Take The Hill - A Leadership Podcast

With more than 46 years of live entertainment expertise, Ed Traversari has been a part of the entertainment scene in Western PA and beyond. He has worked for Pittsburgh concert promoters company DiCesare Engler Productions as a production manager, talent booker, director of marketing and general manager of the Chevrolet Amphitheatre at Station Square. DiCesare Engler produced concerts at the Stanley Theatre (which they later sold to the Cultural District to become The Benedum Center), the Syria Mosque, AJ Palumbo Center, Mellon Arena, Heinz Field, PNC Park and Chevrolet Amphitheatre at Station Square, among others.  In addition to teaching, Traversari consults for a number of clients including Heinz Hall, Seven Springs Resort, The Pittsburgh Irish Festival, PBS Television Concert Series and Carnegie Science Center. He also helped produce The Joe Grushecky/Bruce Springsteen shows at Soldiers and Sailors Hall and The Bob Marley Celebration at The Benedum Center. 00:00  Welcome to Episode 36 00:25  Updates with Dennis, Angelo and Patrick 03:00  Introducing Ed Traversari 04:40  From Drummer to exploring the business of entertainment 07:00  The Guess Who and the Student Activities Committee 11:00   Bookings, Agents, and first concerts 14:00   Wanted:  Runner @ DiCesare Engler 18:50   Air America, Jeff Beck, Jefferson Airplane and a Rolls Royce 22:00  Stanley Theater, Syria Mosque, IC Light Amphitheater, Star Lake Amphitheater 27:50  What should students be doing today to gain entry into the industry? 28:45  Marketing, Accounting, Booking, General Manager to College Professor 39:55  The synergy between passion, perseverance and pursuit of a Career 44:00  The Irony of SlipKnot 46:00  Agents, Settlers, Managers, and Promoters 49:20  Settling a Show 52:30  Show Plaques and a unique Trophy for Bon Jovi 58:00  In terms of your career, is following your passion and taking calculated risks still applicable today? 01:01:00  Nazareth, Stanley Theater and feet dangling from a Chandelier 01:04:30  Rapid Fire Questions for Ed                  #1  Favorite Artists to Work With?                  #2  One Artist you could bring back for a Day                  #3  Favorite Vocalist 01:21:00  Frankie Valli still singing at 89 years of age! 01:22:30  Reflection and Final Thoughts from Ed Traversari 01:25:30  Check out Good Karma on Facebook to see Ed and his band Perform !! 01:27:25  Final Thoughts from Angelo, Dennis and Patrick 01:31:30  Photos with Artists over the years! 01:31:40  Closing Credits  

Steve Adelkoff joins us to explore global events shaping our economies, regional conflict, currency valuation, Anti-Fragile systems, and so much more. This episode will begin to provide some insight as well as pose questions worth pondering given the amount of historic change happening around us daily. 00:00 Welcome to Episode #35 00:15 Point Park University Graduation 00:30 Check out Steve in Episodes #9 and #25 04:30 Update with Angelo and Patrick 06:45 Welcome back Steve Adelkoff 09:40 The Big Players and a Confluence of Events 16:35 The Impact of Global Influence 24:00 Shortening Supply Chains impact upon global Relationships 37:00 AntiFragile Systems and Free Markets 48:00 Do these global events really impact everyday lives? 55:00 Are Nations simply imposing their will as opposed to supporting expression of cultural norms and values? 58:00. How does the conflict in Ukraine get resolved? 1:05:00 Has trust finally been destroyed between nation states? 1:08:40 Will the U.S. Dollar ever be replaced as the Reserve Currency? 1:13:05 Is the U.S. shifting away from an extended period of stability? 1:15:00. Steve's Final Thoughts: The Promise of Sanctions! 1:16:15 Final Thoughts with Angelo and Patrick 1:18:40 Closing Theme

Patrick, Dennis and Angelo welcome to the studio Kate Bodner. Kate is a London based Creative that has blended her love for the Performing Arts with Augmented and Virtual Reality. Having lived in Ireland, Australia, and now London, she is embarking upon an exciting career after completing her Master's Degree in Big Data Culture & Society at Kings College London. We look forward to sharing with you her journey as well as some local insight to fantastic 'Spoons' located around the London area. 00:00 Welcome to the Show 00:25 Update with Dennis, Angelo, and Patrick 03:33 Kate Bodner: Welcome to the Show! 05:40 Kate's beginning within Performing Arts 05:40 Q: What was one of your earliest performances? 08:00 Q: Describe your experience at the Conservatory at Point Park 10:30 Q: What did you learn while training with the Conservatory? 15:00 Q: How did you fuse Performing Arts with Augmented Reality? 22:10 Q: Could you speak about your research at Kings College London related to the 4th Wall and Augmented Reality in a performance? 29:15 Q: Could you share some perspective of performing arts from being abroad? 30:20 Q: What have you learned from your time in Ireland, Australia, and London? 35:15 Q: What is the best advice Kate has received? 37:50 Q: What advice would you give to our audience? 42:30 Q: What is the one food you miss while living abroad? 43:50 Kate shares the phenomenon of ‘Spoons' in London 46:30 Staying connected with Kate 47:50 Dennis & Patrick answer Audience Questions 48:38 Q1: Should I take lower paying job that I'm excited about or a higher paying job that I would not really be happy doing? 52:30 Q2: Dennis, Angelo, Patrick, what have you learned about leadership from hosting the podcast? 55:25 Q3: How can I become better at integrating my instincts into decision making rather than always looking for additional quantitative data? 1:00:40 Q4: Angelo, Dennis, Patrick… what is your favorite Ice Cream? 1:03:30 Final Thoughts 1:04:00 Final Credits

