Owl Talk - A Sigma Pi Podcast

The season finale of Owl Talk features reflections and words of wisdom from six of Sigma Pi Fraternity's newest alumni. Join us as we talk with Zeta Chapter's Grant Holdren (Ohio Northern '21), Iota-Phi Chapter's Justin Zuna (FDU-Florham '22), Tau Chapter's Eamonn Kenny (Wisconsin '21), Theta-Phi Chapter's Zeno Zukovich (Penn Tech '23), Alpha-Rho Chapter's Joel Bell (Missouri State '21), and Iota-Rho Chapter's Ben Stafford (Keene State '21). These new alumni share their thoughts on what Sigma Pi means to them and they offer advice to the next generation of undergraduates from coast-to-coast.

Join us as we talk to Jay Montemayor (Seton Hall '87) to talk about higher education. Montemayor talks about how experiences at Delta-Epsilon Chapter shaped his professional career and, ultimately, inform his work serving first generation and low income students at the University of South Carolina Upstate.

In this episode we're joined by entrepreneur and Sigma Pi brother Bill Mooney (Fullerton, CA '81). Bill shares his journey from aspiring college baseball player to business leader and co-founder of 1790 Knife, a premium knife company. From early lessons in leadership and resilience at Sigma Pi to navigating the world of real estate, corporate America, and entrepreneurship, Bill offers practical insights on building purpose-driven businesses, finding your niche, and the value of direct response marketing. Plus, hear how his Sigma Pi roots continue to inspire his work and why giving back to the brotherhood means so much. A must-listen for anyone on the path to leadership and business success! Connect with Bill at bill@1790knife.com

Join Owl Talk as we host Grand Sage Christian Miele (Towson '00) for his second fireside chat of the biennium. In this episode, GS Miele makes a big announcement regarding the location of the 58th Biennial Convocation, talks about the progress that his committees and task forces are making, and provides an update on where Sigma Pi Fraternity is expanding to this semester!

The higher education landscape is changing by the day. Join us as Owl Talk learns from Dr. Matt Johnson (Saginaw Valley State '00) about the latest trends in the higher education industry that are impacting our chapters today and the future of Sigma Pi Fraternity tomorrow. In addition, learn about some of the volunteer work that Dr. Johnson is performing for Sigma Pi Fraternity to prepare us for the future!

From coast-to-coast, many of our brothers enjoy staying healthy and active in the gym. In Middle Tennessee, though, one of our undergraduate brothers is taking that passion and turning it into competitive powerlifting victories! Join us as we interview Tyler Sonnett - a two division, 2024 National Champion powerlifter - and talk about his training routine, what powerlifting brings to his work at Theta-Omega Chapter, and more.

In this special episode of Owl Talk, we bring you the audio from our 2025 Founders' Day Livestream, featuring an insightful conversation with Past Grand Sage Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth '00) and Grand Sage Christian Miele (Towson '00). Join us as we explore 128 years of our Fraternity's history, the values that have shaped our Brotherhood, and the lasting impact of Sigma Pi. Whether you missed the livestream or want to revisit this meaningful discussion, this episode is your chance to reflect on our Founders' vision and celebrate the future we are building together.

With Valentine's Day coming up, this week we're especially thankful for the women who support our Sigma Pi men. Join us as we talk to Alyssa Salvesen, who helped organize and promote the family activities during the San Antonio Convocation. As an alumna of Sigma Kappa, Alyssa provides us with her perspective on volunteering, how to manage a significant other while giving back to Sigma Pi, and more.

In this episode, host Joe Palazzolo sits down with Chief Development Officer Paul Wydra and Senior Director of Development Jacob Camilleri to discuss the upcoming 2025 Founders' Month of Giving. Together, they explore the critical role donations play in supporting educational initiatives, leadership programs, and mental health advocacy efforts like Bonds of Brotherhood and Engage. Paul and Jacob share insights on the impact of donor contributions, exciting incentives like Sigma Pi swag giveaways, and how chapters can get involved in a little friendly competition to boost participation. Learn more and donate: give.sigmapi.org/FMOG25

Learn about what it's like to be an entrepreneur from Giovonni Morales! In this episode, Giovonni takes you inside the struggles he faced as a college student, the lessons he learned from Sigma Pi Fraternity, and what ultimately led him to start Monkey Man Media in Tampa, Florida. Also, listen as Giovonni shares some advice that he's learned from his billionaire clients. 

