Episodes
02/04/2025
19 - From Nigeria to Your Team: The Power of Offshore Hiring – A Conversation with Erefa Coker
Erefa Coker is an innovative entrepreneur and the founder of IMÒ. She has led Doheney Services Ltd as the Managing Consultant and is also the founder of HR Expo Africa. With a rich background in Human Resources and management across various sectors, Erefa excels in enhancing business performance through people, delivering tailored solutions for individual, team, and organizational issues.
Her consulting expertise spans strategic and operational areas, including HR services, leadership development, executive coaching, career transition, managing change, restructuring, organizational design, talent management, and assessment.
Erefa's consulting success is evident in her track record, delivering exceptional results tailored to each client's unique needs. Erefa is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD.
As the founder of IMÒ Talent, Erefa is transforming the remote talent offshoring space, making global talent accessible and impactful for businesses worldwide. Her unique blend of HR expertise and entrepreneurial vision positions IMÒ as a leader in connecting companies with skilled professionals, streamlining every aspect of the offshoring process. By bridging continents and fostering collaboration, Erefa is driving innovation in workforce solutions while creating meaningful employment opportunities globally.
26/03/2025
18 - DIMSUMX & The Future of Heart-Centered Networking: A Conversation with Chalsea-Blaze Chen
Chalsea-Blaze Chen is a visionary data strategist, entrepreneur, and community builder with 15+ years of experience turning analytics into action for global brands like Hyundai, Toyota, Mattel, and Johnson & Johnson. As the founder of startups Creatabu and Concon App, she has explored the intersection of technology, storytelling, and human connection.
In response to an increasingly AI-driven world, Chalsea-Blaze founded DIMSUMX, a platform that reimagines networking through heart-centered gatherings—fostering trust, empathy, and cultural connection beyond traditional hierarchies. While AI can optimize efficiency, she believes real innovation comes from human connection.
Beyond entrepreneurship, she serves on the Howard County Public School System World Language Advisory Committee, advocating for education and cross-cultural understanding.
Join the conversation and learn more about the complex world of Data and Networking!
19/03/2025
17 - Want Brand Loyalty? Stop Playing It Safe: A Conversation with Bradley Rausch
Bradley Rausch is a CMO and operations expert specializing in founder-led companies. With a strong focus on improving client experience, he helps businesses elevate their client success strategies from the initial onboarding process to creating loyal, engaged customers. Bradley takes pride in helping businesses create meaningful client interactions, turning satisfied customers into passionate brand advocates. He’s also a big believer in keeping things straightforward, he prefers to be called a "part-time CMO" rather than using the over-inflated term "fractional."
Links
12/03/2025
16 - From Unknown Founder to Connected Insider: A Conversation with Maciej Popielarz
Maciej is a customer success and innovation leader with expertise in operational excellence, process optimization, and technology-driven solutions. With a background in venture capital, startups, and product management, he has helped founders scale businesses, navigate complex challenges, and drive adoption in competitive markets. Passionate about blockchain, AI, and emerging technologies, Maciej is always exploring the next big shift in tech and how it can transform industries About the Hosts: Charles is a strategy consultant, community builder, and advocate for purpose-driven businesses. With a knack for creating actionable insights, Charles helps leaders turn their vision into reality.
Links:
05/03/2025
15 - From Stage Left to Tech Sales: A Conversation With Ben Bartolone
Ben Bartolone is a tech enthusiast and product development specialist with a passion for bringing incredible ideas to life. After years in the American theater, he pivoted to tech in 2019, originally as a sabbatical, but he never looked back. Now, he thrives on collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving, always excited to meet new people and take on new projects. When he’s not optimizing systems or diving into product development, he’s your go-to for Broadway show recommendations.
Links:
26/02/2025
14 - Your Brand, Your Legacy: Build It with Purpose – A Conversation with Daryna Yatsiuk
Daryna Yatsiuk is a New York-based brand designer with a passion for clean energy.
A Ukrainian native, she honed her design skills at a leading art university in Kyiv.
While still a student, Daryna launched her freelance career, creating impactful branding for a diverse clientele, ranging from individual entrepreneurs to major corporations.
Following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Daryna relocated to the United States, where she continues to advocate for the importance of strong branding.
With 7+ years of experience, Daryna specializes in helping startups in the tech and energy sectors by providing comprehensive branding support
Links:
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darynayatsiuk/
Portfolio/website: https://darynayatsiuk.com/
Book a call: https://calendly.com/darinayatsyuk/30min
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darynayatsiuk/
19/02/2025
13 - The Magic of Making It Up as You Go: A Conversation with Andreas Dittinger
Andy is a skilled jazz pianist, composer, and musical director. As the managing director of Jazz Campus Mainz, he established a premier international jazz program from the ground up, positioning the institution as a recognized center for jazz education worldwide. In addition to his role at Jazz Campus Mainz, Andy teaches piano at the Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts.
His academic credentials include a bachelor’s and master’s degree in jazz piano, as well as a B.Sc. in International Management from ESB Reutlingen and a B.Sc. in International Business from Northeastern University in Boston. A certified systemic coach, Andy is passionate about blending his expertise in music, business, and personal development. He embraces windsurfing and kite surfing, frequently leaving his home in Frankfurt on a quest for the best winds.
Links
https://www.andreasdittinger.com/
https://www.instagram.com/andreas.dittinger/
Unleash your inner jazz musician | Andreas Dittinger | TEDxFrankfurt
12/02/2025
12 - Success Without a Script: A Conversation with Jose (Jay) Cruz
Driven and versatile professional with experience in multiple industries, including filmmaking, tech, and business strategy. I bring a unique combination of creativity, data-driven decision-making, and an innovative mindset to every challenge. A natural leader and collaborator, I excel at building strong relationships and aligning diverse teams around shared goals.
Currently serving as the Founder at IFT Network - an independent media company focused on creating innovative content for a global audience. I'm passionate about leveraging the intersection of technology and storytelling to create meaningful connections and drive positive change.
My diverse background has taught me to approach each new project with curiosity, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Eager to continue growing, learning, and making a lasting impact in the media and entertainment industry.
As the Founder of IFT Network, I'm dedicated to revolutionizing the way independent artists connect with global audiences who love their work. Drawing on my experience as a veteran in the independent film and theater industry, I understand the challenges creators face in monetizing their creations and building sustainable careers. IFT Network is a direct response to these challenges, providing a comprehensive ecosystem designed to empower artists at every stage of their journey.
My leadership at IFT Network has birthed several innovative initiatives:
• IFT Network TV on Roku: A free streaming channel showcasing independent films, shows, and live theater.
• Subscription apps and website access: Exclusive content, interactive features, and the pioneering ProducerPay® Program, enabling filmmakers and producers to earn from their work.
• Annual International Indie Film & Theater Festival: Showcasing talent and fostering connections.
• A collaborative community: Fostering connections, innovation, and growth among creators.
I'm proud to lead the charge in creating a platform that supports independent artists, celebrates diverse storytelling, and redefines the entertainment landscape. Join me on this journey as we shape the future of the creative world, one story at a time.
Links
iftnetwork.com services
iftnetworktv.com streaming
05/02/2025
11 - Confidence Through Rejection: Why Hearing 'No' Is a Win – A Conversation with Karmin Habibi
Karmin Habibi is a sales expert and creator of the Savvy Closer Method, with over 14 years of experience helping professionals transform conversations into conversions. Known for consistently achieving a high closing rate, winning awards and gaining recognition across various industries, Karmin's mission is to simplify the sales process and empower people to boost their income, impact, and confidence. Through masterclasses and coaching, Karmin teaches ethical, client-centered techniques that turn sales professionals into confident closers.
Learn more at www.savvycloser.net
29/01/2025
10 - Designing for Dignity: Mike Clapper On The Future of Inclusive Travel
Mike Clapper is a leader in brand strategy, marketing, and business development with over 20 years of experience. His work focuses on making accessibility a strategic advantage that drives profitability, customer loyalty, and brand growth in the travel and hospitality industries.
As both a traveler with a disability and a seasoned business professional, Mike brings a unique perspective on how inclusive design benefits both brands and consumers. He helps companies gain a competitive edge by creating seamless, welcoming experiences for all. His approach transforms accessibility from a compliance requirement into a business opportunity, elevating customer satisfaction and the bottom line.
Links
22/01/2025
9 - Why UX/UI Should Start with People: Insights from Itzy Ramirez
Itzy Ramirez is a UX/UI designer based in Brooklyn, NY with over a decade of experience in design. Itzy spent time collaborating with Indigenous communities in Mexico and Guatemala, igniting a passion for socially impactful design.