The team had the opportunity to connect with Kate Gunderson of 'The Plane Kate'. Kate is a mechanical, aerospace, and flight test engineer on a mission to empower women to confidently thrive in the world of STEM. 00:00 Welcome to the Show 00:00 Update with Angelo, Dennis & Patrick 06:25 Introducing Kate Gunderson: Dreams as Big as the Sky 07:40 KG: How did you discover your Passion for NASA, Space, Engineering? 09:30 KG: Walking thru the doors at NASA - Presence of Women in STEM 11:10 KG: Pushing the Boundaries of your Comfort Zone 13:20 KG: Making Big Decisions 14:20 KG: A little Self-Doubt is ok! 15:30 KG: What did you learn about life from NASA and Test Pilot School 17:10 KG: Passion and Intelligence 20:00 KG: Training and Running the Boston Marathon 21:50 KG: One person you've got to meet that was incredibly cool? 23:00 KG: Empowering Women in STEM 25:00 KG: What advice can you share with others pursuing their dreams? 29:30 Stay Connected with Kate - here's how! 31:00 Student & Audience Q&A 32:00 Q#1: Graduation: Transitioning to our Professional Endeavors? 39:45 Q#2: Advice related to pursuing ones passion as a career 42:00 Q#3: When it comes to salary, what and how is negotiable? 45:00 Q#4: Found a great job, yet ended up with an unethical boss? 51:25 Congratulations to our friend, Kiesha Lalama!! 52:20 Closing Thoughts 52:40 Closing Theme Connect with Kate by visiting her website:  https://katelyngunderson.com/ Follow her on Instagram here! Follow her on Twitter here!

The team from Take The Hill are back in the studio after a creative break. This episode, Dennis, Angelo, and Patrick talk about the new podcast format, catch up with Dr. Britney Brinkman to discuss New Year's Resolutions, and answer your questions related to best Pizza and taking multiple internships at the same employer. 00:00 Welcome 01:00  Updates with Patrick, Dennis, and Angelo 08:20 Dr. Britney Brinkman: New Year's Resolutions 34:50 Listener Submitted Questions 35:10 What are positive traits of College Students? 40:30 Will Angelo be bringing back the mohawk in 2023? 43:30 Should I take two internships at the same employer? 46:35 What have organizations learned from the pandemic? 54:00 Who has better Pizza: Sanremo's or Genoa? 58:00 Closing Thoughts Catch us in the studio on our YouTube Channel - link to episode #32

Patrick and Angelo had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Don Green, President of Point Park University, to talk about Leadership, Transitions, Purpose, and of course favorite food and music!

Check Out this episode on our YouTube Channel! Take The Hill Live! returns in person to Point Cafe at Point Park University to host conversations with students about what they are most excited about, what they've learned over the last year, and much more!  

On May 29th, Travis Ludlow will embark upon the journey of a lifetime while seeking the opportunity to become the youngest pilot to circumnavigate the globe. Join us in the studio to talk with Travis about his upcoming adventure. Connect with Travis at: https://aroundtheworldsolo.co.uk/ Follow him on Instagram @travisludlow_aroundtheworld

Missionary Bush Pilot Ryan Farran has blended his desire to serve others with his love of aviation. Join us in the studio to learn more about his background and journey that has taken him to the beautiful Melanesian island of Papua New Guinea.

Dr. Jonas Prida, Acting Provost @ Point Park University joins us to talk about Leadership, Perspective, and musical influences. Join us in the studio for this high energy and fast paced episode.

Click Here to View VideoPodcast of this Episode Join us in studio with Dr. Paul Hennigan, President of Point Park University, to reflect upon Leadership, Courage, Advice for Students, and a peek into songs that are on his playlist. 00:00 Welcome Message 02:00 Introducing Dr. Paul Hennigan 03:00 Dr. Hennigan’s Definition of Leadership 04:00 Reflection Upon Significant Leadership Moments 05:45 Integrity, Truth, and Data Driven Decisions 07:30 The Importance of Simplifying Complexity 09:45 Developing the Courage to Lead 11:45 Reflection Upon a Significant Leadership Challenge 17:20 What is on Dr. Hennigan’s Music Playlist 18:50 Writing: Key to Reflection and Introspection 21:00 Stepping into Leadership Roles 25:15 Understanding and Embracing Change 26:30 Navigating Ambiguity 28:30 Advice for Students - Push Yourself Forward 29:50 Focus Upon Finishing the Job 32:00 Advice on How to Measure Incremental Progress 34:50 Cherished Memories of the Point Park University Community 36:25 Organic Leadership: Vision, Passion, and Character 40:25 Final Thoughts with Angelo & Dennis 44:30 Closing Thoughts  

