Episode 18: Building Oasis: Kari Severson Snaza on Leadership, Culture, and Rural Healthcare Transformation

Life, Leadership and Perseverance w/ Nicole Semeraro

#Entrepreneur #Business #Nicole Semeraro

39:33

"The basic premise of the event is that hunters hunt rattlesnakes from the surrounding environment all across West Texas, and bring them into the roundup for the weekend. And during the roundup, these snakes are kept in a pit and then, one by one, beheaded and skinned in front of in front of audiences." - Elizabeth MeLampy Elizabeth MeLampy is a lawyer dedicated to animal rights and protection, and her passion for this work shines through in her latest book, Forget the Camel, the Madcap World of Animal Festivals and What They Say About Being Human . To research the book, Elizabeth traveled across the country, immersing herself in a wide range of animal festivals — from the Iditarod dog sled race to the rattlesnake roundup in Sweetwater, Texas. Elizabeth examines these festivals as revealing microcosms of our broader relationship with animals. Whether it's rattlesnake hunts, frog-jumping contests, ostrich races, or groundhog celebrations, these events reflect the ways humans use animals to express cultural identity, community pride, and historical traditions. Yet beneath the pageantry and excitement lies a deeper question: Is our fascination with these spectacles worth the toll it takes on the animals involved? With compassion and insight, Elizabeth invites readers to consider whether there’s a more ethical and empathetic way to honor our stories — one that respects both animals and the traditions they inspire. Please listen, share and read, Forget the Camel. It will be released on April 8th, 2025. https://apollopublishers.com/index.php/forget-the-camel/…

about a year ago 50:07

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of Life, Leadership, and Perseverance, Nicole sits down with Kari Severson Snaza, co-founder and co-CEO of Oasis Healthcare. Kari’s journey from growing up in Minnesota to thriving in corporate leadership at UnitedHealth and Mayo Clinic, and now leading a mission-driven startup, is filled with powerful lessons on perseverance, culture, and purpose.

Key Takeaways:

Betting on Yourself: Kari shares the courage it took to leave a thriving corporate career to start Oasis Healthcare.
Culture is Everything: Insights on how culture-first leadership can create a thriving, purpose-driven organization.
Serving with Impact: The unique challenges and rewards of transforming rural primary care through value-based care.
Leadership Lessons: Why patience and perspective are key to long-term success.

Memorable Quotes:

🗨️ "You have to be all in. That’s the lesson I learned from past startups, and it’s what makes Oasis thrive today."
🗨️ "Building a culture-first organization isn’t just a value—it’s our differentiator."
🗨️ "Patience and perspective are the greatest gifts for young leaders. Don’t rush the journey."

🎧 Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen!

23 episodes

Episode 18: Building Oasis: Kari Severson Snaza on Leadership, Culture, and Rural Healthcare Transformation

Life, Leadership and Perseverance w/ Nicole Semeraro

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Key Takeaways:

Betting on Yourself: Kari shares the courage it took to leave a thriving corporate career to start Oasis Healthcare.
Culture is Everything: Insights on how culture-first leadership can create a thriving, purpose-driven organization.
Serving with Impact: The unique challenges and rewards of transforming rural primary care through value-based care.
Leadership Lessons: Why patience and perspective are key to long-term success.

Memorable Quotes:

🎧 Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen!

23 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Nicole Semeraro

All episodes

1
Episode 22: Beyond the Diagnosis: A Functional Medicine Approach to Children’s Health w/ Alice LoGuidice 35:21

12 days ago35:21

35:21

In this deeply personal and insightful episode, Nicole sits down with Alice LoGuidice , a pediatric nurse practitioner and functional medicine expert, to explore the transformative world of functional medicine for children. Alice shares her journey into functional medicine, the power of addressing root causes, and the incredible impact it has had on families—including Nicole’s own. What You’ll Learn: ✅ What functional medicine is and how it can complement traditional healthcare. ✅ Why addressing root causes matters more than just treating symptoms. ✅ How parents can advocate for their children’s health with a holistic approach. ✅ The journey of entrepreneurship and taking the leap into private practice. ✅ How functional medicine is unlocking the potential in neurodivergent children. 🌟 Plus: Heartfelt success stories from Alice’s practice and a powerful conversation about hope, healing, and the future of children’s health.…

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Episode 21 BONUS: Matt Banker: Leadership Lessons from the Sidelines – The State of Youth Sports in America & All Things College Recruiting, NIL, Transfer Portal 1:08:52

