Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders - Building a Stronger Community Together - Presented by JCI Santa Clarita

In this episode of "Doggone Leadership," host Jimmy McCoy engages in a thought-provoking conversation with California Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo. Pilar shares personal stories that shaped her leadership journey, from her near-death experience in a childhood accident to her passion for advocacy and public service. She opens up about her family's military background, her experience in the labor movement, and her deep commitment to justice, courage, and integrity as core leadership principles. With her extensive background in fighting for healthcare access and workers' rights, Pilar offers valuable insights into what it means to lead with compassion and purpose.Listeners will also learn about Pilar's legislative work, including her efforts to support veterans and bring essential services to her district. The episode delves into the challenges of leadership in public office and how maintaining a foundation of integrity and empathy is essential in navigating tough decisions. Pilar emphasizes the importance of building coalitions and empowering others, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to make a difference in their community.

In this inaugural episode of Doggone Leadership (formerly known as Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders, host Jimmy McCoy, a former Marine, sits down with Monty Lunde, CEO and co-founder of Technifex, to explore the qualities that define enduring leadership. Monty, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 40 years of experience in the themed entertainment industry, shares his journey from a young entrepreneur to leading a multi-million-dollar corporation. They delve into the importance of resilience, the necessity of making tough decisions, and the value of cultivating a professional support network. Monty's insights, shaped by his experiences navigating economic crises and global projects, offer invaluable lessons for aspiring leaders.This episode also touches on Monty's approach to fostering a collaborative work environment, the significance of building a strong reputation, and the importance of being adaptable in a constantly changing market. Whether you're leading a team, starting a business, or simply looking to develop your leadership skills, Monty's story offers practical advice on how to maintain a growth mindset, cultivate long-term success, and lead by example in any industry.

Welcome to another episode of "Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders." Host Cesar Torres sits down with Jessica Escorza and Fallon Nelms, two co-chairs of Santa Clarita's 40 Under Forty. Jessica, a program director at Agape Village, and Fallon, an event planner, share their experiences organizing this year's event, honoring 40 outstanding individuals aged 18 to 40 for their contributions in the workplace and community. The episode delves into the selection process, the event's significance, and provides a sneak peek into the Hollywood Oscar night theme at Blomgren Ranch on November 30th. Join the celebration and secure your tickets at scv40underforty.com for an inspiring night honoring the leaders shaping Santa Clarita's future.

In this compelling episode of "Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders," host Cesar Torres brings together two remarkable segments that showcase the dedication of leaders making a difference in their community.The first segment features Stephanie Cassiano and Alex Martin, the co-chairs of JCI Santa Clarita's "Get Real" event, an innovative program designed to empower teenagers with financial literacy skills. They delve into the significance of equipping young minds with practical knowledge about financial stability and responsible decision-making. Through an engaging, real-life role-playing format, "Get Real" aims to bridge the educational gap by teaching students how to budget and make informed financial choices as they transition into adulthood.The second segment introduces Jimmy McCoy and Arnold Bryant, co-chairs of the inaugural Veterans Resource Fair by JCI Santa Clarita. Drawing from their military backgrounds, they shed light on the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life, emphasizing the need for support in accessing crucial benefits and services. Set to take place on October 22nd, this one-stop event at William S Hart Park will connect veterans and their families with essential resources, including veteran service officers, mental health services, family support, VA home loans information, and education benefits.This combined episode underscores the importance of fostering financial literacy among the next generation and supporting our veterans as they navigate post-military life. Join us on this enlightening journey as these leaders share their insights, experiences, and the profound impact of their initiatives.

In this exclusive interview, join Cesar Torres as he sits down with Justin Wallace, the visionary Director of Business Partnerships and Workforce Engagement at the College of the Canyons.Discover how Santa Clarita is transforming into the premier HUB for cutting-edge workforce technology education. Justin reveals the exciting initiatives and programs at the College of the Canyons that are turning this dream into a reality.

In this episode of the podcast 'Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders,' host Cesar Torres welcomes guest David Cantrell, VP Business Development at Solarverse.com Energy Solutions and Chairman of VIA. Together, they explore the importance of effective communication and discuss the networking opportunities available through VIA events in Santa Clarita. They also emphasize the value of engaging in charitable events as a means of personal empowerment. By maximizing your voice, they reveal how it can positively impact other areas of your life.

