What drives innovation and diversity in sports and technology? Albert Basilio, founder of Launchball, is merging these industries to create immersive experiences while championing inclusion. He sheds light on the barriers Latino founders face in securing capital and discusses the power of support networks in entrepreneurial success. Basilio also explores how community colleges and universities can bridge the gap between education and industry, fostering the next generation of diverse sports professionals. Discover how collaboration and community can shape the future of sports and tech.

You’ll learn: 

• How Launchball is shaping the future of work in sports and technology through diversity and inclusion.

• The challenges Latino founders face in accessing capital—and how to overcome them.

• Why equity is a priority for PCC in expanding student opportunities.

• How Launchball enhances participant experiences by merging sports and technology.

About the Guest:

Albert Basilio, a 29-year-old Mexican American entrepreneur, is the founder of Launchball, a pioneering company at the intersection of sports and technology. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Albert's journey showcases the challenges and triumphs of leading a Latino-driven startup in the competitive sports tech industry. Albert's commitment to innovation and diversity is exemplified through his efforts to create a more inclusive workplace, reflecting his personal experiences and dedication to empowering underrepresented communities in tech.

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More from Albert Basilio & Launchball

Website: https://launchballsport.com/

LinkedIn: @albert-basilio

Instagram & TikTok: @launchballsport 

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts; we’d love to hear from you!

How can small businesses rebuild after a crisis like the recent LA fires? The Small Business Administration (SBA) plays a crucial role in recovery; offering financial assistance, business counseling, and disaster relief. Many independent contractors and home-based businesses don’t realize they qualify for SBA loans, but resources are available for a wide range of business types. Julie Clowes, Director of SBA’s Los Angeles District Office, joins us to discuss how the SBA provides critical support, especially in times of rebuilding after disaster. From financial assistance to business counseling, the SBA helps entrepreneurs access vital aid. Their local assistance tool on SBA.gov connects businesses with nearby advisors and recovery services. In response to the fires, the SBA is actively providing financial relief and guidance to help businesses, homeowners, and communities rebuild—while also emphasizing policy changes and mitigation efforts to strengthen future resilience.

You’ll learn: 

• How small businesses can access resources like district offices and business centers.

• What kind of assistance the SBA has to offer in response to the recent LA fires.

• Who is encouraged to apply for SBA loans and aid.

• Learn critical strategies for small businesses to prepare for and recover from future disasters.

• Where individuals can locate resources based on their zip code for small business assistance.

About the Guest:

Julie Clowes is the Director of SBA’s Los Angeles District Office where she oversees delivery of SBA’s programs and services within Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.  Prior to joining the LADO Julie held numerous positions within SBA including Acting Deputy Associate Administrator -Office of Entrepreneurial Development, Director of the San Francisco District Office, Deputy District Director of the Washington Metropolitan Area District Office, Chief Marketing & Outreach attorney in the Office of General Counsel and Public Affairs Specialist with the Michigan District Office. Julie also volunteers her time for colorectal cancer advocacy efforts and was a Board member of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.

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More from Julie Clowes & U.S. Small Business Administration

Website: https://www.sba.gov/

LinkedIn: @julie-clowes & @us-small-business-administration

Facebook & X (Twitter): @sba.gov

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts; we’d love to hear from you!

What does it take to transform higher education and create lasting change for underrepresented students? Dr. Keith Curry, President of Compton College and CEO of the Compton Community College District, shares his passion for equity, detailing how initiatives like Black Student Success Week and Senate Bill 1348 are redefining what it means to support Black and underrepresented students across academic and workforce landscapes. With his signature “Unapologetic Leadership,” he challenges educators, policymakers, and community partners to rethink traditional approaches and build systems that not only promote academic achievement but also pave the way for livable, rewarding careers. 

You’ll learn: 

• The importance of establishing a support system for Black and underrepresented students in higher education.

• How bipartisan initiatives like voter registration can help in driving positive change.

• Why it is crucial to establish partnerships between education and industry for providing equitable access to resources and opportunities for all students.

• The role of grant programs in supporting Black-serving institutions and enhancing student success.

• Key objectives of Senate Bill 1348 in transforming institutions to better serve Black students.

About the Guest:

Dr. Keith Curry is the President of Compton College and CEO of the Compton Community College District, overseeing all departments and serving as secretary for the Board of Trustees. Known for his energetic and innovative approach in higher education administration, he has led multiple ACCJC Visiting Teams as Accreditation Team Chair since 2017. In June 2020, he was invited by Governor Newsom’s Senior Policy Advisor for Higher Education to join the California Higher Education Recovery with Equity Task Force.

