Episode 316
In this episode of UNSCRIPTED, host Sarah Nicastro sits down with Hallie Johnston, US Director of Equipment at Henry Schein, to explore how military experience shapes corporate leadership, the delicate balance of empathy and accountability, and proven strategies for recruiting and retaining veteran talent. Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership approach or build more effective veteran hiring programs, this conversation offers practical insights. Tune in to discover why professional candor, clear expectations, and authentic leadership are crucial for success in today's business landscape.
What You'll Learn:
- How to balance empathy and accountability through clear expectation setting and consistent feedback
- The "Initial Counseling" framework for establishing two-way leadership expectations and goals
- Why professional candor and humility are essential for building trust and team effectiveness
- How to structure successful veteran hiring programs using SkillBridge partnerships and mentorship
- The importance of translating military experience into corporate value through manager education
- How to create supportive environments for veterans through Employee Resource Groups and transition support
- Why "leading from the front" and demonstrating willingness to work alongside teams drives success
- How to have difficult conversations professionally while maintaining team relationships and trust
- The value of continuous recognition and celebration in building team morale and engagement
- Why military talent brings unique perspectives and soft skills that enhance corporate leadership
About the Guest(s)
Hallie Johnston is the US Director of Equipment at Henry Schein, where she oversees full US dental operations and equipment business. A West Point graduate and former Army aviation officer and combat helicopter pilot, Johnston brings unique military leadership experience to the corporate world. Her transition from military service through roles at JPMorgan to her current position at Henry Schein exemplifies the valuable skills veterans bring to business leadership. In this episode, Johnston shares insights on military-informed leadership principles, including the importance of clear expectation setting, professional candor, and leading from the front. As an executive sponsor for Henry Schein's veterans employee resource group, she offers valuable perspectives on successfully integrating military talent into corporate environments and creating supportive transition pathways for veterans entering the civilian workforce. Her combination of military expertise and corporate leadership experience makes this conversation particularly relevant for service organizations looking to strengthen their leadership approaches and veteran recruitment strategies.
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