Realistic CEO Podcast

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, host Mikey interviews Jose Delgado, a city councilor from Springfield. Jose shares his inspiring journey from dreaming of a career in the entertainment industry to becoming an active leader in local government. He discusses the challenges he faced during the Great Recession, working multiple jobs in New York, and eventually finding his passion for comm...

In this engaging episode of the Realistic CO Podcast, Mikey interviews John Doleva, the CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame. John shares his unique journey from working in retail to leading a renowned institution. He highlights the importance of hard work, hospitality, and learning from each position held. The discussion covers his experiences with different mentors, leadership styles, and the sign...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, host Mikey interviews Diana Szynal,the President of the Springfield Regional Chamber. Diana shares her unique path to leadership, from working with state representatives to her experiences with legislative advocacy and chamber management. She discusses her passion for solving problems, her commitment to the community, and the importance of maintaining...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, I sit down with LaTonia Monroe-Naylor, a remarkable school committee member and entrepreneur who owns and runs two successful businesses. We dive deep into her journey, from the life-changing moment that set her on her path to her experiences in youth leadership and mentoring. LaTonia shares how her children inspired her, the importance of sticking to...

Join Mychal "Mikey" Connolly Jr. on the Realistic CEO Podcast as he interviews Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, the longest-serving mayor of Springfield, MA. Mayor Sarno shares his inspiring journey from his humble beginnings as the son of Italian immigrants to becoming a prominent political figure. Learn about his family's struggles, the values instilled by his parents, and his various roles that led him...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, host Mikey interviews Dr. Mark Keroack about his unique path to becoming the CEO of Baystate. Dr. Keroack shares valuable insights into leadership, teamwork, and the evolving role of doctors in management. He also discusses the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and offers advice for aspiring leaders. Join Michael as he learns from Dr. Keroa...

In this episode of The Realistic CEO podcast, Mikey interviews Dawn Forbes DiStefano, the President and CEO of Square One. They discuss Dawn's journey and the inspiration behind her becoming a CEO, highlighting the importance of courage, listening, and problem-solving in leadership. Dawn shares personal anecdotes, including practicing leadership skills with her younger sisters and emphasizing that...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, Mikey speaks with Dr. Katrina Banks, founder of Neurologic Optimal Wellness Physical Therapy, about her journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Dr. Banks shares her motivation to pursue a career in neurophysical therapy, inspired by her aunt's recovery from a stroke, and the challenges of starting a business during the COVID-19 pandemic. She dis...

Join us in this insightful episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast where we talk to John Sortino, famously known as 'The Teddy Bear Man.' John shares his incredible journey from crafting a teddy bear for his son to building the Vermont Teddy Bear Company into a successful publicly traded company and finally, starting a new venture in the bicycle industry. Learn about his experiences, challenges, and...

Join Mikey on the Realistic CEO podcast as he interviews Ashley Kohl, owner of Ohana School of Performing Arts. Ashley shares her journey from aspiring performer to successful business owner, discussing the challenges she faced and the lessons she learned along the way. Learn about the balance between creativity and entrepreneurship, the importance of mentors, and how to maintain passion despite t...

Welcome to another episode of the Realistic CEO podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Brow, a dedicated owner of HighBrow Wood Fired Kitchen + Bar who shares his inspiring journey from starting as a dishwasher at age 15 to becoming an executive chef and ultimately owning his own restaurant. Andrew discusses the importance of mentors, work ethic, and surrounding oneself with positive en...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, we dive deep into the journey of becoming a President with Amie Miarecki, President of Junior Achievement of Western MA. We discuss her path to leadership, the importance of staying true to oneself, the value of community involvement, and tips on effective teamwork and mentorship. Whether you're aspiring to be a CEO or looking for inspiration to lead,...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, I interview Gary Rome, a successful car dealership owner recognized as Time Magazine's Dealer of the Year. Gary shares key insights and life lessons on what it takes to become a CEO, rooted in values from the book 'The Four Agreements'. He emphasizes the importance of being impeccable with your word, not taking things personally, avoiding assumptions,...

In this episode of The Realistic CEO Podcast, I interview Aaron Lawrie, one of the franchise owners of Crumble Cookies. Aaron shares his journey from being an engineer to becoming a franchise owner, the inspiration behind his career switch, the challenges he faced, and the leadership skills he developed along the way. We discuss the importance of problem-solving, creating a positive work environme...

Hey everyone, welcome to the very first episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast. I'm Mychal Connolly Jr., your host, and today I'm super excited to kick things off with someone who's not just my hero but also the coolest dad and a successful CEO, Mychal Connolly Sr. In today’s talk, we dive deep into what it really takes to set your goals, the essential skills you need as a young person dreaming of b...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, I sit down with Dan Moriarty, the CEO and president of Monson Savings Bank @monsonsavingsbank who has 26 years of experience in the industry. We explore what it takes to become a CEO, how to navigate the business world, and how to turn setbacks into stepping stones. Dan shares his journey, from laboring in the heat to aspiring for a professional career...

Welcome back to another episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast! Today, we’re chilling with Chris Martin, co-owner of the beloved local ice cream shop, Scoops of Agawam. Chris shares the heartwarming story of how three childhood friends turned a dream into a thriving business, right in their hometown of Agawam. Join us as Chris dives into the joys and challenges of entrepreneurship, especially when s...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, I interview Mr. Clarence Smith, owner and operator of The Final Touch Barbershop in Springfield, Massachusetts. Celebrating 20 years in business, Mr. Smith shares his journey from an unexpected start in the barber industry to becoming a successful business owner. He discusses overcoming challenges, the importance of community, networking, and giving ba...