In the Arena: Conversations of a Lifetime
What makes leaders tick? In the Arena podcast delves into the inner workings and personal dynamics of leadership. We’ll shine a light on the life-shaping experiences and perspectives of leaders who have navigated adversity and moved their organizations and themselves forward. Defining moments, lessons learned, and points of inspiration provide a roadmap for these conversations of a lifetime. The podcast title In the Arena has historical roots. In 1910, a year after leaving the presidency, Teddy Roosevelt gave a rousing address in Paris in which he chastised cynics and grenade-throwing critics who lambasted leaders as they worked valiantly to improve the human condition. Over time TR’s “The Man in the Arena” became indelibly linked to the nobility and struggles of leadership. In the Arena host Brad Rieger is the chief executive officer at Cooper-Smith, a full-service marketing and advertising agency headquartered in Toledo, OH with a satellite office in Stamford, CT. Prior to working in the private sector, Brad enjoyed a meaningful 31-year career in education serving in the roles of teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. He is a student of the complexities and nuances of leadership and admires the strivers, trailblazers, and influencers who lead with conviction, courage, and resilience. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023
Episodes
Jere Righter has been involved with the historic Croswell Opera House for 35 years. Located in Adrian, Michigan, The Croswell is the oldest theater in Michigan and one of the oldest operating theaters in the United States. Jere was hired-on to be The Croswell’s Artistic Director in 2009. Working with talented staff and volunteers, Jere has overseen professional caliber and highly acclaimed performances within a regional community t...
Fr. Olszewski, a Catholic priest and Oblate of St. Francis de Sales, has been a positive force at St. Francis de Sales High School in Toledo, Ohio for over 51 years. Fr. O., as he is affectionately called, has served as a teacher, principal, and president of St. Francis De Sales High School. He was also the chairman of the school’s foundation for over 30 years and past president of the Toledo Rotary. In addition to his career assoc...
After her mom passed away, seven-year old Ginny Boggess found solace in shooting baskets in her backyard. Basketball helped Ginny navigate a traumatic personal loss and created a pathway to life-shaping opportunities. She parlayed a successful playing career on the hardwood at Wingate University into the field of coaching. For 22 years she has used the platform of coaching to develop players on and off the court. Goal-oriented and ...
By observing her parents’ kindness toward others and her own personal experiences with volunteering, helping people became a driving force early on in Kate Sommerfeld’s life. She is a mission-driven and collaborative servant leader dedicated to lifting up communities, organizations, and individuals. Her enthusiasm for philanthropy is rooted in a steadfast belief in worthwhile causes and people’s generous spirit.
Host/Executive Prod...
As an undergraduate student at the University of Toledo, Matt Schroeder worked three jobs to help pay his way through school and earn a bachelor’s degree in business management. He now leads the organization that put his life on a positive trajectory. As interim president, Matt is laser-focused on elevating the student experience and making the University of Toledo a vibrant part of the Toledo region.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad R...
At an early age, Robin Whitney knew she wanted to be an engineer. Throughout an extensive career, Robin has utilized her engineering and people skills to shepherd large-scale community initiatives and building projects. She’s a person of vision and a problem solver who strives to elevate the quality of life for organizations and the Toledo region.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Sc...
Since 2020, Adam Levine has served as the president, director, and CEO of the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA). His leadership efforts are focused on TMA’s world-class collection, visitor experience, organizational culture, and community outreach. He is a respected scholar of ancient art and a highly sought-after presenter by art museums, universities, auction houses, and think tanks. Raised in NYC, Adam credits family trips to major art...
After 15 years of holding senior executive positions with several multinational companies, Jason Abodeely pivoted to the mission-based nonprofit Sunshine Communities. For the past 11 years he has led a team of compassionate caregivers - nurses, therapists, and direct service professionals - who help children and adults with developmental disabilities live their best lives. Empowerment, dignity, inclusion, and community are central ...
It’s been an amazing personal journey for the mission-driven Amanda Held. Overcoming significant odds, Amanda figured out how to merge her love/respect for horses with her military experience to found H.O.O.V.E.S., a nonprofit that provides equine-assisted therapy and intensive programming for veterans and others navigating trauma. For the past 13 years, she has leveraged her extensive knowledge of horse and human behavior to provi...
Through his straightforward approach to sharing local, national, and global news, Emmy award-winning TV news anchor Lee Conklin has been connecting with viewers and listeners for 40 years. His trustworthiness, respect for others, and humility are distinguishing personal traits that make him a highly respected news journalist and community leader.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Sch...
In addition to being a teaching professor at Bowling Green State University, Brad Felver has been writing professionally for over 15 years. His short stories and essays have been published in a wide array of literary magazines. He was recently bestowed the O. Henry Prize for best fictional writing in 2024. This was the second time he has received this prestigious national award. Brad has also been honored with the Drue Heinz Litera...
Jeff Mielcarek’s entire career has centered on elevating the positive, life-shaping impact that athletic experiences have on players, coaches, fans, organizations, and communities. He has excelled in multiple leadership roles including general manager of an athletic club, director of CYO athletics, high school baseball coach, and basketball referee. For his mission-based approach and the way he conducts himself, Jeff was inducted i...
At a very young age, Susan knew that she wanted to be an educator. After beginning her career as a high school teacher, she transitioned to the Toledo Museum of Art where she has served in the roles of docent, president of the docent program, director of development, and board trustee. For decades she has been actively involved in community service organizations and charitable initiatives. Education and the arts have been the focus...
For over 16 years, Christina has been leading a life-giving organization that helps low-income single moms pursue their educational goals and break the cycle of poverty. Her own harrowing experiences as a child growing up on the west side of Chicago propel her to provide opportunities and hope to young moms and their children traveling a tough road. She is also a beacon of light in the areas of human rights, education, and social j...
Drawing upon his journalism background, love of athletics, and ability to connect with people, Eamonn guides the narrative for the Detroit Lions. He oversees a constant flurry of media activity involving local/national news organizations, reporters, players, coaches, and front office personnel. In 2023 Eamonn and the Detroit Lions Communications team received the prestigious Pete Rozelle Award for excellence in public relations. He...
For over 30 years Levi has held corporate leadership roles and been a strong supporter of numerous charitable organizations and worthy causes throughout the Metro Detroit area. As Vice President and Community Impact Officer for Systems Technology Group (headquartered in Troy, Michigan), Levi leads the company’s sales, new business, and diversity efforts. He also serves on numerous boards including the Motown Museum, Teen Street Ski...
Amy Chang, who grew up in Taiwan and came to the United States as a high school exchange student, began playing the cello when she was 10 years old. She honed her musical skills at the Taiwan Academy of Arts, Music Institute of Chicago, and Eastman School of Music. Throughout her highly accomplished career as a cellist, Amy has used the platform of music to move people’s emotions and provide a sense of uplift. She believes that a f...
Entrepreneur Logan Sander joined like-minded young professionals to establish and run a vibrant nonprofit media thinkhub that highlights the unique qualities, opportunities, and challenges associated with the Midwest region. She has merged a love of multimedia storytelling, research, education, and community service to provide a meaningful contribution to the Midwest narrative.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/P...
Based in the Tuscan hillside town of Cortona, Italy, Marco Molesini owns and operates the internationally renowned Molesini Wine Shop. His vast knowledge of wine, deep connections with Italian winemakers, frequent wine tasting events in the United States, and a robust wine club membership make Marco one of the most respected and sought-after experts in the wine industry. His passion for what he does is captured in a phrase he often...
Bill’s Boston area roots, hockey playing days, being up close to the devastating impact of the 9-11 attack, guidance from strong mentors, and a supportive, best friend spouse shaped his career path and leadership approach. His core belief: ordinary people can do extraordinary things.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Step...
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