FutureProof Podcast

Send us Fan MailLeading by LearningJoin us as we go off road from our usual guests, down the path of connecting students to careers with Co-op Coordinator, Cincinnati State graduate, and longtime staff member Noelle Grome!  Noelle shares her unconventional path from mental health counseling to higher education, the power of networking, and the lessons she’s learned coaching students through interviews, setbacks, and even first-day disasters. Tune in as Noelle reveals the life-changing impacts of co-op and the behind-the-scenes work that makes students truly FutureProof. CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostNoelle Grome......GuestGriffin Bennett…….Student ProducerNyx Hawthorne…….Student Producer, Marketing Assistant Brittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Joey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailThe Secret SauceJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Cincinnati State graduate, instructor, and longtime staff member Don Pollock. Don shares his unexpected journey from leading a team of investment advisors to earning the Cincinnati State House/Bruckmann Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award, a recognition of his unwavering commitment to student success.Tune in as Don reveals the “secret sauce” behind his teaching philosophy, the pivotal moments that shaped his path, and how he continues to stay FutureProof in a changing world.CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostDon......GuestGriffin Bennett…….Student ProducerNyx Hawthorne…….Student Producer, Marketing Assistant Brittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Joey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailIn the Blink of an EyeIn this episode we chat with Cincinnati State graduate Greenwell as she discusses her path from the server industry to her internship in the C-Suite at Cincinnati State.  Listen as Paige talks about event planning for the City of Cincinnati at the Regional Chamber and how she became FutureProof.  CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostPaige Greenwell......GuestOwen Taylor…….Student ProducerCade Harvey…….Student ProducerDillon Perry…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailShow Me the Money: Bashar JaffalDon’t miss this dynamic episode with Cincinnati State graduate Bashar Jaffal as he discusses coming to America in middle school and working towards a career in research and development with a sports management degree.  Listen as Bashar talks about his path to the American dream and challenges along the way to becoming FutureProof.  CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostBashar Jaffal…….GuestOwen Taylor…….Student ProducerCade Harvey…….Student ProducerDillon Perry…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailFreedom in a Jail Cell: Jill Green and Nicci WarrJeffrey Bill talks about the challenge of earning an associates degree during the pandemic to working as a contractor at Procter and Gamble.  Overcoming perfectionism and imposter syndrome,  Jeffrey Bill shows us the meaning of being FutureProof. CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostJeffrey Bill…….GuestNate Bell…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailThe Coefficient of Friction: Jeffrey Bill Jeffrey Bill talks about the challenge of earning an associates degree during the pandemic to working as a contractor at Procter and Gamble.  Overcoming perfectionism and imposter syndrome,  Jeffrey Bill shows us the meaning of being FutureProof. CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostJeffrey Bill…….GuestNate Bell…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailKnow The Code: Elisa Amissah From Ghana, to Cincinnati State, to NKU. Elisa Amissah Shares with us her college journey towards an applied social engineering degree. Fighting through language barriers and overcoming obstacles Elisa Amissah shows everyone what it means to be Future Proof!CreditJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostElisa Amissah..….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantCade Harvey....Social Media Specialist/Production Assistant Dylan Gaskins....Social Media Specialist/Production Assistant Special Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department 

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Send us Fan MailThe Warm and Fuzzy Heart of a Lion: Isabel Baumagartner Financial Coordinator, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati Cincinnati State Technical and Community CollegeMeet Isabel Baumgartner, Financial Coordinator at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati and a proud Cincinnati State alumna. Isabel’s journey is a powerful testament to overcoming personal challenges and finding a path to success.After graduating from Ursuline Academy, Isabel faced significant uncertainty about her future. She initially pursued music at Xavier University but left feeling overwhelmed. Determined to find her way, she worked as a swim teacher while exploring different career options. It was her desire to make a meaningful impact that eventually led her to Cincinnati State, where she enrolled in the Financial Services associate’s program.Isabel's choice to attend Cincinnati State was driven by the program's flexibility and its valuable co-op opportunities. Her hard work paid off, and she completed a co-op at BGCGC, which later became her full-time role as a Financial Coordinator.Today, Isabel continues to excel at BGCGC while pursuing a Director of Music certificate, blending her passion for music with her professional achievements. Tune in to hear how Isabel transformed her uncertainties into a thriving career and the lessons she’s learned along the way.CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostIsabel  Baumagartner….