Lion Legacy

Larry Jaffee, Author - "Record Store Day" (#60)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 09:30:00 -0400

1986 Penn State graduate Larry Jaffee loves this quote from Albert Einstein: "I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious." Larry's curiosity has led to a career in journalism, teaching and his latest endeavor, authoring the book "Record Store Day" that dives into vinyls' comeback. In this episode, we cover a wide range of topics that keep Larry curious.

(7:33) - Pursuing a career in journalism

(8:45) - Writing style

(12:28) - Concerns about ChatGPT

(13:11) - Advice to aspiring journalists

(14:15) - Going into teaching

(16:05) - Sports reporting

(19:57) - Bringing the vinyl industry together

(29:08) - Writing "Record Store Day"

(31:15) - MTV's impact on the music industry

(37:15) - Top record collection

(39:57) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more at http://LarryJaffee.com.

Special thanks to Penn State student intern Dan Bransfeld.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com and http://Instagram.com/LionLegacyPodcast.

Jeff Coppola, Executive - WorldStrides (#59)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0400

1982 Penn State graduate Jeff Coppola is all about journeys. From his current company, WorldStrides, that focuses on experiential trips for students, to his own professional journey through numerous industries, to his family's personal journey with autism, this episode has great nuggets on leadership and career insights.

(5:25) - Getting to know Worldstrides

(13:38) - Role at Worldstrides

(18:58) - Putting the focus on the customer

(22:45) - Early career lessons

(27:33) - Transferable skills across industries

(31:08) - Experiencing challenges

(34:22) - Board Member for the Virginia Institute for Autism

(39:08) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more at http://WorldStrides.com.

Special thanks to Penn State student intern Dan Bransfeld.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com and http://Instagram.com/LionLegacyPodcast.

Jill O'Brien, FlyNYON (Helicopter Experiences) (#58)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0400

2013 Penn State graduate Jill O'Brien is flying high as Chief of Staff at FlyNYON, which specializes in creating enduring memories through helicopter experiences. On this episode, Jill shares with us how FlyNYON helps film movies (The Wolf of Wall Street), celebrate wedding proposals and more!

Jump right in:

(7:01) - Flying in a helicopter

(9:46) - Career journey

(13:33) - Role as Chief of Staff

(17:50) - Commercial side of the business

(21:45) - Drones vs. helicopters

(25:52) - Passion for photography

(28:43) - Photography style

(30:17) - Appreciation of photography in the age of smartphones

(31:31) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more at http://FlyNYON.com.

Special thanks to Penn State student intern Dan Bransfeld.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com and http://Instagram.com/LionLegacyPodcast.

Larry Seamans, President - FamilyAid (#57)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0400

1985 Penn State graduate Larry Seamans is leading the fight against family homelessness. As President of FamilyAid, Larry discusses how his organization is providing holistic support to families in need, the policy changes he'd like to see and more!

Jump right in:

(7:55) - The impact of homelessness

(10:12) - Role of FamilyAid

(12:18) - Impactful stories

(16:04) - Mental and emotional aspect

(17:30) - Talking to donors about FamilyAid

(22:05) - Recognition by Charity Navigator

(23:02) - Policy changes

(27:42) - Career trajectory

(30:16) - Most challenging aspect of role

(32:28) - Advice for students considering a career in not-for-profit

(33:41) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more at http://FamilyAidBoston.org.

Special thanks to Katie O'Toole's podcasting class and student Kristin Hoberman.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com

Kate Chan, Social Media Influencer & Agency Founder (#56)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0400

2021 Penn State graduate Kate Chan knows how to connect with and create a community around Gen Z. In this episode, we learn about Kate's social media agency Ichiyuzu Media, creating an influential instagram account on food (@KatieEatsPhilly) and more!

Jump right in:

(4:32)- The meaning behind the agency name and type of agency

(10:15) - Social media platforms

(14:05) - Favorite brand campaigns

(17:02) - Impact of social media on the business

(20:45) - The creation of Katie Eats Philly on Instagram

(25:43) - Creating a personal brand

(27:08) - Favorite Philadelphia and State College restaurants

(28:41) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more and follow Kate: http://IchiyuzuMedia.com and http://Instagram.com/KatieEatsPhilly

Special thanks to Katie O'Toole's podcasting class and student Xi Chen.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com

Ryan Hager, Professional Golfers' Association (#55)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 18:00:00 -0400

2016 Penn State graduate Ryan Hager has made a profession of helping people improve their golf game. As Director of Instruction at Plainfield Country Club and a social media influencer (78k followers on Instagram), Ryan shares his experiences with the PGA Golf Management program at Penn State, his dream golf foursome and more!

Jump right in:

(6:36)- The early years of developing a passion for golf

(13:06) - Certification process to become a PGA instructor

(17:54) - Teaching style

(22:24) - The mental aspect of the game

(25:26) - Virtual coaching

(28:28) - Coaching highlights

(30:02) - Creating a personal brand on social media

(32:58) - Advice on how to improve the game

(38:14) - State of the industry

(45:48) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more and follow Ryan: http://RyanHagerPGA.com and http://Instagram.com/RyanHager_PGA

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com

Geoff Martha, Chairman and CEO - Medtronic (#54)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

1992 Penn State graduate Geoff Martha is Chairman and CEO of Medtronic, the global leader in healthcare technology. In this episode, Geoff gives us a special look into the role of a CEO, the importance of leadership, and his experiences taking the helm of a healthcare company during the start of the pandemic.

Jump right in:

(2:50)- Medtronic’s business

(5:50) - Major trends in the healthcare industry

(10:33) - Becoming CEO during the pandemic

(18:24) - Experiences that led to becoming CEO

(21:09) - Leadership characteristics

(23:38) - Short term expectations vs. long term vision

(27:54) - Time management

(30:41) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to http://StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Ian Katz, Licensed Real Estate Broker (#53)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

2004 Penn State graduate Ian Katz is helping people buy and sell homes in one of the most popular and competitive markets - New York City. As a Licensed Real Estate Broker at Compass, Ian provides great perspective on successful brokers, the current mortgage rate environment and the vacant office building situation. Regardless if you live in NYC or not, you'll be sure to learn a lot and come away with a new appreciation for the industry.

