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Wisdom for Wannabes is a podcast series that hosts 1:1 interviews with inspiring people to discover wise words on business, beauty, betterment, and beyond. Inspired by her own personal journey to grow in creativity, education, and spirituality, host Jackie Morreale talks to unique individuals about their own journeys and passions in the pursuit of wisdom and growth.
The following episodes are shown in descending order, with the most recent at the top. |
Quick links to Podcast Episodes:
📈 ON BUSINESS:
🎨 ON BEAUTY:
🌿 ON BETTERMENT:
Watch Now!
Podcast Interviews with Inspiring People:
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I wanna be better at mental training for cycling and sports
Peggy Maass Labiuk shares the mental strategies she used during an extraordinary cycling career that included competing on the U.S. National Team, becoming a two-time national champion, earning a World Championships medal, and setting a 24-hour endurance cycling world record. Peggy is also the co-author, with sports psychologist Dr. Saul Miller, of Cycle Psyched: Pro Wisdom and the Mental Training to Excel. Their latest book brings together mental-performance lessons and insights from more than 90 world-class cyclists, and also discusses self-talk, goal setting, and visualization.
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I wanna be better at parenting & family relationships
Dr. Amy Todey is a psychologist who specializes in parenting, co-parenting, family relationships, and neurodiversity. A Harvard-trained psychologist and founder of Todey Psychology, Amy brings a deeply human perspective to some of the most challenging moments families can face. We talk about radical acceptance, the importance of belonging and connection, repairing after conflict, raising resilient children, and understanding diagnoses like ADHD without allowing them to define a child. Amy reminds us that there is no perfect way to parent, and that the most powerful thing is love.
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I wanna be better at storytelling through film
Academy Award-winning producer, writer, and director Nani Sahra Walker joins Wisdom for Wannabes to discuss her powerful new feature film, Shakti, now streaming on Tubi, Fawesome, and Prime Video. From leaving a successful journalism career to creating a five-year passion project inspired by real events, Nani shares how trusting her intuition, embracing rejection, and refusing to wait for permission transformed her life. She reflects on the healing power of storytelling, what true success means beyond awards, and why independent voices are more important than ever.
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I wanna be better at publishing and technology
From making sales calls to major companies at just fifteen years old to creating evidence-based children's books that help young readers navigate anxiety, OCD, and goal setting, Sasha Monaco shares how she has built a life at the intersection of creativity, psychology, and business. Together, they explore the science behind happiness, the power of cognitive reframing, the importance of embracing healthy discomfort, and why turning complex ideas into simple, actionable stories can change lives.
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Artist Erica Kyle shares her inspiring journey from a 25-year career in banking to becoming a full-time professional artist, proving it's never too late to pursue the work you're meant to do. Through reflections on creativity, entrepreneurship, nature, and her powerful metaphor of "the ugly middle," Erica explores how trusting your intuition, embracing the messy middle of growth, and paying attention to your unique gifts can lead to a life of greater purpose, peace, and authenticity. She also discusses the emotional language of art, the importance of developing both creative and business skills, and why finding something good in every day can transform not only your work, but the way you experience life.
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Angela Page Conti explores the power of storytelling, creativity, resilience, and second (or third!) acts. Angela shares how family history inspired her novels, why social justice became the focus of many of her films, what corporate life taught her about creativity, and why it's never too late to pursue the dream that's been quietly waiting inside you. You'll hear practical writing advice, funny behind-the-scenes stories, and why one sentence overheard at a swimming pool can become an entire novel. If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to reinvent yourself, this conversation is for you.
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Daniele DeMarch's career spans Milan fashion houses, global technology leadership, and the future of experiential luxury. As the ELSEWAVE co-founder, Daniele explores how scouting supermodels in the 90s unexpectedly prepared him to scout breakthrough technologies in AI, aerospace, hospitality, and immersive experiences. From Formula 1 simulators in partnership with ITRS to floating pickleball courts in partnership with Aquabanas, Daniele shares insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, relationships, and why the future of luxury is all about unforgettable experiences.
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Dr. Lee Baucom shares his mission to help authors turn their books into meaningful businesses through his Book-to-Business Blueprint program. Drawing from more than two decades of experience in relationships, coaching, and publishing, Lee explains why many authors struggle after publishing—not because they lack talent, but because they lack a roadmap for what comes next. The conversation explores the parallels between relationships and entrepreneurship, the importance of connection, authenticity, and alignment, and why sustainable growth comes from manageable steps rather than overwhelm.
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Raquel Baez explores her journey from corporate marketing into a purpose-driven career helping women build confidence, clarity, and balance. Drawing from her background in business, wellness, and coaching, Raquel shares how self-trust, intentional choices, and small, consistent shifts can create powerful transformation. She challenges the idea that women “lose themselves,” instead reframing it as shrinking to meet expectations, and offers practical tools to reconnect with one’s true voice. At its core, the conversation is a reminder that growth doesn’t have to be overwhelming: it starts with a single choice, the courage to stop playing small, and the willingness to trust yourself fully.
