Skip to main content
Restarting America

Restarting America

By Restarting America

Telling business and community leaders' stories about resilience during the COVID 19 pandemic. Produced by 97 Switch.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Launching an New App During a Pandemic: SavorWe's Founder and CEO Alex Campbell

Restarting AmericaFeb 15, 2021

00:00
41:46
Managing Institutional Investments during a Pandemic: Cardinal Investment Advisors Managing Director Carolyn Carollo

Managing Institutional Investments during a Pandemic: Cardinal Investment Advisors Managing Director Carolyn Carollo

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Carolyn Carollo, a Managing Director at Cardinal Investment Advisors. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Carollo shares how the current health pandemic has affected her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Carollo joined Cardinal in September 2001 and is a founding partner. She works as a lead consultant for several clients and is responsible for non-U.S. equity research and custody research.

Prior to joining Cardinal, she worked at Summit Strategies Group in both research and performance reporting. Before Summit Strategies, she was at May Department Stores in the financial reporting department. Carollo currently serves on the Finance Committee at her church. She holds a BSBA from the University of Missouri, an MBA from Maryville University, and received her CIPM designation in 2010.

Jul 27, 202128:53
Directing a SBA Partner Organization during a Pandemic: LiftFund Women’s Business Centers Director Tarsha Hearns

Directing a SBA Partner Organization during a Pandemic: LiftFund Women’s Business Centers Director Tarsha Hearns

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Tarsha Hearns, the Director of LiftFund Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), dedicated to supporting business owners, especially women and minorities, through business advising and training services. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Hearns shares how the current health pandemic has affected her, her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Tarsha Polk is the Director of the LiftFund Dallas Fort Worth Women’s Business Center. As director, Tarsha provides support and guidance to entrepreneurs seeking to start or grow their businesses, and connect them to additional business and financial resources in their community. Tarsha has received numerous awards including 40 Under 40 in Collin County, Business of the Year from the Collin County Black Chamber of Commerce, Women in the Media Award and the Leadership Award from National Association of Women Business Owners. She is the immediate past-president of NAWBO’s Dallas chapter, and currently serves on the Dallas Independent School District’s Minority and Women Business Enterprise Advisory Committee.

Jun 01, 202142:33
Running a Life Sciences Consulting Firm during a Pandemic: Trestle Compliance's CEO Steve Vincze

Running a Life Sciences Consulting Firm during a Pandemic: Trestle Compliance's CEO Steve Vincze

In this episode of Restarting America, Joshua Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Steve Vincze, the CEO and Founder of Trestle Compliance, providing risk assessments, compliance programs and software for BioTech, Pharmaceutical and MedTech innovators. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Vincze shares how the current health pandemic has affected him, his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Vincze, is President & CEO of Trestle Compliance. Prior to forming TRESTLE, Vincze split his private-sector career between service as an in-house or outsourced Sr. VP or VP Chief Compliance Officer for several life science and healthcare companies and as a consultant, forming his own firms as well as serving as a non-equity partner for a “Big 4” firm. Vincze is Counsel to a U.S. House of Representatives Oversight Committee. He has 25+ years of experience in regulatory compliance matters, from government policy and enforcement to private sector business implementation considerations.

May 17, 202134:07
Launching a Marketing Technology Business during a Pandemic: LeadKlozer's CEO Steve MacDonald

Launching a Marketing Technology Business during a Pandemic: LeadKlozer's CEO Steve MacDonald

DraftIn this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Steve MacDonald, the CEO and Founder of LeadKlozer, a Facebook growth suite designed for digital agencies and Facebook marketers. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. MacDonald shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

MacDonald has almost 30 years of branding and marketing experience and has spent the last decade training more than 10,000 entrepreneurs on how to use social media to grow their businesses. Additionally, he’s served as the Founder of a global social media university, CMO of a Hollywood start-up, Director of Client Services for a top ten digital marketing agency, and Director of Strategic Planning for Mazda Motors of America’s agency and was trained in branding by the former CMO of McDonald’s.

May 10, 202128:07
Founding a Virtual Fitness Platform during a Pandemic: bande's Founder and CEO Rebecca Balyasny

Founding a Virtual Fitness Platform during a Pandemic: bande's Founder and CEO Rebecca Balyasny

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Rebecca Balyasny, the Founder and CEO of bande, an online fitness company. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Balyasny shares how the current health pandemic has affected her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

For many people, a year of at-home workouts removed the personal relationship touch that so many of us crave in our exercise routines. Enter bande, whose mission is to strip down the overdose of impersonal virtual fitness experiences and smart machines by providing real-time, real-people connections through the power of movement.

Rebecca combined her venture background with executive talent from Exhale, Mindbody and Amazon to bring bande’s boutique fitness experience to people at home. Blurring the lines between fitness platform and social network, bande uses cutting-edge technology to encourage authentic connections between members, their peers and bande’s renowned instructors to celebrate a feeling of togetherness in a virtual world. You can learn more about bande by visiting bande.com. Follow at @webandetogether and webandetogether.

Apr 29, 202132:50
Building an Oral Health Challenger Brand during a Pandemic: Twice's Co-Founder Julian Levine

Building an Oral Health Challenger Brand during a Pandemic: Twice's Co-Founder Julian Levine

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Julian Levine, the co-founder and CEO of Twice, an oral wellness company. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Levine shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Levine, his brother Cody, and musician Lenny Kravitz co-founded Twice in 2018. Levine was inspired to start Twice after a life-changing dental mission trip showed him the power of a smile and how many opportunities there were to create products that help others live better. When he isn't educating on the connection between the mouth and the body, he is exercising, skiing, playing with his Tibetan Spaniel named Bacchus, or relaxing with family and friends.

Apr 21, 202133:19
Building a Personal Brand and Business during a Pandemic: The PR Shoppe's Founder Carolyn Fraser

Building a Personal Brand and Business during a Pandemic: The PR Shoppe's Founder Carolyn Fraser

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Carolyn Fraser, the founder and CEO of The PR Shoppe. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Fraser shares how the current health pandemic has affected her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Over her 15+ years as a strategic communications practitioner, Fraser has led winning integrated marketing campaigns for some of the top brands in the world, including Revlon, Visa, BET Networks & Black Girls Rock!, Laila Ali & ABC’s Dancing with the Stars, Maytag/Whirlpool, Ernst & Young and CURLS.