27 days ago1:08:52

1:08:52

In this special bonus episode, Matt Banker joins Life, Leadership, and Perseverance to dive into the world of youth sports in America. From his own leadership journey to the values he’s learned through coaching and parenting, Matt explores the evolving landscape of youth sports and its impact on families, teamwork, and character development. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or leader, this conversation is packed with insights on building resilience, fostering collaboration, and shaping the next generation through sports. Don’t miss this inspiring discussion on leadership, life lessons, and the powerful role of youth athletics in America today.…

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Unstuck: Overcoming Anxiety, Guilt, and the Pressure to Do It All with Kate Bohannon 36:13

5 weeks ago36:13

36:13

In this deeply moving and insightful episode, I sit down with Dr. Kate Bohannon, a counselor, and advocate for women’s mental health. Kate shares her personal story of resilience—growing up on a peach farm, navigating a difficult marriage, and rediscovering her purpose through faith and healing. We explore the challenges women face today, from anxiety to overachievement, and discuss why so many of us feel stuck in life. Kate brings wisdom, grace, and tactical advice for anyone looking to reclaim their dreams, set boundaries, and embrace the life they were meant to live. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 1️⃣ Kate’s Story: Her unconventional path from farm life to counseling and why she became the therapist she once needed. 2️⃣ The Power of Permission: Why so many women struggle with the need for validation—whether in relationships, career decisions, or personal growth. 3️⃣ The Mental Health Crisis: What’s really happening with women today and why more are feeling anxious, stuck, and disconnected. 4️⃣ Overcoming the Achievement Cycle: How to shift your mindset from self-worth being tied to success and external validation. 5️⃣ Faith and Mental Health: How spirituality and therapy can work together to promote healing. 6️⃣ Practical Self-Care: Kate’s 4-4-4 method for balancing work, family, and personal well-being. 7️⃣ Reclaiming Your Dreams: How to rediscover what excites you and start dreaming again, no matter where you are in life. Key Quotes from the Episode: 💡 "Sometimes, we just need permission to leave, to change, to heal. And that permission starts with ourselves." 💡 "We are not meant to hustle for our worth. We are meant to live with purpose and joy." 💡 "Saying yes only to what aligns with your values reduces overwhelm and increases life satisfaction." Who Should Listen: Women navigating career transitions, motherhood, or major life changes Anyone struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, or feeling stuck High-achievers who want to break free from burnout and redefine success Faith-driven individuals looking to integrate mental health and spirituality Coaches, therapists, and leaders supporting women’s growth…

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Bonus Episode 19: Mind, Body, Ball: Parenting, Coaching, and Leading in Youth Sports with Rickey Sullivan 50:02

6 weeks ago50:02

50:02

In this special bonus episode, I’m joined by Rickey Sullivan, a nationally respected golf coach and mentor who’s spent decades shaping the lives of young athletes. Rickey shares his unique perspective on youth sports today and offers invaluable advice for parents, coaches, and players navigating the competitive landscape. From multi-sport athletes to lessons learned on and off the course, Rickey’s wisdom will inspire you to rethink what success in sports—and life—really looks like. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 1️⃣ Rickey’s Journey: From his upbringing in Florence, South Carolina, to becoming a top golf coach with a global reputation. 2️⃣ Parenting in Sports: Why parents need to prioritize their child’s emotional development over their scorecards. 3️⃣ Multi-Sport Athletes: Why kids should play multiple sports and how it impacts their long-term growth. 4️⃣ Lessons on Mental Toughness: Rickey’s approach to balancing technical skill with emotional maturity. 5️⃣ The Role of Coaches: How great coaches build trust, inspire confidence, and support both the mental and physical aspects of athletes. 6️⃣ The Cost of Youth Sports: A candid discussion about the financial and emotional investment required and how to navigate it wisely. Key Quotes from the Episode: 💡 "It’s not about the parents’ dreams—it’s about helping kids discover their passion and drive." 💡 "Mind, body, ball. If you can’t control the mind, you can’t control the game." 💡 "Let them fail. Let them struggle. That’s where resilience is built." Who Should Listen: Parents navigating the world of youth sports Coaches looking to inspire and guide their players effectively Young athletes eager to build confidence and character Anyone passionate about the lessons sports can teach us about life…