We welcome back to the podcast, Steve Adelkoff, to break down Retail Investing, Reddit, GameStop, Robinhood, and exactly what is a short squeeze. Steve does his best to break down misconceptions and to illuminate the dynamic forces impacting the markets over the past few weeks. 00:00  Welcome to the Podcast 00:40  Introducing Steve Adelkoff 01:40  Correcting the Paradigm 03:00  The Short Squeeze 04:25  Short Selling and Market Influence 06:20  Jim Chanos, Enron and Short Selling 07:15   Institutional Investors and Retail Investors 11:50   How Momentum was built in the Marketplace 14:50  The Danger Behind Attempted Market Manipulation 17:00  Illuminating GameStop, Robinhood, and Reddit 18:40  What is Short Selling 26:05  Impact Upon Smaller Investors in the Market 29:00  Economics versus The Social Good 31:40  Retail Investors and the SEC 34:50  Steve’s Takes Over The Show 35:45  Is this the Year of the Moderate? 42:30  Your First Ferrari 43:35  Long Term Investing and Capital Gains Rate 47:30  Lost Correlation Between Interest Rates and Asset Values 49:30  What’s On the Horizon for Central Banks 53:50  Gaining a Systemic Perspective During Periods of Instability 56:00  Final Thoughts From Dennis & Angelo 1:00:00 Staying Connected with Steve Adelkoff 1:02:00 Closing Thoughts   CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEOCAST OF THIS PODCAST!

Stefano Paris, Founder of I for Italia, enables you to dream, plan, and travel in Italy with their passionate, local experts. His team delivers Live Virtual Tours that are interactive and immersive experiences that offer insight into Italy's authentic lifestyle without leaving the comfort of your home.   00:00 Welcome 00:35  Introducing Stefano Paris and ‘I For Italia’ 02:40  Experiencing Italy Authentically through the Eyes of Locals 03:00  “Eternally Hungry in Rome” - An Introduction to Food in Italy Beginning with Breakfast 06:00 Maritozzo Con Panna at Pasticceria Regoli 08:00  Coffee Rules in Italy 10:00  Italian Moment:  How To Order Your Breakfast   Into the Heart of Rome 16:00 Historical Perspectives from the Center of Rome 20:26  Giordano Bruno: Philosopher, Mathematician, Poet, Alchemist   Mid-Morning Snack 27:50  White Pizza with Mortadella at Forno Roscioli 44:08  The History of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto’s and their Influence upon Roman Food Lunchtime in Rome 48:45  Lunch at Sora Margherita 50:10  Carciofo Alla Giudia - Jewish Style Artichoke 50:30  Italian Moment: How to Order Lunch with a Glass of Wine 52:44  Dessert: Crostata Ricotta E Viscole at Pasticceria Boccione   Back to the Tour 59:40  Piazza Navona and the Stadio Di Domiziano 01:01:20  The Architectural Rivalry and Egyptian Obelisks 01:05:20  Time for a Negroni Aperitif   Dinner with Stefano - A Casa Mia! 01:08:00 Pasta Carbonara 01:10:00  Rules for Making Perfect Carbonara 01:14:50  Authenticity, Passion, and a Global Family 01:15:40. Staying Connected with Stefano and ‘I For Italia’ 01:20:00  Stefano’s Favorite Foods 01:22:40  Final Thoughts   To learn more about I for Italia and Stefano, be sure to visit them at www.iforitalia.com. Be sure to follow them on instagram at @i_for_italia

Located in Lawrenceville, just outside of downtown Pittsburgh, Rolling Pepperoni serves up personal narratives woven within delicious Appalachian Fare. Katt’s vision for Rolling Pepperoni invites us to break bread across Appalachia while uniting rural and urban communities through an impactful business model. 00:00  Welcome Message 01:40   Introducing Katt Schuler and Rolling Pepperoni 04:50  Pittsburgh: The Convergence of Rural and Urban Landscapes 06:30  Creativity Fuels the Entrepreneurial Spirit 09:10  The Story Project:  Illuminating Appalachian Narratives 12:45  The Importance of Teams, Trust and Empowerment 14:50  The First Person is Important, The Second Person is Critical 16:10   Balance and Wellness is a Top Priority 18:10   The Impact of Women as Entrepreneurs 21:00  Exploring the Rolling Pepperoni Menu 24:10  Regenerative Business Model and unique Pricing Strategy 26:10  Hope, Sadness, Passion:  Narratives from a Socially Defined Culture 28:50  Katt Shares Two Stories from the Upcoming Book 33:25  What’s on the Horizon for Katt and Rolling Pepperoni 36:25  The Secret Behind the Perfect Pepperoni Roll 38:45  Food Connects us with History and Culture 42:50  Advice to other Women Entrepreneurs 48:15  How to Stay Connected with Katt and Rolling Pepperoni 49:40  Final Thoughts from Dennis and Angelo 54:00  Closing Reflections & Sources of Inspiration To learn more about Katt, Rolling Pepperoni or to order some of her delicious pepperoni rolls be sure to visit www.rollingpepperoni.com

Michael Goldberg is an alchemist of spirits and founder of Brave Hospitality. Join us for a conversation with this introspective leader who is reshaping the hospitality industry in Pittsburgh and beyond. As Micky Scottbey Jone’s poem so eloquently states, “We will not be perfect. This space will not be perfect. It will not always be what we wish it to be. But It will be our brave space together, and We will work on it side by side” Michael’s work within the industry mirrors the ethos that our efforts may not always be perfect, but he will stand side by side with those he works with and continue to work towards perfection together.     00:00  Welcome Message 01:40   Introducing Michael Goldberg 03:00  Becoming “The Fixer” 03:40  From Pittsburgh to New York City 04:45  Brave Hospitality and a Desire to Help Others 07:30  How to See Big Picture while paying Attention to Details? 09:50  How do you Approach Challenges too big to Overcome? 12:00  “If there is a Challenge, I’m going to Attack it” 15:00   Remaining Focused in the Heat of a Moment 17:00   Handling Difficult Conversations as a Consultant 21:40  The Importance of Reflection and Introspection 24:25  Collaboration and Trust creates Opportunity for Success 26:00  Triple Bottom Line:  People, Planet and Profit 27:50   Culture Creates a Following 31:40   What Challenges Exist as an Outside Consultant? 40:40  ‘Brave Hospitality’ - Together We Will Create Brave Space 44:10  What is on the Horizon for the Hospitality Industry 48:15  The Perfect Moscow Mule 50:10  Encouraging Message for Hospitality Industry 52:20  Staying Connected with Michael & Brave Hospitality 52:50  Final Thoughts

It has been a few episodes since we opened the electronic mailbag and pulled out some listener submitted questions. Angelo has taken the reigns and has selected a few of the most relevant and challenging questions to throw out for discussion. 00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:00  Reflections upon Leadership during 2020 01:40  What Can You do to Increase Trust in Your Organization? 11:35  How Much of Your Personality Should You Illuminate at Work? 19:50  Is There A difference between Crisis Leadership and Leadership within stable environments? 29:30 Are We Experiencing the Emergence of Leadership Fatigue? 40:00  What Can You Do to Shift an Organizations Focus Beyond Perceive Challenges and Towards a Hopeful Future? 44:30  What Advice can you give to Asking Hard Questions and Having Difficult Conversations? 55:30  How Can You Identify and/or Eliminate Biases from Your Thinking and Behavior? 01:01:50  How Can You Develop a Sense of Urgency within Your Team? 01:08:45  What Do You Do if You Don’t Have an Answer or that Answer is Not What Your Team/Organization will Want to Hear? 01:17:10  What Kind of Leader Do You Want to be in 2021?  01:22:00  Closing Thoughts with Angelo, Dennis and Patrick 01:23:00  Thank You - Listeners and All of Our Supporters!

Click here to check out the VideoCast of this episode! Kiesha represents the fusion and integration of energy, vision and drive to impact the world in a positive way through the performing arts. She is a Choreographer and educator who has created more than 40 works to date. Her conceived and choreographed full-length dance theatre production, The Bench, received rave reviews and was honored to be named to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's "Best of Dance" Top Ten list. Kiesha has created works for companies such as Ballet Arkansas, Eisenhower Dance Ensemble, Houston Metropolitan Dance Company, Jazz Dance World Congress, Missouri Contemporary Ballet, the Youth American Grand Prix, Kansas City Starlight Theatre and the film Sorority Row. She has also taught master classes and workshops for Cirque Du Soleil, Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Houston Metropolitan Dance Company, Eisenhower Dance Ensemble, Oakland University, Carnegie Mellon University, Wright State University, Chautauqua Regional Youth Ballet, Booker T. Washington H.S. for the Performing and Visual Arts and Dance Educators of America. 00:00 Welcome to the Show 00:45 Introducing Kiesha Lalama 02:30 Illuminating Current Projects 04:00 The impact of Resiliency 04:50 Performing Arts in Pittsburgh during COVID19 08:00 Recognizing Success in the Moment 11:35 Passion, Instinct, and Perseverance 15:15 Passion and the collision with Reality 16:35 How Do You Frame Failure? 18:40 Mindset during Life Changing Events 20:10 Next Chapter: Thinking about Life Beyond the Performing Arts 26:25 Kiesha’s Thoughts on Younger Generations 34:10 Kiesha Thoughts about her Legacy 39:10 The Energy of Being Under the Lights 40:24 Passion, Purpose and Movement 41:20 The Promise of Tomorrow 47:45 Closing Thoughts To keep up with Kiesha and learn more about the projects she is involved with please visit: http://kieshalalama.com/

Click here to view VideoCast of this episode on our YouTube Channel! Dr. Atiya Abdelmalik could have allowed life to bury her under a mountain of heartache, illness and trauma. She could have succumbed to the pressures of a world that crumbled around her. She could have given up hope, buried her faith and died. She could have, but she didn’t. Instead, Dr. A. turned her struggle into strength and faith into action. This episode we learn how Dr. A. used her life experiences to awaken her purpose, sharing with us her journey through life-threatening illnesses, the loss of her son, and the redemptive power of love and forgiveness. 00:00  Welcome to the Show 02:00   Introducing Dr. Atiye Abdelmalik 03:00   West Philadelphia:  A Tale of Two Worlds 04:38   The moment Life Shifted 08:00  Larger Than Life: A Mother’s Presence    11:05   “Let forward and upward always be your motion” 13:45   The Fried Hotdog and a Mothers Intuition 16:30   A love of Animals 21:20   Survival:  An escape through Imagination 25:25  The Clock on the Wall: A Pause to Save My Life 28:58  January 26 - Do you Remember; What is Your Something Else? 31:41   Cultivate Purpose Intentionally : “I live to honor them”. 33:10  “When You Have a Moment - Sit in It - But You’ve Got Five Minutes” 34:50  Servant Leadership, Boundaries and Replenishing Your Spirit 37:25  Stress Dumping: Do You Have the Capacity to help? 39:39 Nemo & Dory:  Lifesaver and a Husband’s friend 41:00  The Future:  Atiya’s Critical Community Initiatives 44:42  Change Your Perspective; Rock Bottom is still further away. 49:13  Final Thoughts Dennis 51:15  If You Don’t like the World, You have an Obligation to Change it. 52:58  Atiya’s Final Thoughts:  The Daily Importance of Our Adventure 54:25  Closing Thoughts   Click here to view Atiya's book on Amazon!

