The Crossman Conversation

In this CEO Edition of The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman sits down with Kwame Terra, a world record–breaking athlete who is now on a mission to help everyone move, rest, eat, and live their best lives. Kwame shares his journey from elite athletics to creating actionable strategies for health, wellness, and personal performance, offering inspiration and practical advice for living a more bal...

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman talks with Steven Puri about how professionals can tap into “flow states” to make their biggest impact. Steven shares why it’s essential to start with your why, then define your how, and eliminate distractions that steal your focus. His practical tips, including putting your phone in a box and prioritizing what matters most, help leaders...

On this episode of The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman interviews Tom Lagrave — a former Navy SEAL and recovering addict who now coaches teens and guides parents through the challenges of depression and anxiety. With a powerful mix of military grit, personal recovery, and deep empathy, Tom shares practical strategies for helping teenagers build resilience, supporting children with mental heal...

What if scaling your business didn’t require more hours, but better systems? In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, Cary Prejean, CPA and Founder of Strategic Business Advisors, LLC, shares insights from nearly 40 years of helping businesses improve profitability, cash flow, and operational efficiency. Cary discusses how leaders can move beyond the “blocking and tackling” of daily tasks, cr...

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman sits down with Anya Cheng—Silicon Valley entrepreneur and one of “Girls in Tech 40 Under 40.” Anya shares how understanding your customer and identifying the right problem to solve has been the cornerstone of her success. From tech innovation to building impactful businesses, her journey offers practical strategies for entrepreneurs and l...

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, host John Crossman sits down with Penny Seater, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka. Penny shares her insights on why community leaders must work together to tackle the affordable housing crisis and how strategic partnerships can create lasting impact. Under her leadership, Habitat has grown from 79 to over 250 homes, generating more than $17 m...

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, Erica Karlinsky and Bob O’Brien talk about what it really means to take the first step toward therapy. They share practical advice on finding the right counselor, understanding what you’re looking for in therapy, and feeling comfortable during your first session. Whether you bring a friend, vent, or just explore your options, the key is to choose yours...

This week on The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman sits down with Dr. Michelle Griffin, founder and CEO of Griffin Resources, to explore how strategic leadership and people-focused innovation drive lasting business success. Based in Tampa, Dr. Griffin has built a powerhouse firm specializing in HR outsourcing, talent acquisition, and operational strategy across multiple industries. Tune in as J...

This week on The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman sits down with Solomon Thimothy, serial entrepreneur, growth strategist, and CEO of five companies they explore the mindset behind sustainable success. Known for his 10X Framework and nearly two decades of helping B2B companies scale, Solomon shares why spending more time on your “why” than your “what” is the key to meaningful growth. He encour...

On this episode of The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman welcomes Christian Ray Flores, entrepreneur, author, philanthropist, and coach. Raised across multiple continents from Russia to Chile to Germany and beyond, Christian brings a global perspective shaped by resilience and a passion for helping others. He shares powerful lessons on personal branding, building vitality and freedom, and how t...

John Crossman sits down with Alex Gomez to explore the critical role of skills and training in shaping today’s workforce. Drawing from diverse life experiences—from Colombia to the Bronx—Alex shares insights on how practical education and mentorship can open doors for individuals and uplift entire communities. This conversation highlights the importance of workforce development as a tool for equit...

How is artificial intelligence transforming cybersecurity for companies today? John Crossman sits down with Danny Jenkins, CEO & Co-Founder of ThreatLocker, to discuss the rise of AI in cyber threats, how businesses can protect their data, and why cybersecurity is just like securing your home or car. They explore practical strategies for staying one step ahead. A key takeaway: Businesses of all si...

In this inspiring episode of The Crossman Conversation, host John Crossman welcomes Janelle Dunn, CEO of True Health, for a powerful discussion on leadership, service, and healthcare transformation. Since taking the step in 2020 as CEO, Dunn has expanded access to care across Central Florida, launched mobile health units, and opened new pharmacies all while driving equity and compassion. Hear how...

On this episode of The Crossman Conversation, host John Crossman welcomes Crystal Davidson, Vice President of iBuild Central Florida and a seasoned workforce leader with over 25 years of experience. Crystal oversees apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship training programs that prepare youth, adults, and justice-involved individuals for sustainable careers in construction and the skilled trades. Fro...

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, host John Crossman speaks with Ursula Taylor—an attorney, consultant, and conflict resolution expert—about how organizations can embrace healthy conflict to foster stronger leadership and better outcomes. With over 17 years in commercial litigation, Taylor now helps teams move beyond legal battles to address the emotional roots of disputes. She shares...

On this episode of The Crossman Conversation, host John Crossman is joined by Brandi Neal—an inspiring voice of perseverance, talent, and reconciliation. Adopted as a child, Brandi faced the challenge of finding her identity and place in the world. Music became her guiding light. From her beginnings at Valencia College to graduating from Bethune-Cookman University as a standout member of the conce...

Dr. Bertrhude Albert has a heart to see her beloved Haiti transformed - and she is using her skills, education, and passion to make a difference, by training Haiti's teachers. Haiti has struggled for many years, as 60% of elementary kids drop out of school.  She is aiming to train teachers to teach in such a way that this issue will be addressed.  Haiti has the physical schools.,,they just need tr...

This week on The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman welcomes Peter Samuelson, President of First Star and CEO of PhilmCo Media, for a powerful conversation about purpose, balance, and his new book, FINDING HAPPY. Peter shares why he wrote the book, the importance of emotional wellness, and how his mission to support foster youth has shaped his work and life. From building tools for young people...

John Crossman welcomes Laura Peddie-Bravo to the conversation. Laura is a respected Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor, and founder of The Bravo Counseling Group, LLC, based in Winter Park, Florida. Peddie-Bravo offers outpatient counseling services to individuals, couples, and families in the Central Florida area. She brings extensive experience to her clients, wor...

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation: Career Builders, John Crossman sits down with Dakota Doman, President & Managing Principal of The Executive Search Group, to discuss the invaluable impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). From leadership development to career placement, Dakota shares insights on why HBCUs matter.

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, we’re joined by Kwasi Crawford, Senior Commercial Real Estate Advisor at Lloyd Commercial Advisors and Director of Sponsorship for Young Fathers of Central Florida. Kwasi shares how his nonprofit is creating life-changing opportunities for young dads—many of whom have been incarcerated or overlooked by traditional support systems. From securing grants...

This week, John sits down with Kay Barnett, CEO of the upcoming AdventHealth Minneola hospital, to discuss the rapid development of South Lake County and how AdventHealth is rising to meet the area's growing healthcare needs. Kay shares her vision for community health, insights on strategic leadership, and how her background in business development is shaping one of Florida’s most anticipated new...

On this episode of The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman is joined by Frederick "Freddy" Morello Jr., Executive Director of NAMI Greater Orlando. Together, they dive into the importance of mental health, the ongoing efforts to break the stigma surrounding it, and the powerful work NAMI does to support individuals and families affected by mental illness. Freddy shares his personal passion for ad...

They happen to us all - those "triggers" that come our way in our lives that can range from being mildly irritating to a full-blown catastrophic event. How do we handle them when they come our way? How can we respond instead of reacting? John Crossman chats with guest Krystal Parker, who is the President of the US Christian Chamber of Commerce.

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, John Crossman sits down with award-winning journalist and media consultant Judith Smelser to discuss the evolving media landscape. From the challenges of modern journalism to the role of media in today's society, they explore how news consumption has changed and what it means for businesses, communities, and individuals. Tune in for an insightful conve...