A champion for equity, Dr. Curry co-founded and chairs Black Student Success Week, and he leads national panels and advisory committees focused on Black student enrollment. He also contributes to the California Alliance for Open Education Steering Committee and the USC Racial Equity in Guided Pathways Commission Taskforce. Since 2021, he has served as a Distinguished Research Fellow/Adjunct Faculty at CSU Los Angeles Charter College of Education. Dr. Curry earned his doctorate in educational leadership from UC Irvine and his bachelor’s degree in American studies from UC Santa Cruz.

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More from Dr. Keith Curry & Compton College

Websites: https://iamkeithcurry.org/

https://www.compton.edu/index.aspx

LinkedIn:@keith-curry

X/Twitter, Instagram: @IamKeithCurry

Facebook: @comptonedu

X/Twitter & Instagram: @compton_college 

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

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What skills will students need to lead the charge for events like the LA28 Olympics and the FIFA World Cup? Monique Reaves, Chief Revenue Officer of the iconic Rose Bowl stadium and the first Latina in an executive role at the Rose Bowl Operating Company, discusses the importance of aligning educational programs with industry demands to prepare future leaders. She advocates for incorporating creativity, sustainability, and diversity into workforce development while emphasizing accessible, community-centered hiring practices. Through innovative collaborations, such as the Rose Bowl's partnership with AEG Golden Voice, Reaves illustrates how blending tradition with modern strategies can drive economic growth, elevate event management standards, and empower communities to meet the challenges of global events.

You’ll learn: 

• Why educators and institutions need to collaborate with industries for workforce needs.

• The role of workforce diversity in serving communities during significant events like the LA28 Olympics.

• What new requirements in event management educational programs should address.

• How the event management industry can balance tradition and innovation.

• Why it is crucial to emphasize diversity and inclusion in leadership roles for workforce development.

About the Guest:

Monique Reaves is the Chief Revenue Officer for the Rose Bowl Operating Company and is responsible for all concert and sporting event bookings. Leading the charge on revenue management and generation for Americas Stadium, she oversees and supports stadium sponsorship, premium seating, enterprise events, and tours sales departments. Most notably, she booked the Rose Bowl Stadium’s first sellout concert of two consecutive nights by a female artist of Latin-American descent, Karol G. She has been a part of the sports and entertainment industry since 2009, following a successful internship with America’s Stadium, where she has since received several national accolades for her risk-taking revenue ventures.

Before joining the Rose Bowl Stadium full-time, Monique held positions with American Golf and Lucky Strike Entertainment. 

Monique graduated from Long Beach State and resides in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, with her family.

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More from Monique Reaves & the Rose Bowl Stadium

Website: https://www.rosebowlstadium.com/

LinkedIn: @moniquemreaves & @rose-bowl-operating-company

Instagram, X/Twitter, & Facebook: @RoseBowlStadium

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts; we’d love to hear from you!

What will it take to prepare today’s students for leadership in a workforce that’s evolving faster than ever before? Jasmine Star, CEO of Social Curator, challenges educators and leaders at the Pasadena City College Future of Work Conference to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace a paradigm shift. She underlines the importance of equipping students with the skills, mindset, and adaptability needed to navigate rapid technological and cultural transformation. In a world where resilience, belief in one’s vision, and a willingness to embrace change are key, she highlights how the pursuit of success—and the sacrifices it demands—can inspire future generations to dream bigger and achieve more.

You’ll learn: 

• The key to preparing students isn’t academic achievement but teaching them how to adapt and lead with vision.

• What it means to empower students to borrow belief from those who guide them.

• Why embracing storytelling is essential for connecting across generations and building trust in the workplace.

• What role delayed gratification plays in shaping visionary leaders for the future.

• How teaching "how to human" skills revolutionizes workforce readiness.

About the Guest:

Jasmine Star, a world-class speaker, thought leader, podcast host, CEO, and entrepreneur, is dedicated to helping individuals reach their fullest potential. Beginning her entrepreneurial journey as an internationally recognized wedding photographer, she transitioned into a sought-after speaker and business strategist for creative entrepreneurs, spending nearly a decade empowering business owners worldwide to take risks and live boldly. She later founded Social Curator, a tech company offering a monthly subscription service that functions as a digital marketing agency, complete with an AI-powered social media manager providing customized marketing content. As a top podcast host and keynote speaker, Jasmine’s mission is to inspire professionals to transform how they approach their ambitions. Her approach focuses on helping individuals build the future they desire by recognizing and unlocking their own potential, no matter the obstacles in their path.

Engage with us:

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More from Jasmine Star & Social Curator

Website: https://www.socialcurator.com/

Listen: The Jasmine Star Show

LinkedIn: @jasmine-star

Instagram:@jasminestar

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts, we’d love to hear from you!

