Kevin Battle Goes One On One

He is a Pittsburgher through and through and knows this region from the inside out….I mean DEEP inside….from the inner core of the region to the outer atmosphere.  His, and his employees, efforts ensure we heat our home and power our systems.  A very humble yet powerful leader who lends guidance to industry, consumers, and beauracracy alike.  He has a broad base of knowledge that is deeply tied to simple economics and family ties along with a strong moral upbringing.  From Shale, solar, and family-sustaining wages to climate, careers, professions, economics and individuality to The Pirates and Van Halen - we cover it all.  I hope you enjoy this edition of Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With:  Nick Deluliis, CEO of CNX Resources.' (Photo credit: Nick Deluliis)

She is the original ‘Undercover Boss' - having done practically every job on the West Mifflin campus.  She started as a fill-in, temporary, substitute teacher.  Now she is CEO of an institution that Forbes magazine ranks as America's #1 two-year trade school.  As leader of Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, she is ultimately responsible for training many of those who keep the airline industry flying.  I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: PIA CEO Suzanne Markle.' 

For well over 100 years, in virtually every U.S. military conflict since World War I, when trouble erupted and civilization dialed 9-1-1….the 82nd Airborne has answered.  Legendary and revered…the brotherhood of the silk has been written about, glorified, honored, mentioned in popular music, movies, a mere mention strikes pride in all corners of America and fear in her enemies. However so much heroism is lost as the family grows and treasured members pass on to an eternal duty. 227 members of the third brigade died in Vietnam.  This Memorial day we hope to share an untold story of that Golden Brigade and the 82nd Airborne in Vietnam and beyond. I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Author, historian Bob Dvorchak and the 82nd Airborne.' 

‘Sunshine, baseball, hot dog, beer: life is good.'  Steve Forbes.  This was a surprising remark from the Chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media.  Maybe I can get him to visit America's best ballpark here in Pittsburgh someday.  The invite is out there.  The publishing and business giant graciously joined me to discuss the hidden tax affecting us all:  ‘INFLATION: What It Is, Why It's Bad, And How To Fix It.'  In fact, that is the title of his latest book available now.  I strongly suggest that you read it. What causes inflation?  Is inflation used as a weapon against various populations?  How weak is our dollar?  Will Crypto rule or fail?  What should we watch for prior to the election?  Don't worry: The former presidential candidate boils down what many believe is a complicated issue into simple, logical understanding.  After all, for all the acrimony & fuss - economics is easy.  I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Steve Forbes & Inflation!'

We often hear arguments over drop boxes.  Some want more while others want less of them.  Is there a happy-medium?  One conservative voice has a simple idea.  He has a new documentary out called ‘2000 Mules.'  He says, “an anomaly does not prove fraud' but that data-tracking could.  Dinesh D'Souza asks that you, at least, hear him out before you role your eyes over another theory about the results of the 2020 elections.  No.  He is not trying to overturn anything.  But, his relationship with Donald Trump may surprise you.  The award-winning film maker and New York Times Best-selling author's aim was to, quote ‘put you at the scene of the crime' so you can make your decision.  But, what is a mule, why were some wearing gloves, and is it a coincidence that some people visited multiple drop boxes?  These are some questions we aim to answer.  I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Dinesh D'Souza and ‘2000 Mules.'

One of the jewels of the nation sites right on Pittsburgh's North Side.  It does not get Federal funding but the facility and its leader is nationally recognized.  Navigating the Covid-era was difficult.  However, the National Aviary at Pittsburgh actually was able to expand in some ways.  Some very beautiful and surprising ways!  The attraction and educational center is now keeping its eye on another developing situation.  It is open nearly every day of the year - except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day and a few others.  The National Aviary is home to 150 species and counting.  It is a tropical paradise, of sorts.  This Pittsburgh attraction has risen to national prominence and its leader is recognized as one of America's top CEO's and most respected executives.  She grew up in Pittsburgh and knows how important the facility is to the community, the country, and endangered species.  Her unique skill set is perfect for the national role she commands.

