Real World Leaders

What's the most important form of leadership? Freire Charter High School and DC International School students interview Larry Blue, Retired CEO of Bell & Howell, and John Starling, CEO of Pietential, and discuss volunteering for the hard jobs, accountability, and being athletic, creative, or both.

Which important conversation are you possibly avoiding? Tacony Academy Charter School and Moore High School students interview Ken Won, Principal Owner of Navpac Advisors, LLC, and Cathy Lockyer Moulton, President of Thomas Wynn Apartments, and discuss how to make a safe environment, making life more interesting, and translating skills from home to work life.

How can life be great if you have no plan? Legends Charter School and Community Academy of Philadelphia students interview Casey Benefield, First Officer at Southwest Airlines and USMC Vet, and Rich Trotter, Owner and President of Rosati Ice, and discuss starting early and sticking with it, the key to a great team, and how to turn ambition into success.

Why not call your company a family? Academies at Roxborough High School and Imhotep Charter Institute students interview Robert Ferrilli, Owner & President of Ferrilli, and Paul Tramo, President & CEO of Sentinel Process Systems, Inc., and discuss failing fast, causing trouble, and putting your nose to the grindstone.
 

What if everything they tell you is a lie? New Hope-Solebury High School and Moore High School students interview Brad Calder, Executive Director of TIFF, and Bree McQuillan, CEO of PDC Machines, and discuss not selling too early, balancing a heavy workload, and being a natural born leader. 
 

Who is eligible for greatness? Tacony Academy High School students interview Jason Scholl, President of LK Miller Commerial Construction, and Mary Marcus, CEO of NewAge Industries, and discuss how to succeed anywhere, emotional intelligence, and running your own race.

What's the #1 trait that a CEO needs? Community Academy of Philadelphia and DC International High School students interview Chris Heffernan
CEO of Dilvrd, and Dave DeLizza, President & CEO of Pennoni, and discuss bonding over badminton, delegating and disappearing, and being lifelong learners.

What simple thing can eliminate conflict? Norristown Area High School and New Hope-Solebury High School students interview Dilo Wijesuriya
President & COO of ARC Document Solutions, and Jeff Kenton VP & General Manager of Solenis, and discuss the DNA of company culture, breaking barriers, and centering yourself.

How far does inspiration take you? Moore High School and Belmont Charter High School students interview Jon Etter, President of B&G Manufacturing, and Jake Leone, CEO of Corporate Interiors, and discuss opening doors, slamming doors, remembering to celebrate, and having empathy.

When is a B+ better than an A? Real World Leaders Institute externs interview Jim Ashton, General Partner of Newspring Capital, and Scott Rankin, CEO of Vulcan Spring, and discuss how to succeed with A.I., taking the limits off, and the most important things in life.

When should you take dirty, hairy things off a plate? Real World Leaders Institute externs interview Eric Logan, CEO of Jacob Stern & Sons, and also go into deeper detail about their own dreams and aspirations. Listen as we discuss faith and fitness, everybody's isms, and the love of art.

When is looking like a fool okay? Real World Leaders Institute externs interview Sam Thevanayagam, President & CEO of Parts Life, Inc.DeVal Lifecycle Support, and LC Engineers, Inc., and Marc Albero, General Manager of PAC Strapping, and discuss prep school guys gone wild, being a good steward, and reserved parking spaces.

In this episode our first guest CEO dives deep into two critical pillars of lasting success: relationships and responsibility. First, we explore the undeniable power of networking—how talking to your peers, building connections, and surrounding yourself with the right people can open doors you never imagined. In business, it truly is about who you know. Then, we shift to leadership—the kind that takes full ownership. When a team fails, it's the leader's responsibility. When a team wins, the praise belongs to everyone else. We’ll also unpack the mindset behind success: the perseverance to keep going when you hear “n...

What does it take to just keep showing up? Real World Leaders Institute externs interview Joe Hand Jr.,President of Joe Hand Promotions, and Chris DiPaolo, President and CEO of Protecs, and discuss keeping an open mind, the two most valuable skills you can develop, and using your heart.

What's that about a solo act? Real World Leaders Institute externs and DC International School students interview Bill Edmonds, CEO of B&G Manufacturing, and Brett Levin, President of MHS Lift, and discuss not empowering the next generation, being a cook, and not having a set path.

n this motivating episode, our CEO's Bill Cumby III of Cumby Construction & Kareem Afzal of PD Machines talk about embracing the mindset that life—and your career—is never truly perfected. There’s always another step to take, another goal to reach, and something new to improve. That constant pursuit of growth is what keeps us sharp, humble, and motivated. Student reflections bring it home, especially from Elvis, who shares how asking more questions became a key to overcoming challenges and deepening his learning. This episode is about staying curious, pushing forward, and never settling for "good enough".

In this inspiring episode, a bold CEO encourages students to take the leap—to move beyond fear and step into the unknown with confidence. You'll also hear from a student whose biggest takeaway is the power of curiosity—how asking questions and staying open can lead to unexpected opportunities and life-changing connections. Whether you're choosing a career path or figuring out your next step, this episode will challenge you to lead with courage and curiosity. Listen now—and take your leap

As an entrepreneur, who's your boss? Belmont Charter High School and Hatboro-Horsham High School students interview Scott Hamberger, Retired CEO of Fortessa Tablewear Solutions, and Joe Arcangelo, Co-founder & Managing Partner of inSeption Group, and discuss failure, the foundation for starting a business, and being stubborn.

What does doing your best get you? Academies at Roxborough High School and Prep Charter High School students interview Joe Gambone, CEO of the Gambone Group, and Todd Shumacher, CEO of Vici Media, and discuss the fun of hard work, being detail-oriented in social situations, and how not to burn out.

What's the downside of planning? Executive Education Academy Charter School and Tacony Academy Charter High School students interview Joe Arcangelo, Co-founder & Managing Partner of inSeption Group, and Nate Bower, President of Rebling, and having work as a hobby, making your boss's life easier, and working hard but not too hard.

What makes a family? Tacony Academy Charter High School and Legends Charter School students interview Tara Carcillo, President & CEO of The Clearing, and Javier Solis, Founder & CEO of Toro Taxes, and discuss not backing down, moving past an idea into action, and building your inner circle.

Can't we all just get along? Franklin Towne Charter High School and Sankofa Freedom Academy students interview Ernie Hanna, Senior Consultant at GZA, and John Blaskovich, CEO of MedEast, and discuss the keys to working together, having a village to push you, and getting a good dinner out of the deal.

What's the worst part of life? Norristown Area High School and Freire Charter High School students interview Joe Arcangelo, Co-founder & Managing Partner at inSeption Group, and Jonathan Evans, President & CEO of B&A, and discuss commonalities between bartenders and newspaper writers, what resilience really is, and winning where you can.

What does Culture eat for breakfast? KIPP DuBois Collegiate Academy and TECH-Freire Charter High School students interview Craig Edsill, CEO of Clemens Food Group, and Mary Marcus, CEO of NewAge Industries, and discuss the importance of people, setting goals, and how to have fun.

What does “just go for it” look like? Upper Perkiomen High School and New Hope-Solebury High School students interview Gary Rubin, Sales Manager at Imperial Dade, and Paul Chantler, President of Sovereign Property Management, and discuss being an outsider, learning from many different sources, and how to be the biggest winner.

Listen to our interview with students from KIPP Dubois Collegiate Academy as they interview Annie Frankel, former Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health, Temple University. Listen as Annie provides the students with guidance and encouragement to step out of their comfort zones, raise their hands when opportunities arise and be to be confident in speaking up and having a voice. We follow that up with Executive Vice President of RW Dake Construction interview about growing up on job sites and learning to use power tools at six, Ryan Barber was...

In this episode of Real World Leaders, Larry Bendesky, Managing Partner at Saltz, Mongeluzzi, Bendesky, shares what it means to be at the center of the action—both on the baseball field and in the courtroom. From flipping burgers to leading one of Pennsylvania’s top personal injury law firms, Larry’s journey is built on hustle, teamwork, and learning from failure. He believes that empathy is just as crucial as strategy when fighting for clients, and that a strong team mentality fuels success. In this episode, Larry shares how sports shaped his leadership, why mentorship matters, and why giving back is...

Students from Manassas Park High School interview Larry Blue, former CEO of Bell + Howell, and hear his insights on the importance of being present and actively listening to others, cultivating curiosity, staying flexible in the face of change, and embracing continuous learning. Through his experiences, students learn how these principles can shape effective leadership, foster strong relationships, and drive personal and professional growth. Followed by students from Manassas Park High School interview with Tom Rimel, the President of Stockwell Elastomerics. Tom shares his incredible journey—from renovating old homes with his family to earning a chemical engineering degree and becoming th...

ASPIRA Bilingual Cyber Charter School students sit down with Kevin O'Donnell, Owner and CEO of O'Donnell Roofing Co., to discuss leadership, work-life balance, and why it's important not to be too hard on yourself. Followed by, Is a career in banking all about the money? Listen as students from Hatboro-Horsham Senior High School interview Dave Freeman, President and CEO of QNB bank and learn how starting as a teller, his now 50 year career in banking has allowed him to prioritize his family and enjoy music which he loves so much.

Tacony Academy Charter High School students interview Eric Rubino, CEO of Energage, and hear valuable insights on how staying true to yourself and seeking out guidance from others can help you reach your goals. Followed by, How do you build a pharma company dedicated to addressing women's health needs? In this episode, Legends Charter School student cohosts an inspiring conversation with Gerianne DiPiano, Chairman & CEO of Femme Pharma. Listen as Gerianne shares how her deep focus and passion for improving lives drove her to create a company committed to innovating and advancing women’s health. Don’t miss this powerful stor...

Joe Messner, CEO & Founder of JGM, knows what it takes to rise, fall, and climb back to the top. Coming from a long line of construction entrepreneurs, he watched his family go from success to struggle and back again, shaping his relentless drive. A former football center and childhood leader, he understands the value of teamwork and resilience. Join us as Joe shares his journey of grit, growth, and the lessons learned in both business and life. Followed by our interview withScott Rankin, President (or rather, "Visionary") of Vulcan Spring Manufacturing. He has been wired for business since childhood. From...

Chris Caba, CEO of Total Rental, turned a childhood dream into a thriving business. Growing up in Phoenixville, PA, as the youngest of four, he spent his summers working in the family rental business, learning the ropes from an early age. After the loss of his father, Chris took the company from just 8 employees to 120, fueled by his competitive drive and passion for leadership. A former hockey team captain, he believes teamwork and resilience are key to success in business. Tune in as Chris shares his journey of growth, grit, and the power of embracing competition. We follow that with...

Listen as John Rapchinski, Principal at Maximus Partners shares his story of having 200 cousins and taking his dad's advice to work hard in everything he does has led to his success in business and life. Listen as John provides advice and guidance to students from Norristown Area High School about seeing past the dollars and cents and seeing the people you are helping. Followed by our interview with Scott Rankin, President (or rather, "Visionary") of Vulcan Spring Manufacturing. Scott has been wired for business since childhood. From running his own print shop at 15 to leading a family business that started...

Michael Sharp, Executive Chairman of Sharp Financial, isn’t just redefining the financial world—he’s reshaping how leaders connect and support others. Growing up in Philadelphia as the oldest of three, he developed a passion for mentorship, coaching, and building relationships. His goal is to bring integrity and collaboration to an industry known for its cutthroat nature. Whether he's guiding clients in wealth management or coaching future basketball stars, Michael believes true success is about investing in people. Tune in to hear his journey of leadership, authenticity, and impact. Followed by our interview with our very own  Heather Carter, produce...

Dalene Blattner, Shareholder Connections Manager at Clemens Food Group, shares her journey as a fifth-generation leader in Pennsylvania’s largest family-owned business. Growing up surrounded by hard work and dedication, she embraces servant leadership and the power of perseverance. Dalene sees herself as a steward of her family’s 130-year legacy, committed to sharing their story and fostering strong connections. Tune in to hear how she overcame self-doubt, leads with purpose, and carries forward a history of resilience and teamwork. Followed by George Bressler, President of GB Collects, shares his no-nonsense journey from growing up in Queens to building his own...

Student Co-hosts from Williamson College of the Trades sit down with Robert Peppelman, CEO of RJP Consulting Group, to explore how faith and family shape business decisions. Robert shares insights on how prioritizing healthy relationships and strong character has played a pivotal role in his success. Tune in for a conversation about the values that drive meaningful business leadership and how personal principles can influence professional growth.