Click here to view VideoCast of this episode! For this special episode, Dennis and I step aside and provide the opportunity for two students to interview Lee Cockerell. Lee is the former Executive Vice President of Operations for the Walt Disney World® Resort. As the Senior Operating Executive for ten years Lee led a team of 40,000 Cast Members and was responsible for the operations of 20 resort hotels, 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, a shopping & entertainment village and the ESPN sports and recreation complex in addition to the ancillary operations which supported the number one vacation destination in the world. 00:00  Welcome to the Show 01:25   Introducing our Guest Hosts 01:50    Introducing Lee Cockerell 02:50   The Importance of Time Management 09:15   Everything Matters:  Take Time to Reflect Everyday 23:50   “Would you like my input?” 30:40   Let Others Know What You Stand For 37:10   Trust:  One Word that Summarize Lee’s Time at Disney 40:45   Did you know you would end up Disney? 41:30  Women In Industry:  Don’t Underestimate Yourself 48:10  If You Want to be Successful, You Have to Deal with Difficulty. 51:45  Leadership is not a job; It’s a Responsibility 52:35 Final Thoughts & Hannah & Emily 56:10  What Quality Should Leaders Embrace for 2021 1:05:00 Final Thoughts from Lee, Dennis & Patrick 1:12:15 Closing Thoughts You can learn more about Lee's books, courses and engagements by by visiting https://www.leecockerell.com/  

Click here to view VideoCast of this episode on our YouTube Channel. This episode welcomes back to the show Steve Adelkoff to talk about the dynamic landscape underpinning the latest happenings with TikTok and WeChat.  We illuminate the major players, the political arena, legal and market precedent and conclude with our best guess at what may play out in the coming months. 00:00   Welcome to the Show 00:50   Welcoming back Steve Adelkoff 02:30  Providing Context around TikTok, WeChat and Deglobalization 07:50  Government & Presidential Powers 22:00  Application of Legal Precedent 27:00  It’s not really Political and Economic Divisiveness 32:30  The role and response of China 37:00  Has investment in tech been impacted? 38:45  What to look out for with TikTok & WeChat 42:20  Impact upon economic relationship with China 44:00  Will TikTok user base remain faithful? 45:45  Generational Shifts among media apps 50:20. Final Thoughts from Steve 53:00  Thank you Emily Sjoberg & Blake Beshero 53:40  Closing Thoughts & Credits

Click here to watch Webcast of Episode on our Youtube Channel! During this episode Dennis & Patrick have the opportunity to speak with Amanda Schwartz about the COVID19 course she has developed to help employers meet standards of safety within a highly dynamic operating environment. Join us to learn more about Amanda and the depth of content embedded within this great resource.   00:00   Welcome to the Show 00:50    Introducing Amanda Schwartz 04:10   From the Medical Field to Operations The COVID-19 Course 04:50   The benefits of the COVID19 Course 06:49   What can the smaller Entrepreneur do to ensure safety 08:00   Misconceptions within COVID0-19 response 09:45   Course Delivery, Length, and Certification   More insight from Amanda 11:45   Potential Future Courses 12:40   What can organizations do to enhance Human Connections safely 13:50   Recommended Resources 15:50   What is on the horizon for organizations within the Pittsburgh area   Important Information about the Course 16:50   Course Cost, Group Discounts, Registration Information 18:00   Course Website 18:25   How to Stay Connected with Amanda 19:30   Final Thoughts from Amanda 20:00   Final Thoughts from Dennis, Angelo & Patrick 22:00  Closing Credits Amanda & Course Contact Information Click here to be taken to the COVID19 Course Page Click here to view Amanda's LinkedIn Page Email Address:  amandachristineschwartz@gmail.com

Click here to view Video Cast of this Episode on our YouTube Channel.   Win $10,000 in the Vigor, Vibe and Venture business challenge. This is NOT just another venture competition that gives money to companies with a proven track record; this is a competition for everyone - all walks of life, all stages of the concept or business. This episode welcomes Jennifer Ferris-Glick and Steve Tanzilli to talk about how the V3 challenge  is intended to make a meaningful impact upon your life-story .   Visit the V3 site for more information:  www.V3Challenge.com   00:00   Welcome to the Show 01:10    Introducing Jennifer Ferris-Glick 07:25   V3 Challenge:  Vigor, Vibe, Venture 11:25   Your Narrative - Your Community 14:15   You are the ideal Entrepreneur 15:20   Why Vigor, Vibe, and Venture 16:20   $10,000, Resources, Grow Your Vision 21:00   Final Thoughts from Jennifer & Steve 22:30  Closing Thoughts    