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantNathan Bell….Student EngineerBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailThe Reign Man: Tom BarrettFrom Irrigation King to Documentary Film Maker, Tom Barrett Shares with us his road to owning Barrett Works. In this episode of FutureProof, meet Tom Barrett, an executive leader with over thirty years of experience driving corporate growth and innovation. From agronomy to executive coaching, Tom’s unique journey has shaped his approach to transforming businesses and leaders alike.Discover how Tom’s diverse education—from architecture at Syracuse University to audio/video production at Cincinnati State—fueled his passion for strategic planning and mentorship. As President of Barrett Works, Tom’s expertise in executive coaching and dynamic presentations has empowered countless professionals to achieve greater fulfillment and success.Tune in to hear Tom’s insights on leading successful turnarounds, the power of peer relationships, and his commitment to personal and professional growth.CreditJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostTom Barrett..….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantNathan Bell….Student EngineerBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of FutureProof, we meet Rodriquez Stephens, a dedicated professional with a passion for business and nonprofit work. After deciding to return to school after 20 years to improve his situation, Rodriquez chose Cincinnati State for its proximity and strong business management program. His co-op experience at Procter & Gamble as a demand analyst, guided by Mr. Waits, played a crucial role in his journey. Now enrolled at the University of Cincinnati, Rodriquez aims to restart his nonprofit organization. Tune in to hear his inspiring story of perseverance, commitment, and advice for students navigating their own educational and professional paths.CreditJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostRodriquez Stephens…….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantNathan Bell….Student EngineerBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailMichael D. Whitley II - Director of Midwest Culinary Institute Director of Midwest Culinary Institute, Cincinnati State Technical and Community CollegeDiscover how Michael transformed his passion for culinary arts into a dynamic career, starting from Cincinnati State’s Culinary Program to becoming the Director of the Midwest Culinary Institute.In this episode, Michael shares his unique journey—from juggling multiple roles and responsibilities to achieving his dream of leading a prestigious culinary institute. He reveals the challenges he overcame, including the unexpected pivot to online classes and balancing a busy career with personal aspirations.Tune in to hear Michael's insights on leveraging opportunities, the art of balancing responsibilities, and his advice for students and professionals striving to excel in their fields. This episode is a feast of inspiration and practical advice for anyone passionate about making their mark in the culinary world or any industry.CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostMichael D. Whitley II ….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantNathan Bell….Student EngineerBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailHerman Muguluma - Software Developer at US Digital Partners, BS in Web & Mobile App Development , Mount Saint Joseph University.Meet Herman, whose journey from Uganda to Cincinnati, Ohio started with a faith-based mission trip. After completing his mission, he realized his passion for higher education in the USA, leading him to Cincinnati State.Herman’s path included a pivotal internship with the Ohio Diversity & Inclusion Technology Program and further studies at Mount St. Joseph University, where he earned a degree in Web & Mobile App Development. Now, he’s a full-time Software Developer at US Digital Partners.Tune in to hear how Herman transformed a mission trip into a thriving career and the valuable lessons he’s learned.CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostHerman Muguluma…….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantNathan Bell….Student EngineerBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailKeonte Alexander - Rising Star Award Winner, Educator at William Howard Taft Elementary School, University of Cincinnati's College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services (CECH) In this episode of FutureProof, meet Keonte Alexander, CECH ’22, first generation Black alumnus, a dedicated father and passionate educator at William Howard Taft Elementary School in Cincinnati Public Schools. Keonte shares his journey from mentoring youth at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Cincinnati during his time at Cincinnati State to becoming a math and science teacher. Motivated by the need for Black male teachers, Keonte transitioned from sports administration to pursuing an education degree at the University of Cincinnati's College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services (CECH). Despite facing financial challenges as a first-generation student, Keonte persevered, supported by the Gen-1 Program and initiatives like the Inclusive Excellence Support Fund for Students in Math and Science. Join us as Keonte reflects on his path, the impact of mentorship, and his commitment to eliminating barriers for future educators. CreditJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostKeonte Alexander…….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantNathan Bell….Student EngineerBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailHarrison Perin- Intake Service Coordinator at Transitions Inc Grateful Life Center,  MS in Clinical Mental Health, Northern Kentucky University            In this episode, we dive into the powerful story of Harrison Perin, Associate of Arts degree and Honors Program graduate. Harrison struggled with substance use disorder for years, searching for his identity and not confronting the real work it would take to change his life.  