Jump right in:

(3:59) - Starting his career on Wall Street

(5:51) - Transitioning to real estate

(17:05) - Joining Compass

(19:42) - Day in the life

(22:12) - Setting prices

(26:56) - Securing new clients

(28:43) - Advice for being a successful real estate agent

(32:27) - Prideful moments

(36:50) - Dealing with the current mortgage rate environment

(42:37) - Converting office space to apartments

(46:22) - Advice to sellers and buyers

(48:59) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to http://StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Matt Roda, Neuro Fitness/Training (#52)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

2020 Penn State graduate Matt Roda wasn't your typical college student. While at Penn State, Matt co-founded and launched a company, Reflexion, specializing in neuro fitness and training. In this episode, Matt explains what neuro fitness entails and how Reflexion is helping people recover from injury and professional athletes unlock new levels of performance (like the NBA Champions Denver Nuggets), as well as his entrepreneurial journey.

(6:54) - Understanding neuro fitness

(9:14) - The origin of Reflexion

(14:23) - From concept to launch

(16:12) - The early days

(20:52) - Biggest sense of pride

(22:54) - Neuro fitness becoming part of general fitness

(30:32) - Use by older individuals

(32:31) - Advice as an entrepreneur

(37:08) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more at Reflexion.co

Special thanks to student Tobey Prime of Professor O'Toole's podcasting class for helping to produce this episode.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to http://StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Bob Holland, Walt Disney Imagineer (#51)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400

1973 Penn State graduate Bob Holland is a 27 year veteran of the Walt Disney Company, serving as an Imagineer on key projects including EPCOT, Disneyland Paris, and Disney Cruises. In this episode, Bob takes us on a journey and shares stories on the magic behind Disney.

Jump right in:

(4:52) - Starting his career working for the government

(8:28) - Most challenging project

(10:43) - Relationship between engineers and architects

(15:06) - Developing Disney Cruise ships

(22:30) - Designing international parks

(26:21) - The magic of Disney

(32:13) - A surprise about Disney

(33:20) - Meeting his wife at Disney

(35:10) - Advice to improve Disney

(57:57) - Lions Den presented by http://Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Special thanks to student Matthew Rudisell of Professor O'Toole's podcasting class for helping to produce this episode.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting http://Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at http://Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to http://StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Pete Carmichael, Civil War Historian (#50)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400

1992 and 1996 Penn State graduate Pete Carmichael is a Civil War professor and historian at Gettysburg College, but this podcast is anything but just a history lesson on America's most famous war. In this episode, Pete brings passion, a new perspective to the past and present, and how learning about history is important for everyone. Trust us, you'll have a new found appreciation after listening.

Jump right in:

(9:54) - First thoughts on Civil War words and names

(16:05) - A surprise about the Civil War

(19:33) - Developing a passion for the Civil War

(21:25) - The importance of people knowing about the Civil War

(27:08) - Piecing together stories of the past

(34:33) - Favorite class and student story

(40:23) - Latest book "The War for the Common Soldier"

(47:27) - POV on Civil War statues and monuments in today's society

(53:43) - POV on the potential for a second Civil War

(57:57) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Special thanks to student Adam Babetski of Professor O'Toole's podcasting class for helping to produce this episode.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Rachele DeSantis, Theme Park Engineer - Universal Studios Hollywood (#49)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400

2013 Penn State graduate Rachele DeSantis is the woman behind some of your favorite theme park attractions. From WaterWorld to Jurassic World, Rachele has been a key engineering lead that brings these experiences to life (and keeps them safe) at Universal Studios Hollywood. In this episode, Rachele details the various roles throughout her career journey, some of the future trends for attractions and more!

Jump right in:

(6:45) - Developing a passion

(9:22) - The role of a theme park engineer

(13:54) - Interning at Disney

(16:36) - Working at ThinkWell

(21:19) - Role at Universal

(26:43) - Favorite attraction

(28:17) - Bringing more women into engineering

(30:01) - Future trends in theme park engineering

(33:50) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Special thanks to student Courtney McGinley of Professor O'Toole's podcasting class for helping to produce this episode.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Norah Candito, Founder - Nutrition with Norah (#48)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400

2017 Penn State graduate Norah Candito believes nourishment goes beyond the foods we ingest. Taking a holistic approach to health, Norah started her own company - Nutrition with Norah - to help people on their wellness journey. In this episode, Norah shares her own journey working in different clinical settings, her viewpoints on certain foods and intermittent fasting, how she met her husband at Penn State and more!

Jump right in:

(6:34) - The scope of the profession

(11:05) - The impact of stress

(13:16) - Working in different clinical settings

(19:55) - Nutrition with Norah programs

(25:08) - Impactful moments with clients

(27:52) - The Flow State Podcast

(30:47) - Viewpoints on certain foods and intermittent fasting

(35:51) - Meeting her husband at Penn State

(38:53) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more about Norah at NutritionWithNorah.com

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Emily Sher, Senior Editor - TODAY.com (#47)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0400

2009 Penn State graduate Emily Sher is a mother to a one year old, so it's only fitting that she recently was promoted to Senior Editor of Parents at TODAY.com. Emily shares her career journey from being an intern at Harper's Bazaar to covering some of the most interesting stories and trends for TODAY's flagship digital website.

Jump right in:

(5:20) - New role at TODAY.com

(7:26) - Role as an editor and working with journalists

(11:31) - Internship at Harper's Bazaar

(15:34) - The importance of trust in the profession

(18:21) - Top highlights

(21:41) - Upcoming projects and stories

(27:19) - Teaching ESL in Korea

(33:48) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Chip Kidd, Graphic Designer for Books (#46)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0400

1986 Penn State graduate Chip Kidd is best known for designing the cover of Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park. The uber-talented graphic designer shares many perspectives and stories in this podcast, including his "no-style" style, a book he wrote based on experiences at Penn State and why he values printed books over digital versions.

Jump right in:

(7:09) - Style of work

(9:03) - Importance of a book's cover

(10:35) - Influence of comic books

(13:03) - The process of designing a book's cover

(19:10) - Proudest artwork

(22:05) - Books that he values the most

(23:55) - Branching out into writing and music

(25:46) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Advice to an art student who wants to make it a career

(30:20) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Special thanks to Professor Katie O'Toole's Podcast Class and student Makenna Mink for helping to produce this podcast.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Jon Gross, Sports Broadcaster (#45)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0400

2019 Penn State graduate Jon Gross has dreams of being a broadcaster for ABC's College Football Game of the Week. Though only a few years out of college, you'll quickly see that Jon has the talent and work ethic to rise to the top. Jon takes us behind-the-scenes and shares the amount of preparation and focus that goes into the job. He also shares some great stories, including his interview with Penn State Football Coach James Franklin.

