Episodes
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Our 3-year celebration came with an unexpected twist—just the kind of story we love to tell.
Thank you for being here every week for 3 years. We appreciate every single one of you, guest and listener--often that's one and the same!
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Here's your exclusive peek into the mind of a true innovator!
Get ready for insights and laughs as we chat with Robyn Carter, CEO of Jump Rope Innovation!
Since 2005, Robyn’s been turning consumer trends into product ideas that make us ask, "Why didn’t I think of that?" (And yes, we pitched her a few trending ideas that we did think of —tune in to hear her take!)With an impressive background in advertising for brands you know and love (hello, Snickers and Kool Aid), Robyn knows how to keep companies ahead of the curve. She's got an amazing name for each of her services and she is getting inspiration in a way most others are not. We were riveted.
Almost forgot to mention: she didn’t graduate with a degree in communications from CALS. Not close. Curious?
Here's where you can find her:
https://www.jumpropeinnovation.com
LinkedIn: Robyn Carter
Instagram: jumpropeinnovation
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Episodes manquant?
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Get ready for the Empty Quester revolution as Donna Korren shares her inspiring take on life after kids in this uplifting episode! Donna, founder of the Empty Quester community, is on a mission to help women redefine their next years by embracing the excitement and opportunity of an empty nest (even if we all also miss our kids just a little bit).
From her unforgettable Cornell days and lifelong friendships to a successful career in the magazine industry, launching her business Change, and even becoming a TikTok sensation, Donna’s story is a masterclass in reinvention. She dives into her top tips for thriving in this exciting new chapter and even gives advice tailored to our own (crazy) experiences. By the end, you’ll want to be her best friend—we do!
Here's where you can find her:
Website: https://emptyquester.com/
TikTok @emtpyquester
Amazing TED talk! https://www.ted.com/talks/donna_korren_the_newest_workforce_disruptors_are_over_50?subtitle=en
Instagram: emptyquester
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Meet Adele Smolansky, a charismatic and brilliant Cornell Engineering graduate with a master’s from Stanford. Yup.
Adele has already made waves by creating AI Learners, a cutting-edge platform that helps kids of all abilities tailor their learning experiences. Wait until you hear what inspired her—or rather, who.
We discuss her passion for inclusive and personalized education in the 2020s and have some fun with a retro quiz we created on how math and reading were taught in the 1970s.
You'll love this inspiring conversation about innovation, technology, and transforming education!
Find her site here: https://ai-learners.com/company
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University.
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BURST ALERT!
We are bursting with this week's guest!
A very fortunate introduction at Orange Theory led us to Anthony Petrillose, whose family legacy is intertwined with some of the most iconic spots in Cornell’s history (at least as far as we're concerned).
For generations, the Petrillose family has been at the heart of Cornell’s college town culture, running Johnny’s Hot Truck and Johnny’s Big Red Grill, two beloved hangouts for students and alumni.Anthony also shares stories about his grandpa’s and dad’s barber shop, a treasured fixture in Cornell’s college town and a real "who's who" among its clients.
The Petrillose family has been a part of Cornell life for decades. This episode offers a nostalgic look at the family behind some of the favorite memories and traditions that created an unmatched sense of community, shaping the Cornell experience for thousands of students.
Anthony shares these stories with charisma, humor, and incredible humility. We feel so lucky to have met and spent time with him—you’ll love him too!
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Meet Rebekah Goldstein, a remarkable student from the Dyson School. As a dedicated RA and TA, Rebekah expertly balances her academic pursuits with a demanding work week. She shares her journey of transferring schools, building a competitive concrete boat, her passion for technology and data analytics, and the challenges she faces as a student during significant global events.
Rebekah manages her responsibilities like an all-star and thrives at Cornell!
We loved meeting her!
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
We loved our time with Peter! He is brilliant and a lot of fun.
In this episode, we talk about his career that started at the Cornell Daily Sun and catapulted him to esteemed opinion writer for The New York Times.
Peter shares his experiences as a student journalist, where he honed his writing skills and developed a great sense for storytelling and attention to detail that shaped his career.
AND!
Have you heard of Quill and Dagger? Prospect of Whitby? Peter gives a little behind the scenes on some intriguing activities from his time in these two exclusive Cornell secret societies.
And of course, since he's a journalist, we got his opinion on our ideas of breaking news at Cornell. Don't wanna brag, but he said some of out story ideas were front page worthy...
He was a great guest and we can't wait for you to listen. And then check him out in The New York Times.
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University. -
You asked, he answered.