In 2016, Fraser married her passion for marketing and mentorship and founded an online empowerment platform to help entrepreneurs and small business owners strengthen their ‘mental grit’ and better hold themselves accountable to success. In 2020, she was honored for her own successes, as she received the Young Entrepreneur of The Year Award from the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), Chicago chapter.

Fraser has a B.A. in Business Administration with a minor in Communications Studies from The University of Missouri – Kansas City. She has completed several professional development courses, including a hard-earned Crisis Communications certificate from Northwestern University’s School of Communications, and course completion for the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth’s Building a High-Performing Minority Business, and Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses programs.

She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Delta Sigma Pi business fraternity, National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), and the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce.

Mar 24, 202139:32
Running an Applesauce Company During a Pandemic: Mullen's Applesauce's Founder Jim Mullen

Running an Applesauce Company During a Pandemic: Mullen's Applesauce's Founder Jim Mullen

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Jim Mullen, the founder of Mullen Foods. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Mullen shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Mullen is a disabled Chicago Police officer who sacrificed his own well-being in service to a city he loves. He is also living proof that a catastrophic, debilitating injury is not a barrier to a life well-lived.

In 2007, Mullen established Mullen Foods and began pursuing his new passion, to recreate and market his mother’s beloved homemade apple sauce. His only goal at that time was to get it on the shelf at Happy Foods in Edgebrook so that his mother could see it on the shelf while she was shopping.

Today, Mullen Foods has grown from a small boutique manufacturer into a mainstream premium product competing with national brands. The company has retail and foodservice distribution in over 500 locations throughout the Midwest. Just a few customers include Jewel, Marianos, Whole Foods, and Lettuce Entertain You restaurants. His apple sauce is now available nationally through Amazon.

As a former police officer, Mullen donates a portion of Mullen Foods’ profits to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, which ensures that the sacrifices he and other officers have made in service to Chicago are always remembered.

After his accident in 2002, Mullen became an on-air disability reporter for six years at CBS 2 WBBM TV. He was the only ventilator-dependent quadriplegic to broadcast for a national news network. In 2005, he received an Emmy for his outstanding work reporting inspirational stories about people who have overcome major obstacles due to their physical challenges.

Mullen currently lives on the far northwest of Chicago in Wildwood with his wife, who has also been a Sergeant for the Chicago Police Department for more than 25 years.

Mar 10, 202145:45
Launching an New App During a Pandemic: SavorWe's Founder and CEO Alex Campbell

Launching an New App During a Pandemic: SavorWe's Founder and CEO Alex Campbell

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Alex Campbell, the founder and CEO of SavorWe. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Campbell shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Campbell began his career at Accenture in their mobility practice as part of the larger Accenture Digital group. During his time at Accenture, he worked as a Senior Digital Analyst, concentrating on all areas of application delivery. His work focused on functional requirement development, user stories, acceptance testing, and client-facing presentations.

Campbell gained industry experience working in the utilities and agriculture industries across Australia, Brazil, and the United States. He worked with the agile as well as the hybrid development methodologies.

Campbell is a graduate of Marquette University with degrees in Finance and Entrepreneurship. He is a self-taught chef with a passion for cooking and entertaining. He also enjoys other hobbies such as playing basketball and hockey and traveling.

Feb 15, 202141:46
Planning a Virtual Festival during a Pandemic: The Breathing Festival's Co-Founder Nicole Price

Planning a Virtual Festival during a Pandemic: The Breathing Festival's Co-Founder Nicole Price

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Nicole Price, the Co-Founder of The Breathing Festival and the International Center for Breathwork. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Price shares how the current health pandemic has affected her companies and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Price has a colorful and diverse background in meetings and events. A Chicago native and veteran of the events world, she’s done pretty much everything surrounding events from sales, fundraising, and negotiation to planning, logistics, and onsite management in a variety of industries including medical, not-for-profit, restaurants, corporate consulting, and dot-com.

After learning to heal years of ongoing stomach problems through breathwork and emotional intelligence training, Price shifted her career focus from meetings in the traditional medical world to the holistic wellness arena and also became certified by Dan Brulé as a breathwork practitioner.

Price’s passion for bringing people together through events is powered by her deepest yearning—to connect. The Breathing Festival and International Center for Breathwork, where people learn to tap into the power and connection we all have through our breath, are a natural evolution in her career following her decade long networking event series, Around Chicago LIVE!.

Price now brings connecting people to a global level in which everyone can participate, become stronger, focused, and more powerful, simply by using what we already have inside of us.

Feb 08, 202135:08
Breaking into the Hemp Industry during a Pandemic: Cannabis Advocate Maryann Loncar

Breaking into the Hemp Industry during a Pandemic: Cannabis Advocate Maryann Loncar

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Maryann Loncar, a cannabis advocate who has helped craft legislation in Illinois for the last 15 years. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Loncar shares how the current health pandemic has affected her work and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Loncar co-wrote the first Illinois Industrial Hemp bill SB1294. She also helped secure the passing of the current hemp bill SB2298 and co-wrote the current Medical Cannabis Pilot Program in Illinois. Loncar worked on both sides of the aisle to build consensus among Democrats and Republicans to gain votes for the bill's passage. She was instrumental in pushing legislators to add military veterans in writing to HB1. She has traveled to Washington D.C. to advocate on a federal level for veterans.

During her time in Washington, D.C., Loncar was asked to participate in discussions with military veterans on PTS. Maryann is currently working with veterans to move bills forward on a federal level. The CARES Act currently allows The Department of Veterans Affairs doctors to recommend medical cannabis to military veterans suffering from serious injuries or chronic conditions like post-traumatic stress in states where it is legal. She fought tirelessly to ensure the epileptic and sick children would be included in this legislation.

Loncar is one of the board members of Illinois Agri-Women. She is working in the industry, processing hemp and helping Illinois farmers be successful in growing this type of hemp. She is also working with the country of Croatia, her parent’s homeland, to help grow her cousin’s hemp fields. Her dream is to move the world forward and allow all farmers access to this plant.

Feb 04, 202125:35
Owning and Operating a Financial Planning Business during a Pandemic: Northwestern Mutual Financial Representative Stanley Dayan

Owning and Operating a Financial Planning Business during a Pandemic: Northwestern Mutual Financial Representative Stanley Dayan

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Stanley Dayan, the owner and operator of a financial services practice through Northwestern Mutual. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Dayan shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Dayan’s practice focuses on helping people much like himself—young people looking to grow in their careers and leave a positive legacy on the world. Dayan focuses on building comprehensive financial plans that create a core of money that, no matter what happens, grow with time.

