Discovering Your Professional Identity (featuring Jonathan Segers)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Jonathan Segers, a higher education professional at Washington University in St. Louis, whom I met through NACE. We discuss his career journey from financial services and K–12 education to talent development in higher education, and the lessons he learned along the way. We talk about the importance of knowing your values, building social capital through networking, and learning how to pivot in a changing job market. This episode is a great conversation for anyone working to better understand their professional identity and career...
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Be Well, Black Man! A Conversation on Health, Belonging, and Equity
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by my fraternity brother and friend, Dr. Okey Enyia, to discuss his book The John Henry Health Equity Playbook, a roadmap for advancing health equity for Black men through health, economic stability, and civic engagement. We talk about the importance of fatherhood, the role of belonging in well-being, and how policies directly impact our lives and our communities. This is a powerful conversation about awareness, responsibility, and building a healthier future. Shout Outs and Plugs Dr. Okey Enyia's Books: Dr. Okey Enyia's LinkedIn: If you have...
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Leading an Alumni Chapter Board (pt. 1)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Dr. Michelle Ryan, President of the College of Science Alumni Chapter at George Mason University. We discuss her Mason journey, what servant leadership looks like in alumni spaces, and the experiences that have shaped her approach to leading an alumni chapter board. As the current President of the College of Education and Human Development Alumni Chapter, I found this conversation especially insightful as I continue learning what it means to serve and engage alumni communities. This is the first of what I hope will be several conversations...
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Themes & Goals: Living 2026 with Purpose (featuring Keyah Frazier)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode, I am joined by my colleague, Keyah Frazier, for a deep dive into the art of goal setting and vision planning. We explore the power of incorporating new ideas—like setting a "theme" for the year—to maintain long-term motivation. We also compare their individual goal-setting styles, highlighting that there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to personal growth. Whether you are a rigid planner or a fluid dreamer, this conversation is all about discovering the unique systems that work best for you. Shout Outs and Plugs Keyah LinkedIn: If you have a question for the...
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Beyond the Board: Using Games to Build Leadership and Connection (featuring Chris Barrows)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Chris Barrows, host of the Why I Social podcast and co-creator of Traveling Boards. This organization uses board games as tools for leadership development, team building, and education. We dive into Chris’s passion for gaming and explore how board games can go far beyond being just a hobby—they can strengthen communication, foster collaboration, and inspire personal and professional growth. This conversation is a reminder that play isn’t just for fun—it’s a powerful way to learn, lead, and connect with others. Shout Outs and Plugs...
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Local Leadership, Lasting Impact (featuring Dan Helmer)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode, I’m joined by local politician Dan Helmer, who represents Virginia’s 10th District in southern Fairfax County. I first met Dan when he visited my son’s Boy Scout troop, and I’ve seen firsthand how dedicated he is to serving the Northern Virginia community. In this conversation, we explore his journey into public service, the realities of working in local government, and his practical advice for everyday people who want to get involved and make a difference. This episode serves as a powerful reminder that civic engagement begins locally and that anyone can play a role...
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Behind the Words: The World of Ghostwriting (featuring Jeff Raderstrong)
Positive Philter Podcast
In Episode 385 of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Jeff Raderstrong, a professional ghostwriter who has helped CEOs, political leaders, and community activists bring their stories to life. Jeff shares his journey into ghostwriting, what it means to be part of the creative process while remaining behind the scenes, and valuable advice for aspiring ghostwriters. This episode pulls back the curtain on a unique career path that blends storytelling, collaboration, and purpose. Shout Outs and Plugs Jeff's Website: Jeff's LinkedIn Profile: If you have a question for the podcast call 571-336-6560...
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Dreams, Shadows, and Service: A Trailblazing Journey in Education (featuring Dr. Emma Violand Sanchez)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I sit down with Dr. Emma Violand-Sanchez, a fellow Mount Vernon High School alum, immigrant, and first-generation scholar. Her journey—from arriving in the U.S. as a teenager with limited English to becoming the first Latina to chair a Virginia school board and founding The Dream Project—is nothing short of inspiring. Dr. Violand-Sanchez’s story highlights resilience, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to immigrant and refugee communities. This conversation was so impactful that a follow-up episode may be on the horizon. Don’t miss it! Shout Outs...
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Higher Education Then and Now (featuring Dr. Nolan Cabrera)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Dr. Nolan Cabrera for a powerful conversation about the history of higher education and its impact on today’s academic landscape. We explore how colleges and universities were not originally built with people of color in mind, and what that means for equity, access, and hiring today. Dr. Cabrera also sheds light on the current climate of higher education, including how political policies shape diversity, inclusion, and the future of learning. This episode is a thought-provoking look at where we’ve been, where we are, and where...
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From Music to Finance: A Journey of Reinvention (featuring Dr. Linh Trinh An)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by a fellow George Mason University alum to discuss her inspiring journey from Vietnam to the U.S., her academic path in music, and her unexpected career shift into finance. We explore themes of resilience, adaptability, and staying open to new opportunities—even when they lead in a completely different direction than planned. Shout Outs and Plugs Dr. Linh Trinh An's LinkedIn: GMU Dewberry School of Music Website: GMU Dewberry School of Music Facebook Page: GMU Dewberry School of Music Instagram: If you have a question for the podcast...
info_outlineIn this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Rose Pascarell, Vice President for University Life at George Mason University. We discuss the essential role of student affairs in creating a holistic college experience, her career journey rooted in service, and the need for adaptability in the ever-changing world of higher education. A must-listen for anyone in or exploring a career in higher ed!
Shout Outs and Plugs
Rose's LinkedIn Profile:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rose-pascarell-8444455a/
George Mason University Life Website:
GMU University Life Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/masonulife/
If you have a question for the podcast call 571-336-6560 or leave a question via this Google Form.
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Intro music provided by DJ BIGyoks. Check out his Instagram and Soundcloud channel can be found here:
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Outro music provided by Ryan Rosemond. Check out his Soundcloud channel here: https://soundcloud.com/brothersrosemond/albums
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Jeff’s Anti-Hunger Fund
The Positive Philter Podcast is dedicated to Jeff Kirsch. A long-time supporter of the show and a major influence on this show's growth. Please support the careers of future advocates by donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy. This fund was named after Jeff Kirsch for his decades of service in fighting hunger and inequality. Link to fund: https://frac.org/kirschfund
Pats for Patriots
If you are a member of the #MasonNation, please consider sending a Pats for Patriots. Pats for Patriots are a free and easy way to thank, recognize, show appreciation for a Mason colleague or student who has taken the time to do something kind, generous or thoughtful towards others. For more information, visit: https://forms.office.com/r/HRZGvhdJEA
We have received more than 2,000 nominations from the Mason community so far. Keep those nominations coming in!