PinLeader Podcast

How can listening to your community lead to better decisions and stronger plans for the future? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Ms. Erika Buri, Executive Director of Outdoor Sylvania, to talk about the power of feedback and the role it plays in effective planning. Erika shares how community surveys can help organizations better understand needs, set priorities, and make informed decisions. They also discuss the important role parks play in creating healthy, connected communities.  This episode is sponsored by Hartmann-Bogan Financial Planning and the M&A Culture Building Institute.

What can leaders learn from an investigative reporter? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Mr. Jason Knowles, Emmy Award Winning Consumer Investigator for the ABC 7 Chicago I-Team, to talk about the importance of asking tough questions, following the facts, building trust, and communicating clearly under pressure. This episode is sponsored by Hartmann-Bogan Financial Planning and the M&A Culture Building Institute.

What happens when leadership is tested in front of the cameras? Host Dr. Shanda Gore welcomes back Ms. DeAnna Emborski for an exciting update on her journey since her first appearance on the show. From her recent experience as a featured charter guest on Bravo's Below Deck Down Under to her continued work as a speaker, actress, and advocate, DeAnna shares what she's learned about staying authentic, communicating under pressure, and leading with confidence when the spotlight is on. This episode is sponsored by Hartmann-Bogan Financial Planning and the M&A Culture Building Institute.

What can leaders learn from the metal recycling and trading industry? More than you might think. Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Mr. Patrick Richardson, a senior trader with Kripke Enterprises, about finding value where others may see waste. He shares how Kripke’s value of “doing what we say” shows up in daily decision-making, why strong relationships can create solutions and opportunities, and how recycling connects to larger conversations around sustainability, strategy, and leadership.   This episode is sponsored by Hartmann-Bogan Financial Planning and the M&A Culture Building Institute.

What does it really take to succeed in executive leadership? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Dr. Aparna Joshi, Professor of Management at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business and a top 2% world scientist according to Stratford University. Hear about the qualities that consistently appear among successful CEOs, why the path to executive leadership may differ for women and men, and how organizational culture shapes long-term success. This episode is sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

What can leaders learn from the game of golf? Golf requires patience, focus, strategy, emotional control, and the ability to recover from setbacks. These same qualities are essential for effective leadership.  Host Dr. Shanda Gore welcomes golf professional Nick Graf and his father, David Graf, a PGA Master, for a conversation about the power of golf and the lessons it teaches beyond the course.   This episode is sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

What does it mean to lead through service? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Ms. Candice Harrison, the new President of the Rotary Club of Toledo. From honoring Rotary’s long-standing legacy to building new momentum for the future, this conversation is a great reminder that leadership is not only about influence… It's also about service, purpose, and bringing people together to make a difference. This episode is sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.  

Many people believe they have a book in them, but knowing where to begin can be the hardest part. Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with PinLeader™ Press Publishing Associate Ms. Katie Gilliland, who is also the Owner of Finch & Fern Book Co.  Learn how authors can turn meaningful ideas, leadership lessons, and professional expertise into nonfiction books that can have an impact on leaders who need it. This episode is sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

What can the Great Lakes teach us about success? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Ms. Kate Fineske, Executive Director of the National Museum of the Great Lakes, to explore how the stories of Great Lakes captains, communities, and innovators continue to offer valuable insights for modern organizations. Hear how resilience, innovation, and recognizing the value of the assets around you can help leaders navigate today's challenges. This episode is sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

What can leaders learn from musicians? More than you might think. Recording musician and producer Mr. Peter Kharchenko joins host Dr. Shanda Gore to explore how improvisation, adaptability, and collaboration shape both music and leadership.   This episode is sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

What if your business card could talk? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Pharmacist and Entrepreneur, Ms. Kim Newlove, to explore how leaders can use podcasting to build credibility, expand their influence, and create meaningful connections. Ms. Newlove shares her six-step framework for creating a podcast that works as a strong extension of your personal brand. This episode sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

What happens when AI becomes more than a tool and starts acting like a digital assistant or even a member of your team? Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Mr. Marc Kramer, Serial Entrepreneur and Senior Lecturer of Entrepreneurship at VinUniversity about the rise of AI agents, the future of business, what workforce members need to do, and the leadership challenges organizations will face as artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into everyday operations. This episode sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

Have you ever faced a circumstance where you wished you were better prepared? Did you put off creating a plan thinking you were doing fine by addressing a situation only when it was right in front of you?  Do you react to circumstances by avoiding or adapting? Catch this short PinPoint Moment with host Dr. Shanda Gore as she provides the different levels of success for those individuals and organizations that plan for circumstances and those that do not. This episode sponsored by Mavillino Custom Homes and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.  

