Candid With Candidates
If you’ve ever wondered how people actually build careers inside major organizations, not just what they post on LinkedIn, this podcast is for you.
Candid with Candidates is hosted by Jenn Hahn, founder and CEO of J Recruiting Services, a national recruitment firm specializing in retail, wholesale, and distribution.
In each episode, Jenn sits down with corporate leaders, from CMOs and senior executives to rising directors, to talk through the real decisions, setbacks, and moments that shaped their careers.
This isn’t a highlight reel. These are thoughtful, honest conversations about what it takes to grow inside the corporate world, and how the people leading those organizations actually got there.
Whether you’re just starting out, managing a team, or already established in your career, you’ll hear stories that help you feel informed, encouraged, and more connected to your own professional path.
This podcast also serves as a space for leaders to share their perspectives and showcase their organizations, making it a valuable tool for both talent attraction and industry insight.
What you’ll learn from each episode:
- How real people move from entry-level to executive roles
- What leadership looks like behind the scenes
- The soft skills and mindset shifts that matter most
- How companies grow and retain top talent
- Honest advice from people who’ve done the work
New episodes drop every second Tuesday, starting June 3rd.
Make sure to follow Candid with Candidates wherever you get your podcasts, and get ready to hear the stories that don’t make it to the company bio.
Candid With Candidates
From Military background to President & CEO: Gabe Disbrow discusses the way answering the UNASKED QUESTIONS set him up for success.
What if your non-traditional background is the very thing that sets you apart?
In this episode of Candid with Candidates, host Jenn Hahn sits down with Gabe Disbrow, President & CEO of Leever’s Supermarkets, for an open and energizing conversation about leadership, ownership, and the power of showing up with purpose, especially when the path isn't linear.
From his start in the military to his entry level role at Target, his executive roles with ALDI, and now leading a 100% employee-owned grocery chain, Gabe shares the pivotal moments, missteps, and mindset shifts that shaped his approach to business and life.
Whether you’re eyeing your next big move or learning to lead where you are, this episode is full of gold.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to stand out in interviews and promotional conversations
The leadership shift Gabe had to make after leaving the military
- All about self-reflection and identifying your own gaps
- What it really takes to move from specialist to generalist as a President & CEO
- How Gabe used an MBA to fill a skills gap, and why he doesn't always recommend you do the same
- Practical advice on being present as a parent while holding a big title with big responsibilities
Connect with Gabe:
Next Steps:
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For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn