Women Who Crossed Borders: By Force or By Choice

Jose Garces on Leadership, Food Innovation, Iron Chef Success & the Future of Hospitality

James Beard Award-winning chef, Iron Chef, author, and restaurateur Jose Garces joins host Greg DeShields on Something to Say for an inspiring conversation about leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and the evolving hospitality industry. As Chief Culinary Officer of Condor Valley Corporation, Chef Garces reflects on the childhood experiences that sparked his passion for food, the lessons learned from business challenges, and the milestones that shaped his remarkable career. Jose shares insights on restaurant operations, culinary creativity, artificial intelligence in the food industry, the importance of building a trusted team, and the impact of the Garces Foundation's work supporting immigrant communities. He also discusses family, resilience, success, and the values that continue to guide him both personally and professionally. Whether you're passionate about food, hospitality, business, leadership, or personal growth, this engaging episode offers valuable perspectives from one of America's most respected culinary leaders. Guest: Jose Garces, Chief Culinary Officer, Condor Valley Corporation Host: Greg DeShields Podcast: Something to Say

Building Brands & Changing Lives with Dave Girgenti | Something to Say Podcast

Award-winning creative leader and brand strategist joins host for an inspiring conversation about creativity, branding, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and the evolving role of AI in marketing. With more than 25 years of experience across advertising, gaming, hospitality, and nonprofit innovation, Dave shares the story behind founding Hero Network and Wish Upon a Hero one of the first social helping and crowdfunding platforms in the United States. From leading award-winning campaigns and raising millions for charitable causes to discussing the future of artificial intelligence in the creative industry, Dave offers valuable insights into leadership, storytelling, innovation, and purpose-driven business. In this episode, listeners will discover: * How creativity shaped Daves career journey * The inspiration behind Wish Upon a Hero * Lessons learned from entrepreneurship and failure * How AI is transforming branding and advertising * The importance of community, storytelling, and human connection This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, marketers, creatives, business leaders, and anyone passionate about innovation and personal growth. #somethingtosay #gregdeshields #davegirgenti #branding #marketing #creativeleadership #entrepreneurship #digitalmarketing #advertising #ai #artificialintelligence #crowdfunding #wishuponahero #heronetwork #podcast #businesspodcast #storytelling #innovation #hospitality #gamingindustry

Cultural Humility & Global Travel Stories with LaWana Boone | Something to Say Podcast S3

In this episode of Something to Say, I sit down with the incredible LaWana Boone, a global travel professional, cultural humility consultant, and international flight attendant with over 30 years of experience exploring the world. LaWana shares her powerful journey through aviation, storytelling, and educationrevealing how travel can transform perspectives, deepen cultural understanding, and inspire meaningful human connections. From her early childhood road trips that sparked her passion for travel to overcoming setbacks like failing flight attendant training, her story is one of resilience, growth, and purpose. We dive into the importance of cultural humility, inclusive leadership, and what it truly means to connect across cultures with empathy and intention. LaWana also sheds light on the realities of being a flight attendant, breaking common misconceptions and highlighting the critical role of safety, adaptability, and emotional intelligence in the aviation industry. Throughout our conversation, we explore: * How global travel shapes personal and professional growth * Lessons from studying abroad in Ghana and beyond * The power of resilience in overcoming lifes challenges * Why cultural awareness is essential in todays interconnected world * Insights into the tourism and aviation industry LaWanas passion for bridging cultural gaps through storytelling and education is both inspiring and thought-provoking. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in travel, diversity & inclusion, leadership, and global experiences. Tune in and discover how to travel with intention, reflect deeply, and connect authentically.

Route 66: The Song, the Journey & the American Dream

In this episode of Americas Hidden 250, I take you on a journey down the legendary Route 66 - an iconic highway that represents far more than just a road trip. Joined by Todd Stallbaumer from Visit Oklahoma, I explore the story behind the Mother Road, from its deep cultural roots to its lasting impact on the American dream. Together, we uncover why Oklahoma holds such a powerful place along Route 66, with its rich blend of music, food, quirky roadside attractions, and authentic community experiences. From nostalgic diners and neon-lit stops to hidden gems like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and Pops Soda Ranch, this episode reveals what makes the journey just as meaningful as the destination. We also dive into the deeper layers of history - highlighting African American heritage, Native American stories, and overlooked moments that shaped the nation. Plus, we explore how the famous song Get Your Kicks on Route 66 helped transform this highway into a global cultural icon. Whether you're dreaming of your own cross-country adventure or simply curious about the stories that define America, this conversation invites you to slow down, explore the unexpected, and rediscover the heart of the open road. Stay tuned - your next great journey might just begin here.

Finding Home & Purpose: Real Estate, Resilience & Life Lessons with Naomi Kurzyna | Something to Say

In this episode of Something to Say, I sit down with Naomi Kurzyna of Compass Real Estate - one of Philadelphias most trusted realtors - to explore the powerful connection between finding your home and finding your purpose. Naomi shares her incredible journey shaped by global experiences, having lived across the U.S. and Europe, and how her background in hospitality, sales, and marketing influences her client-first approach in real estate. From navigating complex housing markets to delivering five-star service, she offers expert insights into buying, selling, and relocating in todays competitive environment. But this conversation goes far beyond real estate. We dive into deeply personal topics including resilience, overcoming lifes toughest challenges, the impact of meaningful relationships, and how gratitude and perspective can transform your life. Naomi opens up about her battle with cancer, lessons in listening, and why kindness and empathy are essential - not just in business, but in life. Whether you're exploring homeownership, transitioning to a new lifestyle, or searching for inspiration to pursue your passion, this episode delivers valuable insights and heartfelt stories you wont want to miss. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations that amplify diverse voices and help you discover your own path.