Scams targeting businesses are rising rapidly, and technology is changing the game. Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Mr. Lane Montz, President and CEO of the BBB of Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan to discuss the growing threats facing businesses today... from online fraud and social media scams to AI voice cloning and digital impersonation.   This episode is sponsored by Ambrosia’s Automotive and Shannon Roof: PSA & HSE: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Koehler Realty.

Are you building trust—or expecting it? Host Dr. Shanda Gore is joined by Steve Watkins, Reporter for Investor's Business Daily, to talk about the impact of trust in today’s workplace. Fresh off his latest article featuring Dr. Gore, this conversation goes deeper into how trust shapes culture, drives results, and defines leadership success. This episode is sponsored by Ambrosia’s Automotive and Shannon Roof: PSA & HSE: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Koehler Realty.

What does it take to build an award-winning business community? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Tiffany Bosch, President and CEO of the Sylvania Chamber of Commerce, to discuss how the chamber earned the 2025 Outstanding Chamber of the Year Award in Ohio. Hear about the evolving role of chambers of commerce and how they’re helping to build a thriving business community.   This episode is sponsored by Ambrosia’s Automotive and Shannon Roof: PSA & HSE: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Koehler Realty.

Purpose-driven leadership isn’t just about vision, it’s about impact. Host Dr. Shanda Gore speaks with Dr. Marvin Whitfield, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio, about how mentorship is helping shape future leaders and strengthen communities.  This episode is sponsored by Ambrosia’s Automotive and Shannon Roof: PSA & HSE: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Koehler Realty.

What does it take to lead one of the top museums in the country? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Dr. Adam Levine, the Edward Drummond and Florence Scott Libbey President, Director and CEO of the Toledo Museum of Art. He shares insights on leading a top-ranked institution, fostering culture building, and strategically preparing organizations for a rapidly evolving future.  This episode sponsored by Ambrosia's Automotive and Shannon Roof: PSA & HSE: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Koehler Realty.

What does it mean to be brilliant, busy, and blessed? Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Ms. Renata Jordan— retired military veteran, author, and actress in Tyler Perry’s, The Six Triple Eight. She shares how service, discipline, and purpose shaped her journey from the military to the screen.  This episode is sponsored by Ambrosia’s Automotive and Principal Real Estate Advisor and Agent Development Coach Shannon Roof.

Workplaces are changing– fast. In today’s PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore speaks with Ms. Heather Mallette, President of the Northwest Ohio Human Resources Association to break down how strategic HR is driving better culture, stronger teams, and more proactive leadership. This episode is sponsored by Ambrosia’s Automotive and Principal Real Estate Advisor and Agent Development Coach Shannon Roof.  

What does it take to lead through growth? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Jeff Jackson, President & CEO of WesBanco, to discuss how leaders can prepare for growth, maintain culture across teams, and stay aligned through change. They also explore the future of AI in financial services and key leadership lessons from the top.   This episode is sponsored by Ambrosia’s Automotive and Principal Real Estate Advisor and Agent Development Coach Shannon Roof.

What does it really take to perform at a high level—without burning out? Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with International Keynote Speaker, Author and Coach, Dr. Antonio Harrison, who shares how leaders can use behavior, clarity, and intentional action to drive performance, strengthen culture, and create lasting impact… without sacrificing well-being. This episode is sponsored by Ambrosia’s Automotive and Principal Real Estate Advisor and Agent Development Coach Shannon Roof.

Feeling overwhelmed at work? Is there too much on your plate? Maybe moving forward in business isn’t about adding more, but letting go. Host Dr. Shanda Gore discusses decluttering your business life with Ms. Amy Hall and Ms. Stayce Fowler, Co-Hosts of The Conversation and the Co-Founders of Sister to Sister. Hear how to recognize when habits, processes, or commitments need to change and how to release what no longer adds value. This episode sponsored by Principal Real Estate Advisor and Agent Development Coach Shannon Roof and State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis.

What drives performance beyond metrics and results? Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Anne Grady Services COO and Clinical Counselor Mr. Shyam Suchak about how everyday mental wellness, core beliefs, and self-regulation shape leadership effectiveness.  This episode sponsored by Principal Real Estate Advisor and Agent Development Coach Shannon Roof and State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis.

In this special episode of the PinLeader Podcast, Dr. Shanda Gore reflects on the one-year anniversary of her book, The PinLeader Path. Joined by her husband and Guest Host, MAYS advisor Mr. Bob Gore, the two will take a look back at her journey since the book’s release— sharing insights on meeting people who have read the book, having discussions at her book signings and what the message has meant for leaders.  This episode sponsored by Principal Real Estate Advisor and Agent Development Coach Shannon Roof and State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis

Mental health can directly impact performance, culture, and leadership. Host Dr. Shanda Gore speaks with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Andrea Mata about the growing mental health needs in our communities. She shares the patterns she’s seeing among young adults entering the workforce, what leaders often misunderstand about mental health versus performance issues, and the conversations many managers avoid — but need to have. This episode sponsored by Principal Real Estate Advisor and Agent Development Coach Shannon Roof and State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis

What does it take to pivot an organization without losing its purpose, or its people? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Ms. Jacqueline Johnson, the new Board Chair of the M&A Culture Building Institute, who shares the four pillars guiding their mission, the signals that sparked a strategic pivot, and the leadership lessons learned during transition. This episode sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers and State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis

Tax season doesn’t have to mean stress and surprises. Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with financial advisor Jason Harris* as he breaks down what proactive tax planning looks like, how small business owners can avoid common mistakes, and how to be “audit-ready.”    This episode sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers and State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis   *Equitable is the brand name of the retirement and protection subsidiaries of Equitable Holdings, Inc., including Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (Equitable Financial) (NY, NY); Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company of America (Equitable America), an AZ stock company with an administrative office located in Charlotte, NC; and Equitable Distributors, LLC. Equitable Advisors is the brand name of Equitable Advisors, LLC (member FINRA, SIPC) (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN). The obligations of Equitable Financial and Equitable America are backed solely by their claims-paying abilities. CA License #4293655

What does it take to lead with credibility when the public is always watching? Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Ms. Kristian Brown, Evening News Anchor at 13abc, as she reflects on more than two decades in broadcast journalism and the lessons that come from building trust over time. From adapting to constant change to navigating challenges, Ms. Brown shares what it means to stay grounded while working in the spotlight.  This episode sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers and State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis

What if where you start doesn’t get to decide on where you finish? Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Mr. Tom Seeman, author of the national bestselling memoir, Animals I Want To See. From growing up in the projects of Toledo to imagining a future beyond what was visible, this conversation explores how self-direction, values, and personal responsibility shape the way we influence others—and why the ability to imagine what’s possible matters at every stage of life. This episode sponsored by State Farm Agent Brian Davis and J. Foster Jewelers

What does it mean to bet on yourself? Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with musician and independent artist Mr. Thaddaeus Washington, who shares the defining moments that shaped his journey and the risks he took when success wasn’t guaranteed. He reflects on building meaningful work, and how lessons from jazz—like listening, adaptability, and trust—translate directly to leadership in music, business, and life.  This episode sponsored by State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

Leaders don’t just carry responsibilities—they carry messages. In Part 2 of Host Dr. Shanda Gore's interview, Olympic Gold Medalist Scott Hamilton challenges the internal and external voices that tell us who we can’t be, reminding leaders to question criticism, own their humanity, and stop carrying what was never theirs to begin with.  This episode sponsored by State Farm Insurance Agent Brian Davis and The MANE™ Intelligence Network

From Olympic ice to global impact— Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Olympic Champion Mr. Scott Hamilton to explore resilience, perspective, and leading through adversity. From Olympic pressure to his personal fight with cancer, Mr. Hamilton shares how setbacks—on and off the ice—became sources of clarity rather than defeat. This is Part 1 of our 2 part interview. This episode sponsored by Brian Davis - State Farm Insurance Agent and the MANE™ Intelligence Network 

What if one of the most powerful leadership skills isn’t doing more—but learning how to pause? Host Dr. Shanda Gore is joined by Ms. Isabella Weik, CEO of the Toledo Mindfulness Institute, for a conversation on mindfulness as a leadership practice. Hear how presence and intention shape effective leadership, and why mindfulness is a practical tool for navigating complexity, pressure, and decision-making. This episode sponsored by Brian Davis with State Farm Insurance and the MANE™ Intelligence Network.

You've got goals? Now what. Host Dr. Shanda Gore takes a PinPoint Moment to share statistics on goal setting, how utilizing reflection on those goals can make a difference, and what to do when you are feeling "stuck." Dr. Gore breaks down how timetables and why you want to be part of the 8% at the end of the year. Sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers.  Brought to you by ROAR Studio Productions

Cars are changing — and so is the way we take care of them. From hybrids and compact SUVs to drivers keeping their vehicles longer than ever, the auto industry is evolving fast. Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Mr. Ryan Ambrosia, President and Founder of Ambrosia's Automotive, about what’s driving these changes, how to extend the life of your vehicle, and why trust matters so much in automotive service. This episode sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers

The housing market is shifting fast. According to the Census Bureau, home ownership has dipped to around 65%, home prices are still rising, and inventory remains tight. Host Dr. Shanda Gore is joined by Ms. Shannon Roof, Realtor and Sales Manager, to unpack what these trends mean for today’s buyers and sellers. This episode sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers.

Today’s boardrooms demand more than ever. According to the 2025 Inside the Public Company Boardroom report, directors now spend 278 hours a year on board responsibilities, and over 70% expect that number to rise.  In today’s PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Mr. Pat Bowe—Chairman of the Board and former CEO of The Andersons—for a look Inside the Boardroom.  This episode sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers.

