Shaping Our Story

Chuck Owen Jazz Composer

Season 2 Episode 4 Recorded 4/10/26 Released 5/13/26 Length: 32 MIN 37 SEC Welcome to Shaping Our Story with host Louise Krikorian—where inspiring leaders share their passion, purpose, and perseverance to help you thrive. Five-time Grammy-nominated jazz composer, bandleader, and former university professor Chuck Owen joins Louise Krikorian on Shaping Our Story for a powerful conversation about passion, perseverance, creativity, and the lifelong pursuit of music. From composing music in high school to leading his acclaimed ensembles The Jazz Surge and ReSurgence, Chuck Owen reflects on the experiences that shaped his extraordinary career. He shares stories about teaching and mentoring students who later worked with legendary artists including Ray Charles, Paquito D’Rivera, Dolly Parton, and Stevie Wonder, while discussing the influence of musical icons such as Quincy Jones and Chick Corea. In this episode, Chuck opens up about the discipline required to create music every day, the vulnerability of being an artist, and why growth comes from taking creative risks. He also previews The Jazz Surge’s 30th Anniversary Florida Concert Tour in September 2026 and the recording of the ensemble’s upcoming 8th album featuring special guest artists. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Jazz composition and creativity Teaching and mentoring young musicians Working with legendary artists Inspiration from Quincy Jones and Chick Corea The importance of perseverance and daily discipline The creative process behind new music The Jazz Surge 30th Anniversary Tour and upcoming album 👍 If this inspired you: Like, comment, and share to help others build meaningful connections and live with purpose. 💻 LEARN MORE about our guest and his concert tour Website: www.chuckowen.com Facebook: @ChuckOwen7 Instagram: @ChuckOwen54 YouTube Channel: @chuckowen9628 6-24-2025 USF Oral Histories project https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/arts_culture_ohp/18/ 💡ABOUT US On Shaping Our Story, exemplary leaders share lessons in passion, purpose and perseverance. Real people. Real stories. Real strategies to help you thrive. Hosted by Louise Krikorian, award-winning storyteller, educator, and filmmaker, this podcast brings you powerful insights from inspiring voices across industries. #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #businesslessons #businessleadership ##founders #founderstories #founderstory #angeladuckworth #grit #kellycorrigan #melrobbins #jeffberman #simonsinek #leadership #chuckowen #jazzsurge #resurgence #usf 🚀 JOIN OUR COMMUNITY LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisekrikorian/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisekrikorian/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShapingOurStory/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/louisekrikorian 🏆  LIKE-MINDED COLLABORATORS   Kelly Corrigan, Mel Robbins, Jeff Berman, Simon Sinek PBS Tell Me More with Kelly Corrigan Angela Duckworth Oct 4, 2022 https://www.pbs.org/video/angela-duckworth-k8wbgb/ The Mel Robbins Podcast How to Create a Successful Mindset: The Science of Passion and Perseverance, Oct 13, 2025 https://youtu.be/rmW3Afu9npY?si=T9mdbxzI9TGxbtcu Jeff Berman | Masters of Scale Angela Duckworth on her new book, the limits of grit, and her advice to founders, May 16, 2024 https://youtu.be/19CS4L8v4TE Simon Sinek | A Bit of Optimism Podcast What Grit Really Teaches Us About Happiness with Professor Angela Duckworth, Feb 3, 2026 https://youtu.be/KAi2L_b1V2I?si=Lsf7YtcA5I4EcS4M Creator, Producer, Host: Louise A Krikorian Editor: George C Davison Years Active: 2025 Episodes: 14 Rating: Clean Hosted with Buzzsprout www.b