Humble Beginnings, Lessons on the Field, Winning the Day - Bobby Keyes President and CEO of Elite Salons and Suites talks about how to you go from humble beginnings in a row home to leading a successful business.  In this incredible journey from his childhood in Philadelphia to running a thriving family business. Join student co-hosts from Philadelphia Electrical and Technology Charter High School as they interview Bobby about the values of teamwork, leadership, and caring for people that have helped him build his success. Followed by our interview with Chris Annas, Chairman & CEO of Meridian Bank, as he shares hi...

Ted Wentz, CEO of Quadratec, shares his journey from growing up in a family business to leading it through growth and challenges. A born leader, Ted reflects on how his early roles shaped his approach to motivating a team, even during tough times. He opens up about stepping away from the family business, finding his path, and ultimately returning to lead with renewed purpose. From Jeep parts to personal growth, Ted’s story is a playbook on resilience, hard work, and expanding your horizons as a leader. Followed by Jim Paolino, Co-Founder and CEO of LodeStar Software Solutions, shares his jo...

Philadelphia E&T Charter High School students interview Jim Ashton, General Partner, New Spring Capital, and hear how dedication and an inquisitive mind can uncover passions and drive success.How do you go from building your own career to helping fund companies that solve real-world problems? Followed by, Roxborough High School students sit down with Jane Hollingsworth, Managing Partner at Militia Hill Ventures. Jane shares how investing in herself and staying committed to her career path ultimately enabled her to invest in the brilliant minds across Philadelphia, empowering them to tackle important challenges.

What is the formula for sweet success in business? Scholars from Imhotep Institute Charter High School interview Ross Born, the former CEO of Just Born who shares invaluable wisdom on achieving business success, emphasizing the importance of strategic selectivity, cultivating recognition and embracing serendipity. This insightful conversation offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.  Followed by Stan Middleman, CEO of Freedom Mortgage and part owner of the Phillies, shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to business success. Starting with odd jobs as a kid, Stan worked for everything he has and believes in leaving the world better than you found i...

Dean Curtis and Dr. Evan Loh share their journeys of leadership built on listening, coaching, and inspiring others. Dean, CEO of Ingage, reflects on how understanding and guiding people to be their best drives his success, while Dr. Loh, a former cardiologist turned CEO of Paratek, reveals how empathy and a people-first approach make him a standout leader. Both discuss the power of setting goals, standing out through perseverance, and leading with purpose. Tune in for inspiring lessons on becoming a leader who truly connects.

Jeff Mack and John Rizzo share their journeys from shy beginnings and tough leaders to confident CEOs and industry icons. Jeff, a Philadelphia real estate leader, talks about putting people before business and building your personal brand, while John, a tech entrepreneur, reflects on lessons from working with legends like Steve Jobs. Both reveal how adversity shaped their leadership and why persistence is the key to success. Tune in for insights on staying the course, leading through challenges, and leaving a lasting impact.

Can you turn failure into success? In this episode, DC International students sit down with Joe Arcangelo, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of inSeption Group. Hear how being fired became a turning point in Joe’s life, leading him to a mentor, newfound opportunities, and a journey toward stability and success. Followed by students from Sankofa Freedom Academy's interview with Gregory Reaves, CEO of Mosaic Development Partners. Greg Reaves shares how losing his mom and many loved ones before the age of 13 shaped his relentless drive to succeed. From starting a real estate empire with no experience to embracing humor and per...

Shawn McCaney and Dan DiOrio share their inspiring stories of leadership, resilience, and legacy-building. From running the influential William Penn Foundation to founding Thinc Forward after overcoming homelessness, these two leaders explore what it takes to leave a lasting impact. Hear how trust, integrity, and mental fortitude have shaped their paths and why innovation and hard work are essential to success. This episode is packed with lessons on turning challenges into opportunities and building something bigger than yourself.

Greg Reaves shares how losing his mom and many loved ones before the age of 13 shaped his relentless drive to succeed. From starting a real estate empire with no experience to embracing humor and persistence as keys to life, Greg’s story is one of fearlessly chasing opportunities and living with urgency. Followed by Tacony Academy Charter School students interview William Bowie, President & CEO of Empower Construction. Hear the inspiring story of a CEO who faced adversity, overcame challenges, and channeled his passion into building a successful business with the goal of empowering others to become the best versions of th...

Join Chris DiPaolo and Bob Cohen as they share powerful lessons on leadership, decision-making, and success. Discover why "no" is the most limiting word in the English language and how to turn hesitation into action. Learn the art of reading people, the value of hard work over intellect, and how trusting your instincts can propel you forward. They’ll reveal why calculated risks are essential for rewards and how inaction can be the greatest failure of all. This is a conversation packed with wisdom and inspiration for anyone ready to seize opportunities and thrive.

Listen to our student co-hosts as they sit down with Bill Edmonds, CEO of B&G Manufacturing to learn how the youngest sibling transitioned from sweeping floors in a third-generation, family-owned business to becoming a successful CEO? Followed by the students from Roxborough High School interview Bill Stockwell, Chairman of the Board of Stockwell Elastomerics, and learn what it means to lead with humility and how fostering a culture of care creates a ripple effect that benefits both employees and customers.

Legends Charter School interview Bruer Kershner, CEO of Kershner Office Furniture as he shares practical advice, including the power of networking, the importance of mentors, and why writing down your goals helps you achieve them. We follow that with YearUp students interview with Caleb Frankel, President and CEO of Instinct.vet. Listen as he shares how playing point guard when he was younger helps him today and how seeing an opportunity through identifying a need can advance yourself and your career. When you see an opportunity...take it!

Bill Cumby President & CEO of W.S. Cumby Construction and Dave DeLizza, President & CEO of Pennoni share lessons on the value of honesty, active listening, and maintaining a student mindset to learn from every experience. They reveals how a people-first approach fosters a company culture that feels like family and creates lasting, meaningful projects.

"Have I become the person he would have wanted me to be?"
In this episode, Prep Charter High School scholars sit down with Paul Spencer, President of dsm-firmenich Biomedical, to explore how the profound loss of a parent at a young age—while deeply traumatic—can inspire resilience and drive personal success. How can you let others help you shine? Followed by KIPP Philadelphia students interview with Michelle Heckert, Director of Operations at Real World Leaders and hear stories of overcoming adversity, embracing mentors, and constantly growing and improving.

How can we overcome self doubt by feeding our souls? TECH Freire Charter High School students interview Emmanuella Myrthil, Chief Culture & Social Impact Officer of SEPTA, and hear how she believes that every challenge she faces prepares her for the next thing she is meant to be. Followed by the interview with students from Freire Charter High School as they sit down with Joe Messner, CEO and Founder of JGM, to uncover powerful life lessons. From finding the right people to fueling your growth to pinpointing your career passion faster, Joe shares raw, hard-earned wisdom from his journey through the...

What are some cross functional skills that can help someone climb to the ranks to a high-level corporate position? Hopeworks students interview Adam Lurie, CEO of Knexus, and Eric Faggioli, President of Delaware Valley Paving, regarding the importance of communication skills, leadership skills, and resilience in the face of inevitable adversity.

What is the value of hard work and a positive attitude? Williamson College of the Trades students interview Jessica Scully, President of Scully Company, and Dolly Oberoi, Founder and CEO of C2 Technologies, and learn about how a positive attitude and strong work ethic can help leaders navigate adversity.

Our co-hosts from Manassas Park High School learn how to take small opportunities and make it into something huge from the President and CEO of B&A, Jonathan Evans. Hear how there is no shame starting at the bottom and figuring out how to show up and set yourself apart. Followed by Franklin Towne Charter High School students interview with Joshua Burg, CEO of Glass Enterprises, and hear how he has become a successful leader by being people-focused.

What should a successful career path look like? Executive Education Academy Charter School students interview Kelly Botti, President and CEO of TruMark Financial Credit Union, and hear that a successful career path is not always a straight line. Sometimes you have to jump to where the next opportunity is. Hatboro-Horsham High School students interview Adam Pardes, Co-Founder and CEO of Neuroflow, and hear stories of how being a renaissance man in his youth led to him starting a business in behavioral health technology. Listen as Adam helps students relate dance and their artistic interests as an outlet for emotional/spiritual...

What does it take to successfully build a business from your kitchen table? Global Leadership Academy SW scholars interview Steve Lang, CEO of Mon Cheri Bridals, and receive valuable gems of wisdom from a “graduate of the school of hard knocks.” Steve encourages the co-hosts that as long as they believe in themselves and never give up they can achieve their dreams. Followed by Tacony Academy Charter School students interview Joe Hand Jr., President of Joe Hand Promotions, and hear the importance of passion, commitment and dedication. What traits can lead to success in any business?