Join Grand Sage Christian Miele and special guest co-host Jack Madden as Owl Talk looks back at Sigma Pi Fraternity's biggest moments of 2024. In addition, GS Miele talks about some of the Fraternity's plans for 2025 and the conversation takes a short detour to talk about spikeball! All of this and more as Owl Talk wraps up 2024 in this special episode of the podcast.

This episode of Owl Talk is all about college wrestling! Host PGS Joe Palazzolo talks with Franny Gonzalez (East Stroudsburg '23) to talk about juggling leadership as his chapter's Fourth Counselor and competition. In addition, he talks to undergraduate athletes Luke Petaccia (Monmouth '22) and 2024 Guy "Red" Mackey Award winner John Dooley (Monmouth '23) to discuss their experiences in both building and competing for a new program. The discussion delves into the challenges and triumphs of competing in wrestling, from navigating the unique demands of being part of a team to winning significant accolades. The brothers share personal stories about their wrestling careers, including wrestling through the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as managing the demands of college athletics alongside fraternity life. 

In this episode of Owl Talk, host PGS Joe Palazzolo sits down with Brad Poronsky, a decorated JAG officer in the United States Air Force and the award-winning Chapter Advisor for Iota-Delta Chapter at UTSA. Brad shares his journey from his days as a student-athlete at the University of Texas, where he was part of the 2005 National Championship-winning football team, to his current roles as a military lawyer and a dedicated alumni volunteer for Sigma Pi. Brad offers valuable insights on the importance of leadership, service, and building community through alumni volunteering. He reflects on his experiences mentoring undergraduate members, the lessons learned from his career and athletic accomplishments, and the immense impact of giving back. This conversation is filled with advice for Sigma Pi brothers, alumni, and undergraduates alike on how to stay involved and make a difference.

In this episode of Owl Talk, Past Grand Sage Joe Palazzolo sits down with Matt Healing (Monmouth '01), the head coach of Pace University's men's basketball team and an alumnus of Delta-Beta Chapter at Monmouth University. Coach Healing shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey to becoming a successful collegiate basketball coach, including winning Pace's first-ever Northeast-10 Conference Championship. The two discuss the impact of fraternity life on leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the bond that connects Sigma Pi alumni well beyond their college years. 

In this episode of Owl Talk, host Joe Palazzolo dives into the impact of community involvement with special guest Will Katabian (William & Mary '22), Sage of Alpha-Eta Chapter at William & Mary. They explore the story behind Our Williamsburg, a student-led group advocating for student rights and bridging the gap between college students and local residents. This episode offers a powerful look at how college students can build lasting connections in their communities and the broader purpose of fraternity life.

In this special episode of the Owl Talk podcast, host PGS Joe Palazzolo sits down for an engaging "Fireside Chat" with Grand Sage Christian Miele. Inspired by the historic radio addresses of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, this conversation offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the current state of the Fraternity. Christian shares updates from the recent Grand Council retreat, insights into key initiatives like the Growth Opportunities Task Force, and the importance of in-person meetings for driving the Fraternity's strategic direction. The two also dive into the latest developments in recruitment, alumni engagement, and upcoming programs, including an exciting first-ever national livestream celebration of Founders' Day. 

Join host PGS Joe Palazzolo as he welcomes David De Filippo (Fullerton, CA '87) from the Orange County Alumni Association for an insightful discussion on alumni clubs! Learn how these clubs operate, from organizing reunions to hosting golf outings, and discover strategies to elevate your events and strengthen connections within your alumni community.

Join host PGS Joe Palazzolo for a special episode of Owl Talk, featuring Grand Sage Christian Miele and Chief Executive Officer Jon Frost as they deliver the State of Fraternity address. Tune in as they discuss key topics like committee appointments, the Growth Opportunity Task Force, expansion efforts, and highlight the exciting new IMPACT campaign. Don't miss this insider look at the future of the fraternity!

Join host PGS Joe Palazzolo as they discuss the experience of being an international Student Athlete with Australian Max Pilipovic (Eastern Illinois '21). Tune in as Max shares insights on his experience in America as a tennis player, student, and Sigma Pi chapter sage. 

Owl Talk is back for a new season! Join host PGS Joe Palazzolo and Grand Sage Christian Miele as they discuss sustained excellence within the fraternity world. This episode features a special guest, Gunnar Mills, Sage of Iota-Tau Chapter at St. John's, the only chapter to ever win the Grand Sage Cup four years in a row. Tune in as Gunnar shares insights on upholding the legacy and prestige of his chapter with tips for other chapters.

