The Scope

Dr. Jennifer Wesely is a Criminology Professor at the University of North Florida where she focuses on at-risk populations of women and girls, family violence and canine rehabilitation to just name a few.  Her research lends a voice to the marginalized populations of women including sex workers, homeless women and women ex-offenders.  In today’s episode, in particular, we look at topics discussed in her book, “Being Female: The Continuum of Sexualization” and how the impacts of sexualizing girls effect their identities as they grow up.

Cynthia Blackwell, Life & Business Strategist, joins Mike again to talk about how to get what you want - EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. It's all about perspective.

We talk to Cho Hwang, Astrologist and founder of the Astro Forecast, to learn all about birth charts, love language and the myths behind astrology.

On this week's episode, the Scope takes on Super Bowl LV with special guest, Brian Pink, personal injury attorney with the Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys, Co-Host of ‘On the Bench with Bubba and Pink’ sports podcast and basketball coach.  On the eve of Super Bowl LV, Mike talks to Brian about the incredible records that will be set with this game.  They also take a look at the significant role coaches plays in the lives of their athletes and how sports positively impacts and creates a strong foundation for youth.   

We have with us THE POWERHOUSE of motivation, Cynthia Blackwell - business and life strategist, author, trainer and speaker.  Cynthia is passionate about helping her clients live the life they love and deserve by customizing their coaching experience.  In this episode, Mike and Cynthia talk about personalities and how knowing our personalities help us in our professional and personal interactions.  Using the DISC personality test, Cynthia walks us through what it means and how to use it in real time.  Part 2 coming in February.  

For many of us, we have fond childhood memories of the zoo - it's a place where imagination and wildlife create endless possibilities.  In our conversation with Dino Ferri, CEO of the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, we look at the zoo's future, the impact of 2020, conservation efforts and the over 350 wonderful animals and fun attractions available to explore at the zoo. 

Mike and Darryl tackle the idea of New Years Resolutions - can we keep them? what is the secret?  Darryl Woods is an international motivational speaker, author, and CEO of Start Smart Life which helps recent graduates to aspire and live their dreams.  Darryl uses his life experiences, his energy, humor and contagiously positive attitude to pull others up and help them reach success.  Darryl offers tangible and practical ways we can consistently keep our goals, whether we call them goals or New Years Resolutions.

We were humbled to have award winning author, Owl Goingback, join us to explore his career a children's book and horror/thriller author. But this would not be a Halloween special if we didn't speak about ghosts and goblins. Owl Goingback does not disappoint with tales of hauntings and spirits in our own backyard of Florida.

Let's set the stage - we talk to Dr. Jennifer Wesely aka "Professor Jennifer", criminology professor at UNF, to discuss the myths and realities of domestic violence.  In the first part of our conversation, Dr. Wesely is explaining the myths behind who an abuser might be and why.   We have a special appearance by American Ghost Adventure Tours to learn about hauntings and ghosts in our own backyard in downtown Orlando.

We take a deep dive into childhood development, the importance and the need to finally be considered an essential service.  In our conversation with Diana Palen, we also discuss the struggles families are having with education and the pandemic.  

If you or someone you love needs help, visit Project Opioid.  

Darryl Woods is a renowned International Motivational Speaker, CEO of Start Smart Life, author and corporate educator.  Darryl's mission through Start Smart Life is to "inform, inspire and empower" college students and young adults to achieve their goals and dreams.  Listening to this episode will not only motivate you to START what you want in life but it will expose you to Darryl's dynamic ability to blend humor and truths to create a path toward our own successes.  Still want more? Check out Darryl's Instagram page @darrylwoodsjr for truth bombs and ah ha moments.

Fund the First is the ONLY verified crowdfunding platform to support First Responders, Military and Medical Professional utilizing ID.me to eliminate fraud and ensure that the money raised goes directly to the person in need.  It's an inspiring conversation with Robert Garland, where we learn how Fund the First came to be and why it's such an important tool.  If you'd like to help or are in need of help, please visit Fund the First at www.fundthefirst.com

Visit Change for the Community to learn more about this amazing organization.  

Elizabeth Bourassa is a *Licensed Agent with New York Life Insurance Company. Registered Representative of NYLIFE Securities, member FINRA/SIPC, a Licensed Insurance Agency. NYLIFE Securities LLC is a New York Life Company. 495 N. Keller Road Suite 150 Maitland, FL 32751

ICEBAR Orlando famous for the 70 tons of ice carved ice fuses together a full service restaurant and nightclub.  Thom Kerr, owner, brings with him passion and dedication to create a world class space.  