Jump right in:

(7:35) - Career journey post-graduation

(12:46) - The preparation of broadcasting a game

(17:11) - Navigating the pandemic

(19:31) - Influential moments as a child

(21:09) - The art and science of a good broadcasting crew

(22:12) - Non-traditional broadcasts

(24:33) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Favorite color commentator

(29:04) - Dream interview

(29:45) - Interviewing Coach James Franklin

(31:07) - Rising to the top in the profession

(33:12) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Jeff Barth, New York State Department of Transportation (#44)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0400

1989 Penn State graduate Jeff Barth has a job that impacts every individual in New York State. As the Director of Design Mapping and Automation Bureau for the New York State Department of Transportation, Jeff has influenced countless roads, rails, bike lanes and more. Jeff does a great job in making this highly technical field easy to understand.

Jump right in:

(6:09) - Career at the NYS Department of Transportation

(13:40) - Surveying work

(15:46) - Making resource decisions

(17:37) - Delivering projects

(20:13) - Career highlight

(23:13) - Google Maps

(24:33) - Dream project

(25:48) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Technology changes

(33:13) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Special thanks to Professor Katie O'Toole's Podcast Class and student Gabe Angieri for helping to produce this podcast.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Mike Poorman, Penn State Faculty Member Extraordinaire (#43)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 14:45:00 -0400

1982 Penn State graduate Mike Poorman might as well be called Mr. Penn State. Beyond teaching courses in the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, Mike is a true champion of students and alumni - advising, interacting and connecting. After this episode, you will surely wish you knew Mike during your days as a student.

Jump right in:

(6:52) - Cool careers of alumni

(8:37) - Teaching a class about Coach Joe Paterno

(11:12) - Working on his Masters Degree

(16:46) - Advice to the new President of Penn State

(19:02) - Faculty mentor of Penn State Field Hockey

(22:38) - Faculty advisor of Nittanyville

(24:57) - Writing for StateCollege.com

(29:23) - Changes in teaching courses

(32:26) - Recognizing a Penn Stater

(34:10) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

(38:53) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Advice for Penn State students getting internship

Special thanks to Professor Katie O'Toole's Podcast Class and student Gabe Angieri for helping to produce this podcast.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Noah Pilato, Professional Soccer Player (#42)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0400

2018 Penn State graduate Noah Pilato grew up going to Penn State football games so when he received a scholarship to play soccer at Penn State, it was a no-brainer. Noah's success on the pitch at Penn State has led him to become a professional soccer player. Recorded during the 2022 World Cup, there's no better time to catch-up with Noah and talk soccer (or as they say, football).

Jump right in:

(7:57) - Playing in the United Soccer League

(12:55) - Winning a USL Championship

(15:06) - Being part of the MLS Academy system

(17:08) - Soccer's growth in the US

(20:50) - Being a brand ambassador

(24:41) - Lion's Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

(32:35) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Social media advice

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

David Hua, Co-Founder + CEO, Meadow (Cannabis) (#41)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Sun, 15 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400

2004 Penn State graduate David Hua is blazing the trail in the cannabis industry. As Co-Founder and CEO of Meadow, David takes us into the world of cannabis and how he's on a mission to provide support to companies and help the industry evolve as a whole.

Jump right in:

(8:27) - The cannabis industry and Meadow

(19:51) - The future of the industry

(21:48) - Changing perceptions

(27:00) - Working in the start-up world

(31:53) - Starting his career in the corporate world

(34:33) - Lessons from his family's restaurant business

(38:28) - Lion's Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

(41:39) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Study abroad experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Richie Tevlin, Head Brewer - Victory Brewing Company (#40)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 20:00:00 -0400

2015 Penn State graduate Richie Tevlin loves beer - not only drinking it like many of us, but brewing it too. As Head Brewer at Victory Brewing Company, Richie runs the recently opened Victory Brewing Taproom in the heart of Philadelphia. Crack open a cold one and enjoy the episode with Richie as he talks about his career and the beer industry!

Jump right in:

(6:37) - About Victory Brewing

(7:30) - Being a Head Brewer

(8:32) - Getting into the industry

(13:23) - The process

(17:32) - Victory Brewing's distribution

(19:49) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Naming the beers

(23:58) - Richie's Victory Brewing recommendation

(25:40) - Brew Forward mission

(27:42) - The future for Victory Brewing and Richie

(29:30) - The rise of craft beer

(31:38) - Lion's Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Gail Ramsay, US Squash Hall of Famer & Head Squash Coach at Princeton University (#39)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400

1980 Penn State graduate Gail Ramsay is one of the most decorated squash athletes and coaches in the world. Her numerous accolades have earned her a spot as a member of the 2022 US Squash Hall of Fame class. In this episode, Gail shares about her illustrious coaching career and desired legacy.

Jump right in:

(7:33) - Differences between squash and racquetball

(10:02) - Attributes of a good squash player

(11:00) - Recruiting squash athletes

(12:15) - Coaching highlights

(15:53) - Coaching style

(18:19) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Name, Image and Likeness

(21:04) - Growing the sport's popularity in the US

(23:00) - Playing on the World Tour

(24:28) - Title IX and women's sports

(27:14) - Her legacy

(29:21) - Lion's Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Mike McHugh - GimpyGlobetrotter.com (#38)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400

2012 Penn State graduate Mike McHugh is a world traveler! He documents his travels on his blog GimpyGlobetrotter.com, where he also shares living with a condition that affects the tendons in his legs. Mike is a true inspiration - he has a strong mentality and believes there's nothing he can't achieve. We also learn about his unwavering love for Penn State and Penn State football.

Jump right in:

(5:21) - Living with arthrogryposis

(7:01) - Passion for traveling

(9:00) - His unstoppable mindset

(11:28) - Travel experiences

(18:25) Using the word "gimpy" for his blog

(19:14) - Dealing with bullying

(21:05) - Student Question of the Episode powered by The Daily Collegian: Mentorship

(22:36) - Working at JP Morgan Chase

(24:44) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

This podcast was produced by Penn State student Haley Travisano, in partnership with Professor Katie O'Toole's Podcast class.

Learn more at GimpyGlobetrotter.com.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Olivier Noel, MD/PhD and Founder - DNAsimple (#37)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 17:30:00 -0400

2021 Penn State grad (MD/PhD) Olivier Noel is a lifelong learner! While in grad school, Noel founded DNAsimple, a company that helps streamline the way researchers obtain patient samples for scientific studies. He appeared on the prestigious Shark Tank show and shares his experience of winning over one of the Sharks (listen to find out which one). Noel is now at Yale University doing his residency in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.

Jump right in:

(10:02) - Time at Yale

(10:43) - Choosing plastic surgery

(13:17) - Launching DNAsimple

(18:53) - Shark Tank experience

(23:18) - Future vision of DNAsimple

(23:52) - Student question of the episode powered by The Daily Collegian: Moving from Haiti to Queens, NYC

(28:00) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

This podcast was produced by Penn State student Mallory Reiter, in partnership with Professor Katie O'Toole's Podcast class.