CEO Jonathan M. Frost sits down with Grand Council Director-At-Large Ryan Post (Valparaiso '09) to discuss his career, experiences within Sigma Pi, and why he gives back to the Fraternity. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this special Veterans Day week episode, we're getting a better understanding of the military roots of Sigma Pi. Grand Second Counselor Christian Miele shares how the Fraternity's early days were shaped by the Founders' stints in the U.S. military and how their experiences as military cadets influenced the early days of the Fraternity. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this episode, Director of Programs Alexander Pettigrew shares information on the Fraternity's mental health initiative, Bonds of Brotherhood, and takes a look at the mental health resources Sigma Pi provides for members. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

CEO Jonathan M. Frost sits down with Grand Council Director-At-Large Justin Todoroff (Cal State Long Beach '01) to discuss his career, experiences within Sigma Pi, and why he gives back. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this episode, we explore the various channels through which your contributions benefit the Fraternity's mission and its members. Discover how scholarships, chapter educational funds, and more directly support the personal growth and development of Sigma Pi members, and learn how your support can shape the future of our Fraternity and empower young leaders. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

Diving deeper into the Fraternity's history, today's episode is all about uncovering the past gems that make us who we are. Grand Second Counselor Christian Miele (Towson ‘00) shares history on the Sigma Pi flag's evolution, comparing our modern Radiant Triangle flag with the "official" version that graced our banner in the past. Picture this: a lavender 5X7-foot banner with Greek letters "Σ" and "Π" in white, topped by our coat of arms adorned with a golden cross. Continue with us as we explore the transition from the original national Executive Council to the present-day Grand Council, and as we unearth the fascinating tale behind our Fraternity's official flower. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this episode of the Owl Talk Podcast, Grand Sage Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth '00) and Grand Second Counselor Christian Miele (Towson ‘00) to take a journey into the rich history of Sigma Pi, unearthing the gems that time may have tucked away. We uncover the genesis of Sigma Pi Memorial Day, explore the essence of honoring it, and trace the evolution of our Province names. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this episode of the Owl Talk Podcast, we sit down with Director of Field Support Todd Miller (UT-Martin '83) to unveil the Contracted Recruiter Program, where we share its origins, the remarkable team behind the upcoming fall season, and the program's objectives. Gain insights into how this groundbreaking initiative aligns with the Fraternity's mission and the anticipated outcomes for the fall and spring semesters. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this episode of the Owl Talk Podcast, we sit down with Lauren Winther-Hansen from FreeWill to discuss our partnership and how Sigma Pi members can secure their legacies. We explore the simplified process of creating wills, the importance of having one, and specific considerations for different life stages.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

On this episode, we chat with Director of Support Services Jake Reed and Director of Field Support Todd Miller to talk about Sigma Pi Engage. This is a new initiative to provide members with opportunities to learn, connect, and interact with others both within and outside their chapter through regional-based educational programming.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this episode of the Owl Talk Podcast, we chat with CEO Jonathan Frost and COO Greg Ritchie as they reflect on the accomplishments and challenges faced by the organization over the past year. They discuss the Fraternity's successes, including expanding the mental health and safety program Bonds of Brotherhood, strengthening the online new member education program, introducing an educational workshop for chapter leaders, and success of the a partnership for members to include the Fraternity in their will or trust. The podcast also addresses the challenges faced by the Fraternity and explores ways in which members can make an impact, while also revealing some changes and goals for the upcoming academic year. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

On this episode, we delve into the expansion process of Sigma Pi, discussing how potential opportunities are identified, the process, preparations, and challenges of establishing a new chapter, and the upcoming expansion efforts at Indiana University, California State University Sacramento, and the University of Rhode Island.  If you want to get involved in the process, please email Director of Strategic Growth Drew Carpenter at dcarpenter@sigmapi.org or visit joinsigmapi.com. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

On this episode, we talk with Jeff Mockaitis (Missouri S&T '93) an alumnus from our Alpha-Iota Chapter at Missouri S&T and a key figure in their capital campaign for a new Chapter house. Jeff and many other dedicated volunteers led the way for that campaign, and we'll be discussing how important that engagement is today. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

On this episode of the Owl Talk podcast (also available for the first time ever in video format), CEO Jonathan Frost sits down with Grand Sage Kent Varney. The two Fraternity leaders discuss Kent's journey in Sigma Pi, and what it means to lead the Fraternity in the role as Grand Sage. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. You can also leave a like on our Youtube video as well!