‘After being Shot & Bayoneted 11 times…do you think I'm going to let a few double-talking politicians and some cover-your-ass officers stop me from telling the truth?' - A quote from Herbert's War From very humble beginnings, a boy from Western Pennsylvania grew to become the most decorated soldier of the Korean War.  He was a national hero whose reputation grew even larger during the Vietnam War.  But, he was ‘cancelled' long before that term became well-known.  Not only cancelled but largely erased and forgotten from history.  Until a childhood friend, now close to 91, decided late in life to right a few wrongs and clear an amazing man's name.  It is a shocking tale of good vs. evil, media coverups, White House lies, murder attempts, suicide, and more.  This week America observes National Vietnam Veterans Day (Tuesday, March 29).  Hopefully, this story of a legendary figure who called our area ‘home' will be made into a movie. I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Lt. Col. Tony Herbert, Vietnam, and author Ron O. Kaiser.'

“Act right. Be right. do right.”  This is the mantra that helps guide a rising star in Western Pennsylvania.  The family man got into politics following tragedy.  However, his boundless positive energy has propelled him as he tries to revive a Beaver County city that has seen rough days.  He affectionately calls his hometown ‘L.A.' - Lovely Aliquippa!  He sees the town as a phoenix rising.  The inspirational leader keeps a full schedule…besides his job, he has a job!  So, how does he relax?  In Quip tradition relaxation includes sports and sports….and, sports cards….as well as, super heros.  And, to be candid, many residents consider him one, too.  I hope you enjoy this edition of Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Aliquippa Mayor Dwan B. Walker.

Her presence is magnetic!  You know the observation: “Some people brighten a room when they enter it; others when they leave.  Attitudes are contagious.  Is yours worth catching?”  Well, Dr. Kathy Humphrey lights things up!  What an energetic and charismatic leader that Carlow University has as their leader.  So, with all that said, how did she react when I told her 8-minutes into our interview that I forgot to hit record?  She let out a loud, deep belly laugh!  HA!  We were having such a comfortable and welcoming conversation that it simply slipped my mind.  Her smile, her laughter, her character are infectious.  It is no wonder that she has been so successful as she follows her calling of guiding and educating the next generation.  I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Dr. Kathy Humphrey, President of Carlow University.' (Photo credit: Carlow University) 

Movie Mogul John Mowod joins Kevin to discuss the rerelease of the iconic film.  (Photo: © Mike DuBose / The Tennessean via Imagn Content Services, LLC)

He loves the Commonwealth. His pride for Pennsylvania radiates from him as he speaks fondly of all 6 regions. His knowledge and appreciation of the state and its history are incredible. But, how did he rise to be the 46th Governor of the Commonwealth? And, what are some of the misconceptions about his term that he would like to clear up? How valuable was military service? The story of choices, situations, coincidences, and circumstances that molded his life while guiding his journey are amazing. He has been a US Attorney for the Western District, an Attorney General twice, and a lifeguard and mascot. Few know that he was born in Philadelphia and started his professional life after college as a teacher. His father was also a very influential Pennsylvanian who was integral in several visible and famous landmarks in Pittsburgh. I hope you enjoy this episode of 'Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Governor Tom Corbett.'

Who are the two largely forgotten men that helped propel Andrew Carnegie's vision of a steel empire?  How does an impressive young girl on a Fayette County farm grow up to tie it all together almost a century and a half later?  She was inspired to go into business through her father's leadership and a Western Pennsylvania nonprofit.  She earned degrees from THREE of Pittsburgh's institutions of Higher Learning but started out making Christmas wreathes.  Her life is loosely tied to Mr. Rogers, a historic hotel, and two TV variety shows.  So, how does party planning fit in?  Her business is essential however not all governments believed it was viable.  How did that effect various economies and how fatal were those decisions to our supply chain?  What is it like to reopen a major plant and expand during the Covid-era.  Or even be forced to decide to place a factory outside your home region?  She proves that all companies compete for the same good talent regardless of industry.  And, what does someone who is integral in keeping the steel industry humming do in their down-time?  Pittsburgh is known for its people - generations of which helped build the company she now runs and many others.  Can she help bring new business and industry to Pittsburgh?  It is my honor to introduce you to one  one of our highly accomplished, motivational, and dedicated young visionaries.  I hope you enjoy this episode of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Harbison Walker International CEO Carol Jackson.'