Pasadena City College (PCC) is enhancing its focus on aligning education with industry demands through partnerships, equity initiatives, and increased internship opportunities, particularly in the sports and entertainment sectors. Emphasizing sustainability and athlete mental health, these efforts aim to prepare students for emerging trends and address the challenges driven by the rapid growth of sports teams in Los Angeles. Educational programs are equipping students with specialized skills for non-traditional sports like surfing and cricket, while hundreds of internships are being developed to connect underrepresented populations with industry opportunities. In panel with Stephen Cheung, President & CEO of LAEDC and WTCLA, Liliana T. Pérez-​​Palacios, Senior Director of Cultural Affairs for the L.A. Chargers, Monique Reaves, Chief Revenue Officer of Rose Bowl Stadium, Matthew Cacciato, President and CEO of the LA Sports Council, and Dr. Salvatrice Cummo,Vice President of Economic and Workforce Development, you will discover insights into the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment industries in Los Angeles and the crucial skills needed to thrive in these competitive fields.

You’ll learn: 

• The importance of aligning education with industry demands.

• What skills are essential for success in the sports and entertainment industry.

• How career centers and professional development programs can benefit students.

• Why internships are crucial for career advancement in sports and entertainment.

• How education institutions can better prepare students for careers in sports entertainment.

Engage with us:

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More from Stephen Cheung, President & CEO of LAEDC and WTCLA

Website: https://laedc.org/

LinkedIn: @Stephen-Cheung

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X: @laedc

More from Liliana T. Pérez-​​Palacios, Senior Director of Cultural Affairs for the L.A. Chargers

Website: https://www.chargers.com/

LinkedIn: @liliana-t-perez-palacios

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube: @Chargers

More from Monique Reaves, Chief Revenue Officer of Rose Bowl Stadium

Website: https://www.rosebowlstadium.com/

LinkedIn:@moniquemreaves

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X: @RoseBowlStadium

More from Matthew Cacciato, President and CEO of the LA Sports Council

LinkedIn: @matthew-cacciato

Website: https://www.lasports.org/

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X: @lasportscouncil

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts, we’d love to hear from you!

How can today’s workforce be prepared to connect with a global audience while still nurturing real, local community ties? At Pasadena City College’s Future of Work Conference, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo’s conversation with Julie Uhrman, co-founder of Angel City FC, offers a fresh perspective on addressing this challenge. Angel City isn’t just changing the game for women’s sports; it’s showing how a team can create a global impact while staying true to its community-focused values. 

Julie’s take on this evolving landscape demonstrates the shift in what’s needed from professionals—storytelling skills, fostering genuine connections, and leading with equity. For students and future professionals, the path forward is clear: the future of work means blending local roots with a global vision and preparing for careers that are as inclusive and connected as the world they aim to serve.

You’ll learn: 

• How fostering local community ties can prepare the workforce for global engagement.

• Why inclusive leadership is a competitive advantage for building lasting audience connections.

• Real-world examples show how to balance local impact with global ambition.

• Which essential skills training programs we should focus on for global career readiness.

• Why values-driven organizations are key for future workforce development.

About the Guest:

Julie Uhrman is an American soccer executive and entrepreneur who is president of Angel City FC, a National Women's Soccer League team based in Los Angeles, California, that Uhrman also co-founded. She was previously an executive at Playboy Enterprises, Lionsgate Entertainment, IGN, and Vivendi Entertainment, and founded the former video game console company Ouya.

Engage with us:

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More from Julie Uhrman and Angel City FC: 

LinkedIn: @julieuhrman

Website: https://angelcity.com

Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter/X: @weareangelcity

LinkedIn: @angelcity

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts, we’d love to hear from you!

Connecting education and industry is vital for preparing students for real-world careers. Organizations such as UNITE LA bridge school-to-career pathways, focusing on equitable transitions for marginalized communities. Central to this is a strong commitment to equity and anti-racism, integrating these values into daily practices. Alysia Bell, President of UNITE LA, champions these efforts by promoting programs to combat racism, creating internal workgroups for race equity, and emphasizing collaboration, strong frameworks, and quality work-based learning. Technology and healthcare businesses are key partners with UNITE LA, contributing to industry-focused learning models that prepare students for high-demand careers. By working together toward inclusivity, we can build a more just society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and pursue fulfilling, successful careers.

You’ll learn: 

• How businesses can collaborate with institutions to tailor a curriculum that meets both student interests and industry needs.

• What strategies ensure seamless transitions from high school to college and into the workforce.

• How organizations can combat systemic racism.

• What approaches can be used to design industry-focused, work-based learning models that prepare students for high-quality careers.