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Johannes Schwab, First Officer for Austrian Airlines, explores the discipline, mindset, and preparation that go into life in the cockpit. From growing up in the Austrian Alps to discovering aviation at age 20, Johannes shares his journey from glider pilot to flying Airbus A320s across Europe. He breaks down the differences between training through the Federal Aviation Administration and European systems, the importance of preparation in reducing pressure, and how experience turns uncertainty into instinct. The conversation also dives into decision-making tools like FOR-DEC, the role of fitness in maintaining mental sharpness, and why passion drives success.
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Two leading voices in sports psychology and youth mental health: Dr. Jonathan Jenkins and Dr. Kim O’Brien, co-authors of Mentality Wins: The Athlete’s Playbook for Thriving in Sport and Life, are on a mission to reshape how we think about performance, pressure, and mental well-being. Dr. Jenkins, sports psychologist at MGH and for the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots, and Dr. O’Brien, youth mental health clinician of Unlimited Resilience and former women's hockey team captain at Harvard University, share their book and learnings that can be applied for better performance in sports and in life.
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I wanna be better at community building
Frankie Ruiz, Chief Running Officer of Life Time, co-founder of the Life Time Miami Marathon, founder of the world's largest run club, the Miami Run Club, and a lifelong Miamian and leader in endurance sports, Frankie shares the story behind building one of the city’s most beloved athletic traditions and the community that surrounds it. Frankie reflects on leadership, resilience through challenges, what makes Miami’s running culture unique, the power of showing up consistently for others, and the lessons endurance sports can teach us about life and purpose.
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I wanna be better at fine art & books
R.G. Taylor is a multidisciplinary artist who shares his journey from Chicago roots to South Florida's vibrant art scene. Discover how he integrates storytelling, like in his book Spike and the Holiday Parade, visual art, and community impact, and learn about upcoming events at The Peach, including the April 4th Art Walk and Author Talk and April 10th free docent training for teens, that celebrate local artists and foster community engagement.
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I wanna be better at Nonprofit Leadership & Sarcoma Cancer Awareness
In this special Podcasthon episode of Wisdom for Wannabes, host Jackie Morreale sits down with her brother Kevin Pribil, volunteer President of the Ken Pribil Jr. Foundation and a leader in Sales & Service Operations Strategy and Business & Digital Transformation at Deloitte. Together, they reflect on the life and legacy of their brother Kenny, who passed away fromAngiosarcoma in 2006, and the foundation’s 20-year mission to turn grief into impact.
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I wanna be better at Music & Media
Patch Crowe, a performing artist turned business leader, and current Director of Media at The Good and the Beautiful, explores the power of purpose, intentional media consumption, and living a life aligned with core values. Discover insights on pivots, media boundaries, and the impact of technology on personal growth.
Learn about The Good and the Beautiful's Summer Reading Program, book giveaway: https://www.goodandbeautiful.com/summer2026 |
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Anuk Fernando unpacks how technology and human creativity come together to shape the future — including a deep dive into Cloudflare’s bold initiative to hire 1,111 interns in 2026, empowering the next generation of builders to apply AI to real‑world internet infrastructure and innovation. Whether you’re curious about tech careers or how AI is reshaping opportunity, this interview is packed with actionable perspectives for aspiring professionals, and also offers parents useful advice to navigate the changing world of technology and AI for teens.
Learn more and explore Cloudflare’s 2026 internship program. |
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Tanya Fraser is a full-time nomad and writer who shares her journey from childhood storytelling in Ireland to becoming a published travel and creative writer. Discover her creative process, how she navigates life's challenges through writing, and her exciting future projects, including a film script and a new book, and follow Tanya's worldwide adventures by way of her Substack: theplaypapers.substack.com
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Keith Gamache is a fine artist and art educator in Rockville Centre Schools in Long Island, New York. In this interview, he discusses topics such as the importance of art education, the impact of technology on teaching, and personal experiences in the art world. Jackie expresses gratitude for Keith's influence as an art teacher, while Keith shares insights into his creative process and teaching philosophy. The conversation also touches on personal growth, the role of technology in art, and the significance of maintaining authenticity in creative endeavors.
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Charlie Rao, owner of Pasta Fresca and Mama Rao’s in Brooklyn, NY, speaks about the intersection of tradition and modernity in running a family business. Charlie shares insights on the importance of community, the role of social media in attracting new customers, and the values passed down through generations. He emphasizes the significance of family, hard work, and the joy of bringing people together through food. The conversation also touches on the challenges of adapting to a changing neighborhood and the responsibility of carrying forward Italian American culture.
