#53 - Cathy Stewart, Executive Recruiter, Jeff Harris & Associates, Inc

#54 - Kimberly Laipple, President, Scientific Search

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse sits down with Kimberly Laipple to discuss the evolving recruiting landscape within life sciences, biotech, and pharma. Kim shares insights on what truly makes candidates stand out, the importance of preparation and transparency during the interview process, and why leadership today requires both strategic vision and hands-on execution. The conversation also explores remote work, generational leadership challenges, company culture, and how organizations can better attract and retain top talent in today’s market. Kimberly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlylaipple/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlylaipple/] Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scientific-search/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/scientific-search/]

#53 - Cathy Stewart, Executive Recruiter, Jeff Harris & Associates, Inc

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse sits down with executive recruiter Cathy Stewart from Jeff Harris & Associates to discuss what truly separates top executive candidates from the rest. Cathy shares insights from her work in senior living and retained executive search, including how boards and CEOs make leadership decisions, why alignment and urgency matter in hiring, and the biggest mistakes executives make during interviews. The conversation also dives into intentional career growth, why counteroffers can damage long term trust, how AI is impacting recruiting, and why relationship driven leadership still matters more than ever in an increasingly automated world.

#52 - Julia Stegman, Career Coach & Author, Discover Meaningful Work

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse sits down with Julia Stegman, former HP executive turned career coach and author of Discover Meaningful Work, to discuss how executives can navigate layoffs, career transitions, and professional reinvention with greater clarity and purpose. Julia shares the mindset shifts she encourages leaders to make before jumping into a job search, why self-reflection is a competitive advantage, and how growth industries can create a “tailwind” for long-term career success. The conversation also dives into tech-adjacent industries, meaningful leadership, avoiding reactive career decisions, and practical ways executives can realign their careers with their values without necessarily leaving their current organization. This episode is packed with actionable insights for professionals looking to build a more intentional and fulfilling career path. Julia Website: https://discovermeaningfulwork.com/ [https://discovermeaningfulwork.com/]

#51 - Matt Anderson, VP of Executive Search, Versique Executive, Professional & Interim

In this episode, Matt Anderson shares what it really takes to succeed at the executive level in today’s healthcare market. Drawing on over two decades of experience in retained executive search, Matt breaks down what boards, CEOs, and private equity firms are actually looking for when hiring C-suite leaders. From the growing importance of AI and data-driven decision-making to the critical role of outcomes over responsibilities, this conversation dives into the realities of executive hiring. Matt also highlights common mistakes senior leaders make, why networking is more important than ever, and how timing plays a crucial role in career transitions. Whether you’re a healthcare executive exploring your next move or an organization looking to hire top leadership talent, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply immediately. Matt LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/healthcarerecruiterheadhunter/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/healthcarerecruiterheadhunter/]

#50 - Josh Volinsky, CPA, Co-Founder, Synergy Search

In this episode, Jesse sits down with Josh Volinsky, CPA and Co-Founder of Synergy Search, to unpack his transition from public accounting into recruiting and what gives his firm a unique edge in the market. Josh shares how having real accounting experience builds instant credibility with both clients and candidates, along with practical advice on how finance professionals can stand out through strong resumes, concise interview storytelling, and proactive outreach. The conversation also dives into today’s hiring landscape, common mistakes candidates make, and the evolving leadership traits required for CFOs and finance leaders to succeed. Josh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshvolinsky/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshvolinsky/] Company Website: https://synergysearch.com/ [https://synergysearch.com/]