He says that it is the people that make our area unique and helped make it the home in which he and his lovely wife would raise their family.  Like countless others, the fiercely loyal New England-native emigrated to Pittsburgh for work.  His first crack at Pittsburgh media was to fill in for a vacationing legend: Myron Cope.  He passed the audition and made an instant impact on the sports heritage of our region.  His start in broadcasting was very humble.  The heights he reached in the City of Champions is that of dreams of journalism & communication majors at colleges throughout Western Pennsylvania.  Now, after 21 years in town, there is a vacancy.  A void.  We wish him all the best in his ‘retirement.'  I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Sports Journalist Jim Colony.'   

What was it like to be in the White House working with the President of the United States as the nation, and the world, faced a crisis not seen in over 100 years?  How were assets rallied from very divergent personalities in order to save countless lives?  How were those assets divided?  Operation Warp Speed is an amazing story that is made even more interesting when one realizes that one of our own, a Pittsburgher, was a central figure throughout it all.  The West Point grad wanted to be governor of Pennsylvania but his eventual role was much more important.  I hope you enjoy this edition of Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Paul Mango of Operation Warp Speed!

Out of all the quarterbacks in the NFL how tough is Ben Roethlisberger?  Who will replace him under center?  What do the Steelers do as an organization that sets them apart from other NFL franchises?  Was there an early indication that Big Ben was unique?  What is it like to represent so many superstar athletes in Pittsburgh.  What are the highs & lows of his business and how tempting and dangerous can it be personally?  He is not a native to our area however he has had a very influential impact on our reputation as the City of Champions.  What about Hollywood and was ‘Show Me The Money' really his personal line?  I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One with: Super Agent Leigh Steinberg.' (Photo: © Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

Millions know him as a Libertarian-leaning, free-thinking Congressman from Texas who began his professional life as a doctor.  However, many do not realize that the obstetrician from Lake Jackson, Texas is a Pittsburgh-native.  He is now host of the Liberty Report....and a former Presidential candidate….I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Ron Paul. )Photo: © Brian Powers-USA TODAY Sports)

From St. Nickolas to Father Christmas to Santa Claus to The Three Kings, For thousands of years all over the world children of all ages have independently celebrated the winter gift bringers during this Magical Season.  The techniques, style, methods, and imagery differ by region however the aim and goal is the same: Spread Joy To The World.  As millions prepare their homes for The Birthday Celebration and feast, let's take an ADULT journey through some of the history of the helpers.  I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Santa Claus Worldwide author Tom Jerman.'

Cape Canaveral, Houston…Pittsburgh?  Yes. His grandfather helped propel aerospace technology to unfathomable speeds so why can't he land on the Lunar surface?  Yes, a Pittsburgher has his sights set on the Moon. In fact, Mission Control is based on the North Side.  The entire region is contributing to the effort as suppliers provide metal and parts for the historic missions.  That is correct!  Pittsburgh will soon be known for Moon Rovers.  As a new industry is spawned along the Allegheny river our city awaits a very important launch date in 2022. Astrobotic is Pittsburgh's home team for outer space. I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Astrobotic CEO John Thornton.