We often talk about preparing the workforce of tomorrow — but what does that look like in practice? Host Dr. Shanda Gore discusses The Business of Building Futures with guest Mr. Jim Pollock, President of Junior Achievement of Northwestern Ohio and Founder of JA’s 5th Year movement. Hear how JA empowers young people to build confidence, purpose, and real-world readiness.   This episode is sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers

Great leaders know that success starts with people. In today’s PinLeader™ Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore welcomes Ms. Kim Griffith, Senior EVP and Group Head of HR at WesBanco, to talk about the power of engagement and employee resource groups. She explains how human resources has evolved into a true leadership and strategy function.  This episode is sponsored by Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Jennifer Panczsyzyn and J. Foster Jewelers  

It’s a company that is staying ahead of the game in using AI safely, ethically, and effectively. During the recent Great Lakes AI Conference, Host Dr. Shanda Gore sat down with Mr. Vince DiPofi, CEO of SSOE to hear how he’s leading the company’s AI strategy through an intentional and integrated approach. Listen, like and subscribe: https://www.maysassociatesltd.com/roar-podcast  This episode is sponsored by Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Jennifer Panczyszyn and J. Foster Jewelers

Cybersecurity isn’t just about technology—it’s about leadership, awareness, and protecting people. During the recent Great Lakes AI Conference, Host Dr. Shanda Gore talked with Mr. Thomas Whang, Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Impelix, who shares how AI, automation, and proactive defense strategies are helping organizations stay secure in an evolving digital world.   This episode sponsored by Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Jennifer Panczsyzyn and J. Foster Jewelers

Students at The Maritime Academy of Toledo are learning to navigate more than academics—they’re charting their futures. In this episode of the PinLeader™ Podcast, Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Superintendent Dr. Misha Stredrick to discuss how the school is preparing students for college, careers, and beyond. This episode sponsored by J. Foster Jewelers and Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Jennifer Panczsyzyn.

Great leadership can chart a steady course—no matter the waters. Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Captain Josep M. “Chema” Ruyra, a Royal Caribbean leader who's story shows that leadership—like sailing—isn’t about control, but about guiding others through every wave with confidence and care. This episode sponsored by the MANE™ Intelligence Network

Leadership isn’t always cultivated in a boardroom—sometimes it’s grown in the garden or perfected in a backyard kitchen. Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Ms. Felicia Roberts-Dunston, founder of Sow and Reap Gardens, and Mr. William P. Dunston III, creator of Big Daddy’s Backyard Barbeque Sauce. This inspiring couple shares how faith, family, and purpose guide their approach to leadership, entrepreneurship, and community building.  This episode sponsored by the MANE Intelligence Network.

Finding your voice takes courage, collaboration, and authenticity. Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Multi Platinum, Multi Grammy Nominated Artist Ms. Tamara “Taj” George of the R&B group SWV. Ms. George reflects on how the lessons of music translate into purpose-driven work, teamwork, and legacy.   This episode sponsored by the MANE Intelligence Network.    

According to research by Salesforce, 89% of consumers are more likely to make another purchase after a positive customer service experience. So, what makes customer service truly shine? In this episode of the PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore sits down with Mr. Anthony Bruno, nationally renowned independent jeweler and President of J. Foster Jewelers, to explore how leadership, empathy, and trust turn everyday transactions into lifelong relationships.   This episode sponsored by The MANE Intelligence Network  

We’re celebrating a milestone: the 100th episode of the PinLeader™ Podcast! In this special edition, Dr. Shanda Gore is joined by the Mays and Associates team—Jini Jordan (Operations), Dianne Engler (Accounting) and Marie Dunn (Marketing) to share leadership insights on building sustainable success across every part of an organization.

AI is transforming industries, careers, and education. In today’s PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with two leading researchers and professors, Dr. Jake Lee and Dr. Cheryl Bracken from Bowling Green State University, to hear how their new AI + X bachelor’s degree is preparing students for the future.  This conversation comes as BGSU gets ready to host Great Lakes AI Week November 4-6 where Dr. Gore will be a presenter. She'll also be part of a panel of business leaders and the keynote speaker at Lourdes University on September 30 for an event titled, "Empowering the Future: AI, Ethics & New Leadership Landscape" This episode sponsored by Edward Jones Financial Advisor: Jennifer Panczsyzyn   

Success isn’t just about what you build—it’s about the foundation you build it on. In this episode of the PinLeader Podcast, Host Dr. Shanda Gore talks with Mr. Tim Mays and Mr. Matt Maxwell, owners and operators of Mavillino Custom Home Builders. They discuss how integrity, communication, and quality are the foundation of their business. Hear how they motivate their team, plan for the future, and adapt in an ever-changing housing market. This episode sponsored by Edward Jones Financial Advisor: Jennifer Panczsyzyn