Behind Success

On this episode of Behind Success, I sat down with Dan Rosensweig, Hobart class of 1983, longtime supporter of Hobart and William Smith, and one of the co-teachers of the entrepreneurship course I had the privilege of taking this semester with Professor Drennen. In this conversation, Dan opens up about his upbringing, the lessons that shaped him, his path from Hobart into the business world, and t...

On this episode of Behind Success, I sat down with Teresa Cerino of Water Street Cafe to talk about the story behind one of Geneva’s most meaningful community spaces. We talked about her journey back home, taking over Water Street right before COVID, building a business with her husband James, and how the cafe has become a place where locals, HWS students, athletes, alumni, families, and visitors...

In this episode of Behind Success , Tom Bozzuto, a successful business leader and philanthropist, reflects on the moments, risks, and values that have shaped his life. From his early years driving his dad's oil truck to his experiences as a war correspondent, Tom shares how taking risks, embracing challenges, and staying true to his core values led him to a life of purpose and achievement. Tom dis...

In this episode of Behind Success , we are joined by Lou Guard, who shares his journey from growing up in Geneva to becoming the General Counsel at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Lou reflects on how his time at HWS shaped his career and personal philosophy, offering insights into the evolving landscape of higher education law. He discusses the influence of community, his deep connection to Gen...

In this episode of Behind Success , I sit down with Mariah Fontana, founder of the transformative Made for More program. Mariah is not just a business owner—she’s a coach and mentor who has helped hundreds of women achieve Total Body, Mind, and Soul Transformations. After losing 20+ lbs and becoming the confident, empowered woman, she always knew she could be, Mariah turned her personal journey in...

In this episode of Behind Success , I sit down with former NFL offensive lineman and Hobart alumnus, Ali Marpet. We discuss Ali's experience at Hobart College, where the high standards and unique experiences shaped his path both on and off the field. Ali shares personal stories about the importance of finding balance in every aspect of life—whether it’s in sports, business, or personal endeavors....

In this episode, we are joined by two authors of The Sixth Level Capitalize the Power of Women's Psychology for Sustainable Leadership . In the first part of this episode, we are provided insight into this new and innovative model for leadership and discuss how gender norms and barriers have limited women from impacting change within organizations. The future of leadership is changing, and the...

In the second part of this episode, we discuss the dangers of commercially available generative AI models and the recent popularity of deepfake content. Dr. Stacy Feiner & Lorri Slesh, the authors behind The Sixth Level, reveal the unique and disproportionate impact of these defamation crimes on women. Want your own copy of The Sixth Level? Order NOW at: www.thesixthlevel.com

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Gearan, president of Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Unlike most college presidents, Gearan's career took an unexpected trajectory after he became a leading member of the Bill Clinton administration and later led The Peace Corps. How did this land him the role of college president?

In this episode, we are joined by the Hobart College Hockey Head Coach, Mark Taylor. Coach Taylor dedicated his life to ice hockey both as a player and a coach. In his 30+ year career as a coach, Taylor has gone from a win rate of 40% to a win rate this season of over 94%. Listen to how Coach Taylor made Hobart College the best D3 hockey team in the nation while overcoming significant challenges i...

In this episode, we hear from Lydia Loizides, an NYC based entrepreneur and experienced leader. Lydia has over 20 years of experience in leadership roles across startup and larger organizations. Throughout her career, Lydia has been involved in multiple acquisitions, including one from Microsoft. Since 2013, Lydia has been leading her own venture, Talentedly, an organizational design and talent pe...

In this episode, we introduce Sam Solomon. Sam is a Hobart and William Smith graduate and serial entrepreneur. His business journey started at HWS in the annual Pitch Competition with his startup, Bee-Have. Sam went on to found Pizza Posto and later acquired Spotted Duck, a duck egg creamery in Penn Yan, NY.