How can educational approaches better serve children with developmental needs? 

Sharon Lowery shares her journey from ABA therapist to founding Smart Start Developmental Learning Center, a full-inclusion school pioneering relationship-based education. She traces her evolution from strict behavioral methods to embracing DIR Floortime's developmental approach under Dr. Stanley Greenspan's mentorship. 

The conversation explores Smart Start's comprehensive model integrating occupational therapy, speech services, and individualized support. Sharon discusses how following children's interests creates therapeutic windows and the importance of understanding sensory integration. She emphasizes the benefits of full inclusion for both neurotypical and neurodivergent children, fostering natural acceptance and peer support. 

The discussion concludes with Sharon's ongoing advocacy for children's services and her vision for a future where neurodivergent individuals are seen as opportunities rather than problems.

Mentors who shaped who shaped Sharon Lowry's professional approach:

• Dr. Stanley Greenspan - Psychiatrist who developed DIR Floortime methodology, mentored Sharon directly in relationship-based interventions

• Dr. Ivar Lovaas - Early mentor at UCLA and founder of ABA therapy, though Sharon later moved away from his methods

• Her mother - Special education teacher who instilled deep respect for the field and passion for working with children

• Her father - LA Times reporter and author of "The Kid Business," influenced her perspective on the commercialization of children's services

• Jean Ayres - Creator of sensory integration therapy, whose work informed Smart Start's therapeutic approach

• Early students and families - Taught her about individual needs and developmental progress, shaping program evolution

  
  

References:

Website: https://smartstartschool.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smart-start-learning-center

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Following the Child's Lead: Sharon Lowery's Educational Revolution

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can organizations effectively support and empower individuals with vision loss? 

Dina Rosenbaum shares her 40-year journey at the Carroll Center for the Blind, from launching their computer training program to becoming Chief Program Officer. She traces the organization's evolution from its 1936 founding as the Catholic Guild for the Blind to today's comprehensive vision rehabilitation center. 

The conversation explores the Carroll Center's innovative approach to independence, including residential programs, technology training, youth education, and job placement services. Dina discusses how vision loss affects multiple aspects of life and the importance of emotional support alongside practical skills training. She emphasizes the organization's success in helping blind individuals return to work, challenging common misconceptions about employment limitations. 

As an industry veteran, Dina offers insights on emerging technologies like AI and adaptive devices while maintaining the importance of foundational skills like cane use. The discussion concludes with her perspective on work-life balance in nonprofits and the influence of her Holocaust survivor parents on her leadership approach.

Mentors who shaped Dina's career and leadership approach:

• Rachel Rosenbaum (former Carroll Center president) - Recognized Dina's potential despite limited blindness experience, mentored her leadership development, taught her to value soft skills

• Her parents (Holocaust survivors) - Mother demonstrated continued compassion and giving despite trauma, father taught inclusivity and strong work ethic

• MIT Professor - Early career mentor who introduced her to adaptive technology research and encouraged her pursuit of educational technology

• Early Carroll Center students - Taught her about blindness experience and needs while developing the computer training program

• Father Thomas Carroll (organization founder) - Though not a direct mentor, his innovative approach and philosophy continues to influence the organization's work

Don't miss this inspiring discussion with a dedicated leader who's helped thousands of visually impaired individuals achieve independence and success.

References:

Website: https://carroll.org/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CarrollCenter4Blind

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarrollCenter

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Family Values to Professional Purpose: Dina Rosenbaum's Leadership in Vision Services

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can finance leaders drive profitability while building collaborative teams? 

Robert Benn shares his journey to becoming the CFO of STG Auto Group, where he transforms businesses through innovative compensation structures and data-driven decision-making.

The conversation explores his unique approach to compensation plans that encourage teamwork over competition. Robert details how aligning incentives across departments led one dealership from losing $500,000 to generating $600,000 in profits within six months.

Robert candidly discusses personal tragedy, including losing his software company and two children in rapid succession. He shares how these experiences shaped his perspective on business priorities and work-life balance.

Key mentors that shaped Robert's approach:

• His wife providing strength through personal challenges

• Tony, STG's owner, partnering on analytical decisions

• Early career mentors teaching financial analytics

• Industry leaders demonstrating effective management

References:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 860-869-1141

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Auto Industry CFO Robert Ben on Team Building, Data Analytics, and Innovative Compensation Structures

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can educators reimagine out-of-school learning while supporting student engagement? 

Daniel Santangelo shares his journey from after-school program worker to Director of Extended Day programs, where he's transforming how schools approach before and after-school education.

The conversation explores innovative approaches to student engagement, emphasizing project-based learning and community involvement. Daniel details how his experience across public, private, and charter schools shaped his understanding of education's challenges and opportunities.

