In the Arena: Conversations of a Lifetime

The foundation for Wendi’s personal and professional trajectory was set by her goal-oriented and highly supportive parents. She draws upon her experience as a lawyer, church worker, and college athlete to tackle poverty and food insecurity in the Toledo region. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

For over 40 years Dr. Longenecker has been teaching, writing and speaking about all things leadership. His work with collegians, CEOs, and private sector and nonprofit organizations gives him a robust perspective about leadership effectiveness. A highly acclaimed business professor, author, and keynote speaker, Dr. Longenecker displays a relentless positive outlook and ability to connect with and motivate people around him. Serving others, relationships, spirituality, and athletics anchor his leadership approach. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Kadee Anstadt worked 20 years in the private sector before making a career pivot into education. Her lifelong desire to be a teacher and a serious health incident were the motivating factors behind this change in direction. Whether as a teacher, central office administrator, or superintendent, Kadee brings a purposed-driven and student-centered approach to her role. The enthusiasm and energy that she displays during school visits, meetings, and community events reflect a deep personal conviction to make a difference for others.  

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Jim’s experiences as an educator and high school football coach planted a seed about the importance of the human dimension within every organization. He took what he learned from school administration and the gridiron and built a dynamic business consultancy company that serves major corporations around the world. For the past 35 years Jim and his team at Root have helped CEOs and senior leadership teams find ways to connect with employees and execute strategy. A bestselling author and highly sought-after speaker, Jim’s perspectives and approach are grounded in servant leadership. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Stuart was born with osteogenesis imperfecta. His parents never treated him like he had a disability and never dampened his dreams. As a result, Stuart pursued goals, stretched himself, and attained prominent roles in the private and nonprofit sectors. His strong advocacy for independent living and full inclusion for people with disabilities is at the core of who he is as a leader.  

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Ann is a driven, compassionate, and down-to-earth leader who works tirelessly to help people experiencing extreme hardship. Cherry Street Mission Ministries, located in downtown Toledo, Ohio, has been serving the homeless in NW Ohio and SE Michigan for 75 years. Using a Christian service approach, the goal is to reverse the cycle of poverty and help people living on the margins lead productive lives. Some of the services provided by Cherry Street Mission include warm meals, a place to sleep, healthcare and mental health support, and job skills training. Prior to assuming her current role as CEO, Ann’s professional career path included stops in healthcare administration, dog training, and church ministry. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Alongside a highly successful career at a prestigious law firm, Stephen Rothschild always gave generously of his time and talents to a wide variety of nonprofit organizations. A rewarding stint as a school board member made it clear to him that he was ready to pivot from the private sector to a public, mission-based organization. He now leads the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, an umbrella organization that provides services and programs that enhance the health, welfare, education and cultural awareness of the Jewish community.  

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Since 1921, the Toledo-based Mancy family has been providing an exceptional dining experience to customers. In this episode Gus Mancy shares how he, his brothers/cousins, and first and second generation family members built an iconic restaurant brand. His insights about running a high-profile establishment, the customer experience, creating a positive culture, making decisions, and adapting/improvising thru COVID provide a glimpse into what it takes to thrive in the always demanding restaurant business.   

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

As an educator, pastor, and executive director of a community-centered non-profit, Christine Sweeney lives a purpose-filled life. Her servant leadership approach is embedded into the mission of the Art Tatum Zone: improving the human condition one person and one family at a time. Christine’s life story and reflections about the Junction Neighborhood, her love of teaching, the three steps she uses to prepare for homilies, the value of feedback and being direct when communicating, a summer of being homeless, and keeping Art Tatum’s legacy alive leave a lasting impression. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

At a very young age Florida native Vicky Hurst emerged as a golf sensation. As a high schooler she was a two-time Florida Player of the Year, member of the US Junior Solheim Team, and the top-ranked US amateur. She turned pro during her senior year of high school and burst onto the Symetra and LPGA Tours. The early victories and Top Ten finishes earned her a coveted spot on the 2011 US Solheim Team. In late 2012 Vicky’s rocket trajectory skyward hit a stumbling block when she sustained a serious golf-related wrist injury that impacted her game. After years of focused physical therapy, she was able to work her way back to competing on the LPGA and Symetra Tours. 

In this candid episode, Vicky describes the rigors/rewards of being a professional golfer, her highest/lowest moments, the inner game of golf, handling pressure/adversity, and staying positive while continuing her comeback journey. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023