From unthinkable evil to a guiding ray of light to pizza and Tonka toys.  We cover it all! The holiday season is upon us: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, and - this week - Hanukkah!   What does the Festival of Lights suffer from and why does the date change each year?  What is a really good gift that Judaism gave the world? HINT: Your boss may not like it.  What are some Jewish traditions and celebrations we should all know about?     He has loved Pittsburgh from first sight.  However, he knew little about our region prior to his arrival but now considers it a catch basin of culture whose crown jewel is its people!  The goodness shines through.  He now lives, literally, in Mr. Roger's Neighborhood.  Today, the English language does not have a term for his gratitude for the people of Pittsburgh.   From gratitude to forgiveness to the future of his temple and the faithful he ministers.  I hope you enjoy this wide-ranging exclusive conversation with one of our region's high-profile and influential residents who was, unfortunately, thrust onto the world's stage.  I cannot thank him enough for graciously granting so much of his time to me on one cold afternoon that I will never forget.  This is Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Rabbi Jeffrey Myers of the Tree of Life Congregation.' (Photo: © George Walker IV / The Tennessean, Nashville Tennessean via Imagn Content Services, LLC)

One of the Pittsburgh-area's newest arrivals is a seasoned and dedicated doctor….and CEO!  A unique combo for one very important job.  He is a polite, thoughtful, and dignified visionary who has his sights set on reimagining a Pittsburgh institution.  This high-powered and level-headed veterinarian graciously spent time with me just as he begins his new responsibilities and his family settles in to their new hometown!  Welcome to the neighborhood, Doctor. I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With:  Dr. Jeremy Goodman - the President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.'  (Photo: Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium)

If ever there was a person created for one job or vice versa, this is it!  His family roots in our region date back to our founding and his passion and knowledge for our history are unequalled.  However, his first book had nothing to do with us.  It was about the Civil War and the West.  Why?  And, how does a historian feel about evolving neighborhoods like the Strip District or the tearing down of monuments dedicated to the past?  Is he a picker?  Do we focus too much on sports?  How important was our Whiskey Rebellion for America?  How did the voice synonymous with Western Pennsylvania history find its love of the past?  And, how does ice tie together Washington County's earliest inhabitants, his office, and a boyhood treasure hunt that sparked a lifelong devotion to preserving, presenting, and teaching about the treasures that tell our amazing story?  I hope you enjoy this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Andy Masich, President & CEO of the Heinz History Center.' (Photo: Heinz History Center)

This is a special week with the celebration of the US Marine Corps' 246th birthday and the recognition of Veteran's Day.  It is one of the most recognizable and beloved structures in Oakland.  However, very few people know much about it.  It has a long history that continues to evolve.  There are big plans for Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum both inside and outside on the lawn!  That lawn and property is priceless but Oakland is growing.  What does the future hold and who is entrusted with the treasures of the history that the structure protects and honors?  I hope you enjoy ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: John McCabe of Soldiers & Sailors 

I recently had the pleasure of meeting with one of the most influential leaders of athletics in Western Pennsylvania.  A very humble, hard-working visionary who helps guide our region's future - one game, match, or competition at a time.  For her, it is not about personal glory but about the task at hand and the children who participate.   She is spearheading growth of our sports landscape and heritage.  Which sports will be added to WPIAL competition?  Is ‘gender' too big of a focus in athletics?  How can gender identity effect competition and how will it be accounted for in the future?  What about Name, Image, and Likeness?  Will high school sports follow college athletics in getting participants paid?  The Playoffs are upon us: Which matchup would she like to see as a fan? How does she find a work/life balance that so many of us struggle with?  And, with her busy professional schedule, what would she like to accomplish in her first contract as Executive Director?  What is this high-level athlete's dream vacation & favorite junk food? Have you ever wondered how the WPIAL gets its funding or why certain schools never host a playoff game?  And, why is Proverbs 31 so important to her mission as a professional?  Hint: She definitely ‘does not eat the bread of idleness!'  Listen and learn!   I hope you enjoy this episode of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: WPIAL Executive Director Amy Scheuneman.'