She leverages her background in graphic design to create digital products that are user centric.
Links
www.itzyramirez.com
www.xochitlnopalli.com
Linkedin
IG @itzy_designs
15/01/2025
8 - From Factory to Front Door: Rachid Maliki on Modern Supply Chains
Rachid Maliki helps global organizations achieve multimillion-dollar cost savings, operational excellence, and revenue growth through strategic supply chain operations management and optimization.
As a Chief Supply Chain Officer with 20+ years of experience, he specializes in overseeing and streamlining supply chain operations, distribution networks, logistics, and transportation for industry-leading organizations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
He is recognized for achieving multimillion-dollar cost savings, controlling multibillion-dollar supplies and materials, and managing high-value budgets. Rachid has a proven track record of driving operational excellence, maximizing revenue generation, optimizing inventory management, augmenting production capacity, expanding networks, and enhancing team performance and productivity.
He possesses exceptional talent for leading large-scale teams of 400+ members to deliver supply chain projects within scope, timelines, and budgetary constraints.
Links
08/01/2025
7 - Stories Over Style: How Gurjinder Singh Helps Startups Connect Beyond the Surface
Gurjinder Singh is founder of Gesso (Design Studio) that helps Series A startups position and brand correctly before launching their GTM campaigns.
He brings a diverse background working in-house at a MarTech startup, and agency side as Director of Brand & Design at Coinbound (leading Web3 marketing agency). His specialties are in brand identity, positioning, web design, and product UI.
Gurjinder is notorious for posting:
- day-in-the-life of a designer memes,
- Rotten Tomatoes style blog for scoring newly dropped logo & branding campaigns,
- and running a candid podcast on the good, bad, and ugly of design with a friend from Bangalore, India.
Links:
01/01/2025
6 - Gregg Schoenberg: No Allstars, No Results, No Problem - Making Moves as an Executive Coach
About Gregg:
Over the past 30+ years, Gregg Schoenberg has held a diverse range of professional roles, including legislative aide, government affairs representative, investment banker, crisis consultant, media start-up founder, content creator, angel & crypto investor, and corporate strategy advisor.
His extensive experience across various industries has equipped him with valuable knowledge and insights that he brings to his coaching and mentorship practice. Gregg has also built a wide network of valuable relationships around the globe, who have generously shared their wisdom with him.
Outside of his work with clients, Gregg advises a global macro hedge fund, serves on the board of directors for a music technology company, and collaborates with a local non-profit on providing need-based college scholarships for young adults in his community.
Gregg holds a Bachelor of Arts from Washington University in St. Louis and a Master of Business Administration from Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management.
Links:
LinkedIn Profile
Why every CEO needs a coach or the equivalent
Career Reinvention = mc²
https://greggschoenberg.com/
25/12/2024
5 - Introverts Vs. Extroverts: Finding Your Social Sweet Spot
In this episode of Casually Pro, we’re diving into a conversation that’s close to home for so many of us: the ways introverts and extroverts navigate social experiences. Whether you’re the life of the party or the quiet observer in the corner, we all bring something unique to the table when it comes to building practical skills.
We’ll share stories, laugh about the quirks of each personality type, and talk about the strengths (and challenges) of both introverts and extroverts in professional and personal settings. Spoiler alert: it’s not about being one or the other—it’s about how we show up as ourselves and make those experiences meaningful.
If you’ve ever wondered how to embrace your natural style—or understand someone else’s—this one’s for you. Come hang out with us as we unpack what makes each of us tick, Casually Pro style.
About the Hosts:
Charles is a strategy consultant, community builder, and advocate for purpose-driven businesses. With a knack for creating actionable insights, Charles helps leaders turn their vision into reality.
Connect with Charles here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-leyte/
Jef is a former developer turned public speaking coach who knows how to translate complex ideas into clear, compelling messages. With a passion for storytelling and empowering others, Geoff helps individuals and teams communicate with confidence and impact.
Connect with Jef here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffrey-huck/
18/12/2024
4 - Silk, Soul, and Creativity: Ida Ivanka Hamilton’s Journey Through Art and Design
Ida is a contemporary artist and multidisciplinary designer working internationally with businesses and non-profits.
She is widely recognized for her large-scale abstract paintings made from silk cocoons, featured in her acclaimed series The Birth of an Idea.
As a designer, her focus is on innovation and enhancing everyday life.