Click here to view VideoCast of this episode on our YouTube Channel.   During this episode Dennis & Patrick explore an approach designed to help you focus your thoughts while leading your organization through uncertainty. Regardless of the variable, challenge or opportunity you are contemplating, a systemic mindset will help you to not only make better decisions, but will enable you to consider outcomes across all levels of your organization.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:10 Leadership is Complex 01:30 Three Primary Areas of Focus 02:50 Strategic Focus - Looking over the Horizon 10:25 Operational Focus - The Most Difficult Role 20:00 Tactical Focus - The Essence of Your Organization 29:40 Navigating Between the Areas of Focus 32:40 Final Thoughts from Dennis & Patrick 36:51 Support & Thank You      

Click here to view the VideoCast of this episode on our YouTube Channel. This episode welcomes to the show Professor Sandy Mervosh, Director of the Human Resources Program within the Rowland School of Business. Joining Sandy is Professor Dennis Frketich who teaches within the Human Resources & Employer Relations program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.  Together, they offer insight and advice from an HR prospective for organizations seeking to find a new normal and turn the corner post-COVID19. 00:00     Welcome to the Show 00:36    Professor Sandy Mervosh       Professor Dennis Frketich 02:00   Communication through Multiple Channels is Critical 11:00    Finding new Operational Norms 22:00   Dynamics of Virtual Leadership 30:00   Closing Thoughts from Sandy & Denni 32:20     Support & Thank You   You can learn more about Professor Mervosh and Professor Frketich and keep up with their ongoing professional and academic endeavors at the following links: Click here to learn more about Professor Sandy Mervosh Click here to learn more about Professor Dennis Frketich

Click here to view VideoCast of this episode on our YouTube Channel. This episode welcomes back guest host Dean Tanzilli for a conversation with author and TedX Speaker Dr. Sarabeth Berk.  Dr. Berk considers herself a hybrid professional who combines her artist/researcher/educator/designer identities to be more than her job title. This episode will illuminate our various identities and how we can begin to work from the intersection as opposed to having to wear multiple hats. 00:21     Welcome to the Show 01:00     Dean Steve Tanzilli - Rowland School of Business 01:30     Introducing Dr. Sarabeth Berk 2:00       The Journey to becoming a Hybrid Professional 4:40       Defining a Hybrid Professional 5:00       Presentation:  Becoming a Hybrid Professional 7:00       Presentation:  Language of Hybridity 10:25     Presentation:  Integrating instead of Segregating Identities 12:35     Presentation:  Examples of Hybrid Professionals & Branding 14:30    The Book:  More Than My Title 15:15    Activity 1 - Finding Your Hybridity 18:45    Activity 2 - Who are you at your Intersections of your Professional Identities? 24:15    Application:   Professional Identity Math (Branding Yourself) 25:50    Activity 3 - Introduce Yourself as a Hybrid 27:30    Question and Answers with Dr. Berk 42:25     Closing Thoughts 42:45     Support & Thank You   To stay connected with Dr. Sarabeth Berk and her ongoing work by visiting the following websites: Dr. Sarabeth Berk Website:   https://www.morethanmytitle.com/ Presentation Resources from Podcast:   https://www.morethanmytitle.com/shop TedTalk “Are You a Hybrid Professional”:  https://tedxboulder.com/videos/are-you-a-hybrid-professional   Click here to purchase “More Than My Title”  from Amazon Click here to purchase “More Than My Title - Workbook” from Amazon

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO PODCAST FOR THIS EPISODE This episode welcomes back guest host Dean Tanzilli for a conversation with John Valentine, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Downtown Community Development Corporation. Tune in for a discussion of the current and future state of the restaurant industry and how small business is evolving and innovating. “When this is in the rear view mirror, things are going to look a lot different, but a lot better”  John Valentine 00:00     Welcome to the Show 01:00     Dean Steve Tanzilli - Rowland School of Business 01:47     Introducing John Valentine 03:00     From New York to Pittsburgh    04:25     Pittsburgh Downtown Community Development Corporation 06:00     Resurgence of Downtown Pittsburgh 07:10     Small Business & COVID-19 09:00     Future state and focus of Restaurant Industry in Pittsburgh 14:45     Small Business:  Innovation and Perseverance 18:30     What can Pittsburgh’ers do to help Restaurants and Small Business? 25:00     How can we learn more about DCD corporation? 28:10     Closing Thoughts 30:00     Support & Thank You   Visit these sites to learn more: Downtown Community Development Corp  ( https://www.downtowncdc.org/ ) The Downtowner Newsletter   ( https://www.downtowncdc.org/the-downtowner/ )