Belinda West Womack Vocalist

Season 2 Episode 3 Belinda West Womack Vocalist Welcome to Shaping Our Story with host Louise Krikorian—where inspiring leaders share their passion, purpose, and perseverance to help you thrive. In this episode, we sit down with Belinda West Womack, a Tampa Bay jazz icon, who shares her extraordinary journey from Billboard-charting recording artist to Worship Chaplain. In this powerful episode of Shaping Our Story, she reflects on recording in Nashville with Kris Kristofferson’s Combine Music, her hit song “Seabiscuit in the Fifth,” and her lifelong passion for music, faith, and service. Raised in Augusta, Georgia during the civil rights era, Belinda began singing at just four years old and performing professionally by eleven. Her career spans decades in the music industry, including work with RCA-affiliated Panorama Records, before transitioning into a life of ministry, community impact, and spiritual leadership in Tampa, Florida. Now a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Belinda continues to inspire through jazz, gospel, and outreach—proving that purpose evolves, but passion endures. 🎤 In this episode: * Billboard success & Nashville recording career  * Singing through adversity in the civil rights era  * Transition from music industry to ministry  * Faith, purpose, and serving the Tampa community  * Advice for pursuing passion with perseverance  👉 Connect with Belinda Womack:  Facebook: Belinda West Womack  Instagram: @BelindaSinger1  Clubhouse: Good Day Souls Womack Stageworks Theatre, Tampa, Fl https://stageworkstheatre.org/ #BelindaWomack #TampaBay #JazzSinger #BillboardArtist #FaithAndMusic #InspirationalStories #WomenInJazz #GospelMusic #TampaFlorida #ShapingOurStory #Perseverance #PurposeDrivenLife #AngelaDuckworth 👉Information Louise Krikorian’s outline of questions comes from her years of researching the psychology of learning, motivating students, and researching Dr. Angela Duckworth’s work on Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance (Scribner, 2016). For more information on Dr. Angela Duckworth, you can visit https://angeladuckworth.com/ [https://angeladuckworth.com/]. 👉Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/ShapingOurStory/ https://www.instagram.com/louisekrikorian/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisekrikorian/ https://www.youtube.com/user/louisekrikorian  Recorded in ShowTech Studios, Tampa, FL. Creator: Louise Krikorian Years Active: 2025 Season 1, 10 Episodes Season 2, 3 Episodes Total Episodes: 13 Length 24:11 Frequency: Updated biweekly Rating: Clean Hosted with Buzzsprout www.buzzsprout.com [http://www.buzzsprout.com/]

Robert Gatenby Moffitt Cancer Center

Season 2, Episode 2 Robert Gatenby Moffitt Cancer Center Welcome to Shaping Our Story with host Louise Krikorian—where inspiring leaders share their passion, purpose, and perseverance to help you thrive. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Robert Gatenby, Chair of Diagnostic Imaging at Moffitt Cancer Center and a pioneer in evolutionary oncology. As the founder of the first Cancer Biology and Evolution Program in the U.S., Dr. Gatenby is redefining how we understand cancer through Integrated Mathematical Oncology, game theory, and adaptive therapy. 🔬 What You’ll Learn: * Why cancer evolves and becomes resistant to treatment * How mathematical modeling is transforming precision cancer care * The role of adaptive therapy in managing cancer long-term * Why cancer may be treated as a chronic disease—not just cured * The power of perseverance in groundbreaking scientific discovery Dr. Gatenby shares his journey from traditional radiology to challenging decades of conventional cancer treatment—and why thinking differently could save lives. 💡 If you’re interested in cancer research, medical innovation, oncology breakthroughs, or the mindset behind true innovation, this episode is a must-watch. 👉 Connect & Learn More: Email: robert.gatenby@moffitt.org Follow Moffitt Cancer Center: moffitt.org https://www.moffitt.org/inspiring-stories/dr.-gatenbys-story [https://www.moffitt.org/inspiring-stories/dr.-gatenbys-story] Optimize Cancer Therapy Using Evolution | Michael Levin & Robert Gatenby [https://youtube.com/watch?v=3NzbIv1Do3I&si=H95ym78nVCLUePwv] and Aastha Jain  https://youtu.be/NiyNfxU2C1o Progress, Potential and Possibilities [https://youtu.be/B7G8hmVdBpA] Ira S. Pastor & Robert Gatenby https://youtu.be/B7G8hmVdBpA [https://youtu.be/B7G8hmVdBpA] 👍 Enjoyed this episode?  Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that inspire growth through passion, purpose, and perseverance. #CancerResearch #Oncology #MedicalInnovation #PrecisionMedicine #AdaptiveTherapy #Podcast #ShapingOurStory Information Louise Krikorian’s outline of questions comes from her years of researching the psychology of learning, motivating students, and researching Dr. Angela Duckworth’s work on Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance (Scribner, 2016). For more information on Dr. Angela Duckworth, you can visit https://angeladuckworth.com/ [https://angeladuckworth.com/]. Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/ShapingOurStory/ https://www.instagram.com/louisekrikorian/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisekrikorian/ https://www.youtube.com/user/louisekrikorian  Recorded in ShowTech Studios, Tampa, FL. Creator: Louise Krikorian Years Active: 2025 Season 1, 10 Episodes Season 2, 2 Episodes Total Episodes: 12 Length 35:38 Frequency: Updated biweekly Rating: Clean Hosted with Buzzsprout www.buzzsprout.com [http://www.buzzsprout.com/]

