Gamechangers Podcast with Sergio Tigera

In this episode of Gamechangers LIVE, Sergio Tigera sits down with Matthew Love, President & CEO of Nicklaus Children's Health System, to discuss what it takes to lead one of the nation's premier pediatric healthcare organizations.Matthew shares his journey from engineering student at Ohio State to healthcare executive, the lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy, and why caring for children is unlike any other profession.They also discuss the groundbreaking partnership between Nicklaus Children's Health System and Florida International University, leadership under pressure, organizational culture, burnout prevention, succession planning, and the future of pediatric healthcare in South Florida.Topics discussed include:• From engineer to healthcare CEO• Leadership lessons from failure• Overcoming imposter syndrome• Building high-performing organizational culture• Preventing burnout in healthcare• Why patience is a leadership superpower• The future of pediatric healthcare• The Nicklaus Children's + FIU partnership• Recruiting world-class physicians• Creating lasting impact through leadershipIf you're a business leader, healthcare executive, entrepreneur, educator, or simply passionate about leadership, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom.Guest:Matthew LovePresident & CEONicklaus Children's Health System

In this episode of the Gamechangers Podcast, we sit down with Willy Bermello, Principal and Founder of Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, one of the most influential planning and architecture firms shaping Miami and cities around the world.From master-planning major urban developments to helping define the future of downtown Miami, Willy shares the philosophy, strategy, and real-world challenges behind building cities that people actually want to live, work, and visit.If you care about urban development, leadership, infrastructure, or the future of cities, this conversation is a must-watch.🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The key principles behind successful city planningHow Miami evolved into a global destinationThe biggest challenges facing urban development todayWhat most cities get wrong about growthLeadership lessons from decades of shaping communities🎙️ About Gamechangers PodcastThe Gamechangers Podcast features leaders who are changing the game in their industries and making a lasting impact on thousands of people.This episode of the Gamechangers Podcast is proudly recorded at the FIU CARTA Podcast Studio—located within Florida International University’s College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts.FIU CARTA is at the forefront of shaping the next generation of creators, designers, communicators, and innovators—making it the perfect home for conversations that inspire impact and drive change.We’re grateful to partner with an institution that is not only educating future leaders, but actively contributing to the cultural and creative fabric of our community. Learn more at Carta.fiu.edu.

What happens when poverty, cancer, and entrepreneurship collide?Cristina Miller shares the mindset that helped her survive, take risks, and build a multi-division tech company.In this powerful episode of Gamechangers, Sergio Tigera sits down with Cristina Miller, CEO of Intermedia Touch, cancer survivor, and technology entrepreneur, to explore the moments that shaped her life and leadership.This episode was filmed in the Gamechangers home studio at Florida International University’s College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts (CARTA) — a hub for creative storytelling, innovation, and real-world impact in the heart of Miami. Learn more at https://carta.fiu.edu

In this episode of the Gamechangers Podcast, live from the College of Communications, Architecture+Arts at FIU (Carta.fiu.edu), Sergio Tigera sits down with Ana Maria Rodriguez, Chair of the Miami-Dade Legislative Delegation and Florida State Senator, for a powerful conversation on service, resilience, communication, and legacy.Born and raised in Miami-Dade County, Senator Rodriguez shares her unexpected journey from community service and healthcare advocacy to local government, the Florida House, and now the Florida Senate. She opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, blocking out the noise, and leading with purpose—even when the spotlight isn’t guaranteed.In this episode, we explore:Why service—not titles—is the foundation of authentic leadershipHow mentorship can completely change your life’s trajectoryThe importance of communication in public service and leadershipMental fortitude, resilience, and blocking out naysayersEnvironmental leadership in the Florida Keys, Everglades & Biscayne BayWorkforce housing, coral reef restoration & nature-based solutionsRaising future leaders through example, not positionHer personal leadership motto: “It’s nice to be important, but more important to be nice”

Can a smartphone app actually teach empathy and improve professional networking? In this episode, we dive into the results of a 30-day "Gamechangers" reflection program completed by an FIU Business MBA cohort. We analyze the data and raw feedback from students who spent a month tracking their "mini wins," practicing gratitude, and intentionally building connections.Join us as we explore how a daily habit of mindfulness shifted students from being purely "task-motivated" to seeing the positive in their daily grind. We discuss the challenges of maintaining consistency while juggling work and family, and reveal why 100% of participants said they would recommend this reflection-based program to their peers.

Inside the Fight to End Human Trafficking | Tyler Schwab of Libertas InternationalIn this powerful episode of Gamechangers Podcast, host Sergio Tigera sits down with Tyler Schwab, founder and CEO of Libertas International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to identifying victims of human trafficking, working with local law enforcement across Latin America, and helping survivors rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.From the streets of the Dominican Republic to courtrooms in the United States, Tyler shares the shocking realities of modern-day slavery—and the incredible stories of resilience and hope that keep him and his team fighting every day

In this episode of Gamechangers LIVE, host Sergio Tigera sits down with legendary bassist Rudy Sarzo — the Cuban-born musician who rose from humble beginnings in Havana to sharing the stage with Quiet Riot, Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake, and Dio.Rudy opens up about:• Growing up in Cuba and the cultural rhythms that shaped his sound.• His journey to the U.S. and the moment music turned his life “from black & white to living color.”• Life on tour with Ozzy Osbourne and the unforgettable Crazy Train era.• How faith and spirituality kept him grounded through fame, tragedy, and success.• Reflections on Quiet Riot, Randy Rhoads, and the lasting influence of rock icons.This is a must-watch for music fans, aspiring artists, and anyone inspired by resilience, faith, and the pursuit of greatness.