Learn more at DNAsimple.org.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Rashanna Moss, CEO & Mental Performance Coach - Modern Muse (#36)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Sat, 12 Feb 2022 16:30:00 -0400

2002 and 2005 Penn State graduate, Rashanna Moss, has dedicated her life to helping athletes, coaches and business executives attain new levels of greatness. From the Penn State football team to Nike to Pure Barre, Rashanna now owns her own business, Modern Muse. After listening to this episode, you will certainly have a new appreciation for mental coaching and performance!

Jump right into:

(6:38) - Helping athletes and acoaches

(13:14) - Working with corporations

(17:29) - Favorite stories of working with clients

(26:28) - Going from good to great

(27:58) - Developing a passion for mental performance coaching

(32:23) - Collegiate athletes going from high school to college

(34:42) - Working with the Penn State Football Team

(38:28) - The evolution of the industry

(40:55) - Her role as a Perceptual Analyst at Nike

(44:37) - Advice to entrepreneurs

(45:42) - Lions Den presented by Lions Pride: Penn State Experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Dave Wurtzel, Founder and Executive Director - The First Twenty (#35)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1989 Penn State graduate, Dave Wurtzel, is a hero among heroes! Not only is he a firefighter, he also created The First Twenty, a non-profit committed to the health and wellness of first responders. Dave brings the energy and passion with a touch of comedy to the episode. A special thank you to Dave and all the first responders who continue to keep us and our communities safe.

Jump right into:

(6:30) - The idea of The First Twenty

(12:30) - Building the foundation

(19:01) - The meaning of spiritual resilience

(24:29) - Working with first responders

(26:30) - Student Question of the Episode powered by The Daily Collegian: The inspiration to become a firefighter

(30:02) - Battling a fire

(33:57) - Stories of impact

(36:51) - Advice to future first responders

(37:59) - Key takeaways

(40:39) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

This podcast was produced by Penn State student Julia McGinty, in partnership with Professor Katie O'Toole's Podcast class.

Learn more at TheFirstTwenty.org.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

E.J. Johnston, Founder & CEO - 3ICE (#34)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1995 Penn State graduate, E.J. Johnston is creating the most electrifying hockey league tour - 3ICE. Set to debut in the summer of 2022, E.J. tells us about how he came up with the idea and the differences compared to traditional hockey leagues. We also dive into his career journey and time spent in the fashion and entertainment industries.

Jump right into:

(5:08) - 3ICE background

(14:03) - Success in the first year

(16:09) - 3ICE tour locations

(18:08) - Growing up in a hockey family

(20:54) - Career background in sports, fashion and entertainment

(27:26) - Student Question of the Episode powered by The Daily Collegian: Advice for entrepreneurs in the sports business industry

(28:30): Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

This podcast was produced by Penn State student Zach Gershman, in partnership with Professor Katie O'Toole's Podcast class.

Learn more at 3ICE.com.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Michal Naisteter, Matchmaker (#33)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2006 Penn State graduate Michal Naisteter is a modern day matchmaker. It's easy to see how Michal's infectious personality and passion for meeting and connecting people help people go from first dates to marriage. Michal also talks about the importance of teaching children about human sexuality earlier on in their lives, as well as her favorite food in State College!

Jump right in:

8:23 - The role of a professional matchmaker

12:00 - Perspective on the online dating apps

12:39 - Student Question of the Episode powered by The Daily Collegian: Favorite matchmaking story

19:15 - Advice to single people

22:06 - Finding her match

24:03 - Sex Positive Mama

26:57 - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Steve Moyer and Danielle Stemple - Lions Pride (#32)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1992 Penn State grad Steve Moyer and 2008 grad Danielle Stemple are two of the main people behind our favorite Penn State retailer, Lions Pride. Beyond being a great partner of Lion Legacy, we wanted to learn about what it takes to operate a small business in a college town. Steve and Danielle also provide some great insights on how they work with Penn State and the licensing department to bring apparel to you and all Penn Staters.

Jump right in:

5:15 - Surviving the pandemic as a small business

8:46 - How Lions Pride got started

13:18 - Danielle's start in retail

15:32 - Student Question of the Episode powered by The Daily Collegian: Biggest change in business over time

18:49 - Lions Pride vs. the competition

23:22 - The buying process

27:21 - Opinions on having different logos and colors

32:29 - Advice for opening a small business in a college town

35:31 - The future of Lions Pride

37:30 - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Justin King, Owner - L.I.G. Sports (#31)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2007 Penn State graduate Justin King is one of the top cornerbacks in Penn State football history. After a career in the NFL, Justin jumped right into the sports business industry and recently started his own company, L.I.G. Sports. In this episode, Justin talks about his new venture, his thoughts on college football and the NFL, and of course, his time playing for the Nittany Lions.

Jump right into:

(6:30) - The offerings of L.I.G. Sports

(11:27) - The potential for another football league

(14:16) - Student Question of the Episode powered by The Daily Collegian: Preparing for life outside of a professional athlete

(18:05) - Advice to student-athletes today who can get paid for their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL)

(20:35) - The one thing he'd change about college football and the NFL today

(24:10) - The influence of his stepfather and current Penn State Associate Football Coach Terry Smith

(26:05) - Lions Den presented by Lions Pride: Penn State Experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Ashley Ferrara, Hotdogger - Oscar Mayer (#30)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 08:15:00 -0400

2020 Penn State graduate Ashley Ferrara is the most recent alum to become a Hotdogger for Oscar Mayer! She spent a year touring the country in the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile and shares her time on the road, meeting some very interesting people (and dogs!) and of course driving the famous hot dog. An episode filled with puns, you'll be sure to laugh your buns off!

Jump right into:

(7:12) - Becoming a Hotdogger

(9:17) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Driving the Weinermobile

(11:34) - Favorite stories as a Hotdogger

(16:33) - The role of a Hotdogger

(19:02) - The impact of the pandemic

(20:13) - A typical schedule of a Hotdogger

(26:28) - Spending time with other Hotdoggers

(29:29) - Recruiting Hotdoggers at Penn State

(30:21) - Life after being a Hotdogger

(35:51) - Singing the Oscar Mayer jingle

(36:48) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Ashley Bisman, Author - Chasing Butterflies: The True Story of a Daughter of 9/11 (#29)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2007 Penn State grad Ashley Bisman entered college just a few years after her father's death in the September 11th World Trade Center terrorist attack. With an electric personality and positive outlook on life, Ashley shares her story on coping with the tragedy and finding love in her new book "Chasing Butterflies: The True Story of a Daughter of 9/11." The book is available on Amazon with a portion of proceeds benefitting Tuesday's Children. This episode is dedicated to Ashley's father, Jeff Goldflam, who would be so proud of his daughter!