Adam Connors NetWorkWise

Recorded 03/16/2026 17 MIN 44 SEC Released 04/01/2026 Season 2 Episode 1 Adam Connors NetWorkWise This is Shaping Our Story where we talk to exemplary leaders about their success to inspire others to thrive. What if the highest return on investment in life and business isn’t money—but relationships? In this episode of Shaping Our Story, Louise Krikorian sits down with Adam Connors, founder and CEO of NetworkWisein Hoboken, New Jersey, to explore how meaningful connections can transform your personal and professional life. Referred by Nancy May, Adam shares powerful insights from his background in psychology and years of experience helping entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals build authentic relationships that drive success. From redefining failure to mastering daily habits, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to grow their network—and their life. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * Why relationships are the ultimate ROI in business and life * The mindset shift: “You’re either winning or learning” * How to build world-class relationships through daily habits * The power of consistency: “One more” every day * Why you can’t succeed alone—and how to build your tribe * Practical networking strategies that actually work 💡 Standout Quotes: * “Successful people begin their days where others end in failure.” * “You don’t control your destiny—you control your habits.” * “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others.” 📸 Featured in This Episode: * Nancy May (Shaping Our Story Season 1 Episode #6) * Adam’s Networking Lunch Experience * Adam & Wife – Daily Gratitude Habit 🌐 Connect with Adam Connors: Visit: NetworkWise https://networkwise.com/ [https://networkwise.com/] 📩 Tip: Mention Louise Krikorian or Shaping Our Story in your subject line for priority connection! 🎙 About the Podcast – Shaping Our Story: Real people. Real stories. Real strategies to help you thrive. Hosted by Louise Krikorian, award-winning storyteller, educator, and filmmaker, this podcast brings you powerful insights from inspiring voices across industries. 👍 If this inspired you: Like, comment, and share to help others build meaningful connections and live with purpose. Information Louise Krikorian’s outline of questions comes from her years of researching the psychology of learning, motivating students, and researching Dr. Angela Duckworth’s work on Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance (Scribner, 2016). For more information on Dr. Angela Duckworth, you can visit https://angeladuckworth.com/ [https://angeladuckworth.com/]. Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/ShapingOurStory/ https://www.instagram.com/louisekrikorian/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisekrikorian/ https://www.youtube.com/user/louisekrikorian #Adam Connors #NetworkWise #Nancy May #Angela Duckworth #Grit Creator, Producer, Host: Louise A Krikorian Editor: George C Davison Years Active: 2025 Episodes: 11 Rating: Clean Hosted with Buzzsprout www.buzzsprout.com [http://www.buzzsprout.com/] Video available on YouTube Shaping Our Story Louise Krikorian with Adam Connors NetWorkWise.