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Arielle Barreto shares her journey from Brazil to becoming a successful corporate lawyer in the U.S. She discusses her unique approach to problem-solving, her experiences in various legal fields, and the importance of commitment and discipline in achieving success. Arielle also offers valuable advice for aspiring lawyers and provides insights into navigating an LLM program, like the program she completed at the University of Miami, emphasizing the importance of an open mind and a willingness to learn.
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I wanna be better at Music
DJ Prashant is a Cornell University graduate who built a 16-year career as a DJ, singer, dancer, and cultural connector. This episode provides a look into the DJ life and offers insight on how to follow creative dreams, sharing experiences from his journey. Learn about his DJ business and experiences and the mindset required to achieve success in the entertainment industry, from Mumbai to Ithaca, to Portland to Peru, and beyond.
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Alice Wright is a professional runner and coach with Runcoach. This interview discusses Alice's impressive running career, her passion for coaching, and the importance of mindset in achieving personal goals. Alice shares her experiences with injuries, memorable races, and the fulfillment she finds in helping others. The conversation also touches on Alice's hidden talents, including oil painting, and her love for big cats. Alice also shares the importance of mindset, transition from UK to US running culture, the meditative aspects of running, and the challenges of injuries.
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I wanna be better at Motorcycle Riding and Publishing
Mark Augustyn is the co-creator of the beloved children's motorcycle series Mimi & Moto. In this interview, he discusses the inspiration behind the series, the importance of community in motorcycling, and the therapeutic nature of riding. Mark shares insights on getting kids involved in motorcycling, the future vision for Mimi & Moto, and advice for aspiring authors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of outdoor activities for children and role of storytelling in fostering motorcycle love.
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I wanna be better at Running for a Cause
Miami Beach Firefighter Claudio Navas speaks about the importance of mental health awareness, particularly for first responders. Claudio shares his journey of running the Miami Beach Half Marathons in full gear annually since 2012 to raise awareness for PTSD and mental health issues within the firefighting community. He discusses the challenges faced by first responders, the significance of peer support, and the need for open conversations about mental health. He emphasizes the beauty of life, importance of self-care, and power of community in overcoming struggles.
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I wanna be better at Fitness
Bodybuilder Dianne Marie Nigh and Athletic Trainer Euell Barnett share their inspiring journeys of transformation through fitness and wellness. Dianne discusses her incredible 100-pound weight loss and her recent success in bodybuilding competitions, while Euell shares his unique training methods and the importance of consistency in achieving fitness goals. Together, they emphasize the power of community support, setting goals, and overcoming self-doubt in the pursuit of personal growth and well-being.
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I wanna be better at Entrepreneurship
William S. Parrish Jr. is a seasoned entrepreneur in the construction management industry. This conversation discusses Parrish's extensive experience, the founding of his company Noble Strategy, his book Making Bold Moves, and the NY/NJ construction sector. Parrish shares insights on the importance of early involvement in projects, the role of technology in construction, and his passion for teaching and mentorship. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, such as his involvement with Omega Psi Phi fraternity and documentary film directorial debut.
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Professional golfer Matthias Schwab discusses his journey from a young athlete in Austria to a successful career in professional golf. They discuss the importance of family, the balance between passion and profession, and the lessons learned along the way. Matthias shares insights on transitioning to college life at Vanderbilt, the challenges of professional sports, and offers advice for aspiring athletes. The conversation highlights the significance of enjoying the journey and maintaining a positive outlook on life and sports.
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I wanna be better at Employment Law
Elizabeth Schlissel, Esq. is a distinguished NY-based employment attorney, who shares her expertise on the evolving landscape of employment law. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture and discusses the significant impact of the #metoo movement. Elizabeth also provides personal anecdotes from her career, highlighting the critical role of listening and understanding in legal practice. Additionally, she introduces her upcoming series, 'Employment Edge with Liz,' which aims to provide concise legal insights for both employers and employees.
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Gary Fails, founder of City Theatrical, shares his remarkable journey in the entertainment lighting industry. From starting his business in a garage in the South Bronx to becoming a leader in lighting technology innovation, Gary discusses the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the importance of innovation, and the lessons learned throughout his career. He reflects on the evolution of the industry, the significance of building a strong company culture, and the value of mentorship and collaboration. As he embraces retirement, Gary also shares his passion for learning and personal growth, leaving listeners with valuable insights for their own entrepreneurial journeys.
