Casual Chats with Serious Pros

Episodes

Our Episodes

 
 

Episodes

 
 

02/07/2025

32 - Healing Meets Hustle: The Power of Inner Alignment — A Conversation with Samia Bano

Samia Bano is the #HappinessExpert, author, speaker, podcaster & coach for coaches and healers. Samia is most known for her book, 'Make Change Fun and Easy' and her #podcast of the same name. With the help of her signature Follow Your Heart Process™, a unique combination of #PositivePsychology and the #spiritual wisdom of our most effective #ChangeMakers, Samia helps you overcome #LimitingBeliefs, your chains of fear, to develop a #PositiveMindset and create the impact and income you desire with fun and ease…

Samia’s advanced signature programs include the Happiness 101 Class and the Transformative Action Training.

Samia is also a Certified #ReikiHealer and Crisis Counselor working to promote #MentalHealthAwareness.  
Samia models #HeartCenteredLeadership and business that is both #SociallyResponsible and #EnvironmentallyFriendly.

Samia is a practicing #Muslim with an inter-spiritual approach. As someone who has a love and appreciation for diversity, she is a #BridgeBuilder between people of different faiths and cultures. 
Although Samia currently lives in California, USA, she has lived in 3 other countries and speaks Hindi, Urdu, and English fluently.

Links

Visit www.academyofthriving.com

25/06/2025

31 - Nomadic but Not Chaotic: The Power of Simplified Systems — a conversation with Virginie Levraud

Virginie Levraud is a business coach, digital strategy consultant, and founder of Captain Gini. For over 15 years, she has been helping service-based women entrepreneurs structure their business, clarify their positioning, and generate revenue using concrete, sustainable, and effective methods.

A specialist in organic client acquisition, offer optimization, and the creation of simple yet powerful systems, she offers clear, actionable programs designed for those who want to sell better without burning out.

A nomadic entrepreneur since 2014, she embodies a free and pragmatic vision of female entrepreneurship, blending strategy, autonomy, and well-oiled structure.

Links:

Website
Instagram
LinkedIn

18/06/2025

30 - Perspiration, Dedication, Inspiration: The Story of Casually Pro

How does a casual conversation between two friends turn into a full-on podcast with guests from all walks of life? In this milestone 30th episode, Charlie and Jef pull back the curtain and share the origin story of Casually Pro. They talk about how it all started, from collaborating on workshops and swapping ideas in Google Docs to deciding they had to create something that celebrated the messy, beautiful, behind-the-scenes side of professional growth.

They also dive into the why: why conversations matter, why showing the process is just as important as showing the success, and why keeping things casual can still be deeply meaningful. Plus, if you’re curious about the tools they use (shoutout to Opus Clip, Zoom, and Mailerlite), or how they keep the vibe authentic and the editing light, they’ve got you covered.

Whether you're a longtime listener or just tuning in, this episode is a celebration of creative partnership, storytelling, and building something from scratch, with a whole lot of heart and humor.

11/06/2025

29 - Hyperscaling Hope: The Future of Climate Tech — a conversation with Thomas Schuldt

Thomas Schuldt is passionate about hyperscaling technology solutions that address the global challenges of climate change. He currently leads the Business Development and Strategy team at DG Matrix, where he helps deploy clean, secure, and reliable power technology to transform AI datacenters, microgrids, and EV charging infrastructure.

Previously, Thomas served as a Senior Project Manager at McKinsey & Company, where he led cross-functional teams supporting large corporations, startups, and investors in scaling climate technologies such as electric vehicles, batteries, hydrogen/fuel cells, solar, wind, carbon capture, and circular economy solutions. His work spanned business planning, go-to-market and commercialization strategies, capital project delivery, supply chain optimization, and both technical and commercial due diligence.

Before McKinsey, Thomas was a Program Manager at WWF, where he led circular economy initiatives across Southeast Asia, working closely with governments, businesses, and multi-sector partners to advance sustainable plastics policy and implementation. He began his career as a Business Rotational Associate at NRG Energy, focusing on renewable energy strategy, business operations, and distributed energy solutions.

Thomas brings a unique blend of strategic business insight and deep technical knowledge in climate technologies, enhanced by extensive international experience across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. He holds a dual bachelor’s degree in International Management from ESB Business School and Universidad Pontificia Comillas, and earned a master’s in Sustainability Management from Columbia University as a Fulbright scholar.

For Thomas, energy isn’t just something we generate—it’s something we live. Outside of work, he channels his passion into surfing, kitesurfing, snowboarding, salsa dancing, and, most importantly, spending meaningful time with his son. Whether he's on the water, on the slopes, or on the dance floor, Thomas brings the same energy and purpose to life as he does to building a more sustainable future.

Links:

DG Matrix (datacenter power distribution and microgrids)
Atmosfair (high-quality, more affordable carbon removals)
Climeworks (high-quality carbon removals)
OhmConnect (lowering electricity emissions at home enabled by gamification)

Book to learn holistically more about the many impactful areas to stop climate change: Paul Hawken - Project Drawdown

04/06/2025

28 - From “Guilty” to Growth: Rewriting the Rules - a conversation with Victoria Cvitanovic

Victoria Cvitanovic is a corporate and regulatory attorney at Rudick Law Group, PLLC, where she partners with women-led teams to support businesses and healthcare providers operating at the edge of innovation and regulation. With a focus on highly regulated and fast-evolving industries such as Psychedelic Medicine and Cannabis, Victoria helps clients build strong legal foundations that support sustainable growth.

Drawing on her background in litigation, medical malpractice, and medical board defense, Victoria advises on business structuring, contract development, regulatory compliance, licensing, insurance, corporate transactions, and succession planning. Her mission is to reduce risk while ensuring that patients and end consumers have the best possible experience.

Whether navigating complex compliance issues or preparing for long-term growth, Victoria brings strategic legal insight to companies working at the forefront of health and wellness

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-cvitanovic-83648a90/
https://www.rudicklawgroup.com/

28/05/2025

27 - Culture Shocked: Thriving Between Worlds — a conversation with Tanja Podvrsan

Tanja Podvrsan, ICF ACC, is an international career coach and recruiter with over 25 years of experience helping individuals, leaders, and teams navigate career transitions. She specializes in supporting bilingual Third Culture Kids (TCKs) and cross-cultural professionals who want to build careers in English-speaking regions.

With master’s degrees in Human Resources from both the U.S. and France, Tanja has worked as an HR professional and recruiter in industrial and life science companies. But her journey started somewhere very different—growing up in a family-run multilingual ethnic restaurant. That early experience shaped her deep understanding of adaptation, resilience, and what it means to bridge cultures.

Beyond coaching individuals, she helps companies through mergers & acquisitions, offering outplacement services and training on interviews, communication, and creating safe inclusive, cross-cultural workplaces. She also coaches and trains professionals in French, English, and Slovene, helping them navigate the global job market with confidence.

Passionate about networking and personal branding, Tanja actively contributes to the Kodiko and Tunaweza Association, advocating for the potential of untapped talent, especially refugees. She also hosts bilingual webinars to help job seekers take charge of their international careers.

Links

LinkedIn
Insta
Website

21/05/2025

26 - Silent Signals: How Body Language Speaks Louder Than Words a conversation with René Deceuninck

René Deceuninck, Master & Expert in Body Language, Motivational Speaker, Coach and Trainer, runs an exclusive international company. Since 1995, René has been delivering enriching insights and results-oriented outcomes to his clients. His seminars, keynotes and trainings around the world are changing businesses with amazing levels of positive increase.

He shared stages with Brian Tracey, Tony Robbins, Jack Canfield and many other influential speakers. In collaboration with Success Resources, René use to be hosting preview sessions for Anthony Robbins' Unleash The Power Within, a 4 day transformational and breakthrough event including the famous Fire walk!

His clients are empowered with their new skills to read thoughts before one word is spoken, in meetings, in sales and in everyday situations. As a result of this competitive edge, they optimize their performance, both personal & professional.

Links:

Website - Training
Linkedin
Twitter
Instagram
Facebook 1
Facebook 2
Pinterest
YouTube
• CONTACT: info@renedeceuninck.com
BOOK a call

14/05/2025

25 - From Numbers to Nourishment: Using Finance to Fight Hunger — A Conversation with Robert Lee

Robert Lee is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, CNN Hero, and Obama Leader USA recognized for his ground-breaking work at the intersection of food justice and social impact. As the Co-Founder of Rescuing Leftover Cuisine, Robert has built a nationally recognized non-profit that combats food waste and hunger by connecting surplus food with communities in need.

With accolades including the Hunter College Food Policy Center's 40 Under 40, YouthActionNet Laureate Global Fellowship, and residency as a Blue Ridge Labs Incubatee, Robert’s leadership has been celebrated across sectors. He brings deep experience in the food & beverage industry and a strategic background in finance, honed through his B.S. in Finance and Accounting from NYU’s Stern School of Business.

Robert is passionate about sustainable innovation, operational efficiency, and building scalable solutions to pressing social problems. His skill set spans analytical strategy, business development, valuation, and leadership—bridging the worlds of mission-driven work and financial acumen.

Join the conversation and learn more about the complex world of fighting hunger!

Links:

LinkedIn
https://www.rescuingleftovercuisine.org

 
 

07/05/2025

24 - No More Boring Meetings: Rina Yahya's Rules for Remarkable Events

Rina Yahya is a dynamic corporate facilitator and communications expert on a mission to eliminate boring meetings, forgettable events, and surface-level networking. With over a decade of experience designing human-centered experiences, she helps organizations create moments that truly matter — whether that’s through compelling public speaking, engaging workshops, or standout conferences.

She brings 8+ years of leadership and event management experience, along with deep expertise in public speaking, strategic collaboration, and cross-cultural communication. Having attended and led over 250 events, Rina knows what works (and what doesn’t), and she equips teams with the tools to avoid common pitfalls, leverage free resources, and craft unforgettable interactions.

Whether you're looking to attract international talent, align multiple stakeholders, or elevate your communications game, Rina brings the strategy, energy, and insight to make it happen.

Originally from an English-speaking background and now based in Copenhagen, Denmark, Rina is fluent in the language of connection — both literally and figuratively.

Links:

LinkedIn

30/04/2025

23 - From Burnout to Breakthrough: Redefining Leadership with Irene Anggreeni

Irene is a wellness leadership coach, strategic consultant and mental health advocate, known for her dedication in empowering leaders and their teams towards sustainable success. A lifelong learner, she graduated PhD in Industrial Design and Master in Dance Movement Therapy before becoming a coach. She's an up-and-coming speaker at the TEDxEindhoven 2025. Originally from Indonesia, Irene now calls Rotterdam home, where she lives with her husband and their cat. In her free time, she enjoys Argentinian tango and swimming.

Links:

Connect with Irene on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irenevanjava/
Check out her resources on http://ireneanggreeni.com/

23/04/2025

22 - Uncommon Aid in an Uncommon Time: The Parable Foundation Mission, a Conversation with Alex Detmering

Alex Detmering is a founder, storyteller, and seasoned content marketer with over eight years of experience helping brands craft narratives that drive 700%+ increases in qualified traffic, secure millions in venture funding, and earn placements in top media outlets like Financial Times, Bloomberg, and CNBC.

He is the Founder of The Parable Foundation, a nonprofit organization changing the future of mental health by telling the whole story on psychedelic therapy. Through original journalism, educational events, and vital mental health resources, Alex leads The Parable Foundation’s mission to share stories with unflinching honesty — offering uncommon aid to those who need it most.

Before founding Parable, Alex built high-performing content marketing strategies at Candor Content, where he helped clients like Axon, HTC VIVE, Tapjoy, and Liftoff dominate their markets through SEO, thought leadership, and brand journalism. His work at Prattle helped the company achieve a valuation of over $20M through targeted communications and content campaigns.

Recognized for his creative vision, strategic thinking, and gift for authentic storytelling, Alex is passionate about building organizations that align with his values: learning, improving, forging real relationships, and doing work that truly matters.

Links

LinkedIn
The Parable Foundation Substack

16/04/2025

21 - AI for Humans, but not by Humans: A Conversation with Nadir Torki

Nader is an AI strategy consultant who partners with organizations to design and implement AI initiatives that align seamlessly with their business objectives across a range of industries.

In addition to his consulting work, Nader is a published author and executive coach, empowering individuals through mentorship and strategic guidance to cultivate a success-driven mindset and reach their full potential.

Links

https://www.nadertorki.com
Nader’s novel: https://memoriesofafuture.com

09/04/2025

20 - Quitting Comfort: Why A Recruiter Ditched Stability for Freedom — a chat with Gonçalo Sequeira

Gonçalo always dreamt of having his own business and the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. For over a decade, he thrived as a full-time employee, finding challenge, purpose, and financial stability in the corporate world. But in 2022, he took a leap and founded Hiire—his first real business—focused on helping companies hire better and faster, while never compromising on an exceptional candidate experience.

Hiire is 100% digital, allowing Gonçalo to work remotely and travel the world as he expands the business and supports international companies with their hiring strategies.

Before launching Hiire, Gonçalo built a strong career at companies like Jason Associates, Feedzai, Mercedes-Benz.io, Adyen, and Trengo. He has hired over 500 IT professionals—from Software Engineers to CTOs—led Employer Branding initiatives from scratch, and coached recruitment teams to level up across Portugal, Germany, the Netherlands, and Singapore.

Since 2020, he has also been actively supporting professionals through career transitions via personalized coaching programs under Talent Booster. He shares career-focused content on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok to inspire and guide others.

At 22, Gonçalo purchased his first stock—Apple—and hasn’t stopped investing since. He is currently investing in and advising Network Me, a promising startup working to close the gap between companies and students.

Looking to improve your hiring strategy or elevate your recruitment team? Gonçalo is here to help.

Links
www.hiire.me
Instagram: goncalo_hiire.me
LinkedIn

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.

Links
LinkedIn
https://www.imotalent.app/

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!

Links
DIMSUMX
LinkedIn

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

LinkedIn

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:

LinkedIn

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:

LinkedIn

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

linkedin.com/in/jaycruzcreative/

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

LinkedIn

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

LinkedIn

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:

http://www.gesso.one
www.gesso.one/glow-up-meter
LinkedIn
X

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:

Website
Wikipedia
LinkedIn

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:

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