Welcome to our first episode of of our new “3 Things” series. Join us over the next few months on a virtual journey around the globe as our guests share three things about their home country. We are excited to begin our journey in Jordan with Dana Daas who will share with you Jordan’s rich tradition of hospitality, family, culture and more incredible food than you can imagine. As you will learn, food is more than just nutrition, it is what brings us together to celebrate, mourn, and remain connected regardless of who you are or where you are from. Click here to see video podcast of this Episode! 00:00     Welcome to the Show 01:00     Introducing Dana 08:00     Understanding Culture Dana’s “3 Things” 08:45     Welcome to Jordan      09:10     Geography & Architecture 21:00     Ramadan, Family and Open Air Markets 26:00     Maqluba “Upside Down” - Dana’s Favorite Meal 28:00     Mensaf - The national dish of Jordan 32:00     Kanafeh - Time for Dessert! 39:45     Women in Industry:  Mary Nazzal-Batayneh 45:35     Film Industry and Tourism 49:25     Traditional Jordanian Hospitality:  “Ahlan wa Sahlan” 55:40     Dana Final Thoughts:  Live Life, Explore Diversity, and Be You! 58:30     Final Thoughts:  Dennis 59:30     The Beginning of our Journey 1:00:00  Closing Thoughts 1:00:45  Support & Thank You

This episode welcomes our friend and colleague Steve Adelkoff to the studio. Steve shares an enormous amount of wisdom and insight embedded in stories of Economic Behavior, Prospect Theory, DeGlobalization and Off-Balance sheet deals he has brokered around the world. Be sure to tune in as Steve even turns the tide and decides to start sending complex questions back over the table at Patrick & Dennis!   00:00   Welcome 00:30   Opening Remarks 01:46   Steve’s Journey 10:10   From Yachts to Dinghy’s 18:00   Shifting Capital Wealth 21:37   Emerging Economies 37:30:  Steve Takes over as Host 51:10   Closing Thoughts: Dennis 52:00   Closing Thoughts: Patrick 54:10   Support Click here to check out the live video of this podcast!   

Throughout this episode our guests illuminated the importance of human relationships. Though our focus is appropriately upon the sustainability of our respective organizations, it is important to remember the human connections underpinning our titles, roles and set of responsibilities at work as well as at home. 00:00   Welcome 00:31   Opening Remarks 01:40   Hannah & Emily:  Employment & Labor Relations             Indiana University of Pennsylvania 25:40   Miranda & Jevin:  Rowland School of Business            Point Park University01:01:05   Closing Thoughts: Dennis 01:02:10   Closing Thoughts: Patrick 01:02:50   Support

The capacity for hope is one of the most significant elements of life… it provides human beings with a sense of destination, and perhaps most important, the energy to get started.  As we reflect upon these conversations, though they may still be tinged with a bit of uncertainty, each of our guests demonstrated this important ideal. The capacity for hope has provided each of them the energy to keep moving forward. Though their progress may be slower than they would prefer, they push forward, driven by hope, through the challenges they each are facing within their respective journeys.Episode Timeline 00:00   Welcome 01:14   Opening Remarks 02:20   Zach, Business Management, Rowland School of Business             “Not taking for granted little moments" 15:45   Lorraine, Organizational Leadership, Rowland School of Business             “Support and care for those who need our help" 30:20   Natasha, HR+ER, Indiana University of Pennsylvania             “Compelled to question what I seek in life and use the time I have" 40:53   Alexandra, HR+ER, Indiana University of Pennsylvania             “Take advantage of every opportunity" 53:00   Malena, HR+ER, Indiana University of Pennsylvania             “Wake up call for workers in all industries" 01:03:45   Closing Thoughts: Dennis 01:05:05   Closing Thoughts: Patrick 01:06:15   Support

This special episode is our first in a series of “Pop-Up” podcasts that will feature students from the Point Park University community. Our guests and their topics are not prescreened, so the conversations are authentic. We hope you enjoy listening as much as we have enjoyed the conversations. 00:00  Introduction 01:45  Rhianna (Business Management)            Topic:  Millennials in the Workforce 13:30  Gavin (Advertising & PR)            Topic:  Marketing, Music, Rome 18:50  Allison (Sports, Arts & Entertainment)            Topic: School & Life Balance 29:10  Leah (Intelligence & National Security)           Topic:  Cheer & Dance Team 32:55  Michelle (Economics & Finance)           Topic:  Basketball 36:27  Josh (Business Management)            Topic:  Manifest Your Destiny 45:22   Closing Thoughts   Special Thanks to the Rowland School of Business, Angelo Gargaro, and Point Perk for providing a great environment to record in. 

Podcast 005 - Megan Livingston Megan has spent 18 years in the field of instructional design, learning and development. During her time at Highmark Health, Megan has lead enterprise initiatives around employee engagement and leadership development. She works with all levels of leadership across the organization, including the Executive Leadership Team. She currently is working to develop the enterprise learning and development strategy to support the organization’s five year strategic plan. Outside of work Megan can be found out in the community doing volunteer work, which is her true passion (besides the Pittsburgh Pirates). Often the best times of Megan’s week are spent mentoring youth and college students; she has been a youth group leader, counselor and mentor for various organizations over the years. In the spring during prom season, she’s knee deep in sequins and tulle at the Johnstown Cinderella Project she founded over 13 years ago.   01:00   Introducing Megan Livingston 02:30   “Even the smallest Acts of Kindness make a Difference” 05:00   Challenges that push us to grow as Leaders 09:00   How do we handle Failure? 14:25   How to manage the details without losing the greater vision 17:45   Accountability. Resiliency. Execution. 21:30  The importance of Leadership Presence 24:00  Time is limited - Prioritize and Execute 25:35  You can always build the perfect Team 28:10  Most significant challenge to the next Generation of Leaders 37:30  The Pittsburgh Pirates - Building a Great Team 40:50  The Johnstown Cinderella Project 47:00  Final Thoughts & Thank You   You can keep up with Megan's work and contact her through the Johnstown Cinderella Project at: Click Here:  Johnstown Cinderella Project Facebook Click Here:  Johnstown Cinderella Project Website