Dayan is a graduate of The University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and is a veteran of the Israel Defense Forces. He lives in Northbrook with his wife, Sara, and their three daughters.

Jan 20, 202129:19
Opening and Operating Autism Centers during a Pandemic: Stride Autism Centers' Founder Brad Zelinger

Opening and Operating Autism Centers during a Pandemic: Stride Autism Centers' Founder Brad Zelinger

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Brad Zelinger, the founder and CEO of Stride Autism Centers. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Zelinger shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Zelinger was inspired to found Stride Autism Centers by his adult sister who has a severe ASD-related disorder called Rett Syndrome. He is personally and professionally dedicated to supporting individuals with complex needs.

Zelinger began his career in investment banking at Moelis & Company in New York. Before founding Stride, he was a private equity investor at Madison Dearborn Partners and TZP Group, where he evaluated, executed, and oversaw investments in growth-oriented companies.

Zelinger earned an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BBA with High Distinction from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. He serves on the Boards of Rett Syndrome Research Trust (RSRT) and Aspiritech and is Treasurer of the Illinois Association for Behavior Analysis (ILABA).

Jan 13, 202148:48
Bookkeeping for Small Businesses During a Pandemic: Navigator Bookkeeping's Founder Nate Hendrikse

Bookkeeping for Small Businesses During a Pandemic: Navigator Bookkeeping's Founder Nate Hendrikse

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Nate Hendrikse, the owner and founder of Navigator Bookkeeping. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Hendrikse shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Hendrikse works one-on-one with agency owners and small business leaders to help them harness their finances to reach their business goals and drive profitability. He is also the host of the Navigating Business Podcast, where he dives into the joys and challenges of small business ownership with other small business owners.

Dec 21, 202033:01
Writing and Publishing Memoirs During a Pandemic: bioGraph's Co-Founder AJ Greenberg

Writing and Publishing Memoirs During a Pandemic: bioGraph's Co-Founder AJ Greenberg

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews AJ Greenberg, the co-founder of bioGraph, a storytelling and publishing company that helps individuals, families, and organizations write their future. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Greenberg shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

AJ and his brother Aaron co-authored a memoir titled Recorded Time: How to Write the Future, slated for publication in December 2020. The memoir outlines their intent and vision for the next evolution of bioGraph: a virtual storytelling platform that makes their service-turned-product accessible to everyone.

Dec 15, 202036:08
Teaching Kids to Code During a Pandemic: Code Your Dream's Founder Brianne Caplan

Teaching Kids to Code During a Pandemic: Code Your Dream's Founder Brianne Caplan

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Brianne Caplan, the Founder and Executive Director of Code Your Dreams, a nonprofit that empowers youth to innovate community solutions through code. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Caplan shares how the current health pandemic has affected her nonprofit and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Earlier this year, Caplan founded CoderHeroes, a coding program for children with a buy-1-give-1 charitable model to support Code Your Dreams students throughout the pandemic. As a former Data Scientist and Program Director for the University of Chicago's Careers in Computer Science program, she has a passion for giving every student the technical skills and inspiration to create the change they wish to see in the world.

Nov 24, 202023:50
Scaling Social Impact Initiatives during a Pandemic: MovingWorld's CEO Mark Horoszowski

Scaling Social Impact Initiatives during a Pandemic: MovingWorld's CEO Mark Horoszowski

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Mark Horoszowski, the co-founder and CEO of MovingWorlds, a social enterprise working to create a more equitable, just, and sustainable global economy. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Horoszowski shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Horoszowski is an RSA Fellow and is a founding adjunct faculty member and lecturer on Corporate Social Responsibility at the University of Washington Tacoma's Center for Leadership and Social Responsibility. He has been published in HBR, Fast Company, Conscious Company, and more for this work helping brands like Microsoft, Kering, Avanade, PayPal, and more build more effective social impact programs.

MovingWorlds partners directly with businesses to scale social impact, sustainability, and equity initiatives by educating and engaging employees. It also operates the MovingWorlds Institute to help professionals create purpose-driven careers, as well as the S-GRID program, which helps social-impact and underrepresented businesses scale by building partnerships with the corporate sector.

Nov 20, 202044:14
Growing a Venture Backed Startup during a Pandemic: Humanly's COO Andrew Gardner

Growing a Venture Backed Startup during a Pandemic: Humanly's COO Andrew Gardner

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Andrew Gardner, COO of Humanly.io. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Gardner shares how the current  pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances. 


Andrew Gardner is the COO of Humanly.io Humanly is a hiring platform that screens and schedules job candidates at scale, reducing time to hire and providing the best possible candidate experience for all applicants. He has 10 years sales and management experience with early stage tech startups. Previously, Andrew worked with HR SaaS startup TINYpulse as global account executive, working with SMB - Fortune 500 companies.

Nov 13, 202031:31
Running Multiple Businesses During a Pandemic: Mogul 247's Lalanii Wilson-Jones

Running Multiple Businesses During a Pandemic: Mogul 247's Lalanii Wilson-Jones

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Lalanii Wilson-Jones, the founder of Mogul 247. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Wilson-Jones shares how the current health pandemic has affected her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Wilson-Jones is a business powerhouse with successful imprints in the healthcare, education, beauty, and wellness sectors. With offices across the state of Texas, Wilson-Jones has excelled as a powerful chief executive officer and executive director of more than a dozen dynamic companies. Her bachelor’s degree from Southern Methodist University and Master of Business Administration degree from Argosy University, as well as her 25+ years of experience, make her a formidable leader who is nationally recognized as a front runner in business and entrepreneurship.

Wilson-Jones is also an accomplished author with the release of her new urban fiction novel, Sugar Mama: A Keilanii Jennings Saga, which is available on Amazon.

Nov 02, 202037:38
Brewing up Business in a Pandemic: Campus Point Coffee's Loren Nelson

Brewing up Business in a Pandemic: Campus Point Coffee's Loren Nelson

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Loren Nelson, the founder of Campus Point Coffee. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Nelson shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Nelson is a seasoned business development, sales, and marketing professional with a demonstrated track record in rapid growth and change management. He has been vice president, director of operations, and national director of sales for companies spanning the real estate, architecture, and manufacturing worlds.

Nelson is a decisive leader with a reputation for building solid, profit-focused teams in diverse environments, and has been successful in creating new markets and strategic positioning while increasing sales across multiple business product lines, and leading operational improvements while driving productivity and reducing costs. He recently co-founded ANF Realty Partners, which is a multifamily acquisition and development company.

