Unscripted with Ashley Russo

Janish Kothari is a cardiology resident at St. Luke's University Health Network with two distinct loves: fashion and medicine. On this episode, Ashley and Janish discuss what makes the Lehigh Valley a great place to live and work, and how style is an opportunity to express yourself. 

Coming from multiple generations of female basketball players, Mimi Griffin has continued that legacy in paving the way for other female entrepreneurs. On the season 5 finale of Unscripted, Mimi and Ashley talk about the upcoming US Senior Open being held at Saucon Valley Country Club, and the lessons that helped Mimi get to where she is today.

Born in a military family, Terry Wallace has always had a strong drive for success. On this episode, Ashley and Terry discuss work-life balance, and how after commuting to NYC for years inspired him to create VentureX in Bethlehem.

As a young entrepreneur, Jackie has always been devoted to conservation and sustainability in the Lehigh Valley community. In this episode, Ashley and Jackie talk about the work that goes into maintaining FD Market Co and how following her passion led her to being a business owner. 

Annmarie Supinski's love for fashion started young when her aunt gave her a sewing machine, and that passion has grown into quite the successful career. On this episode, Ashley and Annmarie talk about being business owners in the Lehigh Valley, and how Annmarie's 30-year experience in the retail industry has shaped her business, AM Luxe.

From loving high school mock trial to becoming the first person of color shareholder at Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba, Maraleen Shields has had an outstanding career. On this episode of Unscripted, Ashley and Maraleen discuss their passion for the Lehigh Valley community, and how dedication and hard work can help anyone achieve their goals.

Growing up with activist parents, Adrian Shanker has always had a passion for supporting the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, Adrian shares the journey to co-founding Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center and why it's important for everyone to have a voice and opportunities in their community.

After serving in multiple branches of the military while pursuing a degree in mathematics, Donald Outing became aware of the underrepresentation in STEM fields. On this episode, Ashley and Donald talk about his journey to Lehigh University as the VP of Equity and Community and why he chooses to stay in the Lehigh Valley.

Russell Fletcher currently is the first and only Black distillery owner in the state of Pennsylvania and the journey to his success with Mishka Vodka takes many turns. Listen as Ashley and Russell talk about his career in the music industry and why he's committed to providing quality products to those in the Lehigh Valley community.

Anita Paukovits was raised in a large family and early on realized the importance of strong connections and relationships. On this episode, Anita shares her journey through her multiple roles at The Children's Home of Easton, and how her willingness to learn allowed the Children's Home to flourish.

Originally born in Louisiana, Winston Alozie found his way to the Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem when he moved to the Lehigh Valley in 2001. On the season 4 finale of Unscripted, Ashley and Winston talk about how the Boys and Girls Club of Bethlehem helps kids feel seen and heard and the active change Winston is making in the organization he grew up with.

Before she was the Associate Executive Director of New Bethany Ministries, Veronne Demesyeux, LMSW always had a passion for the non-profit sector and lifting others to their highest potential. Take a listen as Ashley and Veronne discuss what inspired her to pursue a career in social work and what she loves about the Lehigh Valley community.

As a young creative, William Childs was always immersed in art and bringing his ideas to life. In this episode, Ashley and William talk about his role as Creative Director at Kitchen Magic, the journey to his artistic success, and why he feels his career chose him.

Although Ed's career started by working for companies like Sony and Warner Music Group, he decided to switch gears and do something different: open his own restaurant, Union and Finch. In this episode, check out what brought Ed back to his Lehigh Valley roots and how Union and Finch became one of the most popular places to dine in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

As an active community member who loves to give back, Laurie Gostley Hackett's passion for philanthropy is well known throughout the Lehigh Valley. On this episode of Unscripted, Laurie and Ashley talk about the importance of giving back and how her newest role with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley will help make a difference in the community.

When his wife was diagnosed with cancer, Chad Butters knew that family had to be at the core of everything moving forward. In this episode, Eight Oaks Farm Distillery Founder and CEO Chad Butters discusses the creation of Eight Oaks Farm Distillery and the importance of celebrating the present.  

