Through the Leadership Lens is a podcast hosted by Women in Propane that focuses on making the propane industry better for everyone. Hear from industry influencers about everything leadership! From what leadership means to them, to their experience with impactful leaders and how leadership styles have changed over the years. You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts.

Meet the Hosts:

Jessica Sheehan-Balderston

Jessica Sheehan-Balderston is a respected leader in the propane industry and a driving force behind innovation and customer-focused solutions at Rural Computer Consultants, Inc (RCC). With a strong background in technology and operations, Jessica is passionate about helping propane companies work smarter, strengthen their teams, and better serve their customers.

Through her leadership at RCC, she has played an integral role in advancing tools and strategies that support efficiency, growth, and long-term success across the industry. Jessica is also a dedicated advocate for leadership development and empowering women in propane, making her a natural fit for conversations centered on growth, resilience, and leading with purpose.

On Women in Propane: Through the Leadership Lens, Jessica shares her insights on leadership, industry evolution, and the importance of fostering inclusive, forward-thinking organizations.

Freddie Ridler

Head of Business Growth and Marketing at Rural Computer Consultants

Since joining Rural Computer Consultants (RCC) in 2005, Freddie Ridler has built deep expertise across customers, technology, and the propane industry. Today, he leads Business Growth & Marketing at Rural Computer Consultants, Inc. (RCC), partnering across departments and with leadership to drive innovation and stronger customer connections. Freddie is active in the NPGA community, co hosting the Through the Leadership Lens podcast with the Women in Propane Council to spotlight diverse voices and leadership stories. He also serves on the NPGA Board of Directors as a Services Section Director. Away from work, life is full with his wife Monica and their three kids—Madeline, Parker, and Rylan—who share his love for the outdoors and traveling.

Purpose: To be a high energy leader who earns trust and helps others succeed through knowledge, passion, and genuine love for the work.

