PinLeader Podcast

Leadership isn’t always cultivated in a boardroom—sometimes it’s grown in the garden or perfected in a backyard kitchen.

Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Ms. Felicia Roberts-Dunston, founder of Sow and Reap Gardens, and Mr. William P. Dunston III, creator of Big Daddy’s Backyard Barbeque Sauce. This inspiring couple shares how faith, family, and purpose guide their approach to leadership, entrepreneurship, and community building...

According to research by Salesforce, 89% of consumers are more likely to make another purchase after a positive customer service experience. So, what makes customer service truly shine? In this episode of the PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Mr. Anthony Bruno, nationally renowned independent jeweler and President of J. Foster Jewelers, to explore how leadership, empathy, and trust turn everyday transactions in...

AI is transforming industries, careers, and education. In today’s PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with two leading researchers and professors, Dr. Jake Lee and Dr. Cheryl Bracken from Bowling Green State University, to hear how their new AI + X bachelor’s degree is preparing students for the future. 

This conversation comes as BGSU gets ready to host Great Lakes AI Week November 4-6 where Dr. Gore will be a presenter....

Success isn’t just about what you build—it’s about the foundation you build it on.

In this episode of the PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Mr. Tim Mays and Mr. Matt Maxwell, owners and operators of Mavillino Custom Home Builders. They discuss how integrity, communication, and quality are the foundation of their business. Hear how they motivate their team, plan for the future, and adapt in an ever-changing housing ...

Every time you twist the cap on a plastic soda or water bottle, you’re enjoying an innovation that happened in Toledo, Ohio. Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Dr. Tom Brady who led the team that developed the Coca-Cola PET plastic soft drink bottle and that pioneered the development of the first FDA-approved curbside recycling process. Hear about the leadership principles that guided Dr. Brady, first at Owens-Illinois and then at his...

Strong communities don’t happen by chance — they’re built through vision, leadership, and meaningful connections.  Host Dr. Shanda Gore welcomes Mr. Scot Hinshaw, President of the Rotary Club of Toledo, one of the top 20 largest Rotaries in the world. They discuss how Rotary members turn service into impact, networking into lifelong friendships, and how engagement brings the power of many into one focused positive strength. 

This e...

Surveys can be an important tool to help you receive feedback about your organization. Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Dr. Courtney Moore and Dr. Michelle Webb from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions to explore how data—especially from surveys—can inform meaningful strategic direction. They discuss the essential role of leadership in interpreting feedback, the importance of closing the loop with participants, and h...

In today’s PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore discusses “Purpose in Practice” with Coach Eddie George, who was recently named the 21st head football coach of Bowling Green State University. Heisman Trophy winner Coach George discusses his coaching philosophy, what having GUTS can do, and how intentional leadership drives performance, which can be applied to both on the field and in the workplace. 

This episode sponsored by Edw...

When is the last time you flipped through a magazine? Magazine publishers play a critical role in informing, inspiring and connecting with audiences. Dr. Shanda Gore discusses editorial leadership and how it shapes community narratives, builds trust, and amplifies voices that may otherwise go unheard. Hear her conversation with Ms. Stayce Fowler, founder and publisher of Pursuit Magazine, and Mr. Michael Richardson, publisher of se...

Community colleges have an important role in today’s workforce landscape by preparing students for in-demand careers. Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Dr. Denise McCory, President of the Metropolitan Campus at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C), to discuss how higher education is responding to labor market needs as well as her effective leadership style. Hear how she’s leading her campus through innovative partnerships and programs ...

Are you a leader who is looking to build better relationships with your stakeholders? Host Dr. Shanda Gore discusses elevating engagement with her guest, Ms. Mo Cotton Kelly, Chief People Officer and Senior Vice President for Alumni Engagement at UConn. Hear her approach to integrating complex responsibilities, building and sustaining authentic relationships, and elevating engagement in the digital age. 

This episode sponsored by E...

Of all the morning tasks, do you make sure to check the weather before leaving the house? Host Dr. Shanda Gore takes us beyond the forecast with 13abc Chief Meteorologist Jay Berschback to explore the intersection of science, leadership, and technology in broadcast meteorology. Jay shares the story of what drew him to weather, how leadership plays a vital role in high-stakes decision-making, and what it means to guide a team throug...