In this episode of the podcast "Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders," host Cesar Torres engages in a dynamic conversation with Roger Doumanian, an author, business coach, and business lawyer based in Santa Clarita. Cesar introduces Roger as the author of the highly acclaimed book "The Six Pillars of Business Success: Doing Business Right," while highlighting his expertise in business structure. Roger discusses his role as a business attorney, consultant, and coach, emphasizing the importance of establishing a solid foundation for business success. He explains that many business owners struggle with understanding the various aspects of running a business beyond their area of expertise. Roger outlines the six pillars he writes about in his book, emphasizing their universal relevance and the common challenges faced by all businesses, regardless of size. Throughout the episode, Roger's insights and expertise shine through as he shares practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and emphasizes the importance of being informed, equipped, and empowered.The episode showcases the deep trust and respect between Cesar and Roger, as Cesar acknowledges Roger's significant impact on his own life and praises his dedication to empowering individuals and building successful businesses. The conversation delves into the struggles faced by business owners, such as the need for comprehensive knowledge beyond their trade, and the potential pitfalls of rushing into entrepreneurship without careful consideration. Roger's passion for helping business owners protect themselves against legal and financial risks becomes evident as he shares anecdotes and provides actionable advice. The episode also touches on the forthcoming RDC Academy, an educational platform aimed at providing real-life business experience and practical training for entrepreneurs. Overall, this engaging conversation between Cesar Torres and Roger Doumanian offers valuable insights and guidance for aspiring business leaders seeking to build successful and sustainable ventures.Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode, VP of Marketing Cesar Torres chats with VP of Membership Brandon Roque. They talk about Brandon's career as a field representative for Senator Scott Wilk and some of his exciting hobbies. Brandon will be facilitating an upcoming self defense training for JCI Santa Clarita. Check out JCI's website or social media for details. Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode, Koren chats with 2022 chapter president Alex Hafizi and incoming VP of marketing and communications Katie Collins. They talk about the chapter's achievements throughout the year including the trainings, flagship events, new programs, and socials. Katie shares her marketing plan for 2023 and introduces her marketing team. Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode, Koren chats with Aimee Fishwick, Nicole Fauth, and Katie Collins, the 2022 co-chairs of Santa's Helpers SCV. They talk about their their long history as best friends, some of their favorite memories, and why they wanted to chair one of JCI's flagship events this year. This incredible program provides gifts to hundreds of local children in underserved communities. Volunteers from all over the Santa Clarita Valley are encouraged to be a part of the process of making the holidays brighter for everyone. For more details, check out https://santashelpersscv.com or visit us on social media.Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode,. Koren chats with Arnold Bryant and Taj Jackson, the 2022 co-chairs of SCV 40 Under Forty. They talk about their personal goals for the near future and why they wanted to chair JCI's flagship event this year. What does the award actually mean? Who selects the honorees? What is the process for applying and how can nominees increase their chances of being selected? Tune in to this episode for the inside scoop! For more details, check out scv40underforty.com or visit us on social media.Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode,. Koren talk to JR Hills and Kari McCoy, the co-chairs of Get Real: Adulting 101, JCI Santa Clarita's newest program. They talk about their upcoming simulation for high school seniors and what students can expect to gain from the experience. They share how they came up with the concept and what you can do to get involved. For more information, check out jcisantaclarita.com or visit us on social media.Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode, Koren talks to industrial engineer, Jammal Yarbrough. He graduated from College of the Canyons with degrees in both electrical and computer engineering. He's doing incredible things in aeronautical research and recently designed and built parts that were sent to space on RockSatX. They also discuss physical fitness and what motivates Jammal to always improve himself. 

