Description:

In this episode of Evolving to Exceptional, host Jessica Tietjen welcomes Sarah Jamison, Vice President of Human Resources at a local St. Louis nonprofit and international bestselling author. Together, they explore the growing mental health challenges impacting workplaces and why cultivating a true culture of care is no longer optional—it's essential.

Sarah shares her insights from decades in HR across industries, highlighting how today's polarizing environment affects employee wellbeing, civility, and communication. They discuss why mental health must be approached holistically, how organizations can better support their people, and why personal awareness is key to showing up as an empathetic leader.

Key Topics Covered:

• The hidden mental health challenges impacting communication and behavior

• Moving beyond surface-level “work-life balance” to whole-life integration

• Why a true culture of care improves both performance and wellbeing

• Small, daily practices to prevent emotional overload

• The dangers of ignoring subtle stressors—and how they build over time

If you're a leader, HR professional, or anyone passionate about building healthier workplaces, this conversation offers practical insights you can apply immediately.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where Sarah and Jessica dive into conflict prevention, nervous system awareness, and how leaders can cultivate emotional resilience—for themselves and their teams.

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About Sarah Jamison:

Sarah Jamison is a proud resident of the Lou and grew up in St. Louis city and county.

With more than 25 years of service in human resources management, Sarah brings broad-based experience and leadership in evolving environments. She has served in successive roles leading human resources strategy and supporting positive workplace culture in organizations of diverse sizes, and with multi-state and a global presence. Sarah has also held leadership roles in a local school district and a local university. Her current role is Vice President of Human Resources for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri (BBBSEMO).

For over a decade, Sarah has provided consultation services, including workforce readiness workshops and strategic guidance, and coaching to clientele including state government and non-profit organizations. Sarah obtained a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Kansas, Lawrence and a Master's degree in Human Resources Management from Webster University, in addition to a list of supplementary industry certifications.

(Sarah's quote – 'why I love HR')

"One of my core values is serving and caring for others. Human Resources speaks to my core and allows me to advocate and support in meaningful ways. I am invigorated by the opportunity to serve and help elevate a culture of care that helps others flourish and fulfill professional and personal goals. It's not about me; it's about us and how we invest in community to achieve the greater good" St. Louis Area Diaper Bank is another way to serve, give back and make a greater impact in our region and beyond.

Sarah is the mother of one daughter who owns a thriving Physical Therapy practice serving women's fertility and pelvic health. Sarah's daughter and son-in-love reside in Los Angeles, California.

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