Daniel candidly discusses education system challenges, from teacher compensation to standardized testing. He shares insights on addressing learning loss from COVID-19 and the importance of adapting educational approaches for today's digital generation.

As an education expert, Daniel offers insights on evolving teaching methods and technology integration, including AI's role in education. The discussion concludes with his perspective on the growing importance of out-of-school programs and community engagement.

Key mentors that shaped Daniel's approach:

• His first college education professor demonstrating creative engagement

• Ken Robinson's theories on education reform

• His experience across different school systems

• Early career mentors in after-school programs

Don't miss this engaging discussion with an education innovator who's reimagining how schools can better serve students beyond traditional classroom hours.

References:

Email: [email protected] (consulting)

Email: [email protected] (school district)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielsantangelo/

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Reimagining Out-of-School Learning: A Conversation with Daniel Santangelo

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can business leaders transition into early childhood education while making meaningful impact? 

Sanjay Gehani shares his journey from semiconductor executive to CFO of Building Kids Worldwide, where he's helping touch the lives of one million children through innovative early education programs.

The conversation explores Building Kids' unique approach to early education, emphasizing performing arts and experiential learning. Sanjay details how visiting 50 preschools helped him understand market gaps and opportunities before partnering with industry veteran Vanita Bhandari.

Sanjay candidly discusses his transition from competitive athletics and corporate success to public service and education. He shares how losing his sports identity early in life shaped his understanding of being present and defining oneself beyond achievements.

As an industry leader, Sanjay offers insights on childcare accessibility and quality education. The discussion concludes with his perspective on national childcare policy and the importance of early childhood development.

Key mentors that shaped Sanjay's approach:

• Vanita Bhandari providing industry expertise and vision

• Dave Tokich offering career guidance during corporate challenges

• His parents supporting his various transitions

• His political mentors during public service

Don't miss this engaging discussion with a leader who's combining business acumen with social impact while redefining success beyond achievements.

References:

Website - buildingkidz.com

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjaygehani1

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | From Silicon Valley to Early Education: Sanjay Gahani's Journey of Impact

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can small businesses navigate HR complexities while staying compliant? 

Mindy Flanigan shares her journey from corporate HR to CIO of Inspiring HR, providing simplified human resources solutions for small businesses. After having her first child, she transformed her career path to create a business model focused on making HR accessible and understandable.

The conversation explores Inspiring HR's approach to demystifying human resources, including their unique same-day response guarantee and focus on plain-language communication. Mindy details how her background in payroll and PEO services shaped her understanding of small business needs and compliance challenges.

Mindy candidly discusses common HR misconceptions, from FLSA compliance to employee handbook effectiveness. She shares how her mission to "uncomplicate" human resources has helped small businesses build better workplace cultures while avoiding costly mistakes.

As an industry expert, Mindy offers insights on evolving workplace dynamics, including generational shifts and changing employee expectations. The discussion concludes with her perspective on the future of HR and the importance of inclusive, strategic approaches to talent management.

Key mentors that shaped Mindy's approach:

• John Pierce, her first HR director who saw potential and provided early guidance

• Wanda Spruill, her accounting mentor who encouraged broad business expertise

• Her early PEO experience teaching comprehensive business understanding

• Her clients who helped shape Inspiring HR's service model

Don't miss this engaging discussion with an HR innovator who's making workplace compliance and culture accessible for small businesses.

References:

Website: https://inspiringhr.com/

Phone: 804-715-1920

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inspiring-hr-llc?trk=biz-companies-cyf

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InspiringHR

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfXjK_tW16n9K__lw9VeZaA

Radio shows: Mike King Business Radio Show (Richmond ESPN Radio)

The VCU Women's Basketball Coaches Show with Mike and Mindy

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Uncomplicating HR: Making Workplace Compliance Accessible with Mindy Flanigan

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can staffing leaders create compassionate businesses while driving sustainable growth? Jolene Tate shares her journey from facing personal bankruptcy during the 2008 financial crisis to building a multi-state staffing enterprise focused on second chances and employee development.

The conversation explores HQ Direct's comprehensive approach to staffing, emphasizing personal connections and support services over purely tech-driven solutions. Jolene details how her psychology background influenced her commitment to helping underserved workers, including those transitioning from incarceration and halfway houses.

Jolene candidly discusses navigating personal challenges, from bankruptcy to balancing family life with business expansion. She shares how competitive skydiving became an unexpected source of stress relief and team-building insights during difficult periods.

As an industry veteran, Jolene offers insights on current market conditions, including the skilled trades shortage and impact of AI on staffing. The discussion concludes with her perspective on maintaining human connections in an increasingly automated industry.