In this episode,. Koren and Grant talk to Michelle Lambarena about well-being and mental health. They talk about which mental health issues are overlooked and how to deal with them. They also discuss their favorite Disney movies and other fun topics. Michelle is facilitating a training for JCI Santa Clarita on August 24, 2022 about well-being and mental health. For more information, check out jcisantaclarita.com or visit us on social media.Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode, Koren talks to Jason Gibbs who is the Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Santa Clarita, a rocket engineer for GP Strategies Corporation, a husband, and a father of two. Jason Gibbs was born and raised in Santa Barbara. He earned his B.S. and M.S. in mechanical engineering from Cal Poly San Louis Obispo where he met his wife Chandra, an electrical engineer. They've selected Santa Clarita as the home where they want to raise their two young children.Jason has served on the board for several local non-profit organizations and was elected to the Santa Clarita City Council in 2020. In this podcast, Jason opens up about the lessons he's learned from his unsuccessful city council campaign in 2018 and what he's done to build relationships in the community. They discuss how to lead in a diverse community and how to respond to adversity. Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode of Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders, we introduce a new segment called Community Conversations where we discuss issues that affect those living here in Santa Clarita. VP of Membership, Brittany Barlog, speaks with investigative journalist and filmmaker, Jorge Ventura. They talk about the illegal grow operations sprouting up around the country including right here in northern Los Angeles County. Hear about how the cartels are trafficking workers from south America and how the water theft affects the tax payers across the state of California. Jorge's new Documentary Cartelville USA is streaming now online.

In this episode, we talk about Health & Fitness. Koren and Daniela speak to personal trainer, Bryan Welch, owner of Built by Bryan. They discuss Bryan's journey to becoming a personal coach, the best smart phone apps for tracking calories, and easy ways to stay active. Bryan joins fellow trainer and JCI member Amy Suppes every month for a free group training before Coffee in the park.

In this episode, we talk about Santa's Helpers SCV. Koren speaks to event co-chairs, J.R. Hills and Justin Charles. They discuss the history of the event, changes we'll see this year, and what the community can do to help. Check the website at https://santashelpersscv.com for information about Santa's Helpers SCV.

In this episode, we talk about SCV 40 Under Forty. Koren speaks to event co-chairs, Brittany Barlog and Alexander Hafizi. They discuss the history of the event, changes we'll see this year, and what candidates can do to increase their chances of selection. Check the website at https://scv40underforty.com for information about SCV 40 Under Forty.

In this episode, we talk about Pack to School SCV. Koren speaks chapter president, Daniela Echaiz, and Pack to School co-chairs, Grant Guthrie and Cindy Curtis. They talk about the expected impact of this new program and fun events lined up for the summer. Check the website at https://packtoschoolscv.com for information about Pack to School SCV, Stuff a Bus, and It's a Great Bloomesday.

In this episode, we talk about the Save SCV Fund. Koren speaks with Christian Dadulak, JCI Santa Clarita's Vice President of Community, and the Cofounders of What's Up SCV, Victor Pena and Joe Turk. They talk about their experiences starting a new business in Santa Clarita and why they've all decided to partner on the Save SCV Fund to rescue small businesses in our community. The first event to raise funds for this project is Wine Not? Help Small Businesses at Wine 661 on Valencia Boulevard on June 26, 2021. For more information, please visit https://savescvfund.com .

In this episode, we talk about the world of professional fundraising. Koren speaks with Michelle Rey, Executive Director of the College of the Canyons Foundation, and Mallory Staley, Senior Consultant at American Philanthropist. They each have years of experience helping businesses, and non-profit organizations raise the money they need to support their causes. Michelle and Mallory are hosting a Fundraising Workshop with JCI Santa Clarita on May 18, 2021 at 6:30 PM via Zoom. Visit our Facebook page for tickets and information.

In this episode, Koren reconnects with Tom Iland to discuss some tips for public speaking. Tom has spoken to audiences around the world, presented twice at the United Nations, is an SCV 40 Under Forty award recipient and Top 100 honoree from JCI Santa Clarita, one of College of the Canyons Outstanding Alumni from the college of humanities, and a Ten Outstanding Young American award winner. He shares with us part of his journey as someone on the autism spectrum to becoming one of the very few Toastmasters Accredited Speakers in the world. Thomas Iland will be facilitating a public speaking workshop for JCI Santa Clarita on Wednesday, April 21 at 6 PM. For more information, check out the Facebook event page at: https://fb.me/e/ewXhzNWQp

In this episode, Koren revisits with his first two guests, Daniela and Chelsea, to see how they're using the skills they've learned in JCI in their careers.

In this episode, Koren talks to Cameron Smyth who is the Mayor of the City of Santa Clarita, the former Assemblyman for California's District 38, and a former member of the Santa Clarita Jaycees. Cameron Smyth is a Santa Clarita native. He was born and raised in the City and attended all local schools (Peachland Elementary, Placerita Jr. High and Hart High School). He attended college at U.C. Davis where he received a degree in Rhetoric and Communications. After graduating, Smyth returned to Santa Clarita and immediately became involved in the community, coaching high school volleyball and football. He also became involved in local politics joining the staff of then-Assemblyman Pete Knight and running his successful campaign for the State Senate. In 2000, Smyth was elected to the Santa Clarita City Council and served six years, including two terms as mayor. He focused his efforts on public safety, maintaining a balanced budget, economic development and growing the City's parks and recreation program. Smyth left the Council in 2006 after being elected to the California State Legislature as an Assemblyman for the 38th District. While in Sacramento, Smyth distinguished himself as a leader willing to cross party lines to solve the many problems facing California. His efforts were recognized in 2010 when he was named Chairman of the Assembly Local Government Committee, the only Republican to Chair a major policy committee. During his time there, he initiated numerous reforms after scandals plagued various local governments. In 2012, Cameron returned to the private sector after serving his six-year term. Cameron and his wife Lena remain active members of the community through numerous organizations like the Santa Clarita Valley Athletic Association, AYSO, PTA, College of the Canyons and the Henry Mayo Hospital Foundation. They are also proud parents to three kids (Gavin age 13, Rowan age 10 and Kenley age 6). Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode, Koren talks to Holly Weberg, the B2B Strategic Partner with Caesars Entertainment Corporation about the importance of trust in leadership. Holly has experience leading cross-functional corporate teams across 45 business units to negotiate, implement and manage a corporate-wide, multi-million-dollar revenue-gathering B2B and B2C partnership program that has earned top industry awards and involved delivering win-win-win solutions to a leading client portfolio of Fortune 500 companies. In her role, Holly grew the corporate-wide cruise program by 226% in the first year with continual annual growth of 8-10%. For achievements such as this, she was awarded the Caesar's Gaming, IT, Marketing and Innovation Award in 2013 and was nominated for Caesars Entertainment's top Chairman's Award in 2019 for Marketing Innovation. Holly credits much of her success and achievements to her ability to lead through trust with colleagues, teammates, clients, and beyond. She will be sharing with attendees on how to do the same so that they can excel in their careers, communities, and personal lives. Join JCI Santa Clarita on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 6:00 P.M. PST on Zoom for “Leading with Trust ” with Holly Weberg. Tickets are $5 for Members; $10 for Non-Members. Secrets of Tomorrow's Leaders is available on YouTube, Facebook, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode, Koren and Daniela speak with Heather Stewart, a Learning & Development Professional with over 15 years of experience in different business sectors. Heather has worked in various positions at notable companies such as Applebee's, Pinkberry, and Princess Cruises. Currently, Heather serves as the Manager of Training and Development for the Operations and Entertainment Department at Universal Studios - Hollywood where her responsibilities include managing the training process and helping to develop future leaders for the theme park. Heather is a long-time resident of Santa Clarita and a former member of JCI Santa Clarita having served on the Board from 2010-2012. During her time as a Jaycee, she was named Member of the Year 3 years in a row. Want to learn how to better communicate as a Leader? Join JCI Santa Clarita on Thursday October 29th at 6:00 P.M. PST on Zoom for “Communicating as a Leader” with Heather Stewart. Tickets are $5 for Members; $10 for Non-Members. During this training, Heather will be highlighting and discussing: - The communication theories and systems that helped her grow to be a successful leader in the Learning and Organizational Development field. - Her personal experiences that inspired her to be a more honest and caring leader, as well as what motivated her to be more confident in her role. - What methodologies and ideologies have worked for her during her career. - Insights into other methods and ideologies so that attendees can find what will work best for them For tickets and information, visit http://www.jcisantaclarita.com