After years of experience as an art director for companies like Business Week and U.S. Polo Assn., Edith knew she wanted to do more for her community. Listen as Ashley and Edith discuss the importance of supporting the Latinx community and her journey to creating her own business in the Lehigh Valley.

Although many may know Jean Blanc from his appearance on The Bachelorette, he's also incredibly involved with his community and career. On this episode, Jean dives into his engineering career success and how his entrepreneurial spirit helped him seize the opportunities in his life.

Carolyn's career and passion have always been aligned with supporting youth and ensuring their success. On this episode, Carolyn shares the journey to her current position as VP of Human Resources at Victaulic, and why she continues to give back and support her community.

When her friend passed at an early age due to cancer, it sparked Abby's passion for getting involved with cancer fighting organizations and propelled her career. In this episode, Ashley and Abby chat about being an advocate for your health, and how working for the American Heart Association has helped her impact the Lehigh Valley community.

As an active public speaker and 2020 Lehigh Valley Business "40 under 40" recipient, Lindsay Watson has always followed her true passion: serving the community. On this episode, Ashley and Lindsay chat about the journey to creating FIA NYC, and how using your strengths can help you find the career of your dreams.

Every profession fascinated Michael Spigel before he realized physical therapy was his true passion. On this episode, Michael and Ashley discuss his journey to Good Shepherd Rehabilitation and how the Lehigh Valley has welcomed Michael and his family to the area.

Marco is a well-known photographer in the Lehigh Valley for his work with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and his passion for the community. In this episode, Marco shares where that love for photography started and why he loves being a part of the Lehigh Valley.

Catherine Bailey is a successful entrepreneur who embraces the idea of reinventing yourself. In this episode, Catherine shares her journey to co-founding Beauty Blender and the importance of following your passions.

Education and community have always been an essential part of Matt Tuerk's life. In this episode, Ashley and Matt discuss his plans for running for Mayor of Allentown, and how his journey has shaped him into the ambassador he is today.

Growing up outside of Pittsburgh and being an avid competitive swimmer, Richard Anderson's journey to CEO and President of St. Luke's University Health Network is one of hard work and dedication. In this episode, Rick and Ashley talk about St. Luke's incredible culture and what they're doing to continue the fight against COVID-19.

Cooking full course meals for her family as a child, Khanisa Darby's passion for culinary has always been a part of her life. on this episode, Ashley chats with Khanisa about her transition from working in dentistry to Khanisa's Desserts, and the journey as a business owner in downtown Easton.

Scott Brantingson, senior financial advisor of Monocacy Wealth Partners, has a passion for connecting with others in the community. In this episode, Scott shares the story of marrying the girl next door and why he chose to call the Lehigh Valley home.

Born and raised in the Lehigh Valley, the Rampolla family makes a difference by giving back to the community. Listen as they share the journey of growing their businesses, RMI and Lost Tavern Brewing, and how they use family to strengthen their ventures.

After experiencing stress and anxiety during sports as a kid, Megan Cannon was inspired to change the lives of young athletes who struggle with mental health issues. Check out why Megan loves what she does and why she continues to stay in the Lehigh Valley community.

Dr. Mark Erickson, president of Northampton Community College, knew from day one that the Lehigh Valley was THE place to be. In this episode, Ashley and Dr. Erickson discuss the challenges of growing up as the new kid in school,  and how rewarding his journey to NCC has been.

Known for her eccentric personality and pivotal role at Workforce Board Lehigh Valley, Nancy Dischinat tells the story of where her entrepreneurial journey began. Watch as she and Ashley discuss what they love about the Lehigh Valley, and why Nancy has always been a hard worker, no matter the job.

Before her role as chancellor of Penn State Lehigh Valley, Dr. Tina Richardson had climbed the higher educational ladder as a natural risk-taker. Listen to the journey that led Dr. Richardson to her current success and find out what makes her a champion of the Lehigh Valley community.