Oct 26, 202055:41
Being an Anti-Fragile Entrepreneur during a Pandemic: The Way of the Growth Warrior's Promise Phelon

Being an Anti-Fragile Entrepreneur during a Pandemic: The Way of the Growth Warrior's Promise Phelon

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Promise Phelon, the founder of The Way of the Growth Warrior. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Phelon shares how the current health pandemic has affected her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Before founding The Way of the Growth Warrior, Phelon founded 3 companies, successfully exited 2, and invented multiple patents in HR and career planning workflows. She also is the author of “The Way of the Growth Warrior – How to Win in Uncertain Times.”

The Way of the Growth Warrior gets behind gritty underdogs and nontraditional entrepreneurs to help them disrupt the status quo. Endorsed by luminary Seth Godin, their combination of capital investment and coaching is a system that works.

Phelon earned her MBA at Pepperdine University.

Oct 19, 202043:49
Developing Young Leaders during a Pandemic: JUF YLD's Elyse Saretsky

Developing Young Leaders during a Pandemic: JUF YLD's Elyse Saretsky

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Elyse Saretsky, the director of the JUF Young Leadership Division. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Saretsky shares how the current health pandemic has affected JUF Young Leadership Division and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Saretsky has been the director of the JUF Young Leadership Division since the summer of 2018. In this role, she oversees the management of the YLD Board, donor cultivation and stewardship processes, as well as events and programs—all to create positive Jewish experiences for young adults in Chicago.

Saretsky’s career began as a Teach for America corps member in Chicago before joining the JUF Campaign department in 2014 as a campaign associate on the Trades, Industries & Professions team. In 2016, she moved to YLD as the assistant director. Born in the Metro Detroit area, Saretsky graduated from the University of Michigan in 2012 with a dual Bachelor’s degree in American Culture and Art History.

Oct 12, 202043:43
Creating Content during a Pandemic: Women-in-Tech LIKE A BOSS's Loralyn Mears

Creating Content during a Pandemic: Women-in-Tech LIKE A BOSS's Loralyn Mears

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Loralyn Mears, an author, journalist, and scientist. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Mears shares how the current health pandemic has affected her professional life and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Mears has been part of the leadership teams for a Fortune 10 business and a couple of Fortune 100 companies, driving market research, innovation, and marketing. She’s also worked for and managed a number of startups and helped many of them launch, including a couple of her own.

Today, Mears ghost-writes for countless clients, helping them tell their stories. In her spare time, she runs a podcast, Women-in-Tech LIKE A BOSS on the Grit Daily News Channel, where she supplies weekly Monday motivation and Friday wine columns, among other content that features femTech and the achievements of its founders plus investors.

Two novels have been published under Mears’ name. Her first, “One Sip at a Time: a Memoir,” won the 2018 US National Indie Book Gold Medal. “Covid-19: The Battle for Humanity” is her second novel.

Mears earned a PhD in molecular biology from Queen’s University and a Masters in physiology from the University of Toronto.

Oct 05, 202042:42
Managing Celebrities' Social Media during a Pandemic: Social Light's Sarah Olea and Malena Lloyd

Managing Celebrities' Social Media during a Pandemic: Social Light's Sarah Olea and Malena Lloyd

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews the co-owners of Social Light, Sarah Olea and Malena Lloyd. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Olea and Lloyd share how the current health pandemic has affected their company and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Having founded their boutique social media branding and marketing company in 2017, co-owners Olea and Lloyd have grown exponentially over the last 3 years, with the ability to add services and employees. With Olea's analytic mindset and Lloyd's creative brain, they are two halves of a whole.

Olea has worked in marketing for about 10 years and deals with all things marketing at Social Light. She has an unparalleled history of successful marketing and public relations campaigns. Under the direction of Olea, the careers of an amalgam of clients have been ignited; from artists, authors, and magazine publishers, to medical professionals and athletes.

Lloyd received her MFA in Screenwriting and a BA in Creative Writing and is head of all things branding and creative at Social Light. Outside of Social Light, Malena is a writer and producer for reality TV and sitcoms. You can catch up with Malena's film endeavors on her personal website.

Oct 01, 202045:02
Operating an Internet Fiber Network during a Pandemic: Bluebird Network's Michael Morey

Operating an Internet Fiber Network during a Pandemic: Bluebird Network's Michael Morey

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Michael Morey, the President and CEO of Bluebird Network since 2012. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Morey shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

With more than 37 years of telecommunications experience, Morey has served as President & CEO of Voxitas, Senior Vice President at NuVox, Regional Vice President of Electric Lightwave, Inc., and held various management positions within his 13 years at AT&T.

During his tenure at Bluebird Network, the company has more than doubled in size and was named as one of the fastest-growing companies in Missouri in 2015. Morey’s experience and strong management skills proved successful when Bluebird Network received INC 5000 in 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017 as one of the fastest-growing private companies nationally. Voxitas also received INC 5000 recognition in 2007, 2008, and 2009. Morey earned a BS and MBA while attending the University of Southern California.

Sep 29, 202032:55
Going Viral on Social Media during a Pandemic: Fresh Content Society's Scott Emalfarb

Going Viral on Social Media during a Pandemic: Fresh Content Society's Scott Emalfarb

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Scott Emalfarb, the founder of Fresh Content Society. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Emalfarb shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Emalfarb has 10 years of experience in helping local and global businesses design, manage, and grow their social media communities. Living and breathing social media for the past 10 years has allowed him to confidently navigate the complex social media ecosystem and understand how to establish and achieve company goals leveraging the power of social media. In 2019, Fresh Content Society generated over 500,000,000 impressions, 250,000,000 video views, and 150,000,000 engagements for our clients.

Sep 24, 202041:30
Defending Victims of Police Violence During a Pandemic: Action Injury Law Group's Andrew M. Stroth

Defending Victims of Police Violence During a Pandemic: Action Injury Law Group's Andrew M. Stroth

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Andrew M. Stroth, the Managing Director of Action Injury Law Group. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Stroth shares how the current health pandemic has affected Action Injury Law Group and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

After spending 20 years as a sports and entertainment agent, Stroth launched a social justice law firm to represent victims of unjustified police shootings, excessive force, and police misconduct. Action Injury Law Group has a team that investigates shootings and excessive force cases, traveling to the scene to preserve evidence and obtain video and eyewitness statements. The firm also handles personal injury and malpractice cases.