He grew up in the shadows of steel mills and rose to influential leadership as a lawyer, teacher, historian, and writer.  I referred to the park-like campus that he oversees as the crown-jewel of our city.  But, maybe he is actually that jewel as the Pride of Pittsburgh swells from deep within him!  He loves our region's history and character - and its virtuous characters.  In fact, this very accomplished resident wrote a book about them.  Many of those folks helped form his ideals in-spite of some of their collective short-comings.  His favorite aspect of the city - his MUST SEE spot for any visitor - will surprise you!  His knowledge and expertise expands well beyond Western PA.  Yes.  He guides a worldwide brand - Duquesne University - and its international campuses.  However, he also has a national reputation due to his expertise in the Watergate Scandal and the US Constitution.  That said, why does he hold Pennsylvania's Constitution in such high regard?  Was it because he was once nominated to the PA Supreme Court?  Will US politics ever see a viable third party?  Did this worldly, best-selling New York Times author, expert, and ‘Keeper of KDKA History' really wrestle a bear?  And, what upsets him about ‘chipped-chopped ham' - the staple of a true Pittsburgh-area diet?  Welcome to this episode of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One with: Dr. Ken Gormley, President of Duquesne University.'

He is a quintessential Pittsburgher.  Known around the globe for his documentaries that focus on our region.  However, he has travelled extensively so where would he live if he could temporarily relocate?  And, after discussing his heritage, is he related to Chuck Noll and Paul Newman?  Did he really consider a career on the Alaska pipeline?  Hmmmm.  Listen and find out.  He loves Pittsburgh because it constantly surprises him.   He is a historian who may have stumbled across long forgotten knowledge of the East Hills and a decidedly different name.   What priceless advice did his late friend, Mr. Rogers, give him?  He is responsible for ushering in the era of TV shows about diners and sandwich shops so how does he feel about today's nationally syndicated and very successful foodie shows?  And what so will this journalist, writer, narrator NEVER do? Thank you for joining us for this episode of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Rick Sebak.

She runs the largest transportation network in our region and is responsible for getting commuters to and from work safely while ensuring employees are also secure.  But, why did this history buff who holds a Bachelor's degree in the field apologize to historians!  And, how does a CEO/mother of two youngsters find work/life balance in a hectic world?  We had a great conversation about her life, family, and Pittsburgh.  But what about bike lanes?  We only have so much space on the Golden Triangle that is Pittsburgh.  How do buses navigate a congested, narrow system that is now shrinking due to bike lanes?  Covid really caused much pain and anxiety as she tried to ensure safety of front line workers - the drivers - and passengers as ridership slumped.  How have things bounced back and what is the plan for public transportation for the next 25 years?   Thank you for joining us for an in-depth conversation with the CEO of the Port Authority of Allegheny County!  This is Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One with Katharine  Kelleman. (Photo: Port Authority of Allegheny County)

Born & raised in Western Pennsylvania, she felt a calling to serve.  However, after studying in Chicago and Boston she was beginning a career in law and the family practice.  A quest for something else led her to help the hungry.  Her decisions and passions were honored as she was recently named ‘Pittsburgher of the Year.'  However her dream job was unavailable to her!  She is responsible for healthy food options for hundreds of thousands while transforming a system of getting those options to the most needy and hungry in our region.  We had a lovely, warm conversation about her life, her goals, and career moves.  Plus, her passion for food.  I hope you enjoy ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One With: Lisa Scales of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.'  (Photo: Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank)

I very much looked forward to meeting Mr. Walker and truly appreciate the time he made available for our meeting.  He is an aspirational person with the ability and knowledge and common sense to back it up.  He makes field visits every Friday and uses ‘frontline intelligence' in his everyday decision making as the boss.  But will we experience rolling blackouts like other regions of the country as we grow and upgrade our power grid for the demands of the future?  His leadership and residency in Pittsburgh began during the pandemic after serving as a Senior VP of California Edison power.  What about a balance of power sources: Fossil Fuels, Nuclear, Solar, Wind, Coal?  The success of our energy relies on good paying jobs and affordable energy.  So what makes sense?How does the President and CEO of Duquesne Light find a work/life balance?  What was the West Point & Wharton School grad's very first job?  How will the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative effect our power sources and jobs in Western PA?  He is looking for a cleaner future in which everyone wins including those working in the fossil fuels industry.  Welcome to ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One with: Kevin Walker' - President and CEO of Duquesne Light! Thank you!   Editor's Note: due to an equipment issue on my end, I apologize for the brief moments of digital static at some points of this tremendous conversation.