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I wanna be better at Filmmaking
Dr. Denise Wunderler is a mom of three, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, international speaker, published author, and on a journey to advocate SUDC awareness following the sudden unexplained death of her daughter, Vienna. This discussion covers the creation of the documentary "Vienna: Suddenly an Angel," the challenges and triumphs of raising awareness for Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC), and the personal and professional impacts of this mission. Dr. Wunderler shares insights into her nonprofit work, the filmmaking process, and the importance of community support and resilience. |
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Marc Wharton is the PhD Programs Coordinator for the Business School at Florida Atlantic University as well as a PhD Candidate in Educational Leadership. This episode discusses Marc's academic journey, his research on digital natives, and his extensive experience in the business of fashion. Marc shares insights on leadership, consumer behavior, and the importance of understanding one's customer in branding. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring PhD students and reflects on the lessons learned from influential leaders throughout his career.
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I wanna be better at Filmmaking
The creative team behind the new horror film 'Trapped Inside My Sin', including Vincent Vilardi, Peter Janiec, and Keith Cotugno, cover the collaborative process that led to the film's creation. Each member shares their influences, and insights into the filmmaking journey, emphasizing the importance of creativity, collaboration, and inspiration from various sources. In this engaging conversation, the filmmakers discuss their debut feature film, 'Trapped Inside My Sin,' exploring themes of family, mental health, the creative process, and their film festival journey.
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Zena Frey is the artist and entrepreneur behind zenafrey.com, who comes from a long career as a creative head in the commercial world. She shares her artistic journey from Montreal to New York City. Zena discusses her passion for art, the influence of her family, and the importance of authenticity in her work. She also talks about her recent e-commerce launch, her inspirations, and the significance of community in the art world. Zena emphasizes the importance of following one's heart in art and life, encouraging others to embrace their creative journeys.
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I wanna be better at Spirituality
Joe Iadanza is a contemporary spiritual teacher and wedding officiant owner of Long Island Wedding Officiants. In this interview, Joe shares his journey from a musician to a reverend, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness in his life and work. He discusses memorable weddings, the impact of his family heritage, and the significance of the Hidden Treasure Program in his spiritual growth. Joe also highlights the role of yoga in community healing and offers advice for couples on communication and forgiveness. The conversation concludes with Joe's aspirations for future creative projects, including a book and new music.
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Professor Melissa Andrade Costa is a dedicated educator and philosopher, and professor of philosophy with New Acropolis USA and North Brasil. This interview discusses Melissa's journey into philosophy, her passion for teaching, and the importance of connecting high ideals to everyday life. The conversation explores the role of philosophy in personal growth, the significance of dialogue, and practical advice for integrating philosophical practices into daily routines. Melissa shares insights on the challenges of adulthood, the value of learning from experiences, and the importance of community in the pursuit of wisdom.
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Susan Ashdown PhD is a renowned expert in the field of apparel design and fit technology. She discusses her journey from a small town in North Carolina to becoming a professor at Cornell University, her passion for making and designing, and the challenges she faced in her educational journey, including dyslexia. The conversation delves into the evolution of apparel design, the impact of technology on fit and customization, and the pressing need for sustainability in the fashion industry. Professor Ashdown shares her insights on research, the importance of learning how to learn, and her current passion for stained glass art, highlighting the creative process.
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Laura Hoffman, a clairvoyant healer and intuitive wellness coach, shares her experiences as founder of Laura’s Intuitive Wellness, as well as her journey into healing, her new book 'Sacred Alignment', and practical techniques for personal transformation. Laura shares insights on the healing process, the importance of grounding, and advice for aspiring healers and entrepreneurs. The conversation concludes with Laura's future projects, including a PhD in Metaphysical science, clairvoyant development school, and a charity for women in need.
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Dr. Roy McGriff, Jr. Ed.D. shares his journey in education and martial arts. Dr. Roy discusses the importance of inspiring students, building relationships, and understanding the challenges faced by teenagers. He offers valuable advice for those pursuing graduate education and emphasizes the significance of community support. Dr. Roy also reflects on his experiences in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, his entrepreneurial journey in karate, and the impact he has made on countless students throughout his career.
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Scott Vogel shares his extensive journey in volunteering for wildlife conservation, highlighting his passion for education and community involvement. From his early adventures in nature to his current roles at Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Scott emphasizes the importance of connecting with people and inspiring them to care for wildlife. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of animal rehabilitation, local conservation efforts, his own journey into teaching, and how to make a difference in protecting marine life.
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Engage in a deep conversation with artist Steven Joseph Gonsalves about his artistic journey, the challenges of content creation, and the personal connections that inspire his work. Steven shares insights from his 52-week art exploration in New York City for @SoDetailed discussing the highs and lows of his project, the evolution of his identity as an artist, and his future aspirations.
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Dig into the glitz and glamor as well as some of the hard truths of sales in the jewelry industry in this 30-minute interview with Lorette Pribil. Learn more about the role of a sales executive, the importance of anticipating your customers' needs, knowing your high-quality product, and making this align.
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Wait! There's more. :)
Blog articles
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Daily sketches and photos
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Tribute to lost loved ones who left a legacy of creativity and wisdom
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