Real World Leaders

Who is eligible for greatness? Tacony Academy High School students interview Jason Scholl, President of LK Miller Commerial Construction, and Mary Marcus, CEO of NewAge Industries, and discuss how to succeed anywhere, emotional intelligence, and running your own race.

What's the #1 trait that a CEO needs? Community Academy of Philadelphia and DC International High School students interview Chris Heffernan
CEO of Dilvrd, and Dave DeLizza, President & CEO of Pennoni, and discuss bonding over badminton, delegating and disappearing, and being lifelong learners.

What simple thing can eliminate conflict? Norristown Area High School and New Hope-Solebury High School students interview Dilo Wijesuriya
President & COO of ARC Document Solutions, and Jeff Kenton VP & General Manager of Solenis, and discuss the DNA of company culture, breaking barriers, and centering yourself.

How far does inspiration take you? Moore High School and Belmont Charter High School students interview Jon Etter, President of B&G Manufacturing, and Jake Leone, CEO of Corporate Interiors, and discuss opening doors, slamming doors, remembering to celebrate, and having empathy.

When is a B+ better than an A? Real World Leaders Institute externs interview Jim Ashton, General Partner of Newspring Capital, and Scott Rankin, CEO of Vulcan Spring, and discuss how to succeed with A.I., taking the limits off, and the most important things in life.

When should you take dirty, hairy things off a plate? Real World Leaders Institute externs interview Eric Logan, CEO of Jacob Stern & Sons, and also go into deeper detail about their own dreams and aspirations. Listen as we discuss faith and fitness, everybody's isms, and the love of art.

When is looking like a fool okay? Real World Leaders Institute externs interview Sam Thevanayagam, President & CEO of Parts Life, Inc.DeVal Lifecycle Support, and LC Engineers, Inc., and Marc Albero, General Manager of PAC Strapping, and discuss prep school guys gone wild, being a good steward, and reserved parking spaces.

In this episode our first guest CEO dives deep into two critical pillars of lasting success: relationships and responsibility. First, we explore the undeniable power of networking—how talking to your peers, building connections, and surrounding yourself with the right people can open doors you never imagined. In business, it truly is about who you know. Then, we shift to leadership—the kind that takes full ownership. When a team fails, it's the leader's responsibility. When a team wins, the praise belongs to everyone else. We’ll also unpack the mindset behind success: the perseverance to keep going when you hear “no,” and the importance of visualizing your version of success to stay motivated. Whether you’re just starting out or leveling up, this episode will challenge you to build authentic connections, lead with integrity, and define success on your own terms.

What does it take to just keep showing up? Real World Leaders Institute externs interview Joe Hand Jr.,President of Joe Hand Promotions, and Chris DiPaolo, President and CEO of Protecs, and discuss keeping an open mind, the two most valuable skills you can develop, and using your heart.

What's that about a solo act? Real World Leaders Institute externs and DC International School students interview Bill Edmonds, CEO of B&G Manufacturing, and Brett Levin, President of MHS Lift, and discuss not empowering the next generation, being a cook, and not having a set path.