In this episode of the Nuclear Leader Podcast, host Bill Nowicki welcomes John Hernandez, Vice President at Arizona Public Service, to discuss his journey and experiences in the nuclear power industry. John shares his background as a first-generation American, tracing his path from studying at Georgia Tech to working at the Palo Verde nuclear power plant. He reflects on the challenges and opportunities in the industry, including digital upgrades, the role of nuclear power in the Southwest, and the importance of leadership and workforce development. Tune in to hear John's insights on maintaining the reliability and safety of nuclear plants, fostering a strong workforce, and planning for the future of nuclear energy.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:43 John Hernandez's Cuban-American Background

01:13 Educational Journey and Family Influence

02:42 Career Beginnings and Nuclear Industry Insights

06:21 Leadership and Personal Growth

10:19 Challenges and Achievements at Palo Verde

14:06 Importance of Palo Verde to the Southwest

17:46 Unique Cooling System at Palo Verde

19:09 Water Management and Evaporation Ponds

19:50 Challenges and Future Planning in the Southwest

21:06 Extended Operation and Long-Term Viability of Palo Verde

22:27 Exploring New Nuclear and Interim Strategies

23:53 Addressing Workforce Changes and Leadership Development

27:19 Internship Programs and Veteran Workforce

31:44 Diversity and Representation in Leadership

33:56 Closing Thoughts and Future Vision

In this episode, host Bill Nowicki interviews Nadia Bilchik, a communication and leadership expert with extensive experience. Nadia shares insights on improving communication skills in highly technical fields such as the nuclear industry. Key topics discussed include the importance of self-awareness, effective presentation skills, and how to manage and facilitate meetings. Nadia emphasizes the significance of maintaining relationships, staying current with industry trends, and the role of authenticity in leadership. The conversation also delves into the challenges women face in leadership and offers practical tips for leaders transitioning from technical roles to people-focused positions.

00:00 Introduction to Nadia Bilchik

00:49 The Importance of Communication in Technical Fields

02:41 Self-Awareness and Feedback in Communication

05:27 Crafting Effective Messages

07:43 The Power of Nonverbal Communication

10:08 Facilitation and Audience Engagement

14:55 Nadia's Background and Leadership Insights

25:04 Women in Leadership

28:29 Practical Tips for Emerging Leaders

33:31 The Role of Relationships in Leadership

35:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

https://nadiaspeaks.com/

• Bill shares his concern about turning podcasting from a hobby into a career and potentially losing the joy
• Andrea acknowledges many executives reach their goals but realize they've been building a life they thought they "should have" rather than what brings fulfillment

• Many successful leaders have forgotten how to play and what brings them joy
• The importance of "retraining" ourselves to have fun again
• Connecting with our childlike wonder and awe of the world
• How children naturally know how to play but adults lose this ability over time

• How criticism throughout our lives (education, work reviews) creates an internal critic
• We begin making "safe choices" to avoid the metaphorical "red pen"
• Children perform without self-criticism, while adults constantly judge themselves
• Learning to observe and quiet our inner critic is essential for rediscovering play

• Story of a CEO learning to play with his grandchildren by getting down on the floor
• How playfulness makes leaders more approachable and changes how people experience them
• Finding moments for play doesn't require large amounts of time

• Andrea shares how she creates playful moments with her daughter while caring for foster kittens
• Bill discusses creating "adventures" with his brother in childhood and continuing this practice as an adult
• How small moments of joy and fun can be incorporated into busy schedules

• Reminder that "work isn't forever" - jobs end, companies change, people retire
• The importance of developing interests beyond work
• Stories of executives approaching retirement with no idea what to do beyond work

• Andrea's practice of always doing something she's "really bad at"
• How being a beginner helps leaders empathize with new employees
• Learning to have fun while doing something you're not good at

• Bill reflects on Andrea's approach to leadership development
• The importance of taking positions that are right for you rather than just "the next step"
• Encouragement for listeners to seek coaching as they develop in their careers