The race for mayor of the city of Pittsburgh is heating up!  He knew the city well from his earliest days but was never exposed to politics until his first day of college.  Efforts to help save an HBCU he attended paid off and sparked a passion for civic involvement. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, he didn't leave the city until he went to college to see what the world had to offer.  That journey ended with a gift for his mom: his diploma.  Now a veteran of state and city politics, Rep. Ed Gainey sets his sights on the big office on Grant Street.  Voters will decide if the man who defeated Mayor Bill Peduto in the Primary should serve as Pittsburgh's leader.   So, what did he learn and how did working in two previous administrations help mold his work ethic and build his vision for government?  Will he be able to bridge state and city politics or build relations with Harrisburg to benefit Pittsburgh?  How does he view the city's bridges and topography?  What are his thoughts on football, food, and vaccines?  I truly appreciate the time Representative Gainey set aside for me.  We had a great conversation about growing up in the 70's & 80's.  I really enjoyed meeting him face-to-face to discuss a wide range of topics including his journey.  I hope you enjoy ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One With: Ed Gainey.'  Thank you!

The race for Mayor of Pittsburgh is heating up.  Tony Moreno helped innovate policing while a detective with the City of Pittsburgh Police Department.  However, he admits that he was not part of the inner circle.  How will he fill the holes in the Pittsburgh Police Command Staff caused by recent resignations and retirements?  Is nepotism a problem within the ranks? I once wrote an editorial based on criticisms of Mr. Moreno.  Many felt I was endorsing him.  They obviously were pushing their own agenda and never read my article.  I would have written the same editorial had his competitor been slandered in the same manner.  So, how does race play a role in this competition for the most powerful office on Grant Street?  Regardless, in January 2022 either be the first African-American mayor or first Hispanic mayor will be sworn in on the steps of the City/County Building in Pittsburgh.   The city is relatively affordable but what can be done  to keep it home for Pittsburghers?  Are crime rates kept high so people flee which opens areas for redevelopment?   How will he ensure the south sections of the city are not forgotten?  What is 90=1? It was a great conversation with a visionary man who loves this city and is determined to lead and listen should votes go his way in November.  I hope you enjoy ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One with: Tony Moreno.'

‘In the cockpit! If we don't we'll die!'  A key statement from a passenger on Flight 93 prior to the commercial airliner slamming into a field outside Shanksville, PA.  Many overlooked this important quote when the black box transcript of Flight 93 was released.  Why was it so intriguing to historian Tom McMillan?  We all know the name ‘Todd Beamer.'  But, were there other heroes on Flight 93 and who was believed to have lead the charge and how does a former Monroeville resident factor in?  On this edition of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One With:' I thought I'd take a slightly different approach.  This Saturday marks 20 years since the Islamist attacks on the United States on September 11th, 2001. I distinctly remember where I was when I first heard of a plane crashing into One World Trade Center.  What about you?   Historian Tom McMillan was Vice President of the Pittsburgh Penguins on that day.  He is now recognized around the world as an expert on Flight 93 - the airliner that slammed into a field outside of Shanksville, PA.  How did that happen?  Interestingly, his book ‘Flight 93: The Story, The Aftermath and the Legacy of American Courage on 9/11' is the quintessential guide of that terror attack, the hijacking, and ensuing struggle. Thank you for listening to ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Flight 93 and Expert Tom McMillan.'