1
Episode 18: Building Oasis: Kari Severson Snaza on Leadership, Culture, and Rural Healthcare Transformation 50:07

7 weeks ago50:07

50:07

In this episode of Life, Leadership, and Perseverance , Nicole sits down with Kari Severson Snaza, co-founder and co-CEO of Oasis Healthcare. Kari’s journey from growing up in Minnesota to thriving in corporate leadership at UnitedHealth and Mayo Clinic, and now leading a mission-driven startup, is filled with powerful lessons on perseverance, culture, and purpose. Key Takeaways: Betting on Yourself: Kari shares the courage it took to leave a thriving corporate career to start Oasis Healthcare. Culture is Everything: Insights on how culture-first leadership can create a thriving, purpose-driven organization. Serving with Impact: The unique challenges and rewards of transforming rural primary care through value-based care. Leadership Lessons: Why patience and perspective are key to long-term success. Memorable Quotes: 🗨️ "You have to be all in. That’s the lesson I learned from past startups, and it’s what makes Oasis thrive today." 🗨️ "Building a culture-first organization isn’t just a value—it’s our differentiator." 🗨️ "Patience and perspective are the greatest gifts for young leaders. Don’t rush the journey." 🎧 Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen!…

1
Episode 17: From Corporate Leader to STLTH Innovator: Melissa Reilly’s Journey From Payer To Purpose 48:06

8 weeks ago48:06

48:06

Summary: In this episode, Melissa Reilly, founder of STLTH Consulting, shares her journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship. We discuss overcoming life’s challenges, finding authentic joy, and the lessons she’s learned while supporting early-stage founders in healthcare. Key Takeaways: Self-awareness is key: Understand when your current role no longer aligns with your values and goals. Take the leap: Courage and preparation go hand in hand when betting on yourself. Community matters: Build a network of supporters who uplift and challenge you. Notable Quotes: “You can’t replace your health—take care of it.” “The best plans are agile; they evolve with your learning.” “Surround yourself with people who light the way for you.” 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and be inspired by Melissa’s journey.…

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Episode 16: Breaking Barriers and Building Impact: How Ling Shao Balances Leadership, Family, and Transforming Autism Therapy 1:13:33

14 weeks ago1:13:33

1:13:33

This week on Life, Leadership, and Perseverance , I’m thrilled to welcome Ling Shao , a powerhouse leader with a story that will inspire anyone ready to take bold action. From immigrating to the U.S. as a child to serving in the military and earning her degrees at MIT and Harvard, Ling’s path to success is paved with resilience. We cover: Her experience founding Spectrum AI , a mission-driven company transforming autism care through innovation. How she balances raising four kids while managing the demands of leadership. Her fierce advocacy for women in leadership and the importance of creating opportunities in venture funding. Ling’s journey is proof that bold leadership and purpose-driven action can create impact in every part of life. 🎧 Hit play to learn from Ling’s incredible story and leave empowered to lead, advocate, and build change.…

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Episode 15: Elevators Go Both Ways: Leadership, Inclusion, and Paying It Forward w/ Kimberly Morgan 52:36

15 weeks ago52:36

52:36

Kimberly Morgan’s leadership journey is a masterclass in creating inclusive cultures and fostering belonging. From her beginnings as a student-athlete at Baylor to her groundbreaking work at the NCAA and now in corporate America, Kim shares candid reflections on navigating career reinventions, championing DEI, and staying grounded in purpose. She also opens up about her unique perspective on life without children, her thoughts on servant leadership, and the importance of meeting people where they are. Key Takeaways: “A rising tide lifts all boats, and inclusion is that tide.” The transformative power of inclusion as a "rising tide" for all. “If you get off on the top floor and don’t press the elevator back down, what’s the point?” Why self-awareness and intentionality are critical for leaders. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions—assumptions build walls, but curiosity builds bridges.”…

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EP14 - Leading Through Love, Servant Leadership In Life w/ Special Guest Luke Semeraro 10:16

16 weeks ago10:16

10:16

This Thanksgiving week, we’re exploring servant leadership in life—how we can show up as servant leaders in our relationships, parenting, and community. Tune in to hear: ➡️ How servant leadership in life compares to the workplace. ➡️ Stories of how kids and adults alike can lead through simple acts of service. ➡️ Three key takeaways for serving well and with gratitude. 💡 Key Insights : Servant leadership is about relationships, not results. The holidays bring both joy and challenges, making this a perfect time to serve abundantly. Small, intentional acts can create meaningful connections and inspire others. Let’s make this Thanksgiving about leading with heart, empathy, and gratitude…

