Heart Of It

She Is Always A Woman To Me

In this powerful episode of She’s Always a Woman to Me, I sit down with my longtime friend, Dr. Eric Jacoby, an accomplished OB/GYN whose career has been built around understanding and caring for women through some of the most personal and important moments of their lives. What begins as a conversation between friends including stories from years spent playing golf together  quickly evolves into a thoughtful discussion about empathy, intimacy, relationships, and the unique complexity of the female body. Dr. Jacoby shares what led him to choose obstetrics and gynecology as his specialty, a field traditionally dominated by women, and explains why being a male physician has actually given him a distinct and valuable perspective. He discusses the importance of listening, trust, and emotional intelligence in patient care, particularly when addressing issues that are often deeply personal and emotionally layered. We also explore the role intimacy plays in healthy relationships and why understanding physical and emotional connection is so important for long-term partnership and overall wellness. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Jacoby brings a grounded, compassionate perspective that reflects decades of experience caring for women across every stage of life. More than just a medical conversation, this episode is about respect, empathy, communication, and friendship. It offers listeners an honest and insightful look at how men can better understand, appreciate, and support the women in their lives.

All About the Smoke

In this episode of The Heart of It, I sit down with Joe Zavala pitmaster, entrepreneur, and the force behind Zavala's Barbecue, for a conversation that goes far beyond brisket and smoke. Joe’s journey into Texas barbecue isn’t traditional; it’s a path shaped by grit, curiosity, and pivotal moments that forced him to rethink purpose, success, and what really matters. What emerges is a story of resilience, humility, and a deep commitment to people. We explore how Joe carved out his place in one of the most competitive culinary cultures in the country. He shares what it felt like to enter that world without a conventional background, how he developed his voice as a pitmaster, and what it means to represent both craft and culture in an authentic way. His perspective challenges the idea that there’s only one path to belonging, showing instead that authenticity can be the ultimate differentiator. At the center of this episode is a life-altering moment. Joe recounts the terrifying experience of helping his child during a choking incident, only to later discover he had bone cancer. That unexpected diagnosis became a turning point, reshaping how he views time, family, and responsibility. It forced a clarity that many of us avoid until we’re confronted with it. As we talk, a shared theme emerges...perspective. Joe reflects on how adversity stripped away distractions and brought focus to what truly deserves attention. We connect on a mutual passion for helping people and a belief that real success is measured by impact, not recognition. Gratitude runs throughout this conversation not as a cliché, but as something earned through challenge and reflection. Joe’s story is a reminder that the most meaningful journeys are often the ones we never planned, and that even the hardest moments can redefine who we are.

Keeping The Faith

In this episode of The Heart of It, we sit down with Rabbi Brian Strauss for an engaging and personal conversation about the path that led him to the rabbinate. He shares the pivotal moments, influences, and inner pull that guided his decision, offering listeners a candid look at what it really means to choose a life of spiritual leadership. From early inspirations to the realities of modern-day ministry, Rabbi Strauss reflects on how purpose, faith, and a deep sense of responsibility have shaped his journey. Along the way, we explore the balance between tradition and individuality, and how he has learned to meet the evolving needs of his community while staying grounded in timeless values. Beyond the role itself, this episode reveals the person behind the title. With humor and authenticity, Rabbi Strauss opens up about the day-to-day demands of the job, the unexpected challenges, and the moments that make it all worthwhile. We also dive into thoughtful perspectives on customs, prayer, and how these practices translate into meaningful connection in today’s world. Whether you’re deeply rooted in faith or simply curious, this conversation offers a lighthearted yet insightful glimpse into the man under the yarmulke—bringing warmth, relatability, and a renewed appreciation for the heart behind the calling.

The Most Important Brand...Yours!

In this episode of The Heart of It, I sat down with Victoria Tollossa to unpack what it really means to build a personal brand in today’s world. Victoria’s journey is anything but linear—rooted in brand marketing, shaped by her time as a singer (including a Grammy nomination), and now evolving into a powerful voice on personal positioning and authenticity. What stood out most is how her diverse experiences didn’t distract from her path, they refined it. She shared how each chapter of her career contributed to a deeper understanding of storytelling, audience connection, and ultimately, how we present ourselves to the world. Our conversation centered on a critical shift that personal brand is no longer optional; it’s essential. In a landscape where reputation is constantly shaped in real time, Victoria emphasized that managing your personal brand means owning your narrative rather than letting others define it. But more importantly, we explored the role of vulnerability. True connection, trust, and influence aren’t built on perfection; they’re built on honesty. Leaning into who you are, sharing your story, and showing up consistently creates a brand that resonates far beyond credentials or titles. This episode is a reminder that your personal brand isn’t something you manufacture—it’s something you reveal.

College Admission, Career, and Connection

On this episode of The Heart of It, Scott welcomes someone who has known him since the days when the planning was mostly meant to figure out which restaurant they would share a meal, Jodi Gershoni. Now the founder of College Unlimited, Jodi has turned her passion for helping students into a mission: guiding families through the maze, madness, and occasional melodrama of the college admissions process. Scott and Jodi take a walk down memory lane, reflecting on how their friendship began in college and how the winding roads of their careers led them to very different but surprisingly similar professional paths guiding others. Along the way, Jodi shares practical insight into what today’s college admissions world really looks like (spoiler alert: it’s not the same game it was when they applied). From the pressure students face to the myths parents believe, she explains how thoughtful guidance can turn a stressful process into an empowering one. The conversation mixes humor, nostalgia, and hard-earned wisdom, with Jodi offering perspective on what actually matters in admissions and in life. It’s part reunion, part masterclass, and a reminder that sometimes the friendships formed in college end up teaching you just as much as the classes.