In 2016, Stroth created the Truth, Hope & Justice Initiative to share stories of families affected by police violence. He has taught as an adjunct professor in the negotiations program at Northwestern University‘s Pritzker School of Law and serves on the Northwestern Law Board. As a sports agent, he represented professional athletes including Dwyane Wade, Donovan McNabb, and Michael Vick.

Sep 22, 202045:01
Running a Catering Business During a Pandemic: Low Country Quisine's Chef Jolie

Running a Catering Business During a Pandemic: Low Country Quisine's Chef Jolie

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Enjolik Oree-Bailey—otherwise known as Chef Jolie—the owner of Low Country Quisine. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Oree-Bailey shares how the current health pandemic has affected her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.
In 2007, Oree-Bailey decided to create Low Country Quisine. In the first year, she catered events on weekends while maintaining her corporate job in sales. Low Country Quisine became well-known throughout the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex. It has regionally served many celebrities and influencers including nationally known radio personalities, Tom Joyner, Charlamagne Tha God, U.S. representatives, Colin Allred, John Lewis, and served as the official caterer for Jerry Jones and The Dallas Cowboys for more than two years.
Fast forward, and Low Country Quisine is now celebrating 11 years in business full-time, with growth year-over-year, recently doubling the size of its commercial kitchen by adding eight new full-time employees in 2019. Low Country Quisine has become an industry-leading caterer well-known throughout Texas and the south-central region for their authentic approach to upscale Southern comfort food. Catering weddings, corporate events, high-profile parties, school events, and retirement community events, clients describe Low Country Quisine’s food as “food that tastes like Grandma’s recipes, with five-star presentation.”
Oree-Bailey has been recognized for her superior cooking style in various media outlets, including Good Morning Texas and Good Day. Low Country Quisine was voted Wedding Wire’s Couple’s Choice and was highlighted in Best of The Knot Wedding Magazine.
Sep 16, 202044:16
Launching a New Brand and Product During a Pandemic: Petal's Christie Zwahlen and David M. M. Taffet

Launching a New Brand and Product During a Pandemic: Petal's Christie Zwahlen and David M. M. Taffet

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews David M. M. Taffet, the co-founder and CEO of Petal, and Christie Zwahlen, co-founder and Executive VP for Social Impact of Petal. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Taffet and Zwahlen share how the current health pandemic has affected Petal—their company that generates zero-odor, germ-freezing waste bins—and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Taffet has excelled in countless roles: parallel entrepreneur, venture capitalist, investment banker, fund manager, turnaround specialist, mentor, and street photographer. Three descriptive words flow through them all: intrepid, immersed, and inspired. His career has spanned law, investment banking, private equity, not-for-profits, turnarounds, buy-outs, management, and startups, including his newest venture as Petal's CEO.

Taffet has 30-plus years of experience building companies, leading successful teams, raising capital (almost half a billion dollars in total), and developing cross-sector partnerships for commercial and public gain. Along the way, he has had the good fortune of, among other things, working his way through college and law school, building his own businesses, meeting the payroll needs of 100s of employees, raising enormous amounts of debt and equity on behalf of his own ventures and on behalf of others, evaluating the merits of others' ventures, turning others' enterprises around, and working internationally in varied industries with geographically-dispersed operations.

Taffet and his wife, Zwahlen, and their two dogs (Honor and Phoenix) recently made the journey to Fort Worth, Texas, to establish a new home and the headquarters for Petal.

Zwahlen is Petal's heart and soul. She is a civic activist and recognized community engagement practitioner with more than a decade of experience spearheading institutional change across academia, the public, and private sectors. Her authentic commitment to doing the right thing has put her on the frontlines of many public challenges including responsible e-waste recycling, providing community access to technology, creating pathways to science, technology, engineering, arts, and math education (STEAM), and inspiring young people to exercise their agency and become more civically active in their communities.

As Executive Vice President of Social Impact, Zwahlen is driving Petal’s efforts to establish it as a certified B Corporation and force for good with a commitment to sustainability, responsible sourcing, and a true balance between profit and purpose. Prior to Petal, she served as the Director of Community Engagement and Service at Miami University of Ohio, where she raised more than $1 million dollars in leading a significant expansion of the school's civic and community engagement portfolio.

Sep 14, 202028:30
Distilling and Distributing Spirits During a Pandemic: Coastal Bend Distilling Co's Kenneth Bethune

Distilling and Distributing Spirits During a Pandemic: Coastal Bend Distilling Co's Kenneth Bethune

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Kenneth Bethune, the owner of Coastal Bend Distilling Co. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Bethune shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Bethune grew up in South Texas and is the oldest child of two small business owners. He graduated from Schreiner University with a BA in History and from Oklahoma City University School of Law. He is licensed to practice law in Oklahoma and Texas. In 2010 he opened a solo law practice in Oklahoma City and is now the managing partner of Bethune Enright PLLC, a law firm with offices in Beeville, Victoria, and Perryton, Texas.

Bethune’s current focus is on rural and small-town entrepreneurship. He invests in residential and commercial real estate, retail, and distilling. Coastal Bend Distilling Co. is a craft distillery producing vodka, gin, and whiskey.

Bethune is a former high school volleyball coach and has an extensive knowledge of useless sports trivia. He lives in Beeville, Texas, with his wife and two children.

Sep 10, 202049:47
Selling Books During a Pandemic: Texian Books' Evvy

Selling Books During a Pandemic: Texian Books' Evvy

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Eveline Bethune, the founder of Texian Books. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Bethune shares how the current health pandemic has affected her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Bethune graduated from Hillsdale College with a degree in Rhetoric and Public Address.  Following that, she attained a JD from Oklahoma City University School of Law and an MSc in Chinese Studies from the University of Glasgow.  She found a way to turn her various interests into a career in retail, opening several stores including Texian Books in Victoria, TX.  Texian is the only ABA-affiliated independent bookstore serving rural South Texas.  She loves literature, particularly exploring the region's deep literary culture.

In her personal time, Bethune loves running, sports, and of course, reading.  She is a lifelong learner, currently finishing her PhD in political science from Claremont Graduate University.  She has taught at Coastal Bend College and presented work at the Western Political Science Association, Southern Political Science Association, and Cal Poly - Pomona.