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EP 13: What Servant Leadership Looks Like and Feels Like In The Workplace: Stories Of Servant Leadership At Work 13:47

17 weeks ago13:47

13:47

Have you ever wondered how servant leadership shows up in action—and how it impacts the people being led? In Episode 2 of Life, Leadership, and Perseverance, we explore what it means to lead with service at work and the profound effects it has on teams and individuals. In this episode, you’ll learn: What servant leadership looks like in real workplace scenarios. The experience of being led by a servant leader and how it builds trust and loyalty. How servant leadership aligns with career growth and team development. Three less-common strategies for implementing servant leadership at work. 🎧 Join the conversation and learn how to create a workplace culture rooted in empathy, empowerment, and collaboration.…

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EP12: Faith, Fertility, and Perseverance: Finding Purpose Through Pain w/ Megan Master Co-Founder of Mulberry & King, Founder of AMahj Line 55:21

17 weeks ago55:21

55:21

In this heartfelt episode of Life, Leadership, and Perseverance, I sit down with Megan Masters , co-founder of Mulberry and King and creator of Amahj Line . Megan’s journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the strength of faith, and the beauty of finding purpose through life’s most challenging moments. Megan opens up about her deeply personal fertility journey, sharing the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way. From navigating multiple miscarriages to finding strength in her faith, Megan’s story reminds us of the importance of perseverance and trusting in a plan greater than our own. Through her struggles, Megan not only built a thriving fashion boutique and launched a stunning Mahjong line but also found ways to connect with others facing similar challenges, turning her pain into purpose and inspiring countless others. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 1️⃣ Navigating the Emotional and Physical Toll of a Fertility Journey Megan’s experiences with loss and hope, and how she found healing. 2️⃣ Leaning Into Faith During Life’s Hardest Moments How faith became Megan’s anchor and guided her through uncertainty. 3️⃣ Turning Struggles Into Strength How Megan channeled her experiences into creating meaningful ventures like Mulberry and King and Amage . Memorable Quotes: 🌟 "I realized there wasn’t a day ahead that God hadn’t already seen. I just had to trust the plan." 🌟 "Sometimes you have to give up the good to step into something great." Links & Resources: Follow Mulberry and King : @mulberryandking Discover Amahj Instagram: @amahjline, www.amahjline.com Connect with Megan: @meganbmasters…

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EP 11: Leadership Insights: Beyond the Buzzword, The Transformative Power of Servant Leadership 13:20

18 weeks ago13:20

13:20

Welcome back to Life, Leadership, and Perseverance! Today, we kick off our new series on servant leadership—a leadership style that goes far beyond traditional models. In this episode, we explore the powerful origins of servant leadership, trace its roots from ancient practices to modern-day workplaces, and discover how this leadership style transforms not just organizations but lives. Nicole shares their personal story of moving from traditional leadership to servant leadership, explaining the "light bulb" moments that shifted their focus from individual success to empowering others. This episode dives into how servant leadership fosters trust, collaboration, and long-term success in today’s fast-paced world. Key Takeaways: Servant leadership is about placing others’ growth and well-being at the forefront. Empathy and community-building are essential elements that make teams stronger and more resilient. Influence is earned through service, not position. Segments: The Foundation of Servant Leadership : Learn about servant leadership’s history and significance. What Sets Servant Leadership Apart : Discover how it differs from traditional models and why it’s the key to lasting impact. Why Servant Leadership Matters Today : See how it reshapes workplaces, cultures, and relationships. Servant Leadership in Action : Examples of how servant leadership shows up in both professional and personal settings. Join us as we uncover why servant leadership is more essential than ever and how you can begin to incorporate its values into your daily life…

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EP10: Built by Grit, Saved by a Miracle: Rebecca Linenger on Entrepreneurship, Family, and Empowering Others 1:24:21