If you have a person in mind that you would like to hear as a future guest on the podcast, email Freddie Ridler or Jessica Sheehan-Balderston.
Episode: PGANE #4 September 4, 2026
Title: Leadership Perspectives LIVE from Northeast Propane Show
Description: Join hosts Jessica Balderston and Freddie Ridler on this episode of the Through the Leadership Lens podcast by Women in Propane for a special LIVE PGANE Special Series episode featuring an incredible panel of leaders from across the propane industry. This live episode brings together Cassandra Barry (Ray Murray), Kim Callen (Eastern Propane & Oil), Judy Taranovich (Retired, formerly Proctor Gas), Leslie Anderson (Propane Gas Association of New England), and DD Alexander (Global Gas) for an engaging conversation about leadership, professional growth, and the future of the propane industry.
Episode: #59 August 5, 2026
Title: Leadership Growth, Navigating Challenges, and Mindset Shifts
Description: Leadership Growth, Navigating Challenges, and Mindset Shifts explores how even the most accomplished leaders still face stress, self-doubt, and setbacks—and how understanding our own minds can make us stronger, healthier leaders. Melissa shares her insight on intentional leadership, building confidence, and creating environments where people and teams can truly thrive.
Episode: #58 July 7, 2026
Title: The Mind Behind Great Leadership
Description: The Mind Behind Great Leadership takes a fresh approach to leadership by diving into the science behind how we think, regulate emotions, and connect with others. As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, former educator, and entrepreneur with nearly 20 years of experience, Erin is passionate about turning complex psychological concepts into practical tools that leaders can use every day. From emotional regulation and resilience to sustainable leadership and personal growth, Erin shares how understanding the mind can help us become more effective leaders, better communicators, and stronger teammates. As always, the conversation begins with our signature question: What does leadership mean to you, and how has it changed over the years?
Episode: PGANE #3 June 27, 2026
Title: Leadership Diversity
Description: In this special episode, we’re joined by two incredible women who each bring a unique lens to leadership in the propane industry. Cassandra Barry, Regional Sales Manager at Ray Murray Inc., shares how her leadership shows up through relationships, influence, and being a trusted resource across New England. Her deep connection to customers and the industry highlights the impact of relationship-driven leadership. We’re also joined by Kim Callen from Eastern Propane & Oil, a respected leader known for her people-first approach and her ability to build teams and culture in a meaningful way. Together, Cassandra and Kim offer a powerful and honest perspective on what leadership diversity looks like in action – and why it matters now more than ever.
Episode: #57 June 1, 2026
Title: Leading with Purpose in a Changing Energy Landscape
Description: Leading with Purpose in a Changing Energy Landscape explores how sustainability, advocacy, and strategic growth intersect in today’s propane industry. With a background in public policy and corporate sustainability, Shannon brings a thoughtful, forward-looking perspective on navigating complex challenges, influencing policy, and positioning propane as part of the broader energy conversation. As always, the episode begins with a simple yet complex question: What does leadership look like to you, and how has it changed over the years? From there, Shannon shares insights from her leadership journey and what it takes to guide an industry through change with purpose and vision.
Episode: #56 May 13, 2026
Title: Leadership is Teamwork
Description: Join hosts Jessica Balderston and Freddie Ridler on this episode of the Through the Leadership Lens podcast by Women in Propane as they welcome two outstanding leaders from Superior Propane – Kimberly Saxton and Erin Walls for an inspiring conversation on teamwork in action. Leadership is Teamwork explores how leadership shows up for both customers and employees, especially during times of transformation and growth. Kimberly, Vice President of Customer Experience for North America, leads large-scale, customer-focused transformation across the U.S. and Canada. Erin, who leads Human Resources Operations, shapes the people strategy and culture that power that success. Together, they share a powerful perspective on aligning customer experience with employee engagement.
Episode: PGANE #2 May 13, 2026
Title: PGANE Special Series: Episode 2 – From Innovation to Advocacy
Description: Join hosts Jessica Balderston and Freddie Ridler on this episode of the Through the Leadership Lens podcast by Women in Propane for PGANE Special Series Episode 2: From Innovation to Advocacy, a powerful conversation focused on the next generation of leadership in the propane industry. In this special episode, we’re joined by Emma Johnson (Lins Propane Trucks), Alissa Curtis (PGANE), and Charlie Ermer (Palmer Gas)—three dynamic leaders shaping the future of the industry in their own unique ways. From driving innovation and championing advocacy to evolving legacy businesses for the next era, they bring fresh insight into what leadership looks like today—and where it’s headed next.
Episode: PGANE #1 February 3, 2026
Title: PGANE Special Series: Episode 1 – Workforce Development
Description: Welcome to Episode 1 of the PGANE Special Series of Through the Leadership Lens, presented by the Women in Propane Council and proudly sponsored by the Propane Gas Association of New England (PGANE). In this episode, hosts Freddie Ridler and Jess Balderston are joined by industry leaders Judy Taranovich and Ryan Jackson for a thoughtful conversation centered on one of the most critical challenges facing our industry today: workforce development. Together, they explore how leadership has evolved, what it takes to attract and retain talent, and why engaging the next generation is essential to the future of propane.
Episode: #56 April 20, 2026
Title: Live from Nashville 2026 – NPGA Southeastern & International Propane Expo
Description:At the 2026 NPGA Southeastern & International Propane Expo in Nashville, the Women in Propane podcast Through the Leadership Lens recorded its third annual live episode in front of a packed audience. Hosted by Freddie Ridler and Jes Balderston. The conversation brought together industry leaders Stephen Kaminski (NPGA), Warren Patterson (Worthington Enterprises), Nancy Coop (Co‑Founder of Women in Propane), and Kim Folger (Folger Gas).
Episode: #55 February 10, 2026
Title: Behind the Show: Leadership, Teamwork, and the Power of Collaboration
Description: This episode offers an inside look at what it takes to bring the Western Convention Trade Show to life—from early brainstorming sessions and creative vision to the countless logistical details that make the event a success. Summer shares her deep passion for the propane industry and the people who make it thrive, highlighting the dedicated team working behind the scenes. At the heart of it all is collaboration – built on trust, clear communication, and a shared commitment to excellence. Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering others, valuing every contribution, and believing that when strong teams work together, truly amazing things happen.
Episode: #54 March 3, 2026
Title: Practical Human-First Leadership
Description: Join hosts Jessica Balderston and Freddie Ridler on this episode of the Through the Leadership Lens podcast by Women in Propane as they sit down with Ed Varney, CEO of Topline Management, to explore what it truly means to lead with a human-first mindset. Clear Communication & Believing in People highlights Ed’s down-to-earth philosophy on leadership—rooted in personal attention, clear communication, and believing in people before they believe in themselves. Through powerful stories of mentorship, confidence building, and navigating tough decisions, Ed shares a masterclass in practical leadership that puts people first.
Episode: #53 February 10, 2026
Title: Stories Connect People
Description: For more than 50 years, Ray Murray has exemplified service-driven leadership in the propane industry, earning the NPGA Distinguished Service Award and induction into the LP Gas Magazine Hall of Fame. In this thoughtful and inspiring conversation, Ray reflects on the power of storytelling—how stories connect people, shape leadership, and strengthen organizations and communities. As Chairman Emeritus of Ray Murray Inc., Ray marks 50 years with his company and 50 years in the propane industry. His impact spans decades of national, regional, and local leadership, including service as NPGA Chairman, Treasurer, Executive Committee member, Chair of the Conventions Committee, and Chair of the Distributors Section. He has also devoted extensive service to NYPGA and NYPERC, earning a reputation as a steady, trusted voice across the industry.
Episode: #52 January 20, 2026
Title: Being the “How Can I Help” Person
Description: ASK – Attitude, Skills, Knowledge
With 39 years in the propane industry, Tom Krupa of NGL brings decades of experience, leadership, and perspective to this episode. Known for his involvement in industry councils and his passion for mentoring, Tom has become a trusted resource across all areas of propane operations. In this conversation, Tom shares his leadership philosophy centered on focus, results, and service—showing up with a “How can I help?” mindset—and explains how his ASK framework has shaped his career and approach to leadership. Practical insights for professionals at any stage of their career.
Episode: #51 December 30, 2025
Title: How Leadership Changes Over Time — Leadership Isn’t About Titles, It’s About Action
Description: Join hosts Jessica Balderston and Freddie Ridler on this episode of the Through the Leadership Lens podcast by Women in Propane as they sit down with Barrett Conway, Managing Director of Cetane Associates, for a powerful and candid conversation on leadership in today’s evolving world. Leadership isn’t defined by a title—it’s defined by what you do. Barrett shares how true leaders grow through experience, adaptability, and an unwavering passion for their work. From building strong teams to thriving in “organized chaos,” he offers real, hard-earned insights on how to scale effectively, stay honest, and lead with purpose.
Episode: #50 December 9, 2025
Title: Power of Listening & Curiosity – Essential Skills for Building Trust & Driving Impact
Description: Hear from Kristi Wells, co-founder of SafeHouse Project and leader in the national anti-trafficking movement, on this episode. What You’ll Learn: Leadership fundamentals: service, listening, and curiosity; How Safe House Project provides housing and healing for survivors; What trafficking really looks like and how to recognize it; Why perseverance opens doors and failures fuel growth; How you can join the fight against trafficking. This conversation offers real insights into creating meaningful change. Listen, learn, and discover how you can make a difference.
Episode: #45 November 18, 2025
Title: Tiny Voices – The Children of the Propane Industry
Description: Safety doesn’t take a vacation—and neither does leadership development. Join hosts Jessica Balderston and Freddie Ridler on this episode of the Through the Leadership Lens podcast by Women in Propane as they explore how young leaders are shaping the future of propane safety and industry excellence. From asking the right questions to challenging assumptions, these emerging voices prove that fresh perspectives drive meaningful change.
Episode: #42 August 15, 2025
Title: Jessica Phillips, Editor in Chief, Butane-Propane News
Description:The Women in Propane Through the Leadership Lens podcast is back with another inspiring conversation! This episode features Jessica Phillips, Editor in Chief for Butane-Propane News, who shares her journey, leadership insights, and practical advice for building meaningful connections in the propane industry. From her early career lessons to the strategies she uses today, Jessica’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership is about authenticity, resilience, and lifting others along the way.
Recording Date: August 15, 2025
Episode: #41 July 25, 2025
Title: NPGA Southeast Propane Expo’s LIVE Podcast
Description: Through the Leadership Lens podcast returned LIVE for its second year at the NPGA Southeast Propane Expo! For 2025, the Women in Propane Council once again hosted a live, interactive edition where attendees heard from a panel of the podcast’s most popular guests and engaged with hosts Bridget Kidd and Freddie Ridler as they addressed leadership questions from the live audience. Participants reflected on their own leadership journey while workshopping the podcast’s signature questions.
Recording Date: April 5, 2025
Episode: #40 April 18, 2025
Title: Kim Folger, Owner of Folger Gas
Description: Join us in welcoming Kim Folger, the passionate owner of Flodger Gas and a dynamic leader in the energy industry. With years of hands-on experience and a deep commitment to her team and community, Kim exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and resilience.
In this episode, Kim shares her journey, the power of creating your own team, and how embracing ownership can drive growth—for individuals and the business as a whole. It’s a conversation about teamwork, leadership, and growing stronger together. Don’t miss this inspiring and empowering episode
Date: April 18, 2025
Episode: #39 March 21, 2025
Title: Angela Morrill, Executive Leadership and Life Coach
Description: Join us in welcoming Angela Morrill, she a transformational Executive Leadership and Life Coach who lights the path for leaders where wisdom, insight, and clarity thrive. She brings deep experience from twenty years in the manufacturing and service industries, followed by nearly a decade focused on leadership and organizational development.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, teamwork, and the true meaning of leadership.
Date: March 21, 2025
Episode: #38 February 28, 2025
Title: Rita Pecilunas, Sales Director at Otodata Inc.
Description: Join us in welcoming Rita Pecilunas, Sales Director at Otodata Inc. and President of Strategic Marketing Resources, to the podcast! Recently inducted into the LP Gas Hall of Fame, Class of 2025, Rita shares her journey into the propane industry, her leadership insights, and how she has guided her team to success.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, teamwork, and the true meaning of leadership.
Date: February 28, 2025
Episode: #37 January 31, 2025
Title: Megan Sharp, Vice President Operations Support at Ferrellgas
Description: Join us as we welcome Megan Sharp from Ferrellgas to the podcast! She shares her insights on leadership, shaped by her military experience, and how those lessons apply to business and beyond. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, teamwork, and what leadership truly means.
Date: January 31, 2025
Episode: #36 December 16, 2024
Title: Lisa Gerwitz, General Manager at Energy Distribution Partners
Description: This week, we’re excited to have Lisa Gerwitz, General Manager at Energy Distribution Partners , on the podcast. In the episode, Lisa discusses her thoughts on leadership and shares about her leadership style. We know you will enjoy this episode!
Date: December 16, 2024
Episode: #35 November 22, 2024
Title: Allison Abbott, Communications Director at World LPG Association
Description: This week, we’re excited to have Marci Ballard, Director of Corporate Development at Christensen, on the podcast. In the episode, Marci shares about her leadership style, how she found her career path, motivating employees, her industry involvement, and so much more. We know you will enjoy this episode!
Date: November 22, 2024
Episode: #34 November 1, 2024
Title: Marci Ballard, Director of Corporate Development at Christensen
Description: This week, we’re excited to have Marci Ballard, Director of Corporate Development at Christensen, on the podcast. In the episode, Marci shares about her leadership style, how she found her career path, motivating employees, her industry involvement, and so much more. We know you will enjoy this episode!
Date: November 1, 2024
Episode: #30 October 4th, 2024
Title: Nikki Brown, Co-Founder and Global Operations at Women in LPG Global Network
Description: This week, we’re excited to have Nikki Brown, Co-Founder of Global Operations at Women in LPG Global Network, join us. Nikki shares her insights on leadership, the value of consistency, and fostering a positive mindset within your team. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about her background and gain valuable lessons from her experience in mentorship and leadership development. Tune in to this inspiring episode!
Date: October 4th, 2024
Episode: #29 August 2, 2024
Title: Whitney Scurato-O’Toole, Women in Propane Vice Chair and Telemetry Manager at AmeriGas
