Welcome back to the Vantage Influencers Podcast! We’re excited to bring you another episode packed with valuable insights and inspiration.
In today’s episode, our host, Susmita Sarma, interviews Steve Degnan, a renowned speaker, consultant, and thought leader dedicated to helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential.
Steve will explore how building strong relationships can significantly boost your career and leadership capabilities. He’ll share a personal story of overcoming a career challenge through effective networking, offer practical advice on handling career setbacks, and discuss strategies for staying agile in today’s ever-evolving job market. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the power of relationships in achieving long-term success!
About Steve Degnan
Steve, retiring in 2024 after 32 impactful years with Nestlé and Nestlé Purina North America, spent 19 years as Chief HR Officer at Purina. He expertly managed 10,000 associates and played a key role in elevating Purina to a top position in the pet food industry.
Steve holds a bachelor's in management from La Salle University and an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis. His career also includes leading HR at Nestlé USA and early roles in production and logistics. A former U.S. Army officer, Steve remains active in nonprofit work with organizations like the Starkloff Disability Institute.
In retirement, Steve advises emerging leaders, engages in philanthropy, enjoys time with family and his Labrador Retriever, Angel, and is writing his first book on relationships in leadership and career advancement.
He has been featured in The St. Louis Business Journal, The HR Leaders Podcast, and more.
Timestamps
(01:15) Steve begins by sharing his background and key career milestones, including the experiences that have influenced his current role and perspective.
(03:06) We discuss Steve’s current projects, the challenges he’s tackling, and the innovative approaches he’s implementing.
(07:22) Steve elaborates on how he leverages relationships to achieve his professional goals and explains why this approach is vital for professionals at all levels.
(11:05) We delve into a specific challenge Steve faced and how interpersonal relationships were crucial in overcoming it.
(15:23) Steve offers advice for those dealing with career frustrations and seeking advancement and expands on his motto, 'Win Friends, Influence People, and Kick Ass.'
(19:50) We explore Steve’s strategies for staying adaptable and competitive in a rapidly changing job market and how professionals can proactively position themselves for success.