Jump right in:

(6:36) - The 20th anniversary of 9/11

(8:09) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Reason for writing the book

(9:49) - The meaning of "Chasing Butterflies"

(10:56) - Dating in New York City

(14:01) - Starting her career at TV Guide and then transitioning to a teacher

(16:09) - Her future as an author

(16:56) - The process of writing a book

(19:41) - Keeping her father's legacy alive

(21:44) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

John Colaneri, TV Personality (HGTV) and Home Designer (#28)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2003 Penn State graduate John Colaneri’s name may sound familiar! If you watch HGTV, you’ll know him as one “the cousins” from the franchise of home design and renovation shows. John shares his journey from the corporate world to television. We’re also excited for him as he will be the Grand Marshal for 2021 Penn State Homecoming.

Jump right in:

(5:43) - Moving from the corporate world to the family business

(8:51) - The opportunity with HGTV

(15:23) - Working with his cousin

(16:45) - The Cousins franchise

(19:55) - The challenge of renovating a home on TV

(22:03) - Most memorable project

(23:35) - Starting his own design business

(24:34) - The impact of the pandemic

(25:42) - Taking a vision and translating it into a design

(27:14) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Branching into other industries

(32:49) - Excitement for the future

(34:14) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Learn more about John and his business ventures at JohnColaneri.com.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Mike Xenakis, Chief Product Officer - Vacasa (#27)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1990 Penn State grad Mike Xenakis has had quite an adventure - from entering the Air Force to helping build OpenTable and guiding it through both an IPO and acquisition to joining Vacasa, a vacation rental company, just prior to the pandemic. Join Mike as he shares his wisdom and key lessons along the way, including his decision to choose Penn State over Notre Dame.

Jump right into:

(3:34) - Going into the military after Penn State

(4:55) - Vacasa’s unique offering

(7:26) - Seventeen years at OpenTable

(11:09) - Selling OpenTable to Priceline

(13:37) - Living and working abroad

(15:51) - The role of Chief Product Officer

(19:12) - The impact of the pandemic

(24:29) - The importance of networking

(27:01) - Student takeaways from Mike’s entrepreneurship course at Northwestern University

(28:20) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

(28:38) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Choosing Penn State over Notre Dame

Learn more about Vacasa at Vacasa.com.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Dave Jones, Former Editor - The New York Times (#26)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1954 Penn State graduate Dave Jones is a true storyteller. Would you expect anything different from a former journalist and editor? Dave’s career spans two of the world’s most prestigious papers - The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. Dave shares some amazing stories, including how he broke a story on confidential information, his coverage of a US President and his effort championing women in the work force.

Jump right into:

(6:21) - Time in the Air Force

(7:34) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Favorite reporting assignments

(11:39) - Moving from the Wall Street Journal to the New York Times

(12:54) - Difference between the papers

(14:43) - The process of getting an article published

(16:39) - Becoming an editor and his achievements

(22:43) - Today’s journalists

(24:28) - Traits of successful journalists

(25:50) - Message to today’s journalists

(26:21) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Jared Melzer + Ross Weisbrot, Hosts - Lion Legacy (#25)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Special 25th episode edition presented by Lions-Pride.com! Co-hosts Jared Melzer and Ross Weisbrot talk about their experiences at Penn State, their great friendship and their journeys post graduation.

Jump right in:

(1:43) - Meeting at Penn State

(5:27) - Choosing Penn State

(11:54) - Favorite Penn State memory

(15:19) - Life after graduating

(25:54) - Staying connected to Penn State

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Elizabeth Miller, Founder - Happy Healthy Caregiver (#24)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1993 Penn State grad Elizabeth Miller was stressed, feeling overwhelmed and faced with a longer than normal to-do list when she became a caregiver for her ailing parents and disabled brother - in addition to raising her children and working a full-time job. Elizabeth not only found a way to manage, she took control and made sure she focused on ways she could be happy and healthy. Realizing that she was far from being the only one in this situation, she created Happy Healthy Caregiver to lend support and resources to many.

Jump right in:

(5:00) - Journey as a caregiver

(8:58) - Support for the caregiving community

(13:36) - Mental and emotional support

(15:17) - Challenges for both the caregiver and recipient

(17:34) - Having conversations about caregiving

(18:58) - HappyHealthyCaregiver as a full-time job

(21:00) - The impact of the pandemic

(24:12) - - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Balancing different responsibilities

(26:01) - Long distance caregiving

(27:21) - The future of HappyHealthyCaregiver

(29:07) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Follow Elizabeth and learn more at HappyHealthyCaregiver.com.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Lisa Baird, Commissioner - National Women's Soccer League (#23)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1982 and 1984 Penn State graduate Lisa Baird is paving a new path for women and women's sports. As Commissioner of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), Lisa talks about her journey from Penn State to some of the biggest brands in the world to entering the sports business world in prominent roles at the NFL, USOC and now the NWSL. She also shares a great story involving The White House and how she helped make a wrong, a right. There's no doubt - Lisa's a true game-changer!

Jump right in:

(6:34) - Different roles that prepared Lisa for the sports business industry

(8:40) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Most difficult challenge during the pandemic

(10:30) - An innovative mindset

(12:02) - Getting investors for the NWSL

(13:32) - Mentorship and advice

(15:10) - Steps to make critical strides in women’s sports

(17:16) - Making a wrong a right: the USOC and The White House

(19:54) - Favorite accomplishments

(21:58) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State Experience

Follow Lisa and the NWSL at NWSLsoccer.com.

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Rob Lawless, Founder - Robs10kFriends (#22)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2013 Penn State graduate Rob Lawless is on a big mission - to meet 10,000 strangers! Yes, that's a one with four zeroes! If you're wondering why, how and where - then you'll enjoy this episode with Rob.

Jump right into:

(5:49) - The genesis of the idea

(9:31) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Impact of the pandemic

(14:58) - Common themes and favorite stories

(21:31) - Key takeaways

(25:01 )- Making a living

(27:41) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Cedric Bryant, President + Chief Science Officer - American Council of Exercise (#21)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1984 and 1989 Penn State graduate, Dr. Cedric Bryant, has always found ways to get people moving for a healthier lifestyle. From academia to StairMaster and now the American Council of Exercise (ACE), Dr. Bryant's impact on the industry and people everywhere has earned him many recognitions, including this year's Penn State Distinguished Alumni Award.