But everything shifted when he decided to commit to his recovery. Doors opened, including the ones at Cincinnati State where despite facing what he described as "an "unreasonable fear of exposure",  he discovered a true gift for learning and the support of faculty and staff who wanted to see him succeed.  Now, as the Intake Service Coordinator at Transitions Inc. Grateful Life Center, Harrison uses his experiences to help others facing addiction. Join us to hear how he turned his life around and is now making a difference in the lives of many.CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostHarrison Perin…….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantNathan Bell….Student EngineerBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan Mail Jasmine McGowan - Paralegal Specialist at United States Attorneys' Offices J.D. Candidate at NKU Salmon P. Chase College Law Meet Jasmine McGowan, a Cincinnati State alumna whose inspiring journey led her to become a paralegal specialist. Her story is one of resilience and determination.Jasmine shares how vision boards, supportive connections, and balancing motherhood with law school ambitions have shaped her path. Currently pursuing her law degree at NKU Chase College of Law, she has shown academic perseverance, even handling nine classes while pregnant.Tune in to hear her compelling career journey, candid reflections, and the motivational tools that kept her focused. This episode of FutureProof offers valuable insights and light-hearted moments.CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostJasmine McGowan…….GuestJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice OverNozina Eshkobilova….Student Producer/ Production AssistantNathan Bell….Student EngineerBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Waldbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailBreaking Cycles: JeMiah L. Baht Israel, MA - University of Cincinnati- Doctoral of History StudentCreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostJeMiah L. Baht Israel, MA.......Guest Carly Baker…….Student ProducerJayson Warner…….Student EngineerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailStraight Out Of Colerain: Max Alfonso, A Cinci State Alumnus and current University Of Toledo student, shares about his time at CState, interning at Fox19, journalism, and how he stays resilient through adversity. CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostMax Alfonso......GuestCarly Baker…….Student ProducerJayson Warner…….Student EngineerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailPutting the 'I Will' in Price Hill: Ben Klayer Alumnus Ben Klayer shares his story of writing poetry, starting his own business, becoming a homeowner,  joining his local community council and how it all started in his mission to be a servant leader.  CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostBen Klayer.......GuestCarly Baker…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailSelling Bread To Making Dough, Part Two: Cierra Campbell Follow the academic and career journey of Cierra Campbell as she worked her way through college from selling bread to driving a bus to research and development never choosing from one opportunity or another, but saying, I'll do both.  CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostCierra Campbell.......GuestCarly Baker…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozima Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailSelling Bread to Making Dough, Part One: Cierra CampbellFollow the academic and career journey of Cierra Campbell as she worked her way through college from selling bread to driving a bus to research and development never choosing from one opportunity or another, but saying, I'll do both. Join us next week for part two! CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostCierra Campbell.......GuestCarly Baker…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailThe Ex-Terminator: Mickela Harris Listen as Micki Harris shares her story of joining the national guard, getting back into college, finding her passion in all things electrical and lands her dream job. CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostMichela Harris.......GuestCarly Baker…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozima Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailFrom Hip Hop to Hip Doc, Part Two: Kimheart Moeung, Part TwoListen to the journey of Kimheart Moeung, a Cincinnati State alum as he goes from local and national hip hop fame to earning his doctorate in education. Follow us on Instagram - @futureproofpodcastCreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostKimheart Muong…….GuestCarly Baker…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailFrom Hip Hop to Hip Doc, Part One: Kimheart MoeungListen to the journey of Kimheart Moeung, a Cincinnati State alum as he goes from local and national hip hop fame to earning his doctorate in education. Join us next week for part two!Follow us on Instagram - @futureproofpodcastCreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostKimheart Muong…….GuestCarly Baker…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department

Send us Fan MailEmily Bursk talks about her journey from failing a math class to working for the Cincinnati Observatory (and post-recording, NASA)!CreditsJayne Dressing…..HostEimee Donbar…….HostEmily Bursk…….GuestCarly Baker…….Student ProducerJamal Lundy…….Intro/Outro Voice Over Nozina Eshkobilova…….Production AssistantBrittany King……..Digital MarketingJacqueline Norton…….Marketing and AdvertisingJoey Hickey…….Graphic DesignSpecial Thanks to:Michael Tekulve……..AVP Studio DirectorDavid Killen…….AVP Program ChairGeoffery Woolf…..Dean Humanities and SciencesAmy Wallbillig…….VP Workforce Development Department