Sep 08, 202038:09
Virtual Team Building during a Pandemic: Outback Team Building and Training's Murray Seward

Virtual Team Building during a Pandemic: Outback Team Building and Training's Murray Seward

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Murray Seward, the CEO of Outback Team Building and Training. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Murray shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Murray’s first entrepreneurial effort was running beach volleyball tournaments in the early 1990s, which led to meeting his wife at the beach. Shortly afterwards he was introduced to Outback where he later became the President in 2012. In 2018, Murray became Outback’s CEO.

Murray grew up on the West Coast and spent many summer days on his Grandfather’s farm. As a kid, he always had a passion for organizing events, from sock hops to ski trips.

Murray loves to ski with his wife, Susan, and their two kids, Mackenzie and Jack. He loves to have fun at his cabin in the mountains, as well as go flyfishing and off-roading in his Jeep. Murray loves the challenge of building successful businesses and empowering his team to be able to create an engaging environment.

Sep 03, 202035:05
Creating a More Sustainable World During a Pandemic: Stein Sustainability's Andy Stein

Creating a More Sustainable World During a Pandemic: Stein Sustainability's Andy Stein

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Andy Stein, the principal consultant and founder of Stein Sustainability LLC. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Stein shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Stein has over a decade of experience working in sustainability and green building throughout the private, public, and academic sectors.  His work has helped Kohl’s Department Stores LEED EB certify over 200 buildings and implement Northwestern University’s Sustainability Strategic Plan.

Stein earned a master’s degree from Arizona State University’s School of Sustainability and an undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota in Corporate Environmental Management. In 2018, he launched Stein Sustainability LLC, where he provides green building consulting services focused on energy management, green building certifications, and strategic planning.

Aug 31, 202045:04
Designing, Iterating and Launching during COVID 19: ROAV Eyewear's Max Greenberg

Designing, Iterating and Launching during COVID 19: ROAV Eyewear's Max Greenberg

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Max Greenberg, founder of ROAV eyewear, a Los Angeles startup that is re-imagining the traditional eyewear frame. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Max shares how the current health pandemic has affected ROAV and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

ROAV glasses fit in a tight pocket, are nearly indestructible and are 1/3 the weight of a standard pair—all without compromising on classic good looks. Max is a mechanical engineer and industrial designer who loves dreaming up consumer products that toe the line of aesthetic form and technical function. Over the past few months, Max and his team have been working on a new eyewear concept called Stoggles, which aims to help protect people from virus transmission in a form that they'll want to wear every day.

Aug 26, 202034:57
Social Media Coaching During a Pandemic: Your Social Media Sherpa's Shaily Hakimian

Social Media Coaching During a Pandemic: Your Social Media Sherpa's Shaily Hakimian

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Shaily Hakimian, founder of Your Social Media Sherpa, where she empowers others to use social media to grow their business. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Hakimian shares how the current health pandemic has affected her business and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Hakimian graduated from Indiana University with a degree and certification in elementary education. She now uses her teaching skills in her business, leading workshops and working with business owners, training them on social media. She has coached 170+ B2B consultants on how to use LinkedIn to grow their businesses. She loves live streaming, participating in social media events, live tweeting and engaging with comments.

Hakimian is a Persian-Moroccan who loves cheesy icebreakers, bubble tea, poker, reality competition shows like Survivor, TEDx conferences, magic, flea markets, the Jewish community and her sequin closet.

She has spoken at Trunk Club, Fiverr, State Farm, University of Notre Dame, University of Illinois, DePaul University and the University of Chicago.

Aug 23, 202053:10
Building a Frozen Dessert Company during a Pandemic: Frönen's Jessica Gartenstein

Building a Frozen Dessert Company during a Pandemic: Frönen's Jessica Gartenstein

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Jessica Gartenstein, the founder of Frönen, a gluten and dairy-free ice cream company that uses clean and simple ingredients. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Gartenstein shares how the current health pandemic has affected her company and how she is adapting to new circumstances.

Frönen is sold in 600+ retailers throughout the U.S. including Whole Foods Markets in the Midwest, Wegmans, Fresh Thyme, and various health food stores. While Gartenstein was in college at the University of Chicago, she won the College New Venture Challenge at the Booth School of Business for the idea for Frönen. She has previously worked at the Booth School of Business as a Research Assistant and has held marketing roles at firms including Morgan Stanley and independent alternative asset management firm, GCM Grosvenor.

Aug 21, 202034:13
Running an Independent Fitness Studio during a Pandemic: RUNN's Keith Kimble

Running an Independent Fitness Studio during a Pandemic: RUNN's Keith Kimble

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Keith Kimble, the founder of Runn Chicago. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Kimble shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Kimble hails from Winston-Salem, N.C. and attended the University of Tennessee where he studied Political Science. After college he went into marketing and sales, working in the automotive industry and legal fields helping businesses build their customer bases and increase profitability.

While not an athlete by any means, Kimble has always shown an interest in fitness. As a hobby, he taught indoor cycling, mostly as a way to snag free gym memberships. Over the years, in addition to indoor cycling, he branched into most fitness disciplines, from strength to aqua aerobics with elderly populations, all while maintaining his full-time sales gig.

In 2010, Kimble gave up his sales job and moved into fitness full time. However, to maintain his income level, he taught upwards of 40 group classes per week to hundreds of gym members. In 2017, Kimble decided to open his own group fitness gym, Runn Chicago with a very simple concept, group fitness on treadmills set to banging music playlists.

Aug 17, 202043:38
Publishing Thousands of Thought Leadership Interviews During a Pandemic: Authority Magazine's Rabbi Yitzi Weiner

Publishing Thousands of Thought Leadership Interviews During a Pandemic: Authority Magazine's Rabbi Yitzi Weiner

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Yitzi Weiner, a journalist, author, and the founder of Authority Magazine. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Weiner shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

At Authority Magazine, Weiner has conducted or coordinated more than twenty thousand empowering interviews with prominent people like Shaquille O’Neal, Floyd Mayweather, Kelly Rowland, Bobby Brown, and more. He is also the CEO of Authority Magazine’s Thought Leader Incubator, which guides leaders to become prolific content creators.

In 2017, Weiner created the popular, “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me” series that highlights the empowering lessons learned from the experiences of high-profile entrepreneurs and public figures. This series has inspired a mini-movement among writers, with scores of writers worldwide profiling inspiring people to share their positive, empowering, and actionable stories.

A trained Rabbi, Weiner is also a dynamic educator, teacher, and orator. He currently lives in Maryland with his wife and children.