Jump right into:

(7:27) - American Council of Exercise’s mission

(9:05) - The impact of the pandemic on the health and fitness industry

(12:38) - Childhood experiences that influenced his career choice

(13:39) - Student Question of the Episode presented by The Daily Collegian: Inspiration to be the President of ACE

(16:21) - Personal exercise and fitness routine

(19:19) - Reducing childhood obesity

(22:59) - ACE’s leadership in policy changes

(25:51) - Getting more diversity in the industry

(28:24) - Lions Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com.

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink.

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Joe Battista, Coach, Author + Speaker (#20)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1983 Penn State graduate Joe Battista is one of the most passionate people you'll meet. In this episode, he shares his Pragmatic Passion philosophy that has shaped his career and impacted countless others. Coach Battista, commonly known as JoeBa, also gives us a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how he helped take Penn State from club hockey to the varsity powerhouse it is today.

After listening to the episode, be sure to buy Joe's book - Pragmatic Passion at PragmaticPassion.com. Use code "Passion5" at check-out for a discount.

Jump right in:

(6:02) - How varsity hockey came to Penn State

(11:57) - Working for the Buffalo Sabres

(16:00) - Joe’s Pragmatic Passion philosophy

(20:58) - Student Question of the Episode powered by The Daily Collegian: Most important value for success

(24:38) - Biggest obstacle to success

(27:13) - Changing collegiate athletics

(29:47) - Relationship with Coach Joe Paterno

(33:07) - Lion’s Den presented by Lions-Pride.com: Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Matt Enderle, National Park Ranger (#19)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 27 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2016 Penn State graduate Matt Enderle enjoys sharing his passion of the outdoors and the National Parks with visitors. Currently based in Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska, Matt tells so many great stories, including his encounter with a bear and some changes he'd like to see to increase diversity.

Jump right in:

(8:13) - Life as a National Park Ranger

(9:21) - Being an interpretive Ranger

(10:44) - Process of becoming a National Park Ranger

(12:54) - Passion as a kid

(14:33) - Most interesting situation

(18:45) - Working as a seasonal Ranger

(23:34) - Favorite National Park

(24:57) - Encounter with a bear

(27:42) - Experiences during the pandemic

(30:58) - Thoughts on the future

(34:21) - Dream National Park to work at

(35:37) - Key takeaways for visitors

(39:22) - Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Ashlyn Sparrow, Asst. Director - Weston Game Lab at Univ of Chicago (#18)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 20 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2010 Penn State graduate Ashlyn Sparrow is in one of the fastest growing industries - gaming. However, her role is a bit unique and goes beyond pure entertainment. As Assistant Director of the Weston Game Lab at the University of Chicago, Ashlyn works on developing games to create socio-cultural impact. In this episode, she dives into what that truly means, how she wants to see more Black women in the gaming industry, and more!

Jump right in:

(4:17) - Weston Game Lab and Ashlyn’s role

(5:05) - Ashlyn’s career journey

(7:13) - Games that drive an impact in the community

(12:00) - Creating game-like experiences that are like sandboxes

(13:22) - Favorite games

(18:15) - Working with students

(19:35) - Growing up as a gamer

(23:49) - Being a Black woman in the gaming industry and what needs to be done to get more involved

(26:50) - Work during the pandemic and social justice movements

(28:17) - Viewpoint on games with violence

(30:29) - The future of the gaming industry and Ashlyn’s career

(34:40) - Penn State experience

Learn more about Ashlyn at AshlynSparrow.com

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Lisa Benson, Vice President - IMG Models (#17)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 13 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2002 Penn State graduate Lisa Benson has walked the red carpet with her clients at the world's biggest fashion shows. As Vice President of IMG Models, Lisa gives us a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the industry, how its evolved over the years, as well as stories of her family friend, the late professional golfer, Arnold Palmer.

** Apologies for some slight audio difficulties

Jump right in:

(4:51) - What it means to be a model

(6:53) - Lisa's interest in fashion as a child

(8:54) - Lisa's career path

(12:21) - Lisa's role as VP of IMG Models

(14:36) - The process of securing magazine covers; Example: Amanda Gorman

(17:14) - Key characteristics and traits when signing new models

(18:41) - New talent signed by IMG, including Natalia Bryant, daughter of the late Kobe Bryant

(20:42) - The industry helping people with self-confidence

(22:00) - Stories of the late professional golfer, Arnold Palmer

(24:48) - Favorite events to attend

(27:21) - Penn State experience

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Brian Cuban, Author + Public Speaker on Addiction (#16)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 06 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1983 Penn State graduate Brian Cuban's time in Happy Valley was not all that happy. Battling numerous addictions (eating disorders, alcohol, cocaine, etc.) at Penn State and throughout his life, Brian shares his very honest journey to sobriety. Today, Brian spends his time as a public speaker and author - on a mission to help others who are in similar situations.

Jump right in:

(5:22) - The importance of sharing his story of addiction

(7:06) - Trauma during Brian's childhood and at Penn State

(15:34) - The misconception that eating disorders only impact girls and women

(17:06) - The path to becoming sober

(22:24) - Handling tough days

(23:59) - High rates of suicide and addiction in the legal profession

(26:18) - Work around hate speech on social media

(29:43) - Stories of the Dallas Mavericks, owned by Brian's brother, Mark

(36:18) - Penn State experience

Learn more about Brian and purchase his book, The Addicted Lawyer, at BrianCuban.com

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Jean Oelwang, CEO + President - Virgin Unite (#15)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1987 Penn State grad Jean Oelwang is determined to create a better world.

Jean is President and CEO of Virgin Unite, the non-profit foundation of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group. In this episode, Jean shares about starting her career in the mobile phone business, some of the amazing projects she has worked on at Virgin Unite, how leaders can change their businesses to "do good" and more!

Jump right in:

(6:07) - Virgin Unite's mission and projects

(13:51) - The impact of the pandemic

(17:33) - Jean's background in the mobile phone business

(20:47) - Founding Virgin Unite with Sir Richard Branson

(23:05) - Helping C-suite leaders transform their business for social good

(26:28) - Virgin's people strategy

(32:19) - Getting more women in leadership positions

(36:31) - Learnings from Jean's relationship with Paralympic Champion Chris Waddle

(38:35) - Getting involved with Virgin Unite and other causes

(39:57) - Penn State Experience

Learn more at VirginUnite.com

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com

Keep up with all the Penn State news at Collegian.PSU.edu.

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Paul Suhey, Co-Founder - Revel, Electrifying Urban Mobility (#14)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2014 Penn State graduate Paul Suhey is on a mission to electrify urban mobility.