As a kid in the suburbs he had a deep passion for the city of Pittsburgh.  That has obviously grown with time.  To Bill Peduto, The job is magical.  However, at what point did he begin to wonder if his dream as mayor was actually worth the effort and aggravation?  After all politics has changed since he entered the scene years ago.   Honestly, I was somewhat surprised yet extremely pleased that my request/invitation for an extended sit-down was accepted without hesitation.  I very much enjoyed meeting Mr. Peduto in-person to discuss a wide range of topics: his youth, family, college, goals, first car, plans after he leaves Grant Street, Afghanistan refugees, and the sister-city of Wuhan, China, among many other things.   Yes, I declared that he was the ‘Brett Keisel' of mayors due to his famous beard.  How did he take that?  And, why does the color of the beard not match the hairs on his head?  And, speaking of color: what is up with the city's vehicle fleet?  And, what was it that the Dalai Lama found so infatuating? What is ‘the spot' in Pittsburgh that truly signifies ‘home' to him?  What about the riots, the demonstrations in front of his house, or the issues with policing?  And, when did he know that the recent primary would not end favorably?  Don't worry: the vacation he has planned will more than make up for any disappointment. On a very busy afternoon, the mayor of Pittsburgh spent much more time with me than was actually allotted.  It was a great conversation.  I cannot thank him or his staff enough for opening up the schedule to me.   I hope you enjoy this episode of ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One With: Mayor Bill Peduto.'  (Photo: © Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar via USA TODAY Network)

She is a positive visionary with enough energy to power the entire campus. Very welcoming, one could not help but feel comfortable in her presence. It was an absolute pleasure meeting University of Pittsburgh Athletic Director Heather Lyke. On a very busy morning ahead of a meeting with the school's chancellor, Heather Lyke was generous enough to carve out 30 minutes (or so) to speak with me on a wide-range of topics. Yes, we are aware that she is nominated for a major, national award. However, I left her office convinced that she is the perfect person to propel Pitt athletics and the city to all-new heights. She is a winner. What does hot chocolate have to do with her goal to build champions in life. Best view of Pittsburgh? What kind of relationships does she foster among various coaches? What are her real thoughts on NBA-bound Justin Champagnie? How does NFL star Aaron Donald feel about her football coach, Pat Narduzzi, and changes at Pitt? Fifth-year QB Kenny Pickett is back under center so what are her expectations for football? How did growing up in Canton, near the HOF, prepare her for her career? She is a nationally recognized leader: Who inspired her most? Which sport is her favorite? What did she not account for in men's basketball Coach Jeff Capel? How did Covid strengthen her department and was there any talk of cutting programs as a result of the pandemic? What are her thoughts and initiatives regarding Name, Image, Likeness for student athletes. These questions and many more will be answered. I hope you enjoy ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One with: Heather Lyke.' (Photo: © Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports)

‘Kevin Battle goes one-on-one with' is a new feature for listeners of KDKA to feast on.  Over the next few weeks and months I will be sitting down with some of the top influencers in the Pittsburgh-area and Pennsylvania.  Some will be famous….others will be infamous.  Yes, we will lightly touch on news, politics, or issues of the day.  However, I have will have no agenda with our guests other than to have a fun, interesting, unique conversation while finding out more about our region's newsmakers and shakers.  They are all accomplished leaders.  I want you to know more about the lives, visions, struggles, goals, and accomplishments of the major contributors of this place we call ‘home.'   I could not think of a better person to launch our first show than the Second Lady of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  How did her favorite bridge bring her to Braddock?  What is wrong with our immigration system?  Why does she really love DC?  What must she have every night before bed?  Did we almost lose the now-Lt. Gov to New Jersey?  What does her husband fear most?  How are Pittsburgh and Rio similar?  What is her dream as a US citizen? These are just some of the questions you will find answers to.   Gisele Fetterman wears many hats: Mother, Second-Lady, wife, activist, founder of various charities.  Some even refer to her as an ‘Angel of the Community.'  We had an absolutely delightful conversation.   I hope you enjoy ‘Kevin Battle Goes One-on-One with: Gisele Fetterman!'