Students from Hopeworks interview with Ross Born, retired CEO of Born Industries and learn how they are their own brand and everything they do and the choices they make can impact their brand and future success. Followed by Imhotep Institute Charter High school students interview with Rick Skidmore, CEO of Timberlane Shutters and hear how he prioritizes being responsible and taking care of people to grow successful in business.

How do you find success in business? The interns from YearUp United interviewed Todd Sager, CEO of AWE Tuning and Denny Howell, President of Howell Engineering, Surveying and Environmental and gained wisdom of starting a business with a focus on people, passion, and making a profit.
 

How do you survive adolescence and early adulthood working to impress a domineering parent? Students from KIPP Academy Charter School interview Jeff Westphal, Founder of MeaningSphere and hear how resilience and a personal commitment to work for things you really care about leads to success. Followed by - What does history have to do with business? Students from Legends Charter School interview Jake Leone, President and CEO of Corporate Interiors, and hear how paying attention to history helps business leaders look to the future, and how these principles can be applied in many areas of our lives.

Do wanting to win and learning to take losses help you succeed in life? Williamson College of the Trades students interview Ron Scheese, President and CEO of Andesa Services and John Blaskovich, President and CEO of MedEast Post-Op and Surgical, Inc., and hear stories of learning from losses and maintaining a winning attitude in order to find success in life and business.

If you don’t make a mistake, it means you’re not trying - Chris Heffernan: Can you truly understand success if you've never experienced failure? Methacton High School students interview Chris Heffernan, CEO of dlivrd, and hear that the rearview mirror is a lot smaller than the windshield for a reason. Followed by: how can learning from your mistakes and learning to pivot make positive change? Listen as students from Aspira-CYBER Charter School interview Kurt Koloseike, President and CEO of S. Walter Packaging and learn about leading with humility, staying engaged with your team, and learning to pivot when makin...

What are keys to a successful career? Passion and resilience. Students from Global Leadership Academy Southwest and Manassas Park High School interview Larry Bendesky, Managing Shareholder of Salz Mongeluzzi Bendesky and Kevin Wolfgang, President of Evergreen Apartment Group about finding a career that you are passionate about and resilience in the face of adversity.

Does knowing the next move to make in business really matter? Students from Hopeworks interview Guido Gallicchio, Chairman and President of Thayer Distribution and Bobby Ritterbeck, Founder and President of Best Egg and hear their stories of how their curiosity and ability to have foresight helps them stay one step ahead in business and life.

"Does hard work really pay off?" Students from Academies at Roxborough High School interview John Ferretti, CEO of Codi Worldwide and hear his stories of working at a very young age and the work ethic developed during his youth, that led to his future success in business. Also, Who would have guessed that the CEO of the 6th largest transit agency in the U.S. never took a transportation class in school?!? Norristown Area High School students interview Leslie Richards, CEO and General Manager of Southeastern Pennsylvani

What does being flexible have to do with understanding your own biases? Students from Imhotep Institute Charter High School interview Phil Jauragie, Founder of Mandulac Strategies, LLC and retired CEO of Sabre Systems, and hear how understanding your own biases and being aware of others' biases can help you navigate challenging situations and conversations.
What's the difference between failing and losing? Everyone fails, but real leaders will always find a different way to achieve their goal. Students from Community Academy of Philadelphia interview Alan Giannone, CEO of Village Catering, and hear why quitting is not in Alan's vocabulary and...

"You don't have to be the wealthiest, just be happy with what you do." - Tony S. Williamson College of the Trades students meet with Tony Santora, President of A & E Constuction Co., and Neha Arnold CEO of Sedna Consulting Group to discuss the true colors of running a successful business.

Does having people skills and a strong network really matter in business? Students from Hopeworks interview John Rizzo, CEO of InductEV and Charles Bernard, CEO of Eagle Metals, and hear how their people skills, intuition and network have contributed to their success.

Imhotep students interview Jeff Reimel, President at Reimel Machine and Glenn Bostock, CEO of Snapcab and hear how mindset, self awareness & humility can help you overcome adversity and help you lead others. You cannot force someone to so something they don't want to do. You have to nurture their strengths and let them work into what they like to get the best out of that person.