In this episode, Koren and Daniela speak with Staci Daniels-Sommers, a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and consultant. She began facilitating intergroup dialogue over fifteen years ago as a college student and has continued educating others on diversity, inclusion, and ways to connect across difference in school, community, and nonprofit settings. Staci holds a BA in Psychology and Political Science and a master's degree in Social Work, both from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. She is currently a psychotherapist providing culturally responsive support to clients across California.Staci will be facilitating a training for JCI Santa Santa called "Connecting Across Difference."As citizens of a diverse community, we are often tasked with connecting with people who have similar and dissimilar experiences from our own. Leadership requires us to work across differences, which means we must both honor difference and find common ground. In this workshop, participants will:- have the opportunity to reflect on and share their unique experiences;- learn how to actively listen to others;-learn and practice techniques that support authentic communication across difference;-reflect on ways we can encourage inclusivity in the Santa Clarita Valley.To learn more about Staci's new diversity dialogue program for Santa Clarita Valley residents, visit: https://scvradicalcivility.com.For tickets and information, visit http://www.jcisantaclarita.com

Today's guest is Dan Williams, a career coach with Potential 2 Purpose. Personal leadership has been a pool he's swam in for over 20 years. A journey to figure out how to have a lasting impact that positively effects the lives of others. In 2000, he started devoting a portion of his time to working specifically with young leaders, because their world is an especially challenging one. To walk with them and add value is what he am designed to do. Potential 2 Purpose (P2P) was launched as a formal process that helps young leaders clarify their voice. It serves as a vehicle to move potential and vision forward. Dan considers it a privilege to enter the lives of young leaders and learn their stories. It is a greater privilege to help them write their future story, one module at a time. Dan is facilitating an online training with JCI Santa Clarita on Wednesday, August 26th, 2020. For tickets and information, please visit http://www.jcisantaclarita.com .

Today's guest is Corey Curties, a proven leader. He's spent over two decades in management with huge businesses training hundreds of people from shift leaders to executives. He's also started his own businesses and loves coaching others on how they can do the same. He just released a book called The 10-step Workaprenuerer: How to start your own business while working a 9-5 and balancing life. It's available on Amazon and select retailers.

Our guest today is Paul Butler, one of the co-owners Newleaf Training and Development — a staff training and leadership company headquartered in Valencia, California. Prior to starting Newleaf in 2006, he previously served in senior leadership positions with Hilton and Marriott hotels — in Europe as well as North America. Paul is a member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Chartered Global Management Accountants (CGMA). He has been married since 1994. Paul and his wife Gaynor have two children, Brodie and Henry. Paul is facilitating a training for JCI Santa Clarita about Business Financial Intelligence on July 29th from 6 PM to 8 PM. See http://www.jcisantaclarita.com for tickets and information.

In this podcast episode, host Koren Young talks to change management consultant, Jason price about the need to adapt for survival. Jason leads the adoption and change management consulting practice at Core BTS, a cloud technology firm in Burbank, California. He has helped over a million people move to and efficiently use the Office 365 and Google Cloud platforms. He is a JCI Certified National Trainer and a lifetime member JCI Santa Clarita. Jason lives here in Santa Clarita with his wife, April, and twin daughters. They talk about current events, working from home during and after the world of COVID-19, Black Lives Matter protests, technological advancements, and changes in how we communicate. Jason shares how one person, his old friend Michael Higby, had a major impact in his life. Mike introduced him to a new network in the Jaycees and encouraged him to take action in his life. How can we continue to learn and improve our lives during this difficult transition period? Jason shares his advice with us.

In this episode, host Koren Young talks to Robyn Shumer, the founder of What's Your Story, Inc. Robyn Shumer is a leadership development leader who seeks to amplify the skills and competencies, including ‘un-tapped' genius, in all. She is a storyteller and teaches the craft so that people are better able to share their personal and business stories in a successful and engaging way. She finds the bright spots in disorder and can make an audience laugh and cry. Robyn has travelled the country speaking to large crowds and intimate groups. Her career took off two years ago when she delivered a TED Talk. She shares with our audience the process behind creating a presentation for TED or TEDx, the interview process, how to write the content, and how it's shaped her life. She's facilitating a training for JCI Santa Clarita about Storytelling on June 24th at 5:30 PM Pacific. For more information, visit http://www.jcisantaclarita.com .