In this inspiring episode of Gamechangers LIVE, we sit down with Florida International University President Jeanette Nuñez—the first Latina and first female to lead FIU.A double Panther alumna and former Lieutenant Governor of Florida, President Nuñez shares her personal journey from humble beginnings to public service, and now, to leading one of the top-ranked public research universities in the U.S.We dive into:Her bold vision to make FIU a Top 30 public universityThe future of student success in the age of AI and automationBuilding meaningful alumni engagementThe game-changing partnership with Baptist HealthHer personal reflections on leadership, resilience, and familyWhether you're an FIU alum, student, or someone passionate about the future of education and leadership, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.9hIIE75IwVVPrcWnuUW1

What happens when a pastor secretly battles depression, suicidal thoughts, and silent pain — but emerges stronger than ever? In this deeply honest episode of Gamechangers LIVE, Pastor Matt Boyle of Sozo Church shares how his darkest season of depression became the very thing that refined him and shaped his life’s purpose.Hear Matt’s powerful testimony of fighting silent battles, crying himself to sleep, and wondering why he felt so alone — even while serving others. Learn how one honest conversation and a single word of hope completely shifted his life, delivering him from depression for good.In this inspiring conversation, you’ll discover:Why men (and women) struggle in silence — and how confession brings freedom.How social pressures and unrealistic expectations fuel anxiety and depression.Why your greatest wounds can become your greatest calling.How Sozo Church is creating a safe space for real conversations and real healing.Why your story isn’t over yet.If you’ve ever felt stuck in the darkness, this episode is for you. There is hope — and you are not alone.Watch, comment, and share this with someone who needs a reminder: Deliverance is possible. Your story can still change lives.

What does it really take to lead the third-largest school district in the country? 🏫 In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Gamechangers LIVE, host Sergio Tigera sits down with Superintendent Jose L. Dotres of Miami-Dade County Public Schools to talk about:🔹 His unexpected journey from American Express auditor to educator🔹 How personal mentors and students shaped his path🔹 The growing mental health needs in schools post-COVID🔹 Why trust is the #1 character trait for success🔹 His bold vision for industry-connected learning and co-education

In this powerful episode of Gamechangers LIVE, we sit down with Marty Baron, legendary former executive editor of The Washington Post and The Boston Globe. From greenlighting the Spotlight investigation that exposed systemic child abuse within the Catholic Church—depicted in the Oscar-winning film Spotlight—to publishing the NSA surveillance leaks from Edward Snowden, Baron shares what it truly means to speak truth to power.Topics Covered:The untold story behind the Spotlight investigationThe chilling risks and ethics of publishing Snowden’s leaksNavigating the Washington Post through Trump’s attacks on the free pressWhy “Democracy Dies in Darkness” isn’t just a sloganThe state of press freedom and democracy todayBehind the scenes of his book Collision of PowerMarty's Book: Collision of Power: Trump, Bezos, and The Washington Post — now available on Amazon.

Join Sergio on Gamechangers as he interviews Ana Veiga-Milton, a Cuban-American powerhouse who turned her immigrant roots into a Miami legacy. From a full scholarship at the University of Miami to leading the Jose Milton Foundation, Ana shares her inspiring journey in STEM, law, and philanthropy. Discover how she’s transforming South Florida through education, healthcare, and first responder support—and get her actionable advice for the next generation

Rita Case | Gamechangers Podcast Coming to you from Florida InternationalUniversity's College of Communications, Architecture + Arts in Miami,welcome to Gamechangers! In this conversation, Rita Case shares theinspiring journey of Rick Case and their impact on the automotiveindustry. From humble beginnings to becoming pioneers in marketingand brand expansion, they have introduced numerous car brands to theU.S. market. The discussion highlights their innovative strategies,risk-taking mentality, and the creation of the groundbreaking 10-yearwarranty that transformed Hyundai's reputation in America. In thisconversation, Rita Case shares her journey in the automotiveindustry, highlighting innovative strategies that revived herdealership's sales, her commitment to community service throughvarious philanthropic efforts, and her personal experiences as atrailblazer in a male-dominated field. She emphasizes the importanceof education and mentorship in transforming lives and discusses herdaily routine as a successful business leader. TAKEAWAYSRitaCase emphasizes the importance of community support in business. RickCase's entrepreneurial journey began with selling cars in highschool. Innovative marketing strategies were key to their success.They introduced several car brands to the U.S. market, includingAcura and Hyundai. Risk-taking is essential for growth and innovationin business. The 10-year warranty was a gamechanger for Hyundai'smarket presence. Rita and Rick Case's partnership was built on mutualambition and vision. They believed in the products they sold and thevalue they provided to customers.

In this inspiring episode of Gamechangers LIVE, from our home studio at Florida International University's College of Communications, Architecture + Arts, we sit down with Lily Lopez, the dynamic CEO and Founder of the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. 🇺🇸🇨🇺 Lily has dedicated her career to empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth within the community. She opens up about her journey, the challenges of leading as a minority woman in the business world, and her unwavering commitment to supporting Hispanic businesses and women in South Florida. Discover how Lily built a thriving organization that champions Hispanic voices, connects communities, and empowers women to break into corporate spaces. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, leadership, and making a lasting impact in the Hispanic community!

Get an inside look into one of the most notorious manhunts in history! In this episode, we sit down with two legendary Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents, Steve Murphy and Javier Peña, who played a critical role in capturing the infamous Colombian drug lord, Pablo Escobar. Hear their gripping stories from the frontlines as they reveal the challenges, dangers, and triumphs of bringing down one of the world's most wanted criminals. Don't miss these untold insights from the agents themselves—this is a conversation you won't forget!