Brendan Kempff is back to tell us how he’s transitioned to a career in consulting, thriving in the heart of San Francisco.
We reminisce a bit about his campus reporting days as a Cornell Sun writer, what it's like to go back the first time after graduation, and he reveals his future plans to become a...
Tune in for a great conversation about living your dreams and embracing new challenges!
Brendan is exactly how you remember him, charismatic, charming and brilliant - and somehow he's even better!
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Clean house and clean slate, Gwen is back with exciting news.
Her passion for healthy living shines through as she discusses her innovative new line of eco-friendly, wildly affective, aromatherapy-filled cleaning products. Ever since receiving ours, we are cleaning 10X more than normal just because her products smell so good!
Find out what happened since the last time she was on the show, now that she can finally talk about it.
We also highlight her support for Cornell through hiring interns and providing valuable advice to them, to us, and to any Cornellians launching a small business.
We love any time spent with Gwen.
Prepare for an enlightening conversation filled with laughs, insights, and inspiration to elevate your cleaning game! (P.S. we play a game with her you do not want to miss)
Find her new company at
https://www.thefillclub.com/
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
In this episode of Where Are They Now, we reconnect with two inspiring Cornellians: Jemma Hendricks, a first-semester freshman, and Kayla Singer, a first-semester senior.
Both returning guests share updates on their lives since we last spoke, reflecting on the growth they've experienced and the excitement they feel for what’s ahead.
Kayla discusses the profound changes she’s witnessed over her three years at Cornell, while Jemma shares what it’s like to arrive for the first time at Cornell in the midst of a strike and campus unrest.
This episode is filled with insights and inspiration from two impressive young women who, despite being at different stages of their Cornell journey, have the same deep commitment to making the most of their time at Cornell.
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University
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Meet Osei Boateng, A CNN Hero and Cornell Human Ecology Young Alumni Achievement Award winner. Osei is the founder of the OKB Foundation which provides critical clinical care and accessibility in Ghana.
Osei’s passion for community and saving lives has made him an extraordinary leader, dedicated to making a big difference. We discuss how his work is changing lives and leaving a lasting impact, and how in the world he ever came up with such a genius idea for a medical van.
We met him this past June and couldn't wait for him to come on the show because in addition to being brilliant and creative, he is funny and fun and we loved spending time with him.
Here are his links:
OKB HOPE FOUNDATION: https://www.okbfoundation.org
HEAA Recent Alumni Achievement Award 2024: https://www.human.cornell.edu/alumni/about/stories/osei-boateng-heaa-recent-alumni-achievement-award-2024
Instagram:
okbhopefoundation
LinkedIn:
Osei Kwadwo Boateng
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Meet Derek Ting and Joyce Yung.
Derek, a writer and martial arts enthusiast, and Joyce, a renowned photographer, teamed up to create films that pack a punch—literally. If you like action movies, you will like their latest movie Agent Recon.
Derek may have caught the movie bug in Acting 101. Other than that, neither had filmmaking in their post grad plans. They transitioned from impressive corporate careers to the exciting world of action filmmaking.
Hear how they combined their unique talents and experiences to produce action films, including their recent project starring the iconic Chuck Norris.
Oh, and they’re married!
You can watch their films on Amazon, Hulu and Fandango and others
Lots of info at:: Http://www.Agentsaga.xyz
Find Joyce and Derek here too:
www.joyceyung.com
www.powerhousejy.com
www.randomartworkshop.com
FB: joyceyungphotography; randomartworkshop
IG: yungjoyce; randomartworkshop, powerhouse.jy
Instagram: @dkting
Website: http://www.dkting.comWe had a lot of fun with them and we're guessing there are more movies on the horizon.
Shout out to Tony Chen for introducing us to Derek and Joyce - thank you!
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Jackie Garrido is a Cornell ILR graduate and seasoned Talent Development Leader with over 25 years of experience. She shares her journey in transforming workplaces into environments where people not only excel but also love what they do.
Her career path is a highlight reel of dream employers. And she met her husband at one of them...
Plus she is an expert on workflow and minimizing distraction. Guess which of our scenarios would possibly distract her?
We loved talking to her, we learned a LOT!
Find her on LinkedIn here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiegarrido/
Cornell talk:
https://live.alumni.cornell.edu/career?p=66450fdc3283ae018b38beb4&v=66450fc8cbdb8abb0e5c1636
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
We were thrilled to talk to Matthew, a rising junior and a rising star in the culinary world.