In this episode, host Koren Young talks JCI Santa Clarita 2020 chapter president, Sharlene Duzick. Sharlene has been an active community member since she was 16 years old, getting started in the Miss Santa Clarita pageant. She is the member services director at Henry Mayo Fitness & Health and serves on several non-profit boards including the COC Foundation, the WiSH Education foundation, and NextSCV. She has worked for the county of Los Angeles and the City of Santa Clarita and loves to get young people involved. We chat about the traits of a good leader, inclusion, and how to assemble a great team. For more information, visit http://www.jcisantaclarita.com .

In this podcast episode, host Koren Young talks to Michelle Lambarena, the Director of Leadership & Organizational Development at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, about her fascinating career path and what motivates her to train others. Michelle Lambarena's background includes 15 years of progressive experience in leadership and organizational development. She brings experience and knowledge gathered from a wide breadth of organizations such as UC Santa Barbara, Mervyn's, Starbucks, UCLA, and Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. She has a Masters in Organizational Development and is certified in Situational Leadership, Development Dimensions International, Crucial Conversation, Just Culture, and is a High Conflict Coach. her passion and vision is to help organizations "develop and train their employees so well that they can work anywhere, and treat them so well that they don't" (Richard Branson). She is hosting a training with JCI Santa Clarita on March 31, 2020 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Henry Mayo Fitness & Health. For more information, visit http://www.jcisantaclarita.com .

In this podcast episode, host Koren Young talks to Gallup-certified Strengths Coach Jenny Ketchepaw about her long history with the Santa Clarita Jaycees. Jenny is the VP of talent engagement for a Southern California business bank and a Gallup-certified Strengths Coach. We talk about different tests and assessments and what to expect at the upcoming Strength Finders Training Workshop on February 25th at College of the Canyons' Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center.

In this podcast episode, host Koren Young talks to outgoing chapter president Taylor Kellstrom about 2019 and his journey so far. Joey Levy chats with close friend Caren Kahan about past mistakes in Levy's Lessons.

In this podcast episode, hosts Koren Young and Daniela Echaiz talk to new members Christian Dadulak and Joe Bealer about Random Acts of Kindness. Joey Levy chats with close friend Chris Kahan about "failing forward" in a new segment called Levy's Lessons.

April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. Today's guest is an autism self-advocate and a best-selling author Thomas Iland. Tom has been a resident of the Santa Clarita Valley since 1993. He is a graduate of California State University, Northridge (CSUN) and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at the age of 13. Since that time, he has worked hard to achieve many of his personal and professional goals: full-time employment, driving, living in his own apartment and having a girlfriend. He has extensive, first-hand experience working for companies including Calavo Growers, Tetra Tech, Princess Cruises, Deloitte, The Walt Disney Company, Blockbuster Video, Regal Entertainment Group, and Hollywood Video. Leaving his career in accounting behind in November 2015, Tom now dedicates himself full-time to public speaking, offering unique insights with heart and humor in his engaging presentations. Tom has presented several keynote presentations on his mantra: Know Yourself. Love Yourself. Be Yourself. Other topics include interacting safely with law enforcement, and telling your child about his/her disability. His first book, “Come to Life: Your Guide to Self-Discovery,” is an Amazon best seller and has won several prestigious awards. An active volunteer, Tom serves on the board of directors for several non-profit organizations, including The Art of Autism, The Santa Clarita Valley Mayor's Committee for Employment of Individuals with Disabilities, and Santa Clarita Valley Safe Rides. He is also a division director for District 52 of Toastmasters International, and is nearing completion of the Distinguished Toastmaster Award, the highest award in the organization, indicating an outstanding level of achievement in both communication and leadership. Currently, Tom serves Junior Chamber International (JCI) Santa Clarita, more affectionately known as the “Jaycees,” as the treasurer. Tom joined the Jaycees after being honored with JCI Santa Clarita's “40 Under Forty” award in 2012 for his work with SCV Safe Rides. One of his favorite activities with the Jaycees is Christmas caroling in Charles Dickens era clothing during the annual Christmas event, Santa's Helpers. Tom has held the roles of secretary, treasurer, manager-at-large, and executive vice president.

In this podcast episode, host Neil Fitzgerald talks to Daniela Echaiz about her work with the social media team for JCI. Koren Young shares his experience with 40 Under Forty.

In this premiere podcast episode, host Koren Young talks to Neil Fitzgerald about his experience with JCI and Chelsea Orzechowski tells us how she's bringing back Politics on Tap.