In this inspiring episode of Gamechangers LIVE, host Sergio Tigera sits down with aviation trailblazer Barrington Irving—the first Black, first Jamaican, and youngest person to fly solo around the world! Barrington shares his incredible journey, from overcoming countless obstacles to achieving an aviation world record. His story of determination, grit, and vision will motivate you to pursue your boldest dreams, no matter the challenges. Topics Covered in This Episode: - The struggles and triumphs of Barrington Irving’s solo world flight. - How he broke through barriers in aviation as a Black and Jamaican pilot. - The importance of mentorship and community impact. - How you can take control of your own destiny, no matter where you start. About Barrington Irving: Barrington Irving made history at just 23 years old by becoming the first Black and youngest person ever to fly solo around the globe. Today, he continues to inspire the next generation through his nonprofit, Experience Aviation, and other educational programs aimed at exposing youth to STEM careers.

In this episode of Gamechangers, live from FIU's College of Communications, host Sergio Tigera sits down with Deena Piquion, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer at Xerox, to discuss her incredible journey from immigrant roots to leading a major brand's transformation. Learn how Deena overcame challenges, embraced change, and redefined success in the tech industry. Tune in for insights on leadership, resilience, and the future of Xerox. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

What does it take to build trust in AI? In this episode of Gamechangers LIVE, we sit down with Christopher Wright, the visionary behind the AI Trust Council. Learn about the critical role of trust in AI development, the council's mission, and how they're shaping the future of technology. Subscribe for more groundbreaking interviews!

In this gripping episode of "Gamechangers LIVE," host Sergio Tigera welcomes Cheryl Hunter, whose story of survival and transformation captivates and inspires. From a harrowing experience of being kidnapped and left for dead during her teenage years, Cheryl emerges not just as a survivor, but as a beacon of resilience. Now a best-selling author, renowned speaker, and media personality, she shares the lessons learned from turning profound adversity into a source of strength. Cheryl's journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome and to help others rise from their lowest points. Discover how Cheryl uses her experiences to help established experts become world-renowned by leveraging the power of major media, and learn the invaluable insights she has gained about forgiveness, healing, and the impact of sharing one's story. This episode is not just a narrative of survival; it's a blueprint for transforming trauma into a platform for change.

Revolutionizing Travel with AI: Inside Guide Geek's Journey | Gamechangers LIVE with Ross Borden

In this episode, our host Sergio sits down with Dr. Anthony Cruz, the dynamic President of Miami Dade College's Kendall Campus. 🎓 Dive into Dr. Cruz's fascinating journey from a young student to leading one of the largest college campuses in the U.S. 🚀 Discover how his commitment to education 📚, focus on student success 👨‍🎓👩‍🎓, and belief in the power of mentorship 👥 have made him a true gamechanger in the field of education. From discussing the evolution of higher education to sharing personal insights and leadership philosophies, this episode is a goldmine for anyone passionate about making a positive impact in their community and the lives of others.

In this compelling episode of Gamechangers LIVE, we sit down with State Representative Vicki Lopez for a candid and inspiring conversation. From overcoming adversity to serving the community, Vicki shares her remarkable journey, including the vacating of her Honest Services Conviction. Join us from our studio at FIU CARTA as we explore her path to redemption, her dedication to public service, and the lessons we can all learn from her experiences. Don't miss this engaging discussion with a true Gamechanger!

In this riveting installment, we dive deep into the realm of civic and philanthropic innovation with none other than Pat Morris, the esteemed Director of Civic & Philanthropic Partnerships at the Miami-Dade County Office of the Mayor. Join us as we uncover the dynamic conversation that transpired during this insightful interview. Pat Morris brings his wealth of experience and expertise to the forefront, sharing remarkable insights into fostering partnerships that ignite positive change within our communities. Discover how civic engagement and philanthropy intertwine to create a powerful force for transformation. Unveil the strategies behind successful collaborations between local governments and philanthropic entities. Gain exclusive insights into the initiatives driving real impact in Miami-Dade County and beyond. From innovative projects revitalizing public spaces to the heartwarming stories of lives touched by these endeavors, this episode promises to leave you inspired and empowered to make a difference in your own community. Tune in now to immerse yourself in this compelling dialogue that has the potential to reshape the way we approach civic progress and philanthropic endeavors. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of the change!

Join us for a captivating episode of Gamechangers LIVE, where we host an inspiring conversation with David Lawrence, founder of The Children's Movement of Florida and former publisher of The Miami Herald. In this thought-provoking discussion, we delve into the urgent need to prioritize children's well-being and education in our communities. David Lawrence shares his remarkable journey, highlighting the pivotal moments that led him to create The Children's Movement of Florida—an influential organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and opportunities of every child in the state. Discover how David's experience as a publisher shaped his perspective and fueled his passion for effecting change. Throughout this episode, we explore the challenges and solutions facing children today, from early childhood development to equitable access to education. David Lawrence provides invaluable insights into the power of community involvement and grassroots efforts in creating lasting positive change for children.

Bob Pittman is Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia, Inc., the number one audio company in America. With over a quarter billion monthly listeners, iHeartMedia has a greater reach than any other media company in the US. The company’s leadership position in audio extends across multiple platforms, including 850 live broadcast stations, its iHeartRadio digital radio service, influencers, social, branded live music events, and podcasts as the #1 commercial podcast publisher. Bob is the co-founder and programmer who led the team that created MTV. He has led some well-known transformations in television, music, real estate, internet and audio as CEO of MTV Networks, AOL Networks, Six Flags Theme Parks, Quantum Media, Century 21 Real Estate and Time Warner Enterprises and as COO of America Online, Inc. and later AOL Time Warner. He has also been inducted into both the Advertising Hall of Fame and the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame; He received AdWeek’s first ‘Media Visionary’ award, was named one of Advertising Age's "50 Pioneers and Visionaries of TV" and "10 Marketers Who Changed American Culture”; He was also recognized as one of Life Magazine’s “Five Original Thinkers of the 80s” as well as the eighth of Life Magazine’s “50 Most Influential Boomers.” Can you tell us about your childhood and how it influenced your career path? What was the biggest challenge you faced in launching MTV, and how did you overcome it? How did you come up with the idea for iHeart Media, and what was your vision for the company? What has been the most rewarding experience of your career so far? Can you share a story about a time when you faced failure, and how you bounced back from it? How have you managed to stay relevant and adapt to changing media landscapes over the years? What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are just starting out? How do you balance your personal life with the demands of your career? What legacy do you hope to leave behind with your work in media and entertainment? What are your future plans for iHeart Media, and how do you see the company evolving in the coming years? What are the most important lessons you've learned in your career, and how have they shaped your leadership style? Can you talk about a particular project or initiative that you're particularly proud of? How do you stay motivated and inspired to keep pushing boundaries and pursuing new ideas? Can you tell us about a time when you had to make a tough decision, and how you approached it? What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the media industry today, and how can they be addressed?

Constance Jones Constance Jones is a two-time Emmy® nominated journalist and anchor on NBC6! She has worked in several television markets, including New York City, Miami, Oklahoma City and Atlanta. She returned home to Miami, where she previously spent nine years as an anchor and reporter at local station WPLG-TV, and also worked at WLRN National Public Radio in South Florida. Jones also worked with veteran news journalist Dan Rather at the CBS Evening News. She’s been honored by the National Academy of Television Arts and Science, received an award from the Texas Associated Press for her reporting work, and multiple awards and recognitions from several regional chapters of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) for Excellence in News Reporting. She was also featured as Miami's “Top 40 under 40 Leaders of Tomorrow” in Legacy Magazine and she’s a proud member of the National Association of Black Journalists and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Rob is Chairman and Chief Owner of McEwen Mining, which has three producing mines in Nevada, Ontario, and Argentina and holds 68% interest in the large Los Azules copper project in Argentina. Rob has been associated with the gold industry all his career, his first 18 years in the investment industry and since 1990 as CEO of several gold mining companies. Rob is the founder of Goldcorp, where he took the company from a market capitalization of $50 million to over $8 billion. He owns 17% of McEwen Mining (MUX), 15% of McEwen Copper and takes a salary of $1/ year. The cost of his investment in MUX and McEwen Copper is US$220 million. Rob and his wife, Cheryl, have donated over $60 million to encourage excellence and innovation in healthcare and education. Rob was awarded the Order of Canada in 2007, the Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee Award in 2013, was inducted into the Mining Hall of Fame in 2017 and has Honorary Doctor of Law Degrees from York University and Western University. He is also a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board, Schulich School of Business; X Prize Foundation: Vision Circle and Board of Trustees; a member of CEO (Chief Executive Organization) and of WPO (World Presidents’ Organization) and serves on the Advisory Board of the McEwen School of Architecture.

Alejandra Estefanìa is a LATINX Visual Artist born in Guayaquil, Ecuador. She is based out of Miami, FL. Alejandra is best known for the layers of depth within her work, her versatility, and for always reinforcing the power of the people. Her Art is a blend between abstract and realism with a dream-like execution. In 2017, Bacardi initiated a partnership with Alejandra to support her mission as an Artist and Visionary. Throughout the years, they engaged in the community with mural projects & Female Led Art initiatives. In 2019, she received the "Artist of the Year" award from the largest Latin Art Festival in the Country, Carnaval Miami.  In 2020, she began her partnership with Nike to develop a Mural for Super Bowl LIV and collaborated with their "Get Out to Vote" campaign. In 2022, she curated and designed The Grand Entrance Murals for the Miami Heat and FTX Arena. She has collaborated with other respected brands such as Forbes, NBC, Salvation Army and many others. Alejandra Estefanìa is a Creative Trailblazer who redefines the meaning of Artistry. She is known as "The Robinhood" of the art world for the way she continues to maintain her mission and focus on the people.

David Jemmett, CEO and founder of CISO Global Inc. (NASDAQ: CISO) joins  Sergio Tigera on Gamechangers LIVE® to discuss the massive cyber security  war taking place right now, and how you and your company can protect  themselves. Coming to you live from our FIU-CARTA Studio in beautiful Miami,  FL. Carta.fiu.edu. Be sure to like and subscribe for more game changing videos.  David has more than 35 years of executive management and technology  experience with telecommunications, managed services, and cybersecurity  consulting services. He previously held positions as CEO of GenResults, a  leading provider of security consulting services and technology solutions, and as  CTO and founder at ClearData Networks, a HIPAA-compliant HealthDATA cloud  hosting platform. CISO Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: CISO) is an industry leader in  cybersecurity and compliance services. The company leverages an integrated  approach to reduce noise and bridge common silos that often limit the  effectiveness of cybersecurity programs. Pulling disparate technologies, teams,  and vendors together, CISO helps its clients enjoy a simpler and more successful  journey to cyber resilience.David Jemmett, CEO and founder of CISO Global Inc. (NASDAQ: CISO) joins Sergio Tigera on Gamechangers LIVE® to discuss the massive cyber security war taking place right now, and how you and your company can protect themselves. Coming to you live from our FIU-CARTA Studio in beautiful Miami, FL. Carta.fiu.edu. Be sure to like and subscribe for more game changing videos. David has more than 35 years of executive management and technology experience with telecommunications, managed services, and cybersecurity consulting services. He previously held positions as CEO of GenResults, a leading provider of security consulting services and technology solutions, and as CTO and founder at ClearData Networks, a HIPAA-compliant HealthDATA cloud hosting platform. CISO Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: CISO) is an industry leader in cybersecurity and compliance services. The company leverages an integrated approach to reduce noise and bridge common silos that often limit the effectiveness of cybersecurity programs. Pulling disparate technologies, teams, and vendors together, CISO helps its clients enjoy a simpler and more successful journey to cyber resilience.

Mayor Francis Suarez joins Sergio Tigera on Gamechangers LIVE® to discuss his "X-Factor" for success, the importance of family, and the future of Miami, from our FIU Studio at CARTA.  Francis is the 43rd Mayor of Miami, and is the President of the US Conference of Mayors for the 2022-2023 term.  He is the first Miami-born mayor, he is committed to building a Miami that lasts forever and that welcomes everyone. First elected with a mandate of 86 percent and then re-elected with a mandate of nearly 79 percent, Mayor Suarez has championed the integration of climate adaptive policies, Web 3.0 technology, and a free-market approach to government. SUBSCRIBE To Gamechangers LIVE® and hit the bell icon to make sure you don't miss an episode!  Sergio Tigera is a dynamic leader, Speaker and Executive Coach with over twenty years of domestic and international business leadership experience. He is currently CEO of Progress Partners Consulting, a firm specializing in optimizing individual and team performance. He is the founder of the Peak Performance Method™ training, is Host of Gamechangers LIVE® Podcast, the Caterpillar Inc. Power Podcast and is a speaker on Celebrity Cruise Lines. 

Dean Brian Schriner joins me on Gamechangers LIVE® from our home studio at FIU's College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts! Brian is an accomplished educator, administrator, fundraiser, strategic thinker, and change maker with a 34-year proven track record of collaboration and success in higher education. He was appointed Dean of the FIU College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts (CARTA) in 2009 and also serves as the university’s Cultural Arts Liaison for the Office of the Provost, which includes collaborating with the University’s three accredited museums: The Wolfsonian-FIU, FIU Phillip and Patricia Frost Art Museum, and the FIU Jewish Museum of Florida. In support of his vision of “access to excellence,” Brian has strategically enhanced CARTA’s student enrollment, faculty and staff, career-ready degree offerings, reputation and brand awareness, financial base, signature partnerships, and physical footprint — all in support of the diverse communities the college serves. Sergio Tigera is a dynamic leader, Speaker and Executive Coach with over twenty years of domestic and international business leadership experience. He is currently CEO of Progress Partners Consulting, a firm specializing in optimizing individual and team performance. He is the founder of the Peak Performance Method™ training, is Host of Gamechangers LIVE® Podcast, the Caterpillar Inc. Power Podcast and is a speaker on Celebrity Cruise Lines. Gamechangers is filmed at Florida International University's College of Communications, Architecture + Arts (#CARTA) in Miami, FL. The show was edited by Lenny Nelson. Reach out to me and let's connect if you would like to discuss how to take yourself and your team’s performance to the next level!

Internationally-renowned artist, David Drebin, joins me on Gamechangers LIVE®!  A graduate of Parsons School of Design in NYC, David Drebin is a multidisciplinary artist working in various art forms producing limited edition works including Photographs, Lightboxes, Neon Light Installations, Diamond Dust works and more. Following his first solo exhibition at Camera Work in Berlin in 2005 and the release of his first comprehensive illustrated book “Love and Other Stories” in 2007, Drebin experienced a stream of worldwide representation by some of the finest galleries globally. Drebin's artworks also known as “Drebins” are unique and instantly recognizable as his own. His artistic style is often described as epic, dramatic and, above all, cinematic. Drebin has released seven books with teNeues publishing including "The Morning After", Beautiful Disasters", "Chasing Paradise", "Dreamscapes", "Love and Lights", "Before They Were Famous" and most recently released "Collectors Edition" an oversized limited edition monograph created as a gift to the collectors of his works around the world. His work combines voyeuristic and psychological viewpoints in a unique manner, offering the viewer a dramatic insight into emotions and experiences which many of us have doubtlessly felt at some point in our lives.

Alex Mijares has established himself as one of South Florida’s most vibrant artistic talents. Miami-born and internationally acclaimed artist Alexander Mijares brings a colorful perspective and injects new life into the art world with his myriad of vibrant works. A self-taught artist, Mijares finds inspiration in the dynamic energy of both his city of Miami and his Cuban and Spanish roots, and creates pieces that are rich in culture. His vision has been recognized both nationally and internationally by some of the most discerning art collectors across the globe. Forbes and Elite Daily named Mijares One of the Top 10 Most Influential Artists on separate lists.

Starting his career in real estate in 2011, flipping homes found at auctions, Pasha has since been involved in over $250 million in transactions across multiple asset types. These include residential homes, boutique motels, the purchasing and management of large multifamily properties, and working with housing programs in vulnerable communities. In early 2021, Pasha founded Evoke Capital with the primary objective of helping others achieve financial freedom through real estate investing. His lifelong philosophy is what drives Evoke Capital to excellence – People First. Treating each investment as his own and each tenant as family, Pasha has developed Evoke Capital within 13 months to include a portfolio of over 950 units. Throughout Pasha’s successful professional ventures, the unfolding of his dream focuses on his value of sustainable community development. This goal in building low-income housing is to provide much more than a roof overhead. The future includes an NGO where all the Evoke properties provide nurturing and interconnected community for his residents. The plans are for valuable educational resources within finance, nutrition, and emotional intelligence. Pasha is committed to building an environment that empowers and encourages its residents to grow, achieve and thrive.  With over ten years of experience and a commitment to growth, it is no question that Pasha and Evoke Capital are just at the beginning of their real estate journey

On Gamechangers LIVE®, from FIU's College of Communications Studio, Sergio Tigera features GrowPod partners, Shannon Illingworth and Doug Heldoorn, who have created modular, stackable and mobile vertical growing environments with their sealed and fully insulated food-grade shipping containers. Inside a Grow Pod, the air and water are filtered, and since it is a sealed environment, there is little chance for contamination and they're specifically engineered to maximize yield and automation.

Raymond Adderley joins me on Gamechangers LIVE, from the studio at Florida International University's College of Communications, Architecture, & the Arts!  Raymond is an 18-year old who ran for Broward County's School Board, and although he didn't win it, he is a very impressive young man that has a tremendously promising career ahead of him. I had the opportunity to get to know him and his story in this episode.  Thanks to Lenny Nelson for editing this episode. Below is his Thank You to supporters from his campaign: "Although Broward voters did not send me to the School Board, I’m not stopping my fight for our community. Seventeen months ago, I filed to run for Broward County School Board, against all odds. I was sixteen years old and a junior in high school. So many people told me no, but despite it all, I answered the call to serve my community. I am so grateful that so many Broward voters put their faith in me to represent them. I ran for School Board because I watched my father be shot in front of me in Miramar, when I was six years old. I learned in that moment what it was like to be voiceless. Throughout the campaign, I have fought to bring a voice to the voiceless. This has always been about our community and our movement to make necessary and long overdue change. I am not going anywhere. I will always be your fighter and your voice. The past few days have proven that we need more accountability and transparency. I will continue to fight for exactly that. We must work together, as a community, to ensure that all voices are being heard. This campaign sent shockwaves across the country on what young people are ready to do. My message to young people across the country is this: don’t take no for an answer. Keep on fighting. I will be with you every step of the way. Although this race comes to an end for me, I would not have made it this far without the help of this amazing community that I grew up in, my team, my friends, and my family. Thank you to anyone that believed in me, voted for me, or simply showed your support. I am forever grateful."

Ignacio launched his career as an Audit Manager at the “Big Four” firm Deloitte & Touche, where he helped make a positive impact for clients such as Direct TV, Perry Ellis, Florida Power & Light, Elizabeth Arden, Baptist Health System and the Miami Dolphins. After leaving Deloitte & Touche, he worked at MasterCard as the Director of Accounting for the Latin America Region. Upon making the leap into the hospitality industry, Ignacio worked at Shula’s Steak Houses for five years as Vice President of Finance and was instrumental to the company’s sustained financial success. From 2011 to 2014, he joined 50 Eggs Restaurant Group as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, where he managed all business functions of the 400-employee company, including negotiating and closing the $24-million sale of its Lime Fresh Mexican Grill division to Ruby Tuesday. He also negotiated development deals with the Sands Corp and assisted in the development and operation of James Beard Award semi-finalists Yardbird Southern Table & Bar and Khong River House, among others. In 2014, he joined Grove Bay Hospitality Group as Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer. In just a few years, Grove Bay Hospitality Group has experienced tremendous growth and success while receiving numerous awards along the way. In 2018, Restaurant Hospitality Magazine named Grove Bay Hospitality Group as one of the Top 25 Innovative Multi-concept Restaurant Groups in the United States, it was listed by Entrepreneur Magazine at #250 for the Best Entrepreneurial Companies in America and was awarded the 2018 Business of the Year by the South Florida Business Journal. In addition, Ignacio has been recognized in the community by the South Florida Business Journal Magazine as one of its “Top Movers and Shakers” and in 2018, he was recognized by Ernst & Young as an Entrepreneur of the Year Florida Awards finalist. This award recognizes entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellent and extraordinary success in areas such as financial performance, innovation and commitment to their businesses and communities. In 2020, Ignacio was recognized as one of the most influential restaurant CEO’s in the country by Nation’s Restaurant News. A true reflection of a career both diverse and successful at every milestone. Ignacio holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Florida, a Master of Accounting from Florida International University, and a Certificate of Foodservice Management from Cornell University. He also serves as Board Member – Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association.

W. Allen Morris Chairman & CEO Author: The Allen Morris Company  All in: How To Risk Everything For Everything That Matters Since taking the helm of the Allen Morris Company in 1980 at the age of 28, Allen Morris has propelled the real estate firm his father established in 1958 to create over 85 successful developments focusing selectively on best-in-class multi-family residential, office buildings, hotels, and mixed-used projects in unique locations with unparalleled amenities. He is the president or manager of over 100 real estate-related companies or partnerships.  Allen’s career spans more than 45 years in real estate development, brokerage & property management.  He has received numerous professional distinctions including the 2016 Miami-Dade County Chairman of the Year Apogee Award from South Florida Business & Wealth Magazine; 2017 Power Leader in Real Estate by the South Florida Business Journal; and 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. On the personal side, Allen is a Commercial-Rated Jet Pilot, 4th Degree Black Belt Tae Kwon Do Master and scuba diver. He is married to June Morris with 4 adult children, 2 step-daughters and 3 grandchildren. All in: How To Risk Everything For Everything That Matters 04/22/2022 Main Points • ALL IN is a freedom guide to help you discover and connect to your true calling. • The book helps readers achieve their personal and professional goals, while reconnecting with their joy--to truly enjoy the ride! • In the book, the keys to unlock greater personal growth and freedom are revealed. • Our inner life determines how successful we become. This book shares how to discover that inner life and align it so that every area of life can be maximized. Sub points: Go a bit deeper and personal • As a high-profile business leader and businessman, W. Allen Morris almost lost everything. Only after implementing the techniques that he teaches in the book did he truly thrive. • He realized that he needed to develop his inner real estate with the same passion with which he attacked his commercial real estate developments! • W. Allen Morris is passionate about inspiring real estate developments. What set him free was when he realized he needed to develop his “Inner Real Estate” with the same passion.

Ann Hand serves as CEO and Chairman of Super League Gaming {Nasdaq: SLGG}. She brings to her current role over 25 years of experience as a market-facing executive across several industries, including consumer retail and sustainability. Throughout her career, Ann has been honored with multiple awards and industry recognition, including “100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs” by Goldman Sachs, “Top 10 Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs” by Fortune, “100 Most Creative People” by Fast Company, “40 under 40” by Advertising Age, along with Grand Clios and Cannes Lions for integrated marketing campaigns she developed and executed.  Ms. Hand earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from DePauw University, an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management, and completed executive education at Cambridge, Harvard and Stanford Universities. 

Gale Nelson was born in Lincoln, Nebraska and grew up in Toledo, Ohio where he began his pursuit of personal and professional success. Gale has worked his way up the ladder the hard way—always confident, determined and focused on his goals and building strong personal relationships. Gale earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Corporate Finance from the University of Toledo (Toledo, OH) and his Master of Science in Management and Administration of Educational Programs from Nova Southeastern University (Davie, FL).  Gale has earned eight doctoral hours in Non-Profit Leadership at Colorado Technical University (Colorado Springs, CO). Gale’s professional career includes over 27 years of non-profit management and leadership experience. Currently, he is the President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, and since joining the team in July 2006, he has played a significant role in the growth and development of the agency’s mentoring and fund development programs. Prior to joining Big Brothers Big Sisters, he served as Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer at a moderate risk residential school for court adjudicated boys for twelve years. Gale is a highly effective public speaker and the consummate strategist who provides solution-focused leadership. He also serves as the Minister and one of the elders at the Miami Gardens church of Christ. His faith and his family continue to keep him grounded in helping youth and families.

Richard Blanco (born February 15, 1968) is an American poet, public speaker, author and civil engineer. He is the fifth poet to read at a United States presidential inauguration, having read the poem "One Today" for Barack Obama's second inauguration. He is the first immigrant, the first Latino, the first openly gay person and at the time the youngest person to be the U.S. inaugural poet, and he is also the first ever poet Laurette of Miami Dade County. FIU - graduate

Eric Galen joins us in the Gamechangers studio at FlU's College of Communications, Architecture + Arts in Miami, FL! Eric Galen has been representing top founders, brands, startups, and creators for more than 20 years. Mr. Galen leads Greenspoon Marder's Innovation & Technology Group, where he leverages his unique background of corporate, Web3, media, and entertainment law to help clients succeed. Eric also serves as a member of the firm’s Entertainment & Sports and Corporate & Business practice groups. Mr. Galen’s diverse clients and collaborators have included: - Companies such as Intel, Microsoft, Doodles, E11even Crypto, Fullscreen, Route, Calm, GameSquare Esports, OPI, Jaunt VR, Baccarat, Blo Dry Bar, Awesomeness TV, Tik Tok, Imagine Entertainment, Milk & Honey, Audiomack, and Haute Living; - Investors like Fuel Venture Capital, Raised in Space, and Muse Capital; Talent such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Johnny Depp, Will.i.am, Perry Farrell, Gina Carano, Dennis Rodman, Mayor Francis Suarez, The Picasso Estate, Mike Dean, David Copperfield, and Norman Seeff; and - Executives at companies like Conde Nast, WME, Faze Clan, BeautyCon, Techstars, Raised in Space, and more.

Lee Schrager is one of the nation’s preeminent event planners and media relations experts and serves as the Senior Vice President, Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility at Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits.  He is is widely recognized for his creation of the Food Network & Cooking Channel, South Beach and New York City, Wine & Food Festivals presented by Capital One.  Central to his business philosophy is the notion of giving back to the community. Both food festivals have raised more than $30 million and $13.5 million respectively.  Lee studied at the Culinary Institute of America and at the School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University. He is a regular contributor for Ocean Drive magazine, serves on the Board of Trustees for the Pérez Art Museum Miami and Board of Directors for Food Bank For New York City, as well as a judge for Forbes’ annual 30 Under 30 list and Celebrated Living’s annual Platinum List Awards.

Katie Barnett is a mom of three, and built a team of over 1300 and a 6 figure business all online. In 2021 she resigned and started over with a new company growing even larger than before in a year. She is currently an influencer, coach, top leader, and regular podcast guest talking about mindset, leveling up, and growth.

Anoop Bhatia Founder and CEO of Nowigence, Inc.  Annop worked in General Electric (GE) where he played a key role in establishing the first wholly owned subsidiary ‘GE Silicones India Private Limited” in India for GE in 1996. Thereafter, he was transferred to The Netherlands as part of the globalization strategy of GE to grow its markets in EMEA through M&A and organic growth. He has worked at the intersection of technology and business processes in most roles, and developed a powerful network with pioneering technologist. 

