The PodCAST
By Kara Snyder
The PodCASTOct 21, 2022
Making sure that everyone feels heard with Julie Hewitt, AGR
In this episode of the PodCAST, we get a chance to sit down with Julie Hewitt. Julie graduated from the Agriculture department here at ISU and is now the Executive Director of the Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council. Julie shares her story of coming to ISU and changing her major to something she never expected to work in. She also talks about her time just out of college and the incredible work experiences she's had to lead her to this point in her career. Julie has a lot of wisdom to share for anyone pursuing a degree in AG.
Paying it forward with Flor Hernandez, FCS
In this episode of the PodCAST, we get a chance to sit down with Flor Hernandez. Flor believed from the very beginning that she had a talent for the arts, and she has worked hard to achieve her dream through interior design and architecture. Listen as Flor shares about her experience as a first generation student, her time abroad, and her first introductions into the workplace.
Experiencing as Much as You Can with Nayeli Lechuga-Knight, FCS.
On this episode of The PodCAST, we get a chance to listen to the story of senior care coordinator Nayeli Lechuga-Knight. Mrs. Lechuga-Knight shares about her experiences as a non-traditional student at ISU and her challenges of working a full time job, being a full time student, as well as a full time mother. Her incredibly work ethic is matched with an incredibly kind persona, and she provides wonderful insight into the world of social work and senior care.
Empowering others and removing obstacles with Brigadier General Jackie Thompson, Jr. MSC, CJS
On this episode of the PodCAST, we sit down with Brigadier General, Jackie Thompson. Jackie tells us his stories of paving his way through college, into law school, and beyond into the military. Jackie has incredible stories about the time he spent serving the nation and timeless advice on how to navigate life.
Embracing the Changes with Bill Engel, AGR
In today's episode of the PodCAST, we get a chance to sit down with Bill Engel. Bill is a graduate from the AG program and has a lot to share about his college experience in the 70's. Bill also shares a lot of valuable insight about his many years serving Brandt in several different roles and capacities. Tune in to this episode for some incredible insight and wisdom from Bill Engel!
Surrounding yourself with good people with Cindie Cortinas-Vogt, KNR
On this week's episode of the PodCAST, we get a chance to hear from Cindie Cortinas-Vogt, who is an alum of the Physical Education Teacher Education Program. Cindie Currently works as a Physical Education Teacher at Washington Elementary School. Listen as Cindie tells us about her experience as a non-traditional student, and how through her unique experiences at college and grad school, she has a wise perspective on continuing in education. Cindie shares about how her teaching role at Washington Middle School allowed her to be creative and make a huge impact in the lives of her students.
Being a good human with Michelle Kirk, KNR
On this week's episode of the PodCAST, we get a chance to sit down with the Senior Director of Integrated Marketing for the Country Music Awards, Michelle Kirk. Michelle has many experiences at ISU that she recalls fondly, and she shares freely about how those life moments went on to shape future moments. Listen as Michelle dives into how making connections has shaped her career, and the highs and lows of working in such an exciting industry. Tune in every week to the PodCAST to hear more amazing story's from our CAST alumni.
Creating Community with Dr. Jenny Ting, HSC
On this week’s episode of the PodCAST, Dr. Jenny Ting talks us through her experiences as an international student at ISU, her trials at grad school leading into her initial job search, and her professional career at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Jenny shares about the value of encouraging mentorship, the struggles of working as a woman in a male dominated field, and how her “I can do anything” mindset has brought her to where she is today. Join us as we delve into an inspirational session with a truly brilliant personality.
Learning to Work with People with Bobby Pillot, TEC
On this episode of the PodCAST, we get to hear from Bobby Pillot, a Computer Systems alum that now serves at the Vice President of Service for North America at APB. Bobby shares about his time at ISU as a student athlete and the valuable skills he learned through that opportunity. He also speaks to the importance of putting people first and how hard work with discipline has put him in positions of management. Tune in to hear Bobby Pillot's story right here on the PodCAST.
Leading by example with Jacquie Holland, AGR
On this episode of The PodCAST, we get a chance to talk with Jacquie Holland. Listen as Jacquie tells about her adventures in undergrad and the joys she shared along the way. Jacquie also shares a unique perspective on how failure leads to flourishing with her journey through grad school.
Get Your Work Done & Get Involved with Kiara Daniel, AGR
On this episode of the PodCAST, we have an opportunity to speak with Kiara Daniel. An alum of the Department of Agriculture, Kiara now works at Kubota Tractor as the Product Manager RTV accessories. Through her story we'll hear how getting involved on campus put her in the position to get a great job right out of college. Her experiences here at ISU and overseas as a study abroad student helped shape her into the professional she is today.
You have to go through awkward to get to awesome with Tori Smith, AGR
In the episode of the PodCAST, Department of Agriculture alum, Tori Smith, takes us through the story of awkward moments that lead to awesome success. Tori shares the importance of community in her life. Through 6 different RSO's in college, a wide base of clientele in her job, and the Big Brother Big Sister program, Tori has learned to adapt to any situation.
Breaking Trail with Retired Brigadier General Michelle Letcher, MSC
On this week's episode of the PodCAST, Retired Brigadier General, Michelle Letcher, will share how she went from a private at the bottom of her class, to a brigadier general in charge of thousands of people. Michelle tells of how she managed deployment, family, and school, while breaking down the many lessons she learned along the way.
I really love this work with Jennifer Mangers-Deans, FCS
On today's episode of the PodCAST, we get a chance to hear from Jennifer Mangers-Dean, the Director of Clinical Care Education Programs at Cure SMA. Jennifer shares about her role as a clinical care specialist, the impact of working with hurting families, and the importance of doing a job you're passionate about. Let's dive in!
Being open and flexible to change with Sandy Shelton, FCS
This episode we sit down with Sandy Shelton, the Regional Manager for Barnes and Noble: College. As an alum of the School of Family and Consumer sciences, Sandy spent her time at ISU delving into her passion... fashion! Sandy shares the stories and experiences that made her the business woman she is today, and how her time at ISU catapulted her into the industry of her dreams.
Being Adaptable and Trustworthy with Cody Whitehead, FCS
On this episode of the PodCAST, we get a chance to talk to Family Consumer Sciences alumni, Cody Whitehead. Cody shares how he got a college opportunity Freaky Fast right out of college, and gives some good insight about what it takes to get hired. Not only did Cody not know what he wanted coming to college, but he almost didn't attend the event that kicked off his entire career! Hear all this and more on the PodCAST.
The Right Place for Finding my Passion with Kristen Faucon, AGR
This week on the PodCAST, Kristen Faucon shares her story of involvement in ISU as an undergrad and graduate student, her journey of organizational commitment with GrowMark, and her continued support of the AG department as a young alumni.
Why don’t we try that? with Diane Dahlmann, KNR
This week, we get to hear how Diane Dahlmann overcame the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, how persistence leads to success, and the value of higher education. Diane saw a lot in her career in collegiate recreation, and boy does she have some stories to tell! Let's get into this week's episode of the PodCAST.
Taking initiative and getting involved with Russ Pande, TEC
On this episode of the PodCAST, we sit down with Costruction Management alum, Russ Pande. Russ shares how building the foundation of taking initiative in college lead to opportunities as a professional. Taking us on a journey of different companies, positions, and challenges, Russ shows how life has shaped him into the person he needed to be for his role as Vice President of Pepper Construction.
Struggles and Hardships are Bound to Joy with Akil Mills, FCS
Today we will hear from Family and Consumer Sciences alumni, Akil Mills, about his accomplished journey through collegiate athletics, the struggle to success, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Akil provides a shared perspective of a college student unsure of what step to take next. Listen to how Akil has overcome this obstacle and created for himself a career that he can take pride in.
Thrilled to be back at ISU with Dean Chad McEvoy
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. NORMALLY, each episode we're talking to ALUMNI that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. And while he is an innovative thought leader in his field, today we have a chance to talk to, not an alumni, but the Dean of CAST. That's right, Chad McEvoy is the new Dean of the College of Applied Science and Technology! We'll talk about the road leading back to ISU, Chad's first thoughts back, and goals he has for the College. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
10x your curiosity with Ravi Rajaratnam, IT
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Ravi Rajaratnam. Ravi is an alum from the School of Information Technology; and currently he’s an executive and leadership development coach and workshop facilitator. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Making real, meaningful connections with René Revis Shingles, KNR
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to René Revis Shingles. René is an alumna of the School of Kinesiology and Recreation, and is currently a professor and internship coordinator for the Athletic Training Program at Central Michigan University. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Being fearless and going for every opportunity with Scott Krapf
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Scott Krapf. Scott is two-time alum from the School of Kinesiology and Recreation, and is currently serves a partner at Frost Brown Todd. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Let your passion be your differentiator with Rachel Lockett
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Rachel Lockett. Rachel is an alumna from the School of Information Technology, and currently serves as the Chief Information Officer for Pohlad Companies. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Being a resource and providing direction with Tim Bassett
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Tim Bassett. Tim is a Department of Technology alum, and currently serves as President of PointCORE Construction. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Continuing to be curious with Jolanta Pomiotlo
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Jolanta Pomiotlo. Jolanta is an Information Technology alumna, and currently serves as Vice President of Information Technology at EXSIF. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Finding your voice and being fearless with Amy Fowler Stadler
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Amy Fowler Stadler. Amy is an Information Technology alumni, and currently serves as Vice President, Client Executive, Healthcare Provider for NTT DATA Services. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Living the dream with Nick Frangella, KNR
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Nick Frangella. Nick is an Assistant Athletic Trainer for the Chicago Cubs, and an athletic training alum from the School of Kinesiology and Recreation. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Work-life balance and giving back with Nicole Eisenrich, HSC
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Nicole Eisenrich. Nicole is a Health Sciences alumni, and currently serves as a Senior Risk Control Consultant and Area Vice President for Gallagher. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Coming up on The PodCAST...
Hi, Redbirds! Welcome to The PodCAST—a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University.
Each episode, we’re talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Looking at their career journeys post-ISU, we will talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share.
Be sure to hit subscribe. You don’t want to miss these stories.
Building relationships and change management with Kyle Earing, AGR
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. Today we have a chance to talk to Kyle Earing. Kyle is an alum of the Department of Agriculture, and currently serves as the Vice President of Quality and Operations for Blink Marketing. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
The value of being a people person with Keith Kambic, CJS
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. First up we are talking to Keith Kambic. Keith is a Criminal Justice Sciences alum, and currently serves as the senior Director of Security at Willis Tower. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!
Coming up on the PodCAST - Keith Kambic
Hi Redbirds! Welcome to the PodCAST, a podcast produced by the College of Applied Science and Technology at Illinois State University. Each episode we're talking to alumni that are innovative thought leaders in their fields. First up we are talking to Keith Kambic. Keith is a Criminal Justice Sciences alum, and currently serves as the senior Director of Security at Willis Tower. We'll talk about turning points, roadblocks, and lessons learned on the path to success. Grab some headphones and settle in to hear stories from alumni that have been there, done that, and have tips to share. Be sure to hit subscribe! You don't want to miss these stories!