As we’ve learned this season, milestones don’t just appear. They come after brave actions, years, and sometimes decades of hard work and dedication. In the final episode of Season 10, Melissa interviews Michael Klein, Public Relations Manager at Ferrovial Construction, to discuss the career milestones he made possible by bravely asking for opportunities and taking action to bring them to life.

About Michael:

Mike Klein is a high-energy people person who began his career in television as a sports producer. Then changed career paths by becoming a public relations manager for one of the largest heavy civil construction companies in the world, Ferrovial Construction, and has found his calling in life.

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn

Topics covered:

• The value of making “the ask”

• Mike’s career milestone moments

• Navigating life-altering career milestones

• How to be adaptable in dynamic situations

• The importance of community relations

• Tips on cultivating a positive mindset

Resources mentioned:

• Jimmy Goldstein

• Ferrovial Construction Ontario Subway Project

• "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture"

• "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know"

• MVW Communications

A major milestone in your organization is the perfect time to take stock of what you’ve achieved and chart a path for the future. In this episode, Melissa interviews President & CEO of Texas Organ Sharing Alliance Joe Nespral and TOSA’s Director of Communications Casey Casseb, to discuss celebrating 50 years of their organization’s important work in organ donation.

About Joe:

Joseph Nespral, MD, CPTC is the President & CEO of Texas Organ Sharing Alliance. Joe has been with TOSA since July 1997 and was promoted to CEO in October 2016. Joe has an extensive background in Organ Procurement Organization leadership in operations, restructuring, policy analysis, business development and quality improvement.

About Casey:

Casey Casseb has been creating and executing creative marketing, media, and events for unique brands for over 20 years. She has experience collaborating with Fortune 500 brands and is a strong advocate for personalized, committed, and exceptional service to all clients, both internal and external. Currently, she serves as the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance’s Director of Communications.

Topics covered:

• Joe and Casey's career milestone moments

• Celebrating TOSA’s 50th anniversary

• Organ donation myths and misconceptions

• Joe and Casey’s favorite TOSA memories

• Insights on communicating sensitive topics

Resources mentioned:

• Texas Organ Sharing Alliance

• Donate Life Texas

• TOSA Wall of Heroes

• "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture"

• "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know"

• MVW Communications

Today, Melissa is taking a break from talking to seasoned professionals by sitting down with a future young professional: her daughter, Emilia. Listen as Melissa and Emilia discuss how communication professionals can support and inspire Generation Z and beyond as they work to achieve milestones of their own.

About Emilia:

Emilia Williamson is a rising junior in high school who has “interned” in public relations and communications since she was a toddler. She is an honor roll student, award-winning theatre performer and cosplayer, aerial dance artist, and tenured Junior Intern at MVW Communications. She aspires to be an American Sign Language Interpreter, actor, and aerial performer who may advance the public relations profession in surprising ways.

Topics covered:

• Emilia’s memorable milestone moment

• Life as a junior in high school

• Emilia’s journey to her creative endeavors

• How to navigate change in a smart way

• How to build trust and cultivate voice with students

Resources mentioned:

• Pop Madness

• San Japan

• Cirque Aria

• Tips to Inspire Student Voice

• "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture"

• "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know"

• MVW Communications