Danny Rodriguez is the Cofounder and President of BLUE Missions, a non-profit organization that connects rural communities to clean water and sanitation while inspiring a generation of global citizens through service-driven travel. After traveling to the Dominican Republic to work on a water project as a 16 year-old student at CCHS, Danny felt a calling to do more to address the global water crisis. During is his time at FIU, where he obtained a BBA specializing in Finance and International Business, Danny co-founded BLUE Missions in 2010, which has provided clean water and sanitation to over 30,000 people across 130 rural communities throughout Latin America. Over 2,500 high school and college students have traveled with BLUE Missions to assist in the construction of these projects opening their eyes to great needs that exist on our planet and helping them realize the power they have to change the world. Since its inception, BLUE Missions has raised over $6,000,000 to advance their mission of ending the global water and sanitation crisis in our lifetime.  

Five-time Emmy Award-winning newscaster Calvin Hughes anchors WPLG-Local 10's 4, 5, 6 and 11 p.m. newscasts. For 16 years, Calvin, has informed viewers about the major stories in South Florida. including around-the-clock coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 Surfside condo collapse, the worst high school shooting in American history in Parkland, Florida, the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2017,  and his world exclusive interview with First Lady of Haiti weeks after being shot during the assassination of her husband, President Jovenel Moise.  He spent days in Havana, Cuba reporting live on the last two popes to visit Cuba including Pope Francis’ historic trip to three cities in Cuba and President Obama’s historic visit and was also the first American journalist to broadcast live from the grounds of the new American Embassy in Havana several hours before the official flag-raising ceremony and opening.  In November of the following year, Calvin led members of the Local 10 News team across Cuba, for eleven days, to report on the death of former Cuban leader Fidel Castro.  He was voted Miami’s Best TV News Anchor by the Miami New Times.  Calvin is a member of several charitable organizations including the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project Mentor, vice-president of Angels for Humanity, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami. 

Dan has over 30 years of experience in the power systems and energy industries and has held a variety of leadership positions during his career. In addition to his role at Ideal Power, Dan served as President and CEO of FuelCell Energy Inc., a Nasdaq-listed company with a market cap of over $250 million.  He served as the Chief Operating Officer of Petra Solar as well as Gas Turbine Product Manager, for GE's Power Systems Division, a world leader in power generation systems and products.  Sergio Tigera is a dynamic leader, Speaker and Executive Coach with over twenty years of domestic and international business leadership experience. He is currently CEO of Progress Partners Consulting, a firm specializing in optimizing individual and team performance. He is the founder of the Peak Performance Method™ training, is Host of Gamechangers LIVE® Podcast, the Caterpillar Inc. Power Podcast and is a speaker on Celebrity Cruise Lines. 

Founded Aerial in 2009 at the age of 21 with the mission of elevating people and places. Britnie has since formed multiple companies under the Aerial brand, all accelerating the mission by empowering people, sustaining the planet and utilizing capitalism as a force for good. G-FORCE Mastermind is an exclusive community of entrepreneurs who have dedicated their lives, businesses, and resources to being a force for good in the world.  Britnie Faith-Turner Humanitarian

Madeline Pumariega is the first female president appointed to lead one of the nation’s largest educational institutions, Miami Dade College (MDC). Adding to the historic nature of this appointment is the fact that Pumariega is an alumna of MDC.  A Trailblazer In Academia Her love for academics and service excellence began as a student at MDC and continued during her 20 years of service at the College in positions of ascending responsibility, culminating in her role as Wolfson Campus president. Prior to becoming MDC’s president, Pumariega was appointed the first female and Hispanic chancellor of the Florida College System (FCS). During her tenure, several of the FCS’s 28 colleges –– which serve 800,000 students –– rose in the rankings of U.S. News & World Report as well as by other national measures. Florida was also named No. 1 in higher education by U.S. News. In 2019, Pumariega became the executive vice president and provost of Tallahassee Community College, where her innovative approaches advanced the College’s three core divisions: academic affairs, student affairs and workforce development. Pumariega helped lead the school during the unprecedented response to the COVID-19 pandemic and pivoted the college’s infrastructure to support virtual classroom instruction and student-teacher interaction. She also serves as affiliate professor of leadership at the NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. A Champion for Youth  Serving the community outside of higher education, she was also previously the executive director of Take Stock in Children, a statewide nonprofit focused on breaking the cycle of poverty by helping students complete their high school education and advance into post-secondary education and careers. It was here that Pumariega pursued her passion for ensuring that students have a pathway toward upward economic mobility through educational opportunities. A Catalyst For Transformation In her new role as MDC president, Pumariega has championed a new strategic plan for the College developed with input from more than 1,000 stakeholders. The plan focuses on five key priorities: reimagining for student success; accelerating academic excellence and innovation; valuing a culture of care to advance student outcomes; fueling the talent needs of a global economy; and securing the future of the College. She has now engaged hundreds of leaders and volunteers around these five key priorities, and this transformational work is well on its way at MDC.  Pumariega has also prioritized working with business partners to identify the skills needed by key industries and tailoring higher education programs to match those needs. This intentional forming of strategic alliances and job pathways between companies and MDC students accelerates each graduate’s ability to enter the workforce immediately. Driving her relentless pursuit is the passion to develop leaders and build thriving communities. Pumariega clearly recognizes higher education’s role in transforming lives and communities, and is designing her presidency at MDC to position the College to deliver on its mission in a post-pandemic, technology-enabled world.