TOP TWO at Shaping Our Story with Louise Krikorian & Tian Liu Tigertail Asian Film Festival

Top Two at Shaping Our Story—the short podcast where inspiring leaders share their passion, purpose, and the stories shaping their lives and communities. 🎙️ In this short episode, we spotlight the Tigertail Asian Film Festival in the Tampa Bay Area, founded by filmmaker Tian Liu of Tigertail Pictures. This vibrant festival celebrates Asian and Florida cinema, independent filmmakers, and cultural storytelling, bringing together artists, audiences, and creative voices from across Florida and beyond. We explore how film festivals like Tigertail create space for Asian, Asian-American and Florida stories, elevate emerging filmmakers, and strengthen cultural connection through the power of storytelling. ✨ In this episode: • The passion behind launching the Tigertail Asian Film Festival • How film festivals support independent filmmakers and Asian cinema • Why storytelling is essential for culture, identity, and community • The purpose that drives creators to share meaningful stories If you love film festivals, Asian cinema, filmmaking, leadership, creativity, and storytelling, this conversation will inspire you to pursue your own passion and purpose. 🎬 Experience Tian Liu’s vision and discover the energy of the Tigertail Asian Film Festival, where filmmakers and audiences come together to celebrate culture, creativity, and powerful stories. Thank you for joining Top Two Questions at Shaping Our Story—where passion shapes our stories, and purpose gives them meaning. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with leaders, creators, and visionaries. Connect with our guest Website http://www.ttaff.org/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqblRTQWN5OVpsVFROdndGb3JHZkVuUHprTVdwZ3xBQ3Jtc0trTkFsSExXdVRPUUZDbDVUTFJfTTBCVnZlM2VGckdPWEJFekNBbDJnbUNINXRNVU9aZWR4RHM5TjJUdFo2MmNVRXZMTDM5M0U1MFduTThkakFQRHZiTnc1VEVPa20xNTBrRWFhckszZXNvemJrYUZmUQ&q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ttaff.org%2F&v=o5-Ux_ehU00] Instagram @tigertail.asian.filmfestival Film Tampa Bay podcast    / @filmtampabay8418  [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwhbaAoPXBUzP7EHT-cb62w] Episode 56 Tian Liu Special thanks to  Cary Showalter and Wren Beers at ShowTech Studios https://showtechsolutions.com/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbEZmalJsX1RUQllCOEt4eW82OGlZZGtzdTEyUXxBQ3Jtc0ttWUtEcXFJOTBLbnY3eGFLdnBNeE9ZQ2p0ZzQtaHo4TV9UMEhneS1MTldKTk1VRkw0M3N3ZzVxQmFpTEp4c0xIOWVOMUx2bXJ1OTVSSW9rWTNDNG9FQXR1ZW1QOGx4aXlJMlpfMWtCcV9velRTa2JWdw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshowtechsolutions.com%2F&v=o5-Ux_ehU00] TOP TWO Editor georgedavison.com Follow us https://www.facebook.com/louise.krikorian/ [https://www.facebook.com/louise.krikorian/] https://www.facebook.com/LAKrikorianProductions/ [https://www.facebook.com/LAKrikorianProductions/] https://www.facebook.com/ShapingOurStory/ [https://www.facebook.com/ShapingOurStory/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisekrikorian/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisekrikorian/] https://www.youtube.com/user/louisekrikorian [https://www.youtube.com/user/louisekrikorian]   Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Hosted with Buzzsprout www.buzzsprout.com [http://www.buzzsprout.com/]   Information Questions reflect Dr. Angela Duckworth’s work on Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance (Scribner, 2016). https://angeladuckworth.com/ [https://angeladuckworth.com/].