FutureProof Podcast

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The Reign Man: Tom Barrett
From Irrigation King to Documentary Film Maker, Tom Barrett Shares with us his road to owning Barrett Works. 

In this episode of FutureProof, meet Tom Barrett, an executive leader with over thirty years of experience driving corporate growth and innovation. From agronomy to executive coaching, Tom’s unique journey has shaped his approach to transforming businesses and leaders alike.

Discover how Tom’s diverse education—from architecture at Syracuse University to audio/video production at Cincinnati State—fueled his passion for strategic planning and mentorship. As President of Barrett Works, Tom’s expertise in executive coaching and dynamic presentations has empowered countless professionals to achieve greater fulfillment and success.

Tune in to hear Tom’s insights on leading successful turnarounds, the power of peer relationships, and his commitment to personal and professional growth.

Credit

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Tom Barrett..….Guest
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over
• Nozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production Assistant
• Nathan Bell….Student Engineer
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

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In this episode of FutureProof, we meet Rodriquez Stephens, a dedicated professional with a passion for business and nonprofit work. After deciding to return to school after 20 years to improve his situation, Rodriquez chose Cincinnati State for its proximity and strong business management program. His co-op experience at Procter & Gamble as a demand analyst, guided by Mr. Waits, played a crucial role in his journey. Now enrolled at the University of Cincinnati, Rodriquez aims to restart his nonprofit organization. Tune in to hear his inspiring story of perseverance, commitment, and advice for students navigating their own educational and professional paths.

Credit

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Rodriquez Stephens…….Guest
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over
• Nozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production Assistant
• Nathan Bell….Student Engineer
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

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Michael D. Whitley II - Director of Midwest Culinary Institute Director of Midwest Culinary Institute, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

Discover how Michael transformed his passion for culinary arts into a dynamic career, starting from Cincinnati State’s Culinary Program to becoming the Director of the Midwest Culinary Institute.

In this episode, Michael shares his unique journey—from juggling multiple roles and responsibilities to achieving his dream of leading a prestigious culinary institute. He reveals the challenges he overcame, including the unexpected pivot to online classes and balancing a busy career with personal aspirations.

Tune in to hear Michael's insights on leveraging opportunities, the art of balancing responsibilities, and his advice for students and professionals striving to excel in their fields. This episode is a feast of inspiration and practical advice for anyone passionate about making their mark in the culinary world or any industry.

Credits

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Michael D. Whitley II ….Guest
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over
• Nozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production Assistant
• Nathan Bell….Student Engineer
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

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Herman Muguluma - Software Developer at US Digital Partners, BS in Web & Mobile App Development , Mount Saint Joseph University.

Meet Herman, whose journey from Uganda to Cincinnati, Ohio started with a faith-based mission trip. After completing his mission, he realized his passion for higher education in the USA, leading him to Cincinnati State.

Herman’s path included a pivotal internship with the Ohio Diversity & Inclusion Technology Program and further studies at Mount St. Joseph University, where he earned a degree in Web & Mobile App Development. Now, he’s a full-time Software Developer at US Digital Partners.

Tune in to hear how Herman transformed a mission trip into a thriving career and the valuable lessons he’s learned.

Credits

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Herman Muguluma…….Guest
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over
• Nozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production Assistant
• Nathan Bell….Student Engineer
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

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Keonte Alexander - Rising Star Award Winner, Educator at William Howard Taft Elementary School, University of Cincinnati's College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services (CECH)

 In this episode of FutureProof, meet Keonte Alexander, CECH ’22, first generation Black alumnus, a dedicated father and passionate educator at William Howard Taft Elementary School in Cincinnati Public Schools. Keonte shares his journey from mentoring youth at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Cincinnati during his time at Cincinnati State to becoming a math and science teacher. Motivated by the need for Black male teachers, Keonte transitioned from sports administration to pursuing an education degree at the University of Cincinnati's College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services (CECH). Despite facing financial challenges as a first-generation student, Keonte persevered, supported by the Gen-1 Program and initiatives like the Inclusive Excellence Support Fund for Students in Math and Science. Join us as Keonte reflects on his path, the impact of mentorship, and his commitment to eliminating barriers for future educators.

Credit

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Keonte Alexander…….Guest
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over
• Nozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production Assistant
• Nathan Bell….Student Engineer
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

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Harrison Perin- Intake Service Coordinator at Transitions Inc Grateful Life Center,  MS in Clinical Mental Health, Northern Kentucky University

            In this episode, we dive into the powerful story of Harrison Perin, Associate of Arts degree and Honors Program graduate. Harrison struggled with substance use disorder for years, searching for his identity and not confronting the real work it would take to change his life.  But everything shifted when he decided to commit to his recovery. Doors opened, including the ones at Cincinnati State where despite facing what he described as "an "unreasonable fear of exposure",  he discovered a true gift for learning and the support of faculty and staff who wanted to see him succeed.  Now, as the Intake Service Coordinator at Transitions Inc. Grateful Life Center, Harrison uses his experiences to help others facing addiction. Join us to hear how he turned his life around and is now making a difference in the lives of many.

Credits

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Harrison Perin…….Guest
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over
• Nozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production Assistant
• Nathan Bell….Student Engineer
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan Mail

 
Jasmine McGowan - Paralegal Specialist at United States Attorneys' Offices J.D. Candidate at NKU Salmon P. Chase College Law

Meet Jasmine McGowan, a Cincinnati State alumna whose inspiring journey led her to become a paralegal specialist. Her story is one of resilience and determination.

Jasmine shares how vision boards, supportive connections, and balancing motherhood with law school ambitions have shaped her path. Currently pursuing her law degree at NKU Chase College of Law, she has shown academic perseverance, even handling nine classes while pregnant.

Tune in to hear her compelling career journey, candid reflections, and the motivational tools that kept her focused. This episode of FutureProof offers valuable insights and light-hearted moments.

Credits

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Jasmine McGowan…….Guest
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over
• Nozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production Assistant
• Nathan Bell….Student Engineer
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design
  
  

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Waldbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

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Breaking Cycles: JeMiah L. Baht Israel, MA -

University of Cincinnati- Doctoral of History Student

Credits

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• JeMiah L. Baht Israel, MA.......Guest 
• Carly Baker…….Student Producer
• Jayson Warner…….Student Engineer
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over 
• Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production Assistant
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan Mail

Straight Out Of Colerain: Max Alfonso,
A Cinci State Alumnus and current University Of Toledo student, shares about his time at CState, interning at Fox19, journalism, and how he stays resilient through adversity.

Credits

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Max Alfonso......Guest
• Carly Baker…….Student Producer
• Jayson Warner…….Student Engineer
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over 
• Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production Assistant
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan Mail

Putting the 'I Will' in Price Hill: Ben Klayer
Alumnus Ben Klayer shares his story of writing poetry, starting his own business, becoming a homeowner,  joining his local community council and how it all started in his mission to be a servant leader. 

Credits

• Jayne Dressing…..Host
• Eimee Donbar…….Host
• Ben Klayer.......Guest
• Carly Baker…….Student Producer
• Jamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over 
• Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production Assistant
• Brittany King……..Digital Marketing
• Jacqueline Norton…….Marketing and Advertising
• Joey Hickey…….Graphic Design

Special Thanks to:

• Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio Director
• David Killen…….AVP Program Chair
• Geoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and Sciences
• Amy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department