Aug 13, 202035:30
Fundraising a Billion Dollar Campaign During a Pandemic: JNF-USA's Russell Robinson

Fundraising a Billion Dollar Campaign During a Pandemic: JNF-USA's Russell Robinson

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Russell F. Robinson, CEO of Jewish National Fund-USA. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Robinson shares how the current health pandemic has affected JNF-USA and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

In 1998, Robinson became the youngest CEO in JNF-USA’s history. He is constantly traveling around the US and Israel to meet with JNF-USA’s partners and affiliates to ensure that their vision and philanthropic investment is more relevant and meaningful today than ever before, particularly among its growing 22-40-year-old JNFuture leadership division.

Today, almost 120 years after it was founded, JNF-USA is unparalleled in the Jewish philanthropic world. JNF-USA’s strategic vision has been, and always will be, to ensure a strong, secure, and prosperous future for the land and people of Israel.

Everything JNF-USA does—every project, initiative, and campaign—is integral to the organization’s vision of building and connecting to Israel. JNF-USA plants trees, builds houses and parks, sources water solutions, buys fire trucks, and improves the lives of people with special needs. In addition, JNF-USA works to boost tourism, support Aliyah, promote Zionist education and engagement, build medical centers and trauma centers, fund agricultural and culinary research, and run a high school semester study abroad program in Israel.

Robinson has succeeded in making JNF-USA one of the top-rated charities in the United States, and the leading organization for the land and people of Israel. He has been ranked on The Jerusalem Post’s list of the World’s 50 Most Influential Jews and oversees the organization’s groundbreaking One Billion Dollar Roadmap for the Next Decade. Robinson has been featured in best-selling management books and regularly appears on TV, radio, and in print media.

A sixth-generation American Jew, Robinson grew up in El Paso, Texas. His family first laid down its American roots in Petersburg, Virginia after emigrating from Alsace-Lorraine in the late 1700s.

Aug 11, 202041:29
Manufacturing and Distributing Inline Skates during a Pandemic: THEM's Jon Julio

Manufacturing and Distributing Inline Skates during a Pandemic: THEM's Jon Julio

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Jon Julio, a professional skater. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Julio shares how the current health pandemic has affected him personally and how he is adapting to new circumstances.

Julio became a professional skater in 1995 and won the National Championship in 1996. Since then, he has been involved in skating professionally, as well as in many companies encompassing skating and apparel. Additionally, he creates and produces contests. In 2018, he created his independent skate company, THEM Skates.

Aug 03, 202049:56
Creating and Presenting a Film during a Pandemic: Amelia Street Studio's Katy Osborn

Creating and Presenting a Film during a Pandemic: Amelia Street Studio's Katy Osborn

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Katy Osborn, a co-founder of Amelia Street Studio, a creative agency that helps women-owned businesses with branding, websites, videos and marketing. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Osborn shares how the current health pandemic has affected Amelia Street Studio and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

After working at advertising agencies in Chicago and then working as marketing director for a national product, Osborn realized she thrives in situations where she has control over her own success. This led Osborn to co-found Amelia Street Studio with her two sisters.

Through this work, they were inspired to produce and film a documentary about identity, mental health and beauty. After six years of filming, Head to Head is scheduled to premiere this fall. Currently, Osborn is launching a new creative endeavor, Nowhere Collective, with a mission of shifting our consumer culture to one that centers planet, people and progress.

Two things guide Osborn: a love of creativity and interest in human behavior. She views these two things as critical in rebuilding an equitable, sustainable and joyful future.

Jul 30, 202045:03
Building a Virtual Reality World During a Pandemic: MassVR's Chris Lai

Building a Virtual Reality World During a Pandemic: MassVR's Chris Lai

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Chris Lai, founder and CEO of MassVR, a virtual reality entertainment experience company. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Lai shares how the current health pandemic has affected MassVR and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Lai is also the co-founder and co-CEO of SafeSpeed. SafeSpeed is a technology company that employs 55 people.

Lai’s passion for gaming goes back to his undergraduate days at the University of Illinois as a computer science major, where he raised $1M to start a gaming company with 20 employees. Alums from his early efforts went on to architect major game titles including Halo and Deus Ex.

Jul 27, 202033:03
Fundraising and Operating a STEM Nonprofit during a Pandemic: Project SYNCERE's Jason Coleman

Fundraising and Operating a STEM Nonprofit during a Pandemic: Project SYNCERE's Jason Coleman

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Jason Coleman, a co-founder and Executive Director of Project SYNCERE, an educational nonprofit organization that focuses on creating pathways for underrepresented students to pursue careers in STEM. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Coleman shares how the current health pandemic has affected Project SYNCERE and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Coleman co-founded Project SYNCERE in 2008 in an effort to bring about a change within the STEM fields. As a product of the Chicago Public Schools, it was important for him to ensure that access to quality programs was available to inner-city youth.

Project SYNCERE currently works with schools, community-based organizations and universities to implement its engineering-focused programs, ENpowered and E-CADEMY, to supplement students’ learning in the STEM fields. Since its inception, Project SYNCERE has served over 20,000 Chicago area students, helping to increase their interest in STEM and improve their overall understanding of engineering.

Coleman started his career as a mechanical engineer for BAE SYSTEMS where he designed flight control systems for military and commercial aircraft. He later worked for Motorola Mobility, where he designed the mechanical layouts for mobile phones.

Coleman was recently recognized as a 2018 40 Under 40 Game Changer by Ariel Investments and WVON. He’s also a member of the 2019 class of the Eisenhower Fellows and a 2020 Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow.

Jul 21, 202035:06
Driving Inclusivity in the Workplace during a Dual Pandemic: OneTILT's Kimberly Diaz

Driving Inclusivity in the Workplace during a Dual Pandemic: OneTILT's Kimberly Diaz

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Kimberly Díaz, a co-founder and CEO of oneTILT, a nonprofit that focuses on making organizations more inclusive. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Díaz shares how the current health pandemic has affected oneTILT and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Díaz is a proud multi-racial Latina. She started oneTILT after a decade of nonprofit management and teaching experience because she felt like she could not bring her true self to work. She holds an MBA from UVA Darden School of Business, a M.A.T. in Mathematics from American University, and a BA in Economics from the University of Virginia. Díaz also served as a founding board member of New Leaders Council - Virginia, a nonprofit committed to recruiting and developing the next generation of progressive leaders. She loves her dog Mango, the Yankees, and all things Celia Cruz.