18 weeks ago1:24:21

1:24:21

Episode Summary: In this episode, Nicole sits down with Rebecca Linenger, a dear friend and powerhouse entrepreneur, to explore her inspiring journey as a community-based business leader. They discuss her path from her career start in marketing to co-founding The Boulevard Company, Charleston's premier real estate firm. Rebecca shares her insights on building a business with integrity, balancing work and family, and the life-altering health crisis that changed her perspective on receiving help and leaning on others. Key Quotes & Takeaways: On Building a Business Rooted in Integrity: "Respect is the foundation of our partnership and company culture. We put our agents and clients first, creating an environment where people feel empowered to succeed on their own terms." – Rebecca Takeaway: Strong partnerships thrive on mutual respect and complementary skills. Rebecca’s story shows how building a supportive culture can foster resilience and high performance. Navigating Health Challenges and Accepting Help: "No one else cares about your life as much as you do. I had to learn to advocate for myself, to ask for what I needed—even when that meant receiving help, which wasn’t natural for me." – Rebecca Takeaway: Advocate for your own health and well-being, especially when facing life’s uncertainties. This experience taught Rebecca to value vulnerability and community in new, profound ways. On Self-Awareness and Parenting: "My goal as a mother is to provide a foundation, to be in my kids’ corner no matter what choices they make. That’s my North Star." – Rebecca Takeaway: Rebecca’s commitment to being a supportive, present mother while building a thriving business showcases the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in every area of life. Balancing Work and Family with Grace: "Every yes is a no to something else. I don’t try to do everything at a high capacity at once—I create margin where I can, which keeps me grounded and lets me lean in or out as needed." – Rebecca Takeaway: Balancing a busy career and family requires flexibility and setting boundaries. Rebecca emphasizes the need to lean in or out, based on life’s demands, to stay both present and effective. Creating a Space for Individuality in Business: "We encourage agents to operate in a way that’s true to them. It’s not cookie-cutter. People can thrive when they have the freedom to bring their own voice into their work." – Rebecca Takeaway: Rebecca’s approach to real estate is a masterclass in authentic leadership. By allowing individuality to flourish, her company nurtures innovation and fulfillment. Episode Highlights: Business Origins: Rebecca’s journey from marketing to founding The Boulevard Company and how her partnership with John Liberatos flourished due to mutual respect and clear roles. Personal Health Crisis: Rebecca’s raw account of her life-threatening health challenge and the lessons it taught her about advocacy and the importance of self-care. Parenting with Purpose: Rebecca’s unique approach to motherhood, balancing structure and spontaneity, and empowering her children to pursue their passions. Living with Intention: The power of creating margin, understanding that every “yes” is a “no” to something else, and building a life that prioritizes family and well-being. These titles and show notes capture the essence of Rebecca’s inspiring story, blending leadership insights with her profound personal journe…

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EP9 - Living Abundantly: Vision, Faith, and Leadership with Katie Walters 1:20:21

19 weeks ago1:20:21

1:20:21

In this episode of Life, Leadership, and Perseverance , Nicole sits down with Katie Walters, the visionary founder of Frances and Benedict , to explore her remarkable journey of blending entrepreneurship, motherhood, and ministry. Katie shares the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership style, how her faith fuels her vision, and her experience empowering women in Togo through sustainable fashion. Don’t miss this candid conversation on self-awareness, building a mission-driven business, and navigating the joys and struggles of leadership, marriage, and motherhood. Key Takeaways: Faith as the Foundation of Leadership: Katie shares how her faith has been a cornerstone of both her personal and professional life, guiding her decision-making and inspiring her to empower women through her mission-driven brand. The Power of Vulnerability and Self-Awareness in Leadership: Katie emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, especially as a leader, discussing how vulnerability and understanding your strengths and weaknesses can inspire and uplift those around you. Balancing Mission and Family: Katie dives into the challenges and blessings of balancing a growing business with marriage and motherhood, sharing her strategies for staying grounded and present in both roles. Key Quotes from Katie Walters: "Leadership is less about having all the answers and more about staying true to who you are and allowing others to do the same." "I believe in using business as a force for good, and with Frances and Benedict , we’re empowering women in Togo, creating opportunity, and doing it all through faith." "Marriage is the foundation of everything we build. My husband and I have made it a priority to not just survive but thrive in our relationship, and now we’re passionate about helping other couples do the same." Where to Follow Katie Walters: Instagram: @katiewalters_ Instagram: @francesandbenedict Website for Frances and Benedict: Frances and Benedict Katie's Passion for Ministry: Katie and her husband are deeply committed to ministering to couples and helping marriages thrive. Together, they lead a ministry focused on encouraging and equipping couples to build strong, resilient marriages that can withstand the pressures of life, family, and work. Through faith-based counseling and community outreach, they provide tools and resources for couples to grow together and strengthen their relationship.…

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EP8- Unmasking Self-Awareness: The Discipline Behind Real Growth" 14:21

20 weeks ago14:21