We dive into Dr. Wesely's journey as a Criminology Professor at the University of North Florida and her research in Canine-Inmate rehabilitation.

"Zoey's Adventures to the Ice Cream Shop" debuts September 6th and we are so excited to have entrepreneur and children's book author, Ilene Lieber, Passion PR Communications Consulting, join us to give insight into her expertise in branding & marketing and her exciting new children's book!

We had the pleasure to sit down with Mike Scott, a leader and change-maker.   Mike is the Executive Director of 'Helping All Youth Achieve' also known as HAYA in Orlando, Florida.  An incredible 501c3 nonprofit focusing on all youth to help them reach success.  

David James Poissant is the author of the story collection The Heaven of Animals, winner of the GLCA New Writers Award and a Florida Book Award.  These short stories have appeared in the American Scholar, Atlantic Monthly, New York Times, Chicago Tribune to name a few.  David Poissant’s debut novel, Lake Life, hit bookshelves on July 7th.  He teaches in the Master of Fine Arts program at UCF and lives in Orlando with his family.

Keith Kong, is entertaining audiences everywhere as a mentalist that can pluck thoughts from your mind.  Featured on the hit-show “Fool Us”, Keith was able to the fool the likes of the great Penn & Teller.  From a young age, Keith has captivated his audiences with his showmanship to provide entertainment leaves you at the edge of your seat in disbelief.

When you listen to this episode, it WILL make you hungry and if you live in the Greater Orlando Area, you need to run (not walk) over to Teak Neighborhood Grill!  When you hear our conversation with Jon Proechel, owner, of Teak Neighborhood Grill you will hear about the amazing culture Jon has created with his staff, the delectable hamburger options, uniqueness of their (secret) underground menu and so much more.  COVID-19 has been challenging, to say the least, to the restaurant industry and Teak Neighborhood Grill has leaned into those challenges to create a safe dining experience.  Teak Neighborhood Grill will be featured on "Food Paradise" on the Cooking Channel, July 29th at 9pm.  

We had the pleasure to speak with Rick Whitted, CEO of Feeding Children Everywhere.   Did you know that with only $40, you have the ability to feed a family in need for 10 days?  As a collective community we can help ensure that no one goes to bed hungry.  Visit Feeding Children Everywhere's virtual food bank at fullcart.org to donate or seek assistance.  You don't want to miss this episode!

Our special guest, Steve Bardy, Executive Director of Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, not only talks about the amazing things Pet Alliance is doing in the community but also how to keep your furry friends safe during fireworks.

 We to speak with Matt Morgan, Mayor for the city of Longwood, former WWE Superstar and running for Seminole County Commissioner.

Entrepreneurs in Overdrive, we have the pleasure of speaking to John Tenney, CEO of EmployerNomics.  If you are a business owner, this is a MUST show to listen to!

Taryn talks to Melissa, owner of a Branch of Leaves and Roots in Longwood, FL.  Do you know the best herbs to stay healthy and strong? Stay tuned!

We talk to our very own Rob Nestor, manager for Universal Tire & Auto.   We will walk you through the best ways to find your go to auto repair shop and what preventative measures you need to take to keep your car running great.  But it's not all car advice today, oh no, it's much much more...

On today's episode, we talk maintenance and the possible uninvited guests you might see if you keep your car stationary!! Then we switch gears and have an delicious conversation with Chef Alex from Alex's Fresh Kitchen in Casselberry, FL. 

Mike and team talk pandemic, quarantine and how you can maintain your car when you can't go anywhere!

Joyful and inspiring conversation with Kelly, entrepreneur and owner of Millie Moo's. Learn how Kelly's life experiences helped shape the innovative idea of Millie Moo's.

We talk to Daniel Shaw with Pro Wrestling Action. Learn what it's like to be a pro wrestler. Dan talks about how he started his career as a Pro Wrestling Promoter, Ring Announcer and Entrepreneur.

We talk about the #1 question we constantly get asked - should I buy a used car? And we say, should you buy a new car?

In this episode we speak to Desirree from the Lyman School, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, about the school's customized learning style and unique approaches to make learning accessible to all kids, no matter the obstacle. We also touch on the fundraiser they are hosting to raise money for a new playground. One size does not fit all kids and this school is a great example of that!

Anthony from Ace of Spades (Youth to Professional Baseball Training Facility) talks about his international program that trains and mentors youth in the U.S, Dominican Republic and Canada.

It's a long car ride to Grandma, what do you do on a desolate road or the gas station is miles away. What should you pack for your car?

Mike and his crew help you protect your car on those messy highway commutes.