Have your voice heardHave your voice heard

Meet Our Team

Kathryn Janicek
Founder, Chief Media & Public Speaking Strategist & Trainer
Kathryn Janicek
Founder, Chief Media & Public Speaking Strategist & Trainer
Kathryn Janicek
Founder, Chief Media & Public Speaking Strategist & Trainer

Kathryn Janicek is the three-time Emmy-winning media and public speaking trainer who helps leaders communicate more effectively to build trust with internal and external audiences and get the ROI from every media and public speaking opportunity.

Kathryn’s 20+ years of experience as a media executive and spokesperson means she brings expert perspective and guidance on shaping messaging and delivering with impact. Kathryn has trained and placed clients for GMA, CNN, CNBC, The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CBS Mornings, The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Forbes, Inc, The Chicago Tribune, and countless other media outlets.

Kathryn has personally trained C-suite leaders from CIBC Bank, UPS, First Onsite, Oracle, Deloitte, Peninsula Hotels, AbbVie, Uniphore Technologies (AI/Automation), CoinFlip Bitcoin ATMs, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, College of American Pathologists, American Dental Association, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, as well as many top ad agencies, tech companies, hedge funds, private universities, and financial firms.

She has also trained high-profile lawyers you see on TV regularly, home shopping network hosts, Food Network chefs, high-profile politicians, innovators of next-gen web3 technologies and currencies, and physicians from Harvard, Yale, NYU, Mayo, and Cleveland Clinic.

Kathryn trained reporters, anchors, producers, and reporters at media outlets across the country before starting her agency, Kathryn Janicek Productions, in 2015. She also served as the spokesperson for the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department managing the media and crisis communications internally and externally when the Interstate 35W bridge collapsed over the Mississippi River.

Raechel Karas
Executive Performance Coach
Raechel Karas
Executive Performance Coach
Raechel Karas
Executive Performance Coach

Raechel Karas is an experienced public speaking coach, creative producer, and performer living in Chicago. Raechel uses her acting and comedy training to enhance professionals' stage and virtual presence to ensure they command the room and make every message memorable. After graduating with a degree in Fine Arts from the University of Oklahoma, Raechel trained with The Second City in Chicago and graduated from their Conservatory program while writing, performing, and producing several shows with The Second City Training Center.

Cynthia Mufarreh
Executive Communications Strategist & Trainer
Cynthia Mufarreh
Executive Communications Strategist & Trainer
Cynthia Mufarreh
Executive Communications Strategist & Trainer

Cynthia is an experienced executive leader with a record of success in strategic communication planning and implementation. Cynthia’s experience and insight into how organizations function from the breakroom to the boardroom inform her belief that strategic communication is at the heart of business success, especially for companies in change and growth modes. Her decades of experience across a range of roles and industries give her a rare 360-degree understanding of how organizations function, integrating the whole of a company from culture to operations. Cynthia rose to the executive ranks in financial services across 27 years, developing a reputation as a strategic problem solver in key areas such as communication strategy, employee engagement, customer experience, brand revitalization, social responsibility, and regulatory compliance.

Jennifer Hammond
Media & Public Speaking Trainer
Jennifer Hammond
Media & Public Speaking Trainer
Jennifer Hammond
Media & Public Speaking Trainer

Jennifer Hammond is a two-time Emmy-winning sports reporter who pours her passion for telling engaging stories and serving her community into her 25+ year career with the Fox TV station in Detroit, Michigan. After starting her media career in Chicago, Jennifer moved to Detroit and has covered the Red Wings Stanley Cup runs, the Lions, the Tigers, the Pistons, MSU, and University of Michigan football. Jennifer understands the unique challenges of delivering memorable messaging in both live broadcast and recorded settings. This perspective allows her to provide our clients with valuable insight and guidance to help them feel confident on camera, on stage, in boardrooms, and everywhere in between.

