Positive Philter Podcast

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Dean Joshua Park, Dean of Mason Korea, for another installment of my Dean Series. We discuss his educational and professional journey, what led him to a career in higher education, and his vision for Mason Korea's role within the George Mason University community. Dean Park shares why Mason Korea is more than a satellite campus and how it is an in...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by George Mason alum, Schar School Alumnus of the Year, and Virginia State Senator Saddam Salim. In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, we discuss his journey as a first-generation college student, what brought him to George Mason, and how he found his path in public service. Senator Salim also shares insights on state government and practical ways...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by fellow George Mason alum and Fairfax City Council member Anthony Amos. We discuss his journey from growing up in a military family to pursuing his master's degree at Mason and eventually serving in public office. Anthony shares lessons he has learned through public service and how students and young professionals can apply what they learn in the c...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Dr. Kevin Reese to discuss his journey through higher education and the impact attending a Historically Black College and University had on his life. We talk about what motivated him to pursue his doctorate, the importance of community and support, and advice for others considering advanced degrees. This is an inspiring conversation about resilien...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Kevin Smith, leader of Kindness Week Worldwide. We discuss how kindness can go beyond a single day and become a year-round mindset that impacts schools, government, civic engagement, and communities around the world. Kevin shares what inspired him to lead this movement and why intentional acts of kindness can create meaningful change. This is a po...

The Positive Philter Podcast has officially reached 400 episodes. In this milestone celebration, I reflect on the journey so far and share a special tribute featuring audio clips from past guests, supporters, and members of the community who have been part of this story along the way. This episode is a celebration of connection, growth, and the incredible people who have supported the podcast sinc...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by my neos, Conrad and Daryn. For those unfamiliar, "neo" is a term used in Black Greek organizations to describe new members in their first year. We talk about their journey to joining Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., what drew them to membership, and their experiences during their first month after initiation. This is a meaningful conversation abo...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Eduardo, whom I met during Leadership Fairfax, where he facilitated a CliftonStrengths training. We discuss how CliftonStrengths can be used for team building, leadership, and everyday growth. Eduardo shares how he went from being skeptical of assessments to becoming a strong advocate for using strengths to better understand yourself and others. W...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by fellow George Mason alum Mussadiq Khan to discuss his educational journey, from his early interest in math to building a career in cybersecurity. We explore how teachers and mentors helped him see his potential, what drew him to the field, and how his Mason experience shaped his purpose. Mussadiq also shares how he now gives back by helping others...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Max Castner, President of the Podcast Club at George Mason University, for a special joint episode that will also air on "State of Podcast" , the show he hosts. As a co-faculty advisor for the club, it has been exciting to help support its growth during its first year, and this conversation reflects on that journey. We discuss student leadership,...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Steph Liberatore, a professor in the Creative Writing Department at George Mason University. We discuss the power of creative writing, especially nonfiction, and how it can serve as an outlet for self-expression far beyond traditional English or literature paths. Stephanie also shares her journey to becoming a professor in this field and the lesso...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Robert Cobbs, Founder and CEO, and Kyle Sumrow, Former Director of Outreach & Development for TechMySchool. Their nonprofit is dedicated to expanding access to technology for students, particularly in Puerto Rico, helping them succeed academically and beyond. We discuss how access to resources like laptops and reliable technology, things many of u...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Amaiyah Parker, President of the NAACP at George Mason University. We discuss her journey to Mason, her approach to student leadership, and how she balances academics, advocacy, and the college experience. This is a great conversation about leading with purpose and making the most of your time as a student. Shout Outs and Plugs Amaiyah Parker on L...

In this episode of Positive Philter , I'm joined by my fraternity brother David Echeverria to explore the rise of eSports and its potential beyond gaming. From his early work with EA Sports to co-founding Village eSports Entertainment, David shares his journey and vision for using eSports as a tool for academic success, career development, and community building. We also discuss the need for great...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Jonathan Segers, a higher education professional at Washington University in St. Louis, whom I met through NACE. We discuss his career journey from financial services and K–12 education to talent development in higher education, and the lessons he learned along the way. We talk about the importance of knowing your values, building social capital t...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by my fraternity brother and friend, Dr. Okey Enyia, to discuss his book The John Henry Health Equity Playbook, a roadmap for advancing health equity for Black men through health, economic stability, and civic engagement. We talk about the importance of fatherhood, the role of belonging in well-being, and how policies directly impact our lives and ou...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Dr. Michelle Ryan, President of the College of Science Alumni Chapter at George Mason University. We discuss her Mason journey, what servant leadership looks like in alumni spaces, and the experiences that have shaped her approach to leading an alumni chapter board. As the current President of the College of Education and Human Development Alumni...

In this episode, I am joined by my colleague, Keyah Frazier, for a deep dive into the art of goal setting and vision planning. We explore the power of incorporating new ideas—like setting a "theme" for the year—to maintain long-term motivation. We also compare their individual goal-setting styles, highlighting that there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to personal growth. Whether you are a rigi...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Chris Barrows, host of the Why I Social podcast and co-creator of Traveling Boards. This organization uses board games as tools for leadership development, team building, and education. We dive into Chris's passion for gaming and explore how board games can go far beyond being just a hobby—they can strengthen communication, foster collaboration, a...

In this episode, I'm joined by local politician Dan Helmer, who represents Virginia's 10th District in southern Fairfax County. I first met Dan when he visited my son's Boy Scout troop, and I've seen firsthand how dedicated he is to serving the Northern Virginia community. In this conversation, we explore his journey into public service, the realities of working in local government, and his practi...

In Episode 385 of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Jeff Raderstrong, a professional ghostwriter who has helped CEOs, political leaders, and community activists bring their stories to life. Jeff shares his journey into ghostwriting, what it means to be part of the creative process while remaining behind the scenes, and valuable advice for aspiring ghostwriters. This episode pulls back the curtain on...

In this episode of Positive Philter , I sit down with Dr. Emma Violand-Sanchez, a fellow Mount Vernon High School alum, immigrant, and first-generation scholar. Her journey—from arriving in the U.S. as a teenager with limited English to becoming the first Latina to chair a Virginia school board and founding The Dream Project—is nothing short of inspiring. Dr. Violand-Sanchez's story highlights res...

In this episode of  Positive Philter, I'm joined by Dr. Nolan Cabrera for a powerful conversation about the history of higher education and its impact on today's academic landscape. We explore how colleges and universities were not originally built with people of color in mind, and what that means for equity, access, and hiring today. Dr. Cabrera also sheds light on the current climate of higher e...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by a fellow George Mason University alum to discuss her inspiring journey from Vietnam to the U.S., her academic path in music, and her unexpected career shift into finance. We explore themes of resilience, adaptability, and staying open to new opportunities—even when they lead in a completely different direction than planned. Shout Outs and Plugs Dr...

In this powerful episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by my good friend and fellow TEDx speaker, Chris Fitzpatrick. Chris is a passionate public speaker, mentor, and proud alumnus of Montclair State. We dive deep into our paths to the TEDx stage—what inspired us, the challenges we faced, and the resilience it took to turn a long-held dream into reality. Fresh off his recent talk at TEDxMontclai...