-first design, curiosity, and mindful leadership. She has led innovation, technology, design, and growth strategy, and is a proponent of design thinking. She is a mother of two, runner, artist, gardener, and loves to escape into a DIY home project that involves building something. She and her husband now reside in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, after spending much of the last two decades in Vermont and New Hampshire.    Guest Resources: Art and Fear by David Bayles and Ted Orland: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Fear-Observations-Rewards-Artmaking/dp/0961454733   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Kate Paine, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 250, Special Guest, Mark Moroz.

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• 248. One for All: The Power of Trust with Bill Straub

  When there's a high degree of trust, especially in teams, the sky's the limit.   Flexibility, community, excellence, collaboration and growth, and then proximity to leadership. All those things kind of to me have an underpinning on gratitude.   We need to continue to grow and have the culture evolve.   Episode summary | In this week's conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Bill Straub, the founding principal and CEO of All4, an award-winning environmental consulting firm. Bill shares his journey from an environmental engineer to a successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of generosity, trust, and culture in leadership. He discusses the significance of partnerships, the meaning behind the name All4, and how employee ownership has shaped the company. Bill also highlights the role of mentorship and the unique cross-coaching program at All4, which fosters personal growth and collaboration among employees. Throughout the discussion, Bill's humility and commitment to generosity shine through, making for an inspiring dialogue about leadership and community.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity is the ultimate form of business trust. Building a company with trusted partners is crucial. Trust and transparency foster a positive company culture. Employee ownership enhances commitment and accountability. Feedback should be ongoing, not just annual reviews. Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and professional growth. A culture of collaboration leads to greater success. Generosity should extend beyond the workplace. Curiosity and humility are key traits of effective leaders.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Bill Straub and All4 02:51 Early Career and Overcoming Fears 05:31 The Meaning Behind All4's Name 08:42 Lessons in Partnership and Trust 11:32 Generosity in Leadership 13:16 The Importance of Company Culture 16:14 Cross Coaching Program and Personal Growth 19:22 Building a Collaborative Community 21:12 The Power of Generosity in Business 23:28 Building Trust and Psychological Safety 25:05 Cultivating Leadership Through Feedback 26:21 Employee Ownership and Collective Success 29:07 Generosity Beyond the Workplace 30:40 Rapid Fire Insights on Generosity   Guest Bio | Bill Straub is a founding Principal of ALL4 and a registered Professional Engineer with over 35 years of experience in environmental consulting. An accomplished entrepreneur, he has successfully launched and grown two environmental services companies, blending deep technical expertise with strategic business leadership. Bill has guided ALL4 through significant growth milestones, including the company’s 2018 partnership with a private equity firm and a successful recapitalization in 2025. He oversees the firm’s vision and day-to-day direction, leads mergers and acquisitions activities, and mentors the leadership team to foster the next generation of industry leaders. Passionate about creating an environment where seasoned professionals can grow, share knowledge, and deliver exceptional client service, Bill is recognized for his ability to combine technical rigor with sustainable business strategy. Outside of work, he enjoys time at the beach, on the golf course, and with his wife and three adult children.   Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  Free Generosity Quiz  Crazy Good Turns Podcast   Credits: Bill Straub, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 249, Special Guest, Kate Paine.

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