Meg Lister, M.S. SLP
Dialect, Speech, Language, & Communication Coach
Meg Lister, M.S. SLP
Dialect, Speech, Language, & Communication Coach
Meg Lister, M.S. SLP
Dialect, Speech, Language, & Communication Coach

Meg Lister is a Speech-Language Pathologist, an Assistant Professor at Syracuse University, and an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of dialect, speech, language, and reading disorders. She is passionate about advancing the field of Speech-Language Pathology and enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing communication challenges. Meg has over 20 years of experience in teaching, mentoring, and implementation science in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

She has a robust background and expertise in speech sound coaching, language disorders, articulation, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorders, and developmental disabilities. I have effectively collaborated with a range of stakeholders, including schools, clinics, and families, delivering evidence-based assessment and intervention, ensuring a comprehensive and compassionate approach to addressing the complex landscape of communication disorders. Meg earned her Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions.

Hanah Vissepo
Community Manager, Have Your Voice Heard
Hanah Vissepo
Community Manager, Have Your Voice Heard
Hanah Vissepo
Community Manager, Have Your Voice Heard

As a seasoned Learning and Development Program Manager, Hanah brings over 10 years of dedicated experience in professional services and matrixed organizational structures. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated expertise in managing learning programs and ensuring the successful execution of training initiatives with a focus on making training as enriching (and fun!) as possible. Hanah has worked with Google, Microsoft, Autodesk, RBC Bank, HCA Healthcare, and more on complex global programming for their diverse teams. Before joining the world of L&D, she owned and operated a fitness studio in Chicago. When Hanah isn't working, you can find her with her husband and dog, exploring Chicago, or volunteering at One Tail at a Time. 

Ruthie Landis
Performance & Presence Coach, Executive Mindset Consultant
Ruthie Landis
Performance & Presence Coach, Executive Mindset Consultant
Ruthie Landis
Performance & Presence Coach, Executive Mindset Consultant

Ruthie Landis blends a wide variety of advanced skills and innovative modalities, collaborating with clients as they focus on their many layers. She teaches clients how to read the data their body language expresses, links it to their mindset and motivations, and gets to the obstacles that inhibit them from being fully present, intentional, and comfortable in their own skin. From that place of unbridled presence, the individual is able to inspire others, lead creatively and effectively, and embody their expertise with generosity, instilling trust and commitment from those they lead, collaborate with, and guide. She is an expert on personality and uses experiential learning drawn from her many years as a director, actor, and acting teacher. She is also a master of leadership skills, specializing in C-suite executive coaching, team building, and communication clarity. Ruthie focuses on body-centered psychotherapy/coaching, enhancing emotional intelligence, and expanding awareness. She is also a best-selling author and award-winning international workshop presenter. National workshops include clients such as Miller Brewing Sales Executives, ABC Network TV Sales Executives, Illinois Mediators Association, and the Illinois Association of Public Speakers, working with issues such as presentation skills, image development, teamwork, sales and communication techniques, creativity, and performance.

Emma Murphy
Public Speaking Coach & Vocal Performance Trainer
Emma Murphy
Public Speaking Coach & Vocal Performance Trainer
Emma Murphy
Public Speaking Coach & Vocal Performance Trainer

Emma Murphy is a professional vocal performance trainer who helps leaders command rooms and engage audiences. Emma teaches memorable messaging, how to effectively use your body on stage, and how to breathe more effectively so each client performs with impact. Emma is also a professional actor and earned a bachelor’s degree in Theater Performance from Bradley University. Emma has been working with Kathryn Janicek Productions for over two years and has trained executives in-person and in virtual trainings. Her insight and help have been invaluable to many. Emma is based in NYC and trains clients outside of NY via Zoom.

Darlene Obiyan
Makeup Artist
Darlene Obiyan
Makeup Artist
Darlene Obiyan
Makeup Artist

Darlene Obiyan is a seasoned makeup artist with over two decades of experience in the luxury retail beauty industry. Kathryn Janicek met Darlene years ago when she hired her to do her makeup for the Emmys. Now, Darlene helps our clients learn how to put their best face forward. Darlene’s love for makeup started as a young girl watching her mother put on makeup so beautifully. After graduating from Chicago State University with a degree in Business Management, her interest in makeup continued to grow as she managed several retail establishments. Darlene’s artistry can be described as clean, classic, timeless, and elegant. Her goal is to provide an enjoyable experience while helping you look amazing.

Grant Alexander
Executive Wardrobe Stylist
Grant Alexander
Executive Wardrobe Stylist
Grant Alexander
Executive Wardrobe Stylist

Since launching his styling services in 2014, Grant Alexander has combined his experience and success from his corporate days with his passion for clothing to empower people to be more confident and successful. He knows firsthand how styling can meet formality requirements yet offer the ability to speak to personality and ensure comfort, both physically and mentally, with options and freedom.

Grant has become a go-to personal stylist and clothing designer for pro athletes, executives, and entire boards, brands, and high-end clientele in Chicago and throughout the country with his brand, G ALXNDR. Working with people at the top of their game and field for nearly a decade, he understands how to make each experience effective, fun, and relatable. He is a trusted confidant to many clients, not just because of his talent for style and design, but the energy and attention he puts out to encourage clients to live their best lives every day.

Holli Kulpaka
Executive Wardrobe Stylist
Holli Kulpaka
Executive Wardrobe Stylist
Holli Kulpaka
Executive Wardrobe Stylist

Holli specializes in both male and female wardrobe styling, and has styled many clients for high-profile events across the globe. Holli curates a wardrobe that leaves you feeling confident and authentically you. She graduated with her Bachelor’s of Fashion Merchandising from Columbia College Chicago and worked with a renowned Chicago wardrobe stylist. "How we dress is how we present ourselves to the world - so let's elevate you and your wardrobe to the next level!"

Jewel Quackenbush
Master Certified Executive, Leadership, & Life Coach
Jewel Quackenbush
Master Certified Executive, Leadership, & Life Coach
Jewel Quackenbush
Master Certified Executive, Leadership, & Life Coach

Jewel is a dynamic coach with over 20 years of corporate background and experience mentoring leaders to succeed. As a trainer and operations director, she mentored all levels of companies, including managers, owners, and the C-suite. Jewel's coaching style is collaborative, empowering, and tailored to each client's needs. She specializes in guiding clients to escape and manage burnout, with time management issues, conflict resolution, developing a positive organizational culture, improving personal well-being, and tapping into their emotional intelligence and civility. Jewel's holistic methodology considers various aspects of life, including career, personal development, and overall well-being. She believes in the transformative power of coaching, empowering individuals to achieve their goals and reach new heights of success. 

Jewel's extensive corporate background as a leader means she brings an understanding of the unique challenges that come with leadership roles. Her coaching style is designed to help individuals and organizations overcome obstacles to achieve their goals while maintaining a positive and productive work environment.

Megan Fisher
Client Success Manager
Megan Fisher
Client Success Manager
Megan Fisher
Client Success Manager

Megan Fisher is an experienced project manager and client success manager with a passion for cultivating meaningful relationships and creating effective systems that support clients throughout their journey. Her ability to meet others where they are in order to better understand their needs and impeccable attention to detail both come from her background in acting, which she studied at Florida State University and The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Manhattan. Megan continued her education at The New School in Manhattan where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Psychology and Creative Writing. Prior to focusing on her work in project management, she served as the Social Media Director for a holistic health and wellness company in Los Angeles developing branding, creating content, and building an engaged online community. More than anything, Megan enjoys helping people find a path to their big-picture vision by breaking down the often overwhelming process into smaller, attainable goals.

Sasha Rowe
Project Manager
Sasha Rowe
Project Manager
Sasha Rowe
Project Manager

Sasha has an eye for detail and the heart and passion to change the world. She supports our clients to make sure they have all of the tools to continue their leadership development skills. Sasha is also a social entrepreneur and the Founder of Rivvly, a Virtual Assistant and Remote Work Wellness firm dedicated to empowering individuals and teams working remotely. Sasha joined the Forbes Young Entrepreneur Council in 2018, where she has been featured for her expertise in Entrepreneurship, Cross-Functional Leadership, and Branding. Sasha is also a speaker and has been hosted by Launch DFW/Dallas New Tech, Women in Tech/Women Business Center Dallas, and Propellant Labs, just to name a few. Sasha is a Texas native and has worked alongside Silicon Valley’s best in San Francisco.

Elliot Burlingham
Video Producer/Director
Elliot Burlingham
Video Producer/Director
Elliot Burlingham
Video Producer/Director

We love shooting videos with Elliot Burlingham in his soundstage studio in the Chicago area and worldwide. Elliot's dedication to his craft is always evident. Besides his technical skills and adaptability, Elliot is comfortable with his ability to make people look and sound great on camera and has an eye for beauty, lighting, and composition.