Kevin, the chief operating officer of Faces International, has a constant drive to achieve his dreams. Listen as Kevin shares why making an impact in the community is vital for success and why the Lehigh Valley is a place of rebirth for him.

A community champion and voice for STEM education, Carol Obando-Derstine is an advocate for change in the Lehigh Valley. Listen as she shares why life is never a linear path and how everyone does better when everyone is thriving.

Whether she’s opening the show for country music’s biggest stars or rocking local Lehigh Valley breweries, Kendal Conrad makes her presence known. Find out where Kendal's musical journey began and what this on-the-rise artist has planned for her future.

While we've talked to guests from all over the country, the common thread that ties them together is their love for the Lehigh Valley. Take a listen as Kendal Conrad, Kevin Greene, Carol Obando-Derstine, Dr. Tina Richardson and Andrew Stanten share what they love most about the Lehigh Valley and why they call it home.

As co-founder of Altitude Marketing, Andrew Stanten knows the importance of workplace culture and striving to be your best. Listen as Andrew reflects on the growth of Altitude Marketing and why he decided to stay in the Lehigh Valley.

Richard Thompson redefines the idea of following your dreams. As an entrepreneur at heart, Richard chats with us from Factory LLC's podcast studio about his many business adventures and the recent collaboration for Unscripted's new recording location.

Our very own Krysta Gunderman has always had a knack for planning events and organizing activities. Take a listen to find out why this makes her the most perfect Project Manager for our team.

Meet Steve Kauffman, our drone-flying enthusiast Associate Director of Photography. Listen to learn more about why Steve is truly in his element when he's behind the camera.

We all have a story to tell, but what would our successful community members Qiana Cressman, Khine Zaw, Shawn Kent Hayashi, and Dave McCormack & Dru Thomas title their autobiographies? Find out in this Unscripted Bonus episode!

Closing out our second season, Danny Roebuck returns to his stomping grounds in Bethlehem, PA in the midst of his acting successes. Listen as Ashley and Danny discuss the importance of giving back to your community, upcoming endeavors, and how God has guided him throughout his filmmaking journey.

Khine Zaw has transitioned from a childhood without electricity in Burma to providing victims of abuse with full time jobs at Khinder Creations. Listen as Khine shares her emotional journey to success and how transforming suffering into courage brought a newfound purpose.

The tables have turned! Guests George Wacker, Rahmieneh Ortiz, and Kim Fraites-Dow put Ashley in the hot seat and ask her a question of their choice.

Before she was the publisher of Lehigh Valley Style Magazine, Pam Deller was undecided where to take her career. Listen as she and Ashley discuss the importance of being driven and why you should always raise your hand first.

Qiana Cressman, CEO of Emerge Woman Magazine, inspires women of all backgrounds to become the best versions of themselves. Dive in and discover how Qiana's love for words and connecting with people has lead to her current success.

The holidays are here and magic is in the air! Take a listen to Sadie Nardini, Chris Morganelli, Joe Fitzpatrick and Danny Roebuck's favorite holiday memories in this bonus episode.

Chris Kocher, president of Wildlands Conservancy, has been recognized statewide by the PA Department of Environmental Protection and the PA Environmental Council, for his devotion to the environment. Listen as Ashley and Chris discuss the importance of protecting what you love, and why the work of Wildlands Conservancy has never been more important.

Founder and CEO of The Professional Development Group, Shawn Kent Hayashi is a high performing team consultant, executive coach and best-selling author. Take a listen as Ashley and Shawn dive into the importance of emotional intelligence and how she learned to adapt to change and culture quickly.

Owners of one of the top 200 salons in the country, Dave McCormack and Dru Thomas have been elevating the looks of the Lehigh Valley community for the past 20 years. In this episode, Dave, Dru and Ashley discuss the success of American Hairlines and the joy of bringing the beauty out in others.