Episode 004 Marissa Colclasure is a First Officer (Pilot) with Air Wisconsin, a blogger, a mom and a dreamer. Take some time to listen to the podcast and learn about her journey to the cockpit and some leadership lessons she has acquired along the way. 00:30   Introduction 01:25 Pathway to Aviation 02:20 The Coalescence of your Dreams and Passions 04:25 Leadership and Being a Parent 06:00 A Personal Challenge 08:00 Pulling Yourself Up to the Horizon 09:30 Go Find Your Story 13:00 The Dichotomy of Perspective 16:50 The Challenge for Future Leaders 20:30 Staying Connected with Marissa   You can stay connected with Marissa and some of the organizations that she is most passionate about by visiting the following links: Instagram:  @barefoot_flying_mom https://www.yeslouisville.com https://www.wai.org   http://abingdonfoundation.org

Biography: Dave Berke As an F-18 pilot, Dave deployed twice in support of combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. He spent three years as an Instructor Pilot at TOPGUN where he was dual qualified in the F-16 Fighting Falcon and served as the program’s Training Officer He then served as an ANGLICO Forward Air Controller supporting the Army’s 1st Armored Division during extensive urban combat operations in Ramadi, Iraq in 2006. He was the only Marine selected to fly the F-22 Raptor having served as an exchange officer at the Air Force’s 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron as the Division Commander. Dave then became the first operational pilot ever to fly and be qualified in the F-35B, serving as the Commanding Officer of the Marine Corps’ first F-35 squadron from 2012-2014. Dave earned his Master’s degree in International Public Policy from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies with a concentration in Strategic Studies. He is now a leadership consultant at Echelon Front. Echelon Front Dave currently works as a Leadership Instructor and Director of Long Range Programs with Echelon Front. Echelon Front’s mission is to educate, train, mentor, and inspire leaders and organizations to achieve total victory. More information about their team and mission can be found at www.echelonfront.com   Episode Timeline 00:00   Intro Theme 01:15    Dave Berke Introduction 03:50   Leadership Growth: Ramadi, Iraq 2006 05:50   Courage: You get to choose how your respond 08:00   Accepting Responsibility 13:00   Leadership transcends environments 16:00   Leadership is Relationships 17:40   Alignment:  Mission & Vision to Tactical Decisions 21:30   Millennials:   They’re seeking Leadership 24:10   It’s Simple. Not Easy. 27:00   The two Universal Challenges of Leadership 28:00   Be Humble. Be Better at what you are doing. 29:30   Teams: Relationships are the most important tool 31:50    Connecting with Dave Berke and Echelon Front 33:20    Closing remarks with Dennis & Patrick 34:40    Closing Theme    Connecting with Patrick & Dennis We look forward to the opportunity to hear from you. If you have any questions, show ideas, or feedback feel free to contact us by email. Thank you for your continued support of Take The Hill Dennis Frketich:  dfrketich@pointpark.edu Patrick Mulvihill: pmulvihill@pointpark.edu  

Podcast 002 - Reflection: Conversation with Lee Cockerell Our mid-month episodes provide an opportunity for Patrick and Dennis to reflect upon their last interview. The show revisits the main themes that Lee Cockerell illuminated during their time together, and connects these ideas with what is happening within organizations today.   Episode 002 - Timeline 00:30   Introduction 01:00 Podcast Format 00:00 Reintroduction to Lee Cockerell 02:00 Lee’s 3 Big Ideas 02:35 Reflection:  Exhibiting & Cultivating Leadership Characterstics 08:00 Reflection:  Hiring, Professional Development, and Empowerment 10:00 Reflection: Cultivating Your Organizations Culture 12:40 Final Thoughts on Interview with Lee Cockerell 13:30 Announcement: Our Next Guest 14:35 Thank You to Our Podcast Supporters 14:55 Contact Information for Patrick & Dennis   Contact Information Dr. Patrick Mulvihill - pmulvihill@pointpark.edu Dr. Dennis Frketich - dfrketich@pointpark.edu  

Lee Cockerell is a leader. It doesn't take long to gain an understanding of why organizational cultures defined by excellence developed around Mr. Cockerell. To learn more about Lee, visit his website at: http://www.leecockerell.com   Show Timeline 00:00  Introduction to Podcast 03:15  Introduction to Lee Cockerell 04:00  Lee talks about a Leadership Challenge 10:00  Hire the Right People 11:50  The Fear of Honesty 17:20  All Battlestations 20:00 Leadership = Hard Decisions 23:00 Different Roles - One Purpose 28:00 The Biggest Challenge for Next Generation Leaders 33:00 Closing Remarks with Patrick & Dennis   If you have any comments or feedback that you would like to share with Patrick or Dennis, feel free to contact us by email: Dr. Patrick Mulvihill:  pmulvihill@pointpark.edu Dr. Dennis Frketich:  dfrketich@pointpark.edu