In this episode, Paul shares his journey of going from a big oil company to founding an electric mobility company, the different ways Revel is helping people get around cities, how they helped during the pandemic, and more!

Jump right in:

(2:49) - The legacy of the Suhey name at Penn State

(3:45) - Revel's mission to electrify cities

(9:23) - The difference with Revel's charging stations

(10:54) - Using electric bikes vs. electric mopeds

(13:20) - Expanding Revel to new cities

(14:56) - Revel's safety measures

(17:26) - Paul's journey to founding Revel

(22:55) - Lessons of entrepreneurship

(23:59) - The impact of the pandemic

(26:34) - The future of Revel

(27:38) - Penn State experience presented by Lions-Pride.com

Learn more about Revel at GoRevel.com

Show off your Penn State pride with the latest apparel and gear by visiting Lions-Pride.com

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Bridget Lasda, Chief Customer Officer - Calypso Lemonades (#13)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2002 Penn State graduate Bridget Lasda has worked at two of the world's largest beverage companies: Coca-Cola and Heineken. Currently, she serves as Chief Customer Officer at Calypso Lemonades.

In this episode, Bridget talks about finding her way into the beverage industry, selling to major retailers such as Target, her transition to Calypso Lemonades, and more!

Jump right in:

(5:09) - Getting into the business world

(7:11) - Selling Coca-Cola products to Target

(10:44) - Differences between selling Coca-Cola and Heineken

(12:33) - The competition

(14:16) - Moving to Calypso Lemonades

(16:56) - Challenges of moving from a larger to a smaller company

(18:37) - The role of Chief Customer Officer at Calypso Lemonades

(21:32) - Career highlight

(22:49) - Advice to young women business leaders

(24:29) - Running for a Penn State Board of Trustees position

(25:37) - Penn State experience

Learn more about Calypso Lemonades at DrinkCalypso.com

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Clifton Tay, Head of University Talent Acquisition + Strategy - Genentech (#12)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2003 Penn State graduate Clifton Tay has worked for some of the world's most exciting tech companies - GE, Facebook, Uber, Zillow and now Genentech.

In this episode, Clifton shares his work recruiting talent for these companies, his perspectives on the future of work and more!

Jump right in:

(4:06) - Getting into the talent acquisition field

(5:45) - Moving from GE to Facebook

(8:24) - The competition for talent

(10:39) - Joining Genentech

(11:53) - Differentiating yourself in the candidate pool

(14:10) - Companies supporting employees

(19:56) - Innovating during the pandemic

(22:37) - The future of work

(26:26) - Advice to students

(27:54) - Penn State experience

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Neil Goldman, Founder - Hotels for Hope (#11)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2005 Penn State graduate Neil Goldman saw a need in the hospitality market, created a solution and then figured out how to help underprivileged children.

In this episode, Neil shares his entrepreneurial journey, why it's important to give back and more!

Jump right in:

(5:43) - The business of Hotels for Hope

(6:56) - The birth of the idea

(12:10) - The evolution of technology

(13:30) - The challenges of entrepreneurship

(14:33) - The meaning of conscious capitalism

(17:59) - Hotels for Hope's work with children

(20:18) - The impact of the pandemic on business

(22:39) - Selling the business

(24:20) - The future

(25:25) - Penn State experience

Learn more at HotelsForHope.com

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

R.T. Custer + Tyler Wolfe, Founders - Vortic Watches (#10)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2014 Penn State graduate R.T. Custer and Penn Stater Tyler Wolfe formed a friendship in college that led them to founding Vortic Watches, an engineering and manufacturing company that pairs classic watchmaking techniques and traditions with innovative, modern technology.

In this episode, R.T. and Tyler share how they came up with the idea for the company, winning a lawsuit against a large watch company and advice for entrepreneurs.

Jump right in:

(5:48) - Founding Vortic Watches

(9:00) - Building vs. assembling watches

(10:01) - Sourcing the vintage watches

(11:16) - The process of building the watch

(16:49) - From Penn State to Colorado

(18:28) - Partnership with Red Rocks Amphitheater

(20:01) - Lawsuit from Swatch

(24:16) - Gifting a watch to a celebrity

(26:42) - Giving back

(30:56) - Entrepreneurship

(35:15) - The future of Vortic Watches

(38:45) - Penn State experience

Check out the watches at VorticWatches.com

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Jen Wahl, 2018 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year (#9)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2012 Penn State graduate Jen Wahl (Masters, Educational Leadership) is dedicated to making an impact in her students' lives. After talking with Jen about her background, philosophy and continuous learning mentality, it's no surprise that she was recognized as the 2018 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year.

After this episode, be sure to thank the teachers who have made an impact on you and your family.

Jump straight into:

(7:43) - Teaching during the pandemic

(11:46) - The impact of technology on education

(13:56) - The catalyst for becoming a teacher

(18:52) - Being awarded Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year

(22:30) - Traveling + teaching

(27:58) - Jen's thoughts on making two classes mandatory nationwide in high school

(30:25) - How people can better support educators

Join Penn State's network connecting students and alumni at http://Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at http://LionLegacyPodcast.com

Special thanks to http://StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Andrew Weinert, Staff Research Associate - MIT Lincoln (Drones) Lab (#8)

Penn State Alums Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2009 Penn State graduate Andrew Weinert has always had a passion for flying. Today, he's putting that to good use at Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Lincoln Laboratory where he's involved in drone regulations and setting standards for unmanned travel.

In this episode, Andrew discusses his research (on a non-technical level) and how drones will impact our lives and industries in the not too distant future.

Jump straight into:

(7:07) - Working on drone regulations at MIT's Lincoln Laboratory

(8:51) - Using technology to support Puerto Rico's recovery for Hurricane Maria

(12:17) - Childhood interest in aerospace

(14:49) - Drones used today and in the future

(19:33) - Drone + aerospace regulations

(24:44) - Other ways drones are used

(26:49) - Penn State experience

Learn more about Andrew at aweinert.com

Join Penn State's network that connects students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Andrew Moses, Founder - Everybody Pulls The Tarp (#7)

Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2007 Penn State graduate loves to discover new ways to develop himself both personally and professionally.

He's now sharing his passion with the masses through "Everybody Pulls The Tarp" podcast where he talks with Olympians, pro athletes, CEOs, elite coaches, bestselling authors, and other high-performers to uncover their secrets to success.

In this episode, Andrew shares some of the key learnings from his guests, as well as starting Autism Speaks U.

