Jim Fielding & Friends - Episode 0

Welcome to the very first episode of Jim Fielding and Friends – the podcast where we explore what it truly means to lead and live with authenticity, kindness, and impact.

This isn’t just a podcast about leadership—it’s about staying constantly curious, learning from people who challenge the status quo, and creating space for real conversations. Whether it’s a Fortune 500 executive, an LGBTQ+ trailblazer, or a visionary entrepreneur, every guest is here for a reason!

In this inaugural episode, Jim is sitting down with two people who were integral in getting Jim Fielding and Friends started; Podcast Principles founder Ryan Sullivan and strategic marketing consultant and longtime friend, Andria Younger.

Together they discuss more about what this show is and what Jim is trying to accomplish, why it’s happening and what you can expect in the coming weeks and months.


Episode Highlights:

0:00 - Introduction
1:05 - Meeting the guests and the podcast
10:25 - What drove Jim’s vision to do “something else”
16:02 - The art of the pivot
20:11 - Retirement vs. redefining
23:05 - What’s next for this podcast
35:14 - Episode wrap-up

ABOUT JIM FIELDING

Jim Fielding began his career on the department store floor, where he discovered a deep passion for face-to-face interaction and customer experience. That early spark launched a career spanning over 30 years in senior executive roles at some of the world’s most iconic retail and media brands, including Gap, Disney Stores, Claire’s, DreamWorks, and 20th Century Fox. Throughout his leadership journey, Jim became widely recognized for his commitment to developing talent and building inclusive, people-first cultures—believing that individuals perform at their best when they can bring their whole, authentic selves to work.
Today, Jim’s full-time focus is on sharing the lessons he’s learned. Through speaking engagements, coaching, writing, advocacy, and community building, he inspires leaders and organizations to create spaces where everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.