Does being willing to get your hands dirty really make a difference? Hopeworks students interview Ryan Barber, Sr. Vice President of RW Dake Construction, Bob Peppelman, CEO of RJP Consulting Group, and hear stories and advice of how being willing to do the dirty work and persevering through challenges has led to their
success in business. 

How can outworking others lead to success? Students from IDAAY interview Leigh Ehrlich CFO of Main Line Systems Health and John Rapchinski, Principal of Maximus Partners, and hear how being willing to do the work that others don't, and seeking out mentors to guide you, can help lead you to success.

How can mentors make a difference in your life? Students from HOPEWORKS interview Mike Precopio, CEO of Summers Laboratories and Dan Rhoton, CEO of HOPEWORKS and hear their real life experiences with having a mentor and being a mentor to others.

IMHOTEP students interview Chris Cera, coFounder of Arcweb Technologies & Keith Bethel, coFounder of Bethelmorris - Triple B Hospitality and hear how chess helped Keith to focus on his next three moves and how believing in yourself is the only way to start and lead a successful business.

IMHOTEP students interview Chekemma Fulmore Townsend, President of Hamilton Family Charitable Trust & John Blaskovich, CEO of MedEast Post Op & Surgical and hear how being on a journey to self discovery and making good choices led to their success.
 

Michele Bolos of NT Concepts looks for 4 qualities when hiring employees HEAT...honesty - E, empathy -A, accountability - T, trust. Ian Kramer of Schorn Construction Co. Inc. talks about high standards in his personal life and in the business. Being able to multitask and prioritize are essential in his leadership role.

Roxborough High School students interview Conrad Oakey, CEO of NovaTech Automation and hear how a Chemistry major and comic book artist took the leap to CEO his family business. St. Malachy students interview Rob Lail of LiteMovers to hear how a moving business was born from a boat purchase. Directions change and he encourages students to look at opportunities in the directional changes that life brings you.

Franklin Towne students hear about the growth mindset and how it's important to take a step back to understand the challenges ahead from GZA Principal Ernie Hanna and Brian Watterson, Founder & CEO of Network Connections.

Souderton Area High School students interview Larry Stuardi, CEO of MRA Group & Lewis Sharps MD, Founder of Positive Physicians Insurance Co and hear how important it is to make and nurture relationships in life and in business.

Tacony Academy students get to hear from Bob Kreamer, CEO of Indian Valley and the new Wissahickon Valley Boys and Girls Club & Donald Bird, Managing Principal/CEO of Bird Brand Enterprises and learn how they balance self-reliance, competing with yourself, and teamwork to be the leaders that they are. Setting examples, in those areas, for their team so their team will do the same.

Listen to our guests, Ned Moore, CEO of Clutch & Todd Sager, President of AWE  think outside of the box to get their team motivated to have meaning and fulfillment in their job. Motivated and happy employee leads to results for the company.

Ron Scheese, CEO of Andesa Services & Joe Crandall, CEO of Greencastle Consulting talk about how the "Only Way Out is Through". It take perseverance and faith to make it as a CEO and leader. Listen as the mentor the youth to build those skills now so doors will open for them later on in their lives.

Young adults from Hopeworks interview Roman Sharf, Founder & CEO of Luxury Bazaar & Brent Saul, Partner of Weldwire and hear how they overcame struggles, believed in themselves and became the business leaders that they are today.

Students from Sankofa Academy asked; "When you were a first baseman in your youth, how does that relate to your position today?" Chuck Cohen answered, "Don't Drop the Ball!" - Many lesson learned at young ages will develop skills that you will take throughout you whole life.

When students asked, "What does success look like?" Paul Tramo of Sentinel Process Systems replied, "success is an intersection of passion and hard work." Chris Contini, founder of On Course Systems feels that the best was to do that is by supporting employees in their careers and personal. Employee engagement drives the goals and success of a company.

What's it take to be a servant leader? Young adults from YearUpDC interview George Bresler, President of GB Collects and Scott Hamberger, President & CEO of Integrus Holdings and learn how hustle-ability, integrity and intellectual curiosity will take you far.

D.C.I.  students get insight from top leaders, Curtis Schehr of DCS Corporation & Craig Carra of MOBILion Systems, on how to do your best and be accountable. If you do that, the other stuff will fall into place.