Jump straight into:

(5:54) - Everybody Pulls The Tarp mindset

(9:06) - Motivation for starting a podcast

(13:10) - Key learnings and highlights from guests on leadership and success

(17:37) - World Cup, Olympic Champion and Penn Stater Ali Krieger on overcoming adversity

(18:52) - Mental health today

(21:34) - Situational success vs. mentality

(22:56) - The importance of learning leadership and teamwork early on

(24:30) - Dream interviewee list

(29:20) - Starting Autism Speaks U

(33:14) - Penn State experience

Thanks for listening and WE ARE ... PENN STATE!

Listen to Andrew's podcast at EverybodyPullsTheTarp.com

Join Penn State's network that connects students and alumni at Alumni.PSU.Edu/LionLink

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Abbey Meltzer, Vice President - Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (#6)

Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2003 Penn State graduate Abbey Meltzer has always loved telling stories about health! At the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH), Abbey promotes the great medical breakthroughs taking place, including advancements with COVID treatments.

In this episode, Abbey shares her journey from being on camera in small town Ohio to behind the camera at CNN to her role today at the FNIH. She also has an epic story of being on-call when a President passed away!

Jump straight into:

(5:12) - Mission of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Foundation for the NIH (FNIH)

(7:40) - Differences between the CDC and NIH

(9:01) - Her role as the VP of Communications and Events at the FNIH

(11:26) - FNIH's involvement in the pandemic

(14:37) - Other health initiatives that the FNIH supports

(16:23) - Her career journey

(24:45) - Reporters she admired

(26:34) - Working with Wolf Blitzer at CNN

(28:52) - Similarities of roles across her career journey

(30:17) - Getting the call at CNN about President Gerald Ford's death

(33:38) - Penn State experience

Thanks for listening and WE ARE ... PENN STATE!

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University.

Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Mallory Brooke, Weather Consultant - Nor'easter Weather Consulting (#5)

Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2008 Penn State graduate Mallory Brooke absolutely loves the snow! So it's only fitting that she earned her meteorology degree and later founded her own weather consulting company in Maine.

In this episode, Mallory shares her early interest in weather, how she helps New England ski resorts, and more!

Jump straight into:

(5:55) - Being a weather consultant

(8:27) - Various clients for weather forecasts

(12:45) - Using weather models

(14:05) - Developing a passion for weather at a young age

(16:28) - Being a TV broadcast meteorologist vs. a weather consultant

(19:15) - Operating green screen technology + on-air bloopers

(20:45) - Following severe and tropical weather

(21:38) - Teaching elementary students about the weather

(23:51) - Global warming

(25:15) - Responding to jokes about weather people

(27:45) - Penn State experience

Learn more about Mallory and Nor'easter Weather Consulting.

Thanks for listening and WE ARE ... PENN STATE!

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University.

Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Jim Alexander, Senior Principal - Finegold Alexander Architects (#4)

Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0400

1965 Penn State graduate Jim Alexander has helped design some of the most impressive and historical landmark projects. As Senior Principal of Finegold Alexander Architects, Jim details his work preserving Ellis Island, how architecture has evolved since he graduated, the importance of designing environmentally sustainable buildings, and more!

Jump straight into:

(4:43) - Working on historical preservation projects

(6:55) - Restoring Ellis Island

(13:27) - The makings of a successful architect

(15:01) - The architectural process

(18:17) - The technological evolution of architecture

(20:00) - Designing environmentally sustainable buildings

(22:17) - Favorite project

(24:20) - Notre Dame in Paris

(25:36) - Dream project

(27:40) - Favorite Penn State building

(30:25) - Penn State experience

Learn more about Jim at https://www.faainc.com/team/james-alexander

Thanks for listening and WE ARE ... PENN STATE!

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production and is not affiliated with Penn State University. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Eric Christian, Lighting Director - Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert + The Puppy Bowl (#3)

Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2010 Penn State graduate Eric Christian is not someone who wants to be put in the spotlight, but he certainly deserves it! As an Emmy Award winning lighting director across theater, television and concerts, Eric has played an integral role in some amazing productions, including the Puppy Bowl and Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.

Jump straight into:

(4:25) - The role of lighting director

(5:20) - Getting started in the career

(7:00) - Differences in lighting with television, concerts and theater

(8:15) - The evolution of TV technology on the lighting industry

(9:40) - Lighting at concerts

(11:05) - Lighting for the Josh Groban concert

(12:44) - The impact of the pandemic

(13:48) - Lighting for the Puppy Bowl

(15:48) - Working with John Legend

(17:21) - Dream lighting project

(18:36) - The makeup of the lighting team

(20:09) - The Penn State experience

Thanks for listening and WE ARE ... PENN STATE!

Lion Legacy is a Baroudeur Production. Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Shannon Furman, Director & Producer - NFL Films (#2)

Jared Melzer & Ross Weisbrot — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2003 Penn State graduate Shannon Furman has spent over fifteen years bringing fans great features and stories about their favorite NFL teams and players. As Director and Producer at NFL Films, Shannon talks about working on Hard Knocks, her career advice to women entering the sports business industry and the time she found about Bill O'Brien leaving Penn State before anyone else!

Jump straight into:

(2:00) - Winning and giving away Emmy Awards

(3:40) - Career start and growth at NFL Films

(7:55) - Directing Hard Knocks: normal times vs. the pandemic

(10:35) - Choosing what goes on air for Hard Knocks

(13:50) - Finding out Football Head Coach Bill O'Brien was leaving Penn State

(15:25) - Favorite NFL Films stories and features

(19:15) - Working as a female in sports

(21:00) - Penn State experience

Thanks for listening and WE ARE ... PENN STATE!

Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Follow Shannon Furman on Twitter @FurmBiz.

Doug Bennett, Head Athletic Trainer - Carolina Hurricanes (#1)

Jared Melzer — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0400

2004 Penn State graduate Doug Bennett plays an integral role in the health and performance of the world's elite athletes. As Head Athletic Trainer of the Carolina Hurricanes, Doug shares his experiences from his days at Penn State to the challenges of the COVID pandemic and the one time that a zamboni driver became an emergency goalie in a NHL game.

Jump straight into:

(5:00) - The start of the pandemic and initial reactions from the team

(7:50) - The stoppage/pause of the NHL season

(11:20) - Life in the NHL Bubble

(12:50) - The many responsibilities of being the Head Athletic Trainer for the Carolina Hurricanes

(18:40) - The epic story of David Ayres, the 42 year old zamboni driver, who played in a NHL game

(24:45) - Tending to injuries on the ice

(26:00) - The Penn State experience

Thanks for listening and WE ARE ... PENN STATE!

Visit us at LionLegacyPodcast.com.

Special thanks to StudioPodSF.com for their support.

Learn more about Doug Bennett.