Description: This week, we are joined by Whitney Scurato-O’Toole, Vice Chair of Women in Propane and Telemetry Manager at AmeriGas. Whitney discusses leadership, the importance of mentorship, her personal and professional development background, and more. Tune in to hear more about Whitney’s background and learn about her plans and vision as the next Chair of Women in Propane. Tune in to this great episode!
Date: August 2, 2024
Episode: #28 July 19th, 2024
Title: LIVE FROM CHARLOTTE! Women in Propane Roundtable Live Podcast
Description: We are excited to debut our first live podcast recording in front of an audience at the 2024 National Propane Gas Association Southeastern Convention & International Expo! Hosts Bridget Kidd and Freddie Ridler were joined by Christina Armentano, Tamria Zertuche, Lauren Clark, and John Peña for the Women in Propane Roundtable!
Date: July 19th, 2024
Episode: #27 June 24th, 2024
Title: Chad Kroening , Vice President Safety and Commercial Operations at Boehlke Bottled Gas Corp
Description: This week, we are joined by Chad Kroening , Vice President Safety and Commercial Operations at Boehlke Bottled Gas Corp. Chad shares his insights on what leadership means to him. Tune in to hear his stories from the propane industry and learn about the importance of family values in being a successful leader.
Don’t miss this episode!
Date: June 24th, 2024
Episode: #26 May 31st, 2024
Title: Kathleen Quinn Votaw , CEO and Founder of Talent Trust
Description: This week, we are joined by Kathleen Quinn Votaw, CEO and Founder of Talent Trust. Kathleen shares her insights on what leadership means to her. Tune in to learn how she emphasizes the importance of mentoring and caring for your team, highlighting these as the most crucial aspects of being a true leader rather than a bossy boss. Don’t miss this episode!
Date: May 31st, 2024
Episode: #25 May 13th, 2024
Title: Tonya Crow, Director of FS Sales & Marketing at Growmark
Description: This week we are joined by Tonya Crow, Director of FS Sales & Marketing at Growmark, as she talks about all things leadership. She talks about how important it is to walk through the open door in front of you when it comes to your career. Learn how she utilizes her state associations to benefit Growmark and the #1 thing she looks for in a leader.
Date: May 13th, 2024
Episode: #24 April 12th, 2024
Title: Paige O’Dell, Region Vice President at EDP
Description: Paige O’Dell, Region Vice President at EDP, joins us this week to discuss what leadership means to her. She talks about leaders she admires and how she works to eliminate barriers for her team so they can get their jobs done. Listen in to find out why she thinks the propane industry consists of some of the hardest-working people she knows!
Date: April 12th, 2024
Episode: #23 March 15th, 2024
Title: Erin Hatcher, the Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications at the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)
Description:Erin Hatcher, the Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications at the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC). Her leadership experience began in the Army, where she focused on leading by example. The skills she learned while serving our country were then applied to her role at PERC, which was a new industry for her, but the basics of leading a team were still her foundation. Thank you for all you’ve done for our nation, Erin!Enjoy
Date: March 15th, 2024
Episode: #22 February 23rd, 2024
Title: Leslie Anderson, President & CEO of the Propane Gas Association of New England.
Description:Leslie Anderson with the Propane Gas Association of New England, better known as PGANE, discusses her thoughts on leadership and how she got to the position she’s in today. Enjoy
Date: February 23th, 2024
Episode: #21 January 26th, 2024
Title: Tamria Zertuche, the CEO of Ferrellgas
Description: Tamria Zertuche, the CEO of Ferrellgas, discusses when she became a leader and how she practices at that every day. We hope you enjoy this insightful episode.
Date: January 26th, 2024
Episode: #20 December 1st, 2023
Title: Colin-Sueyres, the President and CEO of the Western Propane Gas Association.
Description: Colin Sueyres, the President and CEO of the Western Propane Gas Association. He talks about his views on leadership and how leading from the front can encourage a team to achieve the best results.
Date: December 1st, 2023
Episode: #19 October 20th, 2023
Title: Todd Mouw, executive vice president at ROUSH CleanTech
Description: Todd Mouw, executive vice president at ROUSH CleanTech
, a propane fuel system manufacturer, joins us this week to talk about trust and leadership. Tune in to hear his inspirational story about the rearview mirror and a windshield.
Date:October 20th, 2023
Episode: #18 September 29th, 2023
Title: John Pena, the director of education at the North Carolina Technical Education Center
Description: John Penan, the director of education at the North Carolina Technical Education Center
Our guest, John Pena, the director of education at the North Carolina Technical Education Center, has been a leader his entire life. Hear what he has to say about his military background and how he has been able to translate that to NC Tech. You won’t want to miss this riveting episode!
Date:September 29th, 2023
Episode: #17 September 8th, 2023
Title: Paula Summers, The Chair of Women in Propane & Sales & Strategic Partnerships of Civista Leasing & Finance
Description: Steph Hennen, Marketing Manager at Lakes Gas.
The Chair of Women in Propane, Paula Summers, CLFP, joins us this week to talk about the difference between management and leadership and the ways to truly make a difference at an organization. This is an episode you won’t want to miss! 😊

