Behind the Hire Podcast

#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/]

#49 - Gail Audibert, President, Gail Audibert Associates, Inc.

In this episode, Gail Audibert shares insights from over four decades in executive recruiting, with a deep focus on the insurance industry. As President of Gail Audibert Associates, Inc., she reflects on her journey from an early career setback to building and scaling her own firm, navigating multiple economic cycles along the way. The conversation explores how recruiting has evolved, what separates top candidates at the executive level, and the realities companies face when building leadership teams. Gail also breaks down common interview mistakes, the importance of telling clear, compelling career stories, and why being both believable and likable can make or break opportunities. For experienced leaders feeling stuck or overlooked, she offers direct advice on recognizing when it’s time to move and how to stay aligned with the market. Gail LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audibert/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/audibert/]

#48 - Kris Holmes, Principal & Executive Recruiter, O’Connell Group

In this episode, Kris Holmes, Principal and Executive Recruiter at O’Connell Group, shares over three decades of experience helping executives navigate their careers and build high-performing teams. Kris breaks down what truly separates top candidates in today’s competitive market, from focusing on long-term career alignment over short-term gains to mastering the art of networking and recruiter relationships. She offers candid insights on why applying online often leads to missed opportunities, how executives can stand out in interviews, and the critical importance of culture fit and self-awareness. Whether you’re actively job searching or planning your next strategic move, this conversation provides practical, no-nonsense guidance to help you position yourself for long-term success. Kris Email: kris@oconnellgroup.com [kris@oconnellgroup.com] Company Website: https://oconnellgroup.com/ [https://oconnellgroup.com/]