In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Chief Venezio shares what it means to lead with integrity, clarity, and mission-first thinking in one of the most high-pressure professions. From navigating public scrutiny to building trust inside the force, he opens up about the power of honest feedback, the importance of mental wellness, and why leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about doing what’s right, even when it’s hard.

Whether you’re leading a team or navigating your own growth, this conversation is a powerful reminder: the mission must come first — and leadership without compassion isn’t leadership at all.

This episode is brought to you by AceUp and Produced and Edited by Buttered Toast.

In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Gia Duke shares her extraordinary journey from Mumbai to leading billions in global supply management at John Deere. From breaking through biases to building support networks and leading with purpose, Gia’s story is a masterclass in resilience and growth. Tune in as she reveals why growth and comfort rarely coexist — and why choosing growth makes all the difference.

This episode is brought to you by AceUp and Produced and Edited by Buttered Toast.

This episode of Courageous Conversations features Raymond Thompson, Senior Lighting Director for The Young and the Restless for over 40 years. Raymond shares his journey of shaping the show’s iconic look and atmosphere through visionary lighting design, earning 10 Daytime Emmy nominations and wins along the way. He discusses his early years, how he pivoted from acting to lighting, and the lessons he’s learned about creativity, leadership, and teamwork. Raymond’s story is one of passion, curiosity, and the power of commitment, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to make an impact in their field.

This episode is brought to you by AceUp and Produced and Edited by Buttered Toast.