Date:September 8th, 2023

Episode: #16 August 18th, 2023
Title: Steph Hennen, Marketing Manager at Lakes Gas
Description: Steph Hennen, Marketing Manager at Lakes Gas.
This weeks’ guest is well known in the industry and a Women in Propane member herself. Steph Hennen, Marketing Manager at Lakes Gas, gives her perspective on leadership and how the 30 under 30 has helped her career. 😊

Date:August 18th, 2023

Episode: #15 July 28th, 2023
Title: Laurie Irish Jones, the third generation owner of Irish Propane
Description: Irish Jones, CEO of Irish Propane & Irish Carbonic located in Buffalo, President at New York State Propane and Gas Associaton
. In this insightful podcast, she shares her unique perspective on how to make a company last beyond your own legacy.. You won’t want to miss this episode! 😊

Date:July 28th, 2023

Episode: #14 July 7th, 2023
Title: Jennifer Jackson- Director of Territory Operations at AmeriGas
Description:Jennifer Jackson- Director of Territory Operations at AmeriGas, joins us this week to share her 20 years of experience and how she has changed her leadership style for leading her team. You won’t want to miss this episode! 😊

Learn more about Women In Propane Council
https://lnkd.in/eBGwJ9yj 😊

Date:July 7th, 2023

Episode: #13 June 16,2023
Title: Lauren Clark, president of Bergquist
Description:Lauren Clark, president of Bergquist, joins us this week to talk about taking over the family business and how she adjusted to her leadership role. You won’t want to miss this episode! 😊

Learn more about Women In Propane Council
https://lnkd.in/eBGwJ9yj 😊

Date:June 16, 2023

Episode: #12 May 26, 2023
Title: Brian Sheehan – Founder and CEO of Rural Computer Consultants
Description:Brian Sheehan, founder of Rural Computer Consultants (RCC), joins us this week to talk about how his leadership style and how to overcome roadblocks in the workplace. You won’t want to miss this episode! 😊

Date:May 26, 2023

Episode: #11 May 5, 2023
Title: Christina Grabo / Director of Sales at Blue Star Gas
Description: Christina Grabo, Director of Sales at Blue Star Gas, joins us this week to talk about the primary responsibility of a leader and who the most impactful leader in her life is. Happy listening!

Date:May 5, 2023

Episode: #10 April 14, 2023
Title: Michelle Bimson-Maggi / Vice President of Law at Amerigas
Description: Michelle Bimson-Maggi, Vice President of Law at Amerigas, joins us this week to talk about how her definition of leadership has changed over the past few years and the role her children play in workplace conversations. You won’t want to miss this dynamic episode!

Date:April 14, 2023

Episode: #9 March 24, 2023
Title: Christina Armentano / Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Paraco Gas Corporation Gas
Description: Christina Armentano, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Paraco Gas Corporation Gas, joins us this week to talk about what mentorship means to her and how her family has both inspired and shaped her actions in the workplace. Enjoy the episode!

Date:March 24, 2023

Episode: #8 March 03, 2023
Title: Dr. Rebecca Boudreaux / President & CEO of Oberon Fuels
Description: Dr. Rebecca Boudreaux, President & CEO of Oberon Fuels, joins us this week to what leadership means to her and how they restructured their organization over the past three years to allow for a fully remote workforce. Learn what worked and what didn’t for Oberon. Happy listening!

Date:March 3, 2023

Episode: #7 February 10, 2023
Title: Casey Cramton / President and CEO of Dead River Company
Description: Casey Crampton, President & CEO of Dead River Company out of Maine, joins us this week to talk about what leadership means to him and why people are the most important part of any organization. He also dives into the core values he helped set for the company and how those made an impact on the team. Happy listening! 😊

Date:February 10, 2023

Episode: #6 January 20, 2023
Title: Mike Rutherford / President at Rutherford Equipment
Description: Mike Rutherford / President at Rutherford Equipment. He talks about the importance of trust in leadership.

Date: January 6, 2023

Episode: #5 January 6, 2023
Title: Dan Richardson / President and CEO of Conger LP Gas out of Georgia
Description: Dan Richardson, President and CEO of Conger LP Gas out of Georgia. He talks about how true leaders succeed – by surrounding themselves with the best people.

Date: January 6, 2023

Episode: #4 Dec 16, 2022
Title: Stephen Kaminski / President and CEO at National Propane Gas Association
Description: Stephen Kaminski, President and CEO at National Propane Gas Association, joins us for a chat on leadership.

Date: Dec 16, 2022

Episode: #3 Dec 2, 2022
Title: Jennifer Jarboe / Senior Vice President of Human Resources at ThompsonGas
Description: Jennifer Jarboe, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at ThompsonGas, join us. Jennifer talks about what leadership means to her and how she enables her team to lead in any role within an organization.

Date: Dec 2, 2022

Episode: #2 Nov 4, 2022
Title: Julie Johnson / President of Ted Johnson Propane located in Los Angeles, CA
Description: Julie Johnson is am Immediate Past-Chairwoman of the Western Propane Gas Association and have been on the Board of Directors since 1997. She joined the PERC Research & Technology Development Advisory Working Group in 2016. And, of course, a member of the Woman in Propane Council.

Date: Nov 4, 2022

Episode: #1 Oct 14, 2022
Title: Nancy Coop / Director of Marketing at Cetane Associates & Founding Chair of Women in Propane Council
Description: Nancy is the founding chair of the national business council of Women In Propane, a director on the NPGA Board of Directors and is the FIRST woman inductee into the LP Gas magazine Hall of Fame. Check out Nancy’s leadership tips and what she’s learned through her years in the industry.
Date: Oct 14,2022
Episode: Sneak Peek
Title: Jessica Johnson / ThompsonGas
Description: Conversation with Jessica Johnson from ThompsonGas
Date: Sept 2022
width="300"
Title: RCC’s Fuel the Conversation
Description: Conversation with Nancy Coop
Date: April 2022
Courtesy: Rural Computer Consultants, Inc.

If you have a person in mind that you would like to hear as a future guest on the podcast, email info@npga.org

Women in Propane Council presents: Through the Leadership Lens

Through the Leadership Lens was born from a spark of inspiration during the Women in Propane Council’s (WIP) 10th Anniversary Celebration Summit in April 2022. Creator and Executive Producer Jessica Johnson recognized something missing in the industry: a podcast shaped by WIP’s perspective, one that captured the depth of leadership knowledge within the propane community. A few chats and a handshake later, the idea took root — and the foundation of the podcast was set. Soon after, Jessica partnered with industry leaders eager to bring honest, educational, and uplifting conversations about leadership to a broader audience.

The podcast officially launched in October 2022 with co-hosts Bridget Kidd, COO of the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), and Freddie Ridler of Rural Computer Consultants. From the very first episode featuring WIP founding chair, Nancy Coop, it became clear that this was more than a show — it was a platform for authentic storytelling. What started as a simple concept quickly grew into a respected series featuring C-suite executives, rising professionals, mentors, innovators, and even future leaders.

As the podcast evolved, so did its team. In 2025, co-hosting duties transitioned from Bridget to Jess Balderston, Co Owner of RCC, bringing a fresh voice and renewed creativity. Our editing and post-production are expertly handled by the talented team at Vivid Image, ensuring every episode is polished, engaging, and ready to inspire. Supported by marketing leaders Kirsten McAlpin, Alex Young, and Chelsea Uphaus, the show’s presence continues to grow across digital platforms. Whether listeners tune in to gain actionable leadership insights or simply enjoy the warm, engaging conversations, Through the Leadership Lens remains dedicated to making the propane industry better for everyone. Hosted by Women in Propane, the podcast invites you to meet industry influencers, explore what leadership truly means, and connect with the stories shaping our industry’s future.

If you have a person in mind that you would like to hear as a future guest on the podcast, email Freddie Ridler or Jessica Sheehan-Balderston.

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