Matthew has captivated the hearts, appetites and inner chef of millions with his vibrant, humorous, and approachable cooking style, making his kitchen and his dorm room a global stage on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.He’s got 3 million followers across his platforms. THREE MILLION.
We met him on a panel we were part of at a CALC event in Baltimore last winter and we have been dying for more ever since.
He is also somehow exceptionally active on campus, and not just within the Hotel School.
You have got to hear his story, told exceptionally well because he is an incredible storyteller on and off social media.
We LOVED him.
You can find Matthew here:
https://matthewmerril.com
TikTok:
Matthewinthekitchen
Instagram:
Mmerrill
YouTube:
MatthewMerril
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Melissa made a significant impact on Cornell campus life by organizing the iconic Slope Day and several other on-campus events. She was a natural-born promoter and leader.
Her career in hospitality PR began with a series of impressive internships and study abroad that you've got to hear and tell any incoming or current Hotel School students about.
Melissa founded Benhaim PR, an agency dedicated to helping travel and hospitality brands achieve consistent media coverage. Her agency specializes in highlighting the unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression on guests.
As the Co-President of the Cornell Club of Miami, Melissa continues to give back to the Cornell community, fostering connections and supporting fellow alumni.
And of course, she was a good sport in reviewing our pitches for new niche campus activities.Learn how her passion, expertise, and dedication at Cornell have shaped her career. She was FUN.
Find her here:
https://benhaimpr.com
LinkedIn:
Melissa Benhaim
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Jeanne is designing for gold!
We caught her right before she left for Paris and we are thrilled. She was one of the most fun and most interesting people we have ever met. We LOVED HER.
Behind the seams:
Jeanne tells us all about how she became the designer of the STUNNING gymnastics leotards, how her company balances aesthetics, functionality and performance, and how she is prepared for any leotard emergency on site.
Her Cornell story is poetic. But, the class she regrets not taking is questionable. Please weigh in by sending us a DM on Instagram.
Also, she's a black belt.
Go to our Instagram account to see the leotards we designed and ran by her for 2028. Thoughts?
There is so much to Jeanne! You have got to hear this story. And she's a Cornell Human Ecology graduate, just sayin'.
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University. -
That title is almost a double entendre.
In this episode we discuss the world of sensory-friendly fashion with Julia Deney, the visionary behind a revolutionary clothing line designed specifically for children with sensory issues. Julia shares her journey of creating Sense-sational You (that is a double entendre), that not only addresses the unique needs of these children but also blends style with functionality. She worked for Justice so of course her pieces are trendy and cool.
How did she get here? That's a great story you have to hear. We loved getting to know her!
Her links:
https://shopsenseationalyou.com/
Social media:
@senseational_you
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Get ready for an inspiring conversation and behind the scenes look with Margot Baker, a rising senior at Cornell and the executive director of some of the most fun Cornell campus events.
Can you guess the 2024 Slope Day budget? Guess again.
She picks up new skills with ease and balances a demanding work load and her jobs with time for friends and activities that make her happy (and sing?).
She's got a senior year bucket list - find out if her top 2 were also yours.
And we run some new campus events by her in a segment we will call Festival Forecaster.
She's great, you will love hearing her story.
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
We've had some pretty exceptional seniors on the podcast right before they graduated. Many of you have asked us, "Whatever happened to..."
So in a new series "Where are they now," we will check back in with some of the students you all loved getting to know on the podcast.
You will remember Zack as the drum major in the Cornell marching band. And you may remember he is the one that introduced us to the idea of foraging for mushrooms.
But can you guess what he's doing now?
You will be impressed. Lots going on.
You can find his original episode #65 anywhere you usually listen to podcasts or with this link: https://cornellthanku.buzzsprout.com/1820290/12191262-drumroll-please-for-cornell-drum-major-zack-kozma
It's great to see recent graduates putting their education to good use. Stay tuned, we have more episodes to follow. Thanks, Zack!
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University -
Jimmy Pitaro's journey from Cornell to ESPN exemplifies resilience, passion, hard work and the importance of relationships.
From his early days as a hometown football star, to leading one of the world's most famous and iconic sports networks, Jimmy's story is inspiring and filled with gratitude for the people that helped propel him to Chairman of ESPN; including football recruiting coaches, his incredible wife, a very special college professor, and exceptional colleagues.Here is an example of tireless hard work and perseverance paying off. Plus it doesn’t hurt that he is unbelievably smart and charismatic.
And, we pitched him some brand new Cornell related sporting events for those hard-to-fill early morning hours.
It was an honor to get to know Jimmy and you will be riveted.
Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University
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