About the Guest:

Alysia Bell serves as President of UNITE-LA, joining the organization in 2011. In her years with the organization, she has led national work in partnership with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). This partnership has raised more than $13 million, which resulted in sub-granting more than $700 thousand to chambers across the country. This led to promising practices in higher education attainment and graduated nearly 200 business organization leaders from the Fellowship for Education Attainment. Together, UNITE-LA and ACCE designed and engaged more than 600 chamber professionals in the Education and Talent Development Division, which UNITE-LA and ACCE co-launched in 2011.

Engage with us:

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More from Alysia Bell and UNITE LA: 

LinkedIn: @alysia-bell

Website: https://www.unitela.com/

Instagram & Twitter/X: @letsunitela 

LinkedIn: @unite-la

Facebook: @unitela1

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts, we’d love to hear from you!

The sports industry plays a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce, offering a range of opportunities for individuals with diverse skills. Matt Cacciato, President and CEO of the LA Sports Council, works to bridge the gap between sports and business in Southern California. With over 3,500 colleges featuring sports business curricula, there’s a growing emphasis on multidisciplinary education to meet industry demands, particularly in cities like Los Angeles, which is preparing to host major global events like the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics. By fostering partnerships with educational institutions and community stakeholders, Matthew aims to cultivate an inclusive and dynamic workforce, essential for the continued success and innovation within the sports ecosystem.

Don't miss the upcoming Future of Work Conference at Pasadena City College, where Matt will be a panelist. Join us on October 29 to explore how we can prepare our workforce for emerging industries and take advantage of global opportunities. Register here today to secure your spot and be part of shaping LA's future!

You’ll learn: 

• The role of the sports industry in preparing the future workforce.

• How Ready Set Gold promotes well-being in schools.

• How technological advancements enhance fan experiences and athlete training in the sports industry.

• Why partnerships with community stakeholders and educational institutions are crucial for developing talent in the sports industry.

About the Guest:

Before joining LA Sports Council, Matthew Cacciato served as the Executive Director for Ohio University College of Business’ AECOM Center for Sports Administration, and their renowned Master of Sports Administration graduate program. He also held the titles of Executive in Residence and Assistant Professor of Instruction. Prior to joining Ohio University, he spent 23 years in the cable sports television industry as a distribution executive for ESPN, Fox Cable Networks and the Yankees Entertainment & Sports Programming Network (YES Network).

Engage with us:

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More from Matthew Cacciato and LA Sports Council: 

LinkedIn: @matthew-cacciato

Website: https://www.lasports.org/

Instagram, Twitter/X, Facebook, LinkedIn: @lasportscouncil

YouTube: @losangelessportscouncil1862

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts, we’d love to hear from you!

Los Angeles thrives on unity, innovation, and collaboration for economic growth. In this episode, we explore the intersection of major global events and local economic growth with returning guest Stephen Cheung, President of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), and the World Trade Center Los Angeles (WTCLA). As LA prepares for the 2028 Olympics and other major events, Stephen shares his insights on how these opportunities can shape the region's workforce, infrastructure, and business landscape for years to come. Stephen highlights the need to align education with growth sectors like bioscience, space exploration, and sports/entertainment. He also discusses key infrastructure projects, technology’s role in the future economy, and the importance of regional unity for economic competitiveness.

Don't miss the upcoming Future of Work Conference at Pasadena City College, where Stephen will be moderating. Join us on October 29 to explore how we can prepare our workforce for emerging industries and take advantage of global opportunities. Register here today to secure your spot and be part of shaping LA's future!

You’ll learn: 

• What key growth sectors will shape LA’s future economy.

• How small businesses can leverage global events like the Olympics for long-term success.

• The critical role of infrastructure in supporting both immediate and long-term growth.

• How technology and innovation will drive the next wave of job creation in Los Angeles.

About the Guest:

Stephen Cheung is the President and CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) and the World Trade Center Los Angeles (WTCLA). He leads LAEDC’s efforts in areas such as business assistance, workforce development, international trade, and public policy, aiming to advance growth and prosperity across the region.

In 2023, Cheung became CEO after serving as COO and Executive VP. He continues as President of WTCLA, a role he’s held since 2014. Previously, he served under Mayors Eric Garcetti and Antonio Villaraigosa, managing international trade and foreign affairs, including major trade missions and clean technology initiatives. He also directed international trade for the Port of Los Angeles.

Cheung sits on several advisory boards, including UCLA’s Luskin School, Coro Southern California, and the LA County Workforce Development Board.

Engage with us:

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Visit: PCC EWD website

More from Stephen Cheung and LAEDC: 

Website: https://laedc.org/

LinkedIn: @Stephen-Cheung & @los-angeles-county-economic-development-corporation

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter: @laedc

Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: [email protected]

Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking 

Find the transcript of this episode here

Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts, we’d love to hear from you!