Executive Education Academy Charter students interview Rob Coldwell, President at Rentwell and Joe Hurwitz, President and CEO of Ace Designs, and hear how these two business leaders overcame adversity, surpassed their goals and stay in a positive mindset.

Manassas Park High School students interview Evan Brandoff,
Vice President of Sales & Strategy, Brand Solutions of TeamSnap & Michael McHale, CEO of PSA Systems and hear about innovation, teamwork and how to show up and focus on what's in your control.

What's it take to be a servant leader? Williamson College of Trades students interview Michael Hersh, CEO of BrandPoint Services & Paul Chantler, CEO of Sovereign Properties and hear how hard work can trump skill and when to color outside of the lines.

Both Angela Wilson of SeKON and Chris Annas of Meridian bank are confident leaders. Confidence does not always come naturally but can be practiced so that over time it will be natural. They encourage students to be determined and hard working to help develop the skills they need in any career choice.

hris said that he "always says yes when asked to help" and helping young people getting started in their careers is what lights him up. Jeff said that he thinks that "FAIL stands for First Attempt In Learning and that failures can help you see things more clearly." Our CEO guests are always asked about their struggles and their stories but today our students also shared their stories and we were all inspired.

What does an offensive guard do on the football field? Create opportunities for their team! Our student co-hosts from Norristown Area School District High School got to dig deep into what this has to do with what Robert Keyes does now as the President & CEO at ELITE Salons and Suites and what Marc Albero does now as Vice President & General Manager at PAC Strapping Products.
 

What's it take to be a servant leader? Manassas Park High School students interview William Bowie, President of Empower Construction & Shawn McCaney, President & CEO of the William Penn Foundation and hear about why empowering their people and leading them on the way to their best path will always be a win-win.

What's it take to be a servant leader? DeSales University students interview Guido Gallichio, Chairman & President of Thayer Distribution & Michael Slupecki, President & CEO of Griswold Home Care and hear how these leaders learned early what they want to do and how to put the work in to get there.
 

While sharing their journey toward success with students from St. Hubert Catholic School for Girls and Roxborough High School, both Dave Freeman, CEO at QNB Bank and Mike Busia, CFO at Hankin Group encouraged the students to seek out and build relationships with multiple mentors to guide them as they pursue their goals. 
 

What's it take to become a servant leader? MontcoWorks NOW youth interview Kat Ketter, AVP of Member Experience with Jefferson Health Plans & Steven Katz, Partner at HBI Partners & Founder of Katz Family Charitable Foundation, and hear how being the ultimate optimist and living by the Golden rule can bring success.

Kevin Wolfgang "knew his role" at an early age on the soccer field and the basketball court. Now his job is to help others understand theirs as the President & CEO of Evergreen Apartment Group. The drive he had in 7th grade to start his own landscaping business is the same drive that motivates him to be the leader he is today. Similarly, the understanding that "someone could be suffering if we did not succeed" that Greg Krug had as a young boy making deliveries on his bike for a local drug store, continues to motivate him to serve others in...

Legends Charter School and Boys' Latin students interview Scott Gray, Founder & Former CEO of Clincierge & Jim Jurgielewicz, President of Joe Jurgielewicz & Son, and hear how being brave, curious and unafraid to fail can help them achieve their goals.

Hatboro Horsham HS students interview Britt Mazzagatti, President of DLI Commercial & Bud Tyler, VP of EF Precision, and hear how important networking and how to use your network is-you can't do it alone! TEAM-Together Everyone Achieves More.

Our CEO guests, Chris Contini, founder of On Course Systems and Bonnie Chong, President of Anthony & Sylvan Pools share with our students how supporting employees in their careers and personal lives will also help drive the goals and success of a company. Bonnie strives to run a company that benefits  her employees and also the lives of their employees families. Chris was blessed to have some great mentors, and works to pay that back by mentoring people in his business and outside of the business.
 

Inspiring entrepreneurs, Daniel DiOrio, CEO of Thinc Forward & Michael Precopio, CEO of Summer Laboratories speak about their definition of success with students from St. Malachy High School. Students were challenged to: "Explore the things you like and develop a passion. Be the best you can be in what you do." -Dan "Helping other people get what they want will help you get what you want." and "Take advantage of trying new things and to do things in excellence." - Mike