On this episode, we talk with new Chief Development Officer Paul Wydra (UMSL '96) regarding his recent hire, the creation of the CDO role, and what his goals are early in his tenure.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

You've probably seen our videos on social media from Convocation teasers to heartfelt interviews and exciting event recaps. Today we're sitting down with the man behind the camera, Max Hauser (Wisconsin-Oshkosh '14). Max provides keep insight into how chapter's can capture their important moments through video.  Got a question for Max? Just send him an email at Max@liminalvisionfilms.com.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

This week we have the pleasure of chatting with Russell Kizior, our Director of Events, who plans and executes all our national and regional Sigma Pi events. Russell gives some insight into the best practices to make chapter and alumni events success. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

This year, the brothers of Theta Chapter at Penn State raised $274,145 for THON. Penn State as a whole raised $15 million for children with childhood cancer. Zachary Michael ('21), Pat Doherty ('20), and Matthew Klein ('20) from Theta Chapter join us to discuss the event and their participation. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

For this episode, we sit down with Paul Ke (Purdue '88) and David Magnano (Worcester Polytechnic '10) to discuss the Ritual Committee and the Fraternity's Master of Ritual program. Learn more about the program at sigmapi.org/mor. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

You never know who you're going to strike up a friendship with! In this episode, we chat with Blake Hill (Middle Tennessee '20) and Brett Jackson (Coastal Carolina '22) about a chance meeting on spring break that led to a friendship, and later, a brotherhood.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

Here's another partner spotlight edition of our podcast! We're excited to sit down and chat with Brandon Chaney, the CEO of Fairwinds Estate Winery, the parent company of Radiant Napa - our official wine partner. Get ready to hear about the future plans of this amazing company and find out how you can be a part of it all. Don't miss this opportunity to indulge in the best wines around, head over to radiantnapa.com and subscribe today! Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

On this episode, we talk with COO Greg Ritchie (UMSL '98) regarding his recent hire, the creation of the COO role, and what his goals are early in his tenure.  You can learn more about the opportunity to work for Sigma Pi by visiting the Employment Opportunities page on our website.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

On this episode, we talk with Director of Support Services Jake Reed about the current search for new Support Services Consultants for the 2023-24 academic year. Additionally, current Support Services Consultant Nathen Andrews joins in to share his thoughts on the role. You can learn more about the opportunity to work for Sigma Pi by visiting the Employment Opportunities page on our website.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this episode we are joined by Director of Programs Alexander Pettigrew for a discussion around the Tony Siress Leadership Summit. You can learn more about this conference on our website at sigmapi.org/TSLS.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

In this episode we are joined by Director of Programs Alexander Pettigrew for a discussion around the Mid-Year Leadership Conference. You can learn more about this conference on our website at sigmapi.org/MYLC.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

For this Owl Talk, we have the pleasure of chatting with Woody Woodcock! Woody serves as the Vice President of Customer Success with Phired Up, who is an established partner of Sigma Pi for recruitment efforts around North America.  Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

For this Owl Talk, we are sharing with you a snippet of one of our episodes of the Leadership Speakers Series featuring Eric Cole (Ferris State '07) which took place on September 17, 2021. The Leadership Speaker Series is a bi-monthly virtual event featuring alumni from across the landscape of Sigma Pi. To learn more about the event, visit sigmapi.org/LSS. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

For this Owl Talk, we are sharing with you a snippet of one of our episodes of the Leadership Speakers Series featuring Jack Lazar (Santa Clara '85) which took place on Tuesday, January 11, 2022. The Leadership Speaker Series is a bi-monthly virtual event featuring alumni from across the landscape of Sigma Pi. To learn more about the event, visit sigmapi.org/LSS. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

On this episode of the Owl Talk Podcast, Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving Jacob Camilleri (Saginaw Valley State ‘14) provides our listeners with a rundown of ways to engage with the Fraternity through volunteerism!  For more information, visit sigmapi.org/volunteer. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.   

On this episode of the Owl Talk Podcast, we are joined by Elections Board Chairman Kevin Carey (Illinois Wesleyan '09) to talk about the upcoming Convocation Elections. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. 

On this episode, we are excited to introduce our listeners to some new additions to the Sigma Pi Executive Office: Assistant Director of Chapter Support, Jake Reed, and Undergraduate Support Consultant, Nathen Andrews. You can learn more about them by reading their introduction articles on theemerald.org. Be sure to follow us on social media at @sigmapi! And don't forget to subscribe, and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.