Mentors that shaped Jolene's approach:

• Her Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) forum providing crucial support through challenges

• Her therapy experience teaching stress management techniques

• Her skydiving coaches developing focus and visualization skills

• Her employees demonstrating the power of second chances

Don't miss this engaging discussion with a staffing leader who's built a successful enterprise while prioritizing community impact and employee development.

References:

Website:https://hqdirect.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolenedressel

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Building a People-First Staffing Business: A Journey Through Challenge and Growth with Jolene Tate

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can tech executives successfully transition into early childhood education while maintaining innovation?

Sima Shah shares her journey from Silicon Valley tech leader to owning multiple Primrose Schools. After struggling to find quality childcare for her own daughter, Sima discovered Primrose Schools and their balanced learning philosophy, eventually becoming one of their first California franchisees.

The conversation explores Primrose's unique approach to early education, blending multiple teaching philosophies to create engaging learning environments. Sima details how her tech background enabled innovative solutions during COVID-19, including rapid deployment of online learning programs that became a model for other centers.

Sima candidly discusses the challenges of transitioning from tech to childcare, including learning to manage large teams and understanding the unique aspects of early childhood education. She shares how her engineering mindset helped analyze and solve industry challenges like high staff turnover and retention.

As an industry advocate, Sima offers insights on navigating changing market conditions, including the impact of universal pre-K/Transitional Kindergarten on private providers. The discussion concludes with her perspective on mixed delivery programs and the future of early childhood education in California.

Mentors that shaped Sima's approach:

• Her initial Primrose experience in Colorado showed her what quality early education looks like

• Her HR and education team help implement innovative staff development programs

• The Early Care and Education Consortium (ECEC) providing advocacy guidance

• Her staff who helped pioneer online learning during COVID-19

Don't miss this engaging discussion with a tech executive turned education innovator who's building quality childcare centers while advocating for industry improvement.

References:

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | From Tech to Teaching: How Sima Shah is Transforming Early Education in Silicon Valley

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can early childhood educators create high-quality learning environments while supporting diverse student needs?

Adrienne Anzelmo shares her journey from college student to founding Be Curious Children's Learning Center, now a leading early education facility in Billerica, Massachusetts. Adrienne traces her path from working at her first preschool to developing Be Curious's innovative approach to early childhood education focused on purposeful play and social-emotional development.

The conversation explores Be Curious's comprehensive approach to early education, including age-appropriate curriculum development, social skills building, and creating rich learning environments. Adrienne emphasizes the importance of focusing on emotional intelligence and conflict resolution alongside academic preparation.

Adrienne candidly discusses the personal challenges she faced when her second child began identifying as female at 18 months old, including navigating healthcare, social acceptance, and family dynamics. She shares how she supported her daughter through gender transition while running a growing business, ultimately writing children's books to help other families facing similar journeys.

As an industry veteran, Adrienne offers insights on adapting to changing conditions, including the impact of COVID-19 on early childhood development and the ongoing challenges of teacher compensation and retention. The discussion concludes with Adrienne's perspective on the future of early education and her upcoming children's books focused on neurodiversity and celebrating educators.

Mentors that shaped Adrienne's approach:

• Her mother, who partnered with her to launch and run the business

• Her older sister, who provided wisdom about continuous growth and improvement

• Her younger sister, who serves as a healthcare consultant

• The team at Boston Children's Hospital gender unit, who provided crucial support and guidance

Don't miss this engaging discussion with an early education pioneer who's built a successful center while advocating for both quality childcare and gender-diverse youth.

References:

• Facebook: Adrienne Keith Anzelmo

• Be Curious Children's Learning Center on Facebook

• Books: "No Matter What" available on Amazon

• Upcoming: "The Curious Adventures of Mrs. Beasley" (2024) and "Brendan's Box" (2025)

  
  

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | From Purposeful Play to Personal Growth with Adrienne Anzelmo

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

How can staffing firms evolve while staying true to their mission?

James Hornick shares his journey from struggling tech sales rep to staffing industry leader at HireWell.

The conversation explores HireWell's expansion into custom recruiting solutions across executive, tech, marketing, sales, finance, HR, and operations roles. James emphasizes the importance of actively selling candidates and providing great experiences in modern recruiting. The discussion highlights how staffing must evolve through AI to enable better training, matching, and management.

James candidly discusses navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the impact of economic trends on hiring. He shares how HireWell's business has rebounded since May 2023 as companies resume growth plans. As an industry veteran, James offers insights into the future of recruiting, predicting a significant shift driven by artificial intelligence.

Mentors who shaped James's approach:

• David Epstein's book "Range" on the importance of being a generalist

  
  

References:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameshornick

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jameshornick

HireWell Blog: https://talentinsights.hirewell.com/

"10-Minute Talent Rant" Podcast: https://talentinsights.hirewell.com/

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Mastering the Art of Matching: HireWell's Custom Recruiting Approach with James Hornick

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA