In Reality: Lessons from Leaders and Entrepreneurs

Unleashing Your Full Potential

In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D., sat down with Eric Adelman, CEO and Business Coach of Bigger Cup Consulting. With expertise in coaching C-level executives, founders and entrepreneurs, Eric empowers his clients to confidently grow, scale and lead their businesses with intention. Eric leverages his personal experience of establishing, overseeing, expanding, and selling a multi million-dollar business to guide clients toward their goals.
Eric will share insights on how to scale a business, increasing revenue, maintaining focus, overcoming hiring challenges and how to develop the soft skills that contribute to success. Explore the reasons behind how personal relationships, professional networking, and referrals can fast-track job seeker's success in landing a job. Plus, we will discover the importance of strategic time blocking for both value creation and reflection, cultivating resourcefulness, and the valuable lessons that come from failures.
Hit subscribe and never miss an episode! You can find us in on Podbean, Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Don't forget to share your thoughts by leaving a review!
About The Podcast In Reality:
Lessons from Leaders and Entrepreneurs, a School of Management podcast, is hosted by John Rebecchi (M.B.A. '83), Ph.D., founder of Strategy + Culture Consulting, and features interviews with thought leaders, entrepreneurs from startups to multinational companies, and experts in fields shaping the future of business.

April 4 Live Podcast Event Trailer: Unlocking Opportunities for Job Seekers and Employers in the Digital Age

Please join New York Tech School of Management for the In Reality Podcast’s second live simulcast event, titled “Unlocking Opportunities for Job Seekers and Employers in the Digital Age.” Discover how to navigate the digital job marketplace, implement the latest career planning strategies, and stay ahead in today's business environment.
Featuring: Maria Themistocleous-Frey, CEO and founder of Executive Consultants of New York, Corp., and Diane Ferrante, Vice President of Human Resources, Oliver, Inc., along with the New York Tech School of Management’s In Reality Podcast host, John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ‘83), Ph.D., and an additional guest speakers!
Take part in the event by registering or exploring additional information here: Unlocking Opportunities for Job Seekers and Employers in the Digital Age. (https://www.nyit.edu/events/in_reality_unlocking_opportunities)
This event is hosted by Deborah Y. Cohn, (M.B.A. '89), Ph.D., M.Phil., Interim Dean and Professor, New York Tech School of Management.
About The Podcast
In Reality: Lessons from Leaders and Entrepreneurs, a School of Management podcast, is hosted by John Rebecchi (M.B.A. '83), Ph.D., founder of Strategy + Culture Consulting, and features interviews with thought leaders, entrepreneurs from startups to multinational companies, and experts in fields shaping the future of business.

Purpose Driven Career Development

In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. welcomes Brad Karsh, Founder and CEO of JB Training Solutions —a boutique learning and development company dedicated to supporting professionals throughout their career journey. As an accomplished public speaker and executive coach, Brand has made appearances on CNN, CNBC, and Dr. Phil, while also being featured in renowned publications like The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Fortune, and USA Today.
Tune in as we explore insights on overcoming challenges in your job search, advancing in your career, and understanding today's effective hiring practices. Brad emphasizes the importance of not only fine-tuning your resume but also prioritizing networking. Brad will share the importance of a thoughtful hiring process and the implementation of a program focused on recognizing and rewarding employees. Gain practical insights into securing employment, understanding the importance of going above and beyond at work, and the path to thriving in your professional journey.
Hit subscribe and never miss an episode! You can find us in on Podbean, Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and other major platforms. Don't forget to share your thoughts by leaving a review!

Driving Success through Strategic Risk Management

In today's business world, business owners and leaders are weary due to the growing challenges of cyber threats and rapid shifts in technology, politics, and the environment. This highlights the crucial role of implementing a risk management program for organizational resilience and sustainability.
Podcast host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. welcomes special guest Catherine A. Allen, New York Tech's Board of Trustee, and Founder and Chairman of the Board of The Santa Fe Group, a strategic consulting company based in Santa Fe, NM. With over three decades of experience, Catherine stands out as an exceptional leader in technology strategy and financial services, and is recognized as a key influencer in pioneering business innovation. Today, Catherine is Chairman of the Santa Fe Group, specializing in briefings to C-level executives and boards of directors in financial institutions and critical infrastructure sectors. Additionally, offering management services for strategic industry initiatives, featuring programs like the Shared Assessments Program, which is designed to address and mitigate third-party risks.
We'll explore the critical risk concerns, including cybersecurity, quantum computing, geopolitics, and the rapid pace of technological change. Allen will share the significance of artificial intelligence (AI) as both a risk and opportunity from supporting productivity and innovation to workforce distributions and its use as a disinformation generator. We'll also discover the significance of finding the right mentors, the value of continuous learning, the importance of reinventing oneself to meet market demands, and the readiness to pivot when necessary.
Hit subscribe and never miss an episode! You can find us in on Podbean, Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Don't forget to share your thoughts by leaving a review!

Empowering Decision-Making with Data Analytics

Our Host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D., is kicking Season 8 off with Josh Nafman, Vice President of Data and Operations for Diageo. Diageo is a global leader in high-quality beverages with a portfolio of 200+ brands spanning in various categories, including well-known names like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Guinness. In this role, Nafman leverages data, technology, AI, e-commerce, media, content, and all things electrified to enhance business decision-making. Prior to joining Diageo, Nafman contributed to marketing, digital, and design initiatives for Pepsi, Kind, Hello, Apple, and Starbucks.  
In this episode, we'll explore the newest developments in data analytics, its integration with artificial intelligence (AI), and how data helps leaders make well-informed decisions. We'll also discover the importance of breaking down data silos, being crystal clear about the issues you're solving and understanding how to present data in a way that allows for action.
Hit subscribe and never miss an episode! You can find us in on Podbean, Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Don't forget to share your thoughts by leaving a review!

Season 8 Trailer: Data Analytics, Career and Workforce Development, Strategies for Growing Your Business!

We are thrilled to announce that Season 8 of School of Management's podcast series “In Reality: Lessons from Leaders and Entrepreneurs" is set to launch on January 29, 2024. In this season, we will be focusing on topics that challenge business leaders, offering unique perspectives into how these themes influence their careers and open doors to new business opportunities. Our Host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D., will kick the season off with Josh Nafman, Vice President of Data and Operations for Diageo. Together they’ll discus latest trends in data analytics, its integration with AI, and insights for leaders in the field. We’ll explore the world of risk management with industry expert Catherine A. Allen, founder and CEO of The Santa Fe Group and New York Tech trustee. Gain insights from entrepreneurs and business leaders like Brad Karsh, the Founder and CEO of JB Training Solutions, and Eric Adelman of Bigger Cup Consulting. Discover the secrets of career and workforce development, learn what successful leaders prioritize, and strategies for growing your business!Plus, mark your calendar for our second live event, "Unlocking Opportunities for Job Seekers and Employers in the Digital Age," on April 4, 2024, at our NYC campus. Explore the digital job marketplace, career planning, and workforce development with Maria Themistocleous-Frey, CEO of Executive Consultants of New York. Don't miss the panel of HR executives and experts from recruiting and online search companies.
You can find us on Podbean, Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and other major platforms. Your ongoing support make a difference. Thank you for listening!

How to Thrive in College, Navigate Change, Success, and Resilience

In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. is joined by Tiffani L. Hinds, M.S., M.ED., a first-generation college student from Harlem, NY. Now Associate Provost, Student Engagement & Development at New York Tech where she collaborates with faculty, deans and student affairs leaders to enrich the student experience through impactful programs and resources.
Hinds will share insights on New York Tech’s effort in cultivating a dynamic environment, immersing students in diverse experiences that foster leadership skills, including adaptability, critical thinking, and resilience. We’ll uncover effective strategies for navigating obstacles that come with intentional change and organic transformations. Additionally, we will explore opportunities for personal growth beyond academic achievements and the importance of active involvement in college activities, volunteering, and pursuing leadership roles.

Outside the Box Entrepreneurship

Seizing an opportunity in the beauty box subscription market, Yosef Martin, our guest and BoxyCharm founder since 2013 (acquired by Ipsy in 2020), applied a second-mover strategy, providing consumers with full-size products. This strategic move rapidly increased revenue. In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. sits down with Martin to explore strategies in building passionate online communities, scale businesses effectively, how to align employees with your vision, what to look for in a mentor and the essential skills needed for entrepreneurial success.

Driving Positive Transformation

Throughout our lives, we all encounter moments of change, from relocating to pursuing education, entering new careers, and starting a family.
In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. is joined by Deborah Brown (M.B.A. '08), originally from Guyana, South America, who moved to the United States to complete her education. Now a transformational leader in healthcare, she shares her firsthand experience with goal-driven change.
We’ll discuss life's changes, from personal transitions to corporate transformation. We’ll also explore the significance of college involvement, connecting with like-minded individuals to build your community, identifying core values, and why it is crucial to align with companies that share your values. 

Embracing Change with AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely recognized as a transformative technology with the potential to revolutionize business, social institutions, and education. Many embrace it as a promising extension of human capabilities, though some are skeptical. In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. is joined Amir Gefen (M.A. ’95), Ph.D., Head of the Artificial Intelligence Lab, Research and Development unit at the Israel Ministry of Education.
We'll explore the advantages that AI can offer in enhancing learning and teaching practices. Gefen will further examine the challenges associated with AI, including ethical concerns, privacy issues, and fairness. Listen in for an engaging conversation surrounding AI, including the adaptation of systems and practices to harness AI's potential, as well as the importance of rapid regulatory action to minimize potential harm.

A Force for Change and Advocacy

You've most likely come across the idea that intentional change requires a proactive approach to achieve your goals. In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. is joined by special guest Ron Goldberg. Ron Goldberg is a Director of Digital Communications at New York Tech, and an author of Boy with the Bullhorn capturing the historical movement of ACT UP's New York chapter, a community-based political organization dedicated to putting an end to the AIDS pandemic.
Although Ron’s goal was to purse an acting career, he pivoted into an influential activist which lead to his success as an award-winning author. Ron will share how he amplifies his voice as a catalyst for change and uniting people for a cause that matters. We'll also learn about the significance of intentional change, authenticity, and staying engaged with the present.

Driven by Curiosity

Season Seven is here, and it's better than ever! To kick things off, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. is joined by special guest, Joe Batista, Chief Creatologist, formerly of DELL Technologies and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Joe is renowned for his expertise in driving Growth Agendas and is often referred to as the 'Business Sherpa,' for his ability to connect technology and business.
With four-decade long career in technology, Joe generously shares his expert strategies for harnessing untapped value, develop deep thinking skills and how to uncover hidden opportunities. We will also discover why curiosity stands as a vital force in problem-solving, adaptability, and continuous growth. 

In Reality Podcast Season 7 Trailer: Innovation, Value Creation and Forward-Thinking Strategies for Navigating Change

We're thrilled to announce the launch of Season 7 of our #InRealityPodcast. Join us as we dive deep into the process and impact of change – both at the individual and organizational levels.
Explore insights into innovation, strategy development, value creation and forward-thinking strategies for navigating change. We’ll also hear our industry experts discuss the influence of AI on companies and social institutions.
Mark your calendar for our debut episode launching on Monday, September 25th, 2023.

Cultivating Innovation Through Diversity: LIVE 4-20-2023

Welcome to the School of Management's first live simulcast show, "Cultivating Innovation Through Diversity." We will explore the crucial role that diversity play in driving innovation. Join John Rebecchi M.B.A. ('83), Ph.D., podcast host and moderator with panel of experts discuss invaluable insights on how entrepreneurs and leaders innovate, overcome barriers, and how to thrive in the dynamic world of business. This event was held on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at New York Tech. Thanks for watching and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe!

Cultivating Innovation Through Diversity Trailer

We're thrilled to announce that we'll be hosting our very first live simulcast show! Our panel of experts is gearing up to share invaluable insights on how entrepreneurs and leaders innovate, overcome barriers, and thrive in the dynamic world of business. In addition, they'll be exploring the crucial role that diversity plays in driving innovation. This event will be held on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at New York Tech and online via Zoom. Register here: https://bit.ly/3ZuY9VN

Legal Tech Innovator & Entrepreneur

It is estimated that the global market for legal technology services will more than double within the next few years. To help us better understand the evolving legal landscape, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ‘83), Ph.D. is joined by Rajitha Yelamanchali-Boer (M.B.A.'08), Global Head LDTS (Legal Data and Technology Solutions) at Breakwater Solutions, and Founder, President & CEO of Yerra Solutions (acquired by Elevate). 
We'll learn how Rajitha leverage her work experiences along with an MBA at New York Tech to identify business opportunities, develop a growth strategy and how she successfully expanded her business. Rajitha will also share insights on how to build an effective company culture, the importance of knowing your numbers and why being resourceful and hard working is required for entrepreneurial success. 

Innovation and Intellectual Property

Intellectual property (IP) is an important asset for small businesses and entrepreneurs, yet it is often overlooked and misunderstood. In today's episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. welcomes Ray E. Farrell, intellectual property counselor, business mentor, angel investor, senior partner and co-founder of Carter DeLuca Farrell & Schmidt LLP.
Ray will help us understand and clarify the importance of intellectual property and walks us through the four main types of intellectual property including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. We will learn what investors look for when making a pitch and how to choose the right investor. Ray will also share why helping others is one of the most powerful ways to create meaningful experiences for ourselves and those around us.

Creating an Empowered Life

In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. sat down with Beatrice Weber, M.B.A., Author, TEDx Speaker, Coach, Former Hasidic Rebitzen, Mom of 10 and Executive Director of YAFFED, a nonprofit organization committed to improving secular education in Hasidic and Haredi schools.
Beatrice Weber was raised in an Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community and was married in an arranged marriage before graduating high school. Despite the push back and risks of being ostracized by her own family and community, she left her marriage and moved to Brooklyn with the two youngest of her ten children.
She will share with us how education empowered her to shift her mindset of fear, how she gained the confidence to speak out and why is it crucial to stand up for what is right.