In her charitable work, she is dedicated to two key areas: healing nutrition and talent development.
Websites or links:
11/12/2024
3 - Influencers vs. Connectors: Who’s Calling the Shots in the Networking Revolution
Ever wondered what sets influencers apart from connectors? In this video, we break down the key differences between these two roles and why they’re both essential in today’s network-driven world. While influencers thrive on reach and visibility, connectors excel at building relationships and creating meaningful bridges. Whether you’re looking to grow your brand, strengthen your community, or make a bigger impact, understanding these dynamics can make all the difference.
Tune in to discover:
The unique traits of influencers vs. connectors
How connectors drive authentic engagement
Tips for identifying which role suits you best
About the Hosts:
Charles is a strategy consultant, community builder, and advocate for purpose-driven businesses. With a knack for creating actionable insights, Charles helps leaders turn their vision into reality.
Connect with Charles here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-leyte/
Jef is a former developer turned public speaking coach who knows how to translate complex ideas into clear, compelling messages. With a passion for storytelling and empowering others, Geoff helps individuals and teams communicate with confidence and impact.
Connect with Jef here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffrey-huck/
Together, they share strategies, stories, and insights to inspire and empower their audience. Join the conversation and redefine the way you think about influence!
11/12/2024
2 - From Molecules to Masterpieces: Vito Antonio Baldassarro on Blending Science, Art, and Advocacy
Vito Antonio Baldassarro graduated with a master’s degree in biotechnology in 2011 at the University of Bologna (IT) where he also attained his PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology in 2018. From 2011 to 2020, he worked as research fellow and postdoc at the Interdepartmental Center of Industrial Research - Life Science and Health Technology (University of Bologna), and as postdoc at the Genetic and Molecular Biology at the University of Strasbourg (FR). In 2020 he started his work as Junior Researcher at the Department of Veterinary Medical Science (University of Bologna) and in 2024 he achieved his Tenure Track position.
During his studies and work experiences he specialized on standard and innovative cell platforms, also as primary cultures isolated from animal models, aimed to study physiological and pathological processes, and to test innovative therapeutic strategies based on molecules and biomaterials/nanomaterials. He combined the experience on in vitro models with advanced molecular biology analysis, and advanced imaging techniques.
From 2013 to 2024 he published 54 articles on peer-reviewed journals (H-index: 14; citations: 561).
The passion that has always driven Antonio for knowledge, science, and understanding the mechanisms of life runs side-by-side to his need for artistic expression. He also has, in fact, a parallel career as an illustrator and comic artist, publishing over 20 works, including comic and illustrated books.
He is also a registered member of the Italian journalists' association, combining his passion for science, art, and communication through illustrated articles, works, and events focused on scientific dissemination. In recent years, he has specialized in a highly specific and unique field: raising awareness about “risk reduction” on drug use. This involves discussing psychotropic substances, their mechanisms of action, the neurobiological context, and the risks associated with their use. A scientifically accurate discussion that is, however, accessible in its simplicity to every type of audience. Aware that prohibitionism has always and everywhere been a failed strategy, he is convinced that only accurate information and science dissemination — free from all judgment and prejudice — is the only path to follow.
As an artist his nickname is “Duckbill”, like one of the first name given to the “duckbilled platypus” for his peculiar anatomy/physiology. The platypus, in fact, seems the result of a violent crash between birds, mammals and reptiles, as well as Antonio, aka Duckbill, feels the mix between science, art and journalism inside his nature.
LINKS
University of Bologna
ORCID
SCOPUS
Research Gate
Facebook page: SCHIZZIDINCHIOSTRO
Instagram: schizzi_dinchiostro
11/12/2024
1 - From Concept to FDA: How Lisa Voronkova & OVA Solutions Are Saving MedTech Startups from Slow Deaths
About Lisa Voronkova and OVA Solutions:
Lisa Voronkova – bioengineering badass and CEO of OVA Solutions, RnD shop for medical and wellness devices. They turn the most complex medtech ideas into FDA-ready products that actually work and sell.
Team of engineering maniacs will prototype the hell out of your medical device concept, test it until it breaks, and get it ready for production while you're still writing your first pitch deck.
Most hardware startups die slow, expensive deaths. They're here to change that shit. 2-week sprints. In-house everything. No bullshit consultants who've never built a real product together.
Connect with Lisa: