In this episode of the Thinking CAAP podcast, Dr. Vanessa Shannon shares science-backed strategies for grounding, confidence, and emotional regulation, and offers practical ways for mission-driven professionals to stay calm and centered under pressure. From surfing life’s waves to coloring as mindfulness, this episode is full of grounded wisdom, laughter, and reminders that confidence isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence.

In this episode of the Thinking CAAP podcast, Beck Moore and Heather Holloway are joined by Rachelle Abbott, President & CEO of STEP, Inc., and Meghann McBryan, Special Projects Coordinator, to unpack how one Community Action agency turned a regional staffing crisis into a sustainable, scalable solution.

You’ll hear how STEP’s Substitute Aid Pool program (originally funded by ARPA dollars) leverages gig-style scheduling, streamlined technology, and collaborative community partnerships to place trained classroom aides exactly where they’re needed. From onboarding to scheduling to retention, Meghann and Rachelle break down the real-world impact and what it takes to operationalize innovation in early childhood education.

On this episode of the Thinking CAAP podcast, co-hosts Beck Moore and Heather Holloway welcome educator and leader Ellen Min for a powerful conversation on leading with humanity.

As a second-generation Korean American, Ellen shares her journey to purpose-driven leadership. Packed with insights for leaders navigating career shifts or seeking to strengthen team culture, this episode offers guidance on creating belonging, leading with empathy, and building systems of care.

In Episode 20 of the Thinking CAAP podcast, hosts Beck Moore and Heather Holloway sit down with Bree Groff—author of Today Was Fun and workplace culture expert—for a candid conversation about rethinking how we experience work.

Bree shares insights from her book and keynote, offering practical ways leaders can cultivate more human and connected workplaces. From emotional check-ins and “user manuals” to themed karaoke, this energizing episode is packed with actionable tools and inspiring reframes.

Listeners will leave with renewed permission to embrace fun at work, lead with authenticity, and prioritize well-being. Tune in for a fresh perspective on workplace culture and a preview of Bree’s upcoming keynote at CAAP’s 2025 Conference.

Blueprint for Better Teams: Safety, Trust, and Team Wins brings together host Beck Moore with Ashley Bulley (Executive Director, ECHOS) and Amanda Hoprich (Growth Marketing Manager, WIPFLI) for a candid conversation on what it really takes to lead people well. From navigating conflict styles and leadership transitions to naming imposter syndrome and embracing vulnerability, the guests share the lessons that shaped their approach to leadership in both nonprofit and for-profit spaces.

Whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned changemaker, this episode offers a refreshing look at how safety and trust fuel stronger teams and greater impact.

Leadership consultant, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author Brenda Reynolds joins Beck Moore and Heather Holloway to explore how leaders can delegate more effectively—without burning out.

Brenda introduces the concept of “monkey management” and unpacks why so many leaders feel overwhelmed. Together, they discuss practical strategies for building trust, setting clear expectations, and creating trauma-informed workplace cultures where everyone can thrive.

What does it mean to manage up—and why does it matter? In this episode of the Thinking CAAP podcast, Beck Moore and Heather Holloway join Erika Carpin and Georgia Del Freo to explore trust, communication, and leadership. Learn how managing up strengthens mission-driven teams through clarity, feedback, and collaboration.