Jul 14, 202046:15
Fighting Legal Battles During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Loftus and Eisenberg, Ltd

Fighting Legal Battles During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Loftus and Eisenberg, Ltd

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews David Eisenberg and Alexander Loftus, two attorneys who founded Loftus & Eisenberg, Ltd. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. They both share how the current health pandemic has affected their business and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Loftus & Eisenberg, Ltd are experienced Chicago business litigation attorneys who work on alternative fee arrangements for all litigation matters. Unlike most firms whose fee arrangements are based solely on hours, their alternative fee arrangements can take the form of a flat fee, a fixed monthly retainer, a partial contingency fee, or pure contingency in which no attorney fees are paid unless we recover money. The firm customizes and personalizes its representation and fee structure to suit each client’s goals.

Loftus is a business and class action attorney. He has resolved a wide range of significant cases through mediation, arbitration, and trial across all sectors of commercial litigation, including breach of contract, fraud, professional malpractice, business divorce, and shareholder disputes. Loftus specializes in litigating business, intellectual property, commercial, employment, and class action cases and is passionate about fighting for the little guy in failed business transactions.

Eisenberg is a business litigator. He focuses his practice across all facets of commercial litigation. He takes a personal approach to his practice, going beyond simply connecting with clients and understanding their struggles and goals, to taking on their problems as his own and fighting for them as he would for himself or his family.

Jul 07, 202041:56
Launching a Product During a Pandemic: Kaye Publicity, Inc’s Dana Kaye

Launching a Product During a Pandemic: Kaye Publicity, Inc’s Dana Kaye

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Dana Kaye, a veteran publicist, brand manager and entrepreneur. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Kaye shares how the current health pandemic has affected her business and how they are adapting to new circumstances. 

In 2009, Kaye founded Kaye Publicity, Inc., a boutique PR company specializing in publishing and entertainment. Known for her innovative ideas and knowledge of current trends, she coaches her clients on how to identify and establish their unique personal brands. Kaye is also the author of Your Book, Your Brand: The Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Book and Boosting Your Sales, and the co-founder of Bouquet Stock Photography, a curated library of stock photos with a focus on representation and equity. Connect with her at DanaKaye.com.

Jul 06, 202041:01
Shifting from In-School Education to Online during a Pandemic: Design Dance's Debra Giunta

Shifting from In-School Education to Online during a Pandemic: Design Dance's Debra Giunta

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Debra Giunta, founder of three education companies: Design Dance, Prismatic, and The Brainchild Collective. Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Giunta shares how the current health pandemic has affected her businesses and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Design Dance, Prismatic, and The Brainchild Collective all focus on building the next generation of conscious leaders through social-emotional development. Giunta herself is a fierce advocate for the power of emotional intelligence. She is a TEDx speaker, founding board member of the Illinois Dance Education Organization and an active member of the Chicago female entrepreneurship community.

Jun 29, 202043:13
Nonprofit Leader Supports Community Online during Pandemic: Muslim American Leadership Alliance's Ahmed Flex Omar

Nonprofit Leader Supports Community Online during Pandemic: Muslim American Leadership Alliance's Ahmed Flex Omar

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Ahmed Flex Omar, co-founder of the Muslim American Leadership Alliance (MALA). Throughout the interview, they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Omar shares how the current health pandemic has affected MALA and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Before co-founding MALA, Omar worked at UBS Wealth Management Group, American Express, RSM McGladrey and Deloitte. He is the founder of Global Eventz, an event-marketing company, and a founding member of the Chicago Leadership Alliance. Omar is passionate about youth mentorship, particularly for millennials and members of Generation Z, through internships and fellowship programs, scholarships, exposure to arts and culture, and other creative opportunities to provide engagement. He has created several educational programs—such as Mompreneur, Muslims in Tech and Introduction to Islamic Art—to encourage professionals to take time to build skills like public speaking, personal branding and negotiating. Omar earned a Bachelor's degree from Loyola University Chicago and a certificate in organizational leadership from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.

Jun 24, 202046:01
Operating a Healthcare Network in a Pandemic: Accident Treatment Centers' Dr. Chris Calarco

Operating a Healthcare Network in a Pandemic: Accident Treatment Centers' Dr. Chris Calarco

In this episode of Restarting America, Jeremy Greenberg from 97 Switch interviews Dr. Chris Calarco, a chiropractor and co-owner of Accident Treatment Centers, a clinical network of physicians specialized in the treatment of auto and work-related accidents. Together they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Throughout the episode, Calarco shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how they are adapting to new circumstances.

Calarco is dedicated to a lifetime of continuing education on spinal biomechanics and musculoskeletal pathology. He also serves as the Managing Clinic Director of Accident Treatment Centers and understands the many opportunities and challenges associated with business ownership.

Calarco completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada Las Vegas where he received a Bachelor in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Biochemistry. He then attended the National University of Health Sciences earning his Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine.

Restarting America is produced by 97 Switch

Jun 23, 202040:30
Toy Store Owner Deployed during Pandemic: Timeless Toy’s Scott Friedland

Toy Store Owner Deployed during Pandemic: Timeless Toy’s Scott Friedland

In this episode of Restarting America, Josh Gibbs from 97 Switch interviews Scott Friedland, store owner of Timeless Toys and Timeless Tots. Together they discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and society. Throughout the episode, Friedland shares how the current health pandemic has affected his company and how they are adapting to new circumstances. 

Friedland has been the store owner of Timeless Toys since 2016 and opened his second store, Timeless Tots, in 2018. He has a background in marketing and management, as well as small business accounting. He considers himself a leader to the younger generation working in the specialty toy industry. He regularly volunteers in positions on the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce Executive Board and American Specialty Toy Retailers Association. 

Friedland is also a leader in the Indiana Army National Guard. He is currently a Captain and has been serving since 2010.  He lives in Chicago with his wife, Leah and son, Jackson. 

Timeless Toys Website: https://www.timelesstoyschicago.com/
Timeless Toys Blog: https://www.timelessplay.org/ 

Follow Timeless Toys on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timelesstoyschicago
Like Timeless Toys on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimelessToysChicago/
Follow Timeless Toys on Twitter: https://twitter.com/timelesstoyschi

Learn more about the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA): https://www.astratoy.org/
Learn more about the Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce: http://www.lincolnsquare.org/
Learn more about the Army National Guard: https://www.nationalguard.com/ 

Restarting America is produced by 97 Switch.

Jun 18, 202050:36