Innovative Customer Experience

In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. welcomes Golan Shaked (B.S. '97, M.B.A. '00), Chief Commercial Officer of Kiwi.com, a leading global travel tech company. Golan's background in tech marketing and strategy will give us a unique preceptive on how technology connects with consumers. He has worked in traditional advertising and had builded a career working in tech companies from music streaming to booking travel and venturing into the metaverse. 
Golan will share insights on how to find opportunities in crowded markets, how observation informs the innovator and importance of providing innovative customer experience.

Amplify Your Voice

Today we welcome Tricia Richards-Service, PhD, a Communication Professional, Author, and Founder and CEO of I Need A Speaker, a platform with a mission to make public speaking more diverse combined with a global directory helping connect speakers with audiences.
In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. discuss with Tricia ways to overcome barriers of communication and how to improve public speaking skills. You’ll hear why public speaking skills is imperative for budding entrepreneurs in creating a brand and running businesses. Tricia will also share how she is bringing diversity to global stages and why being dedicated to our purpose and mission is essential for growth and success.

In Reality Podcast Season 6 Trailer

We are very excited to announce the release of season 6 of the #InRealityPodcast! As part of our continuing focus on innovation, you'll hear host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ‘83), Ph.D., interview industry leaders on patent, intellectual property and innovative marketing strategies. Our first episode will be released on Monday, January 30, 2023 and new ones every two weeks thereafter. You can find us on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts. We appreciate you and thank you for supporting us!

Purpose Driven Entrepreneurship

In this season 5 bonus episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ‘83), Ph.D. is joined by Ron “Six” Montgomery, founder of Six Juice, a health-oriented fresh juice company and a previous guest of our podcast.
Ron’s products are based on an all-natural ingredient juice developed for his mother while she was fighting cancer. Ronald will catch us up on his entrepreneurial process, the journey in opening his first storefront in Sayville, NY and the future expansion of Six Juice.
We will also hear how he puts the lean operation principles into practice, the importance of being purpose-driven, and why failure is the key to success.

Sustainability Transformation

Empowered consumers champion brands that commit to sustainability transformation and the drive has led businesses to opportunities and innovation. In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. welcomes Ann Tracy, Chief Sustainability Officer for Colgate-Palmolive, a global consumer products company.
Today, Ann will share insights on the implementation of Colgate’s global sustainability strategy, and how Colgate is leading in zero-carbon transformation by setting science-based targets. We will also learn the importance of cultivating new technology and why deep focus is imperative for leaders and entrepreneurs. 

Leveraging Competitive Intelligence

What is competitive intelligence (CI) and why it is curial for the success of today’s businesses? In this episode, host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. welcomes Jonah Lopin, CEO and co-founder of Crayon, an award-winning, industry-leading CI software company. Prior to Crayon, Jonah was VP of Customer Success at HubSpot, served as a consultant at Deloitte Consulting and has worked in China focusing on entrepreneurship and non-profits. 
We will discuss the current state of CI, how to gather and analyze industry-specialized information, mine the web and leveraging competitive intelligence to boost business performance. Jonah will also share the importance of following the market’s interest, building a solution and why entrepreneurs should stay focus for the customer.

Elevating Your Personal Brand

In this episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ’83), Ph.D. sat down with Ramon Ray (B.S. ’07) entrepreneur, leading expert on personal branding, motivational speaker, author, founder and CEO of ZoneofGenius.com and SmartHustle.com.
It has never been easier now to start a business, although for budding entrepreneurs, the challenge is how to grow the business. Ray will share with listeners the significance of one’s personal branding and how to gain leverage in growing a business. Our host John Rebecchi and Ray will walk us through the process of creating a compelling marketing pitch and why a matter of runway is critical for startups.

Uncover Your Creative Core

We frequently hear entrepreneurs talk about turning passion into a business. However, within the fine arts space, it is not an easy feat to design a creative experience for customers of all ages. In today’s episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ‘83), Ph.D. is joined by Sue Wilkowski (B.F.A. '85), founder and owner of Casa de Spin, art director, author and an art specialist for teens diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
With Sue's fascinating background in teaching arts and passion for spin art, we’ll hear how it led her to open Casa de Spin, a first ever paint event venue combining spin-art with step-by-step painting instruction. Sue will share with us the impact she faced in her business during the pandemic and the need to pivot for survival. We will also discuss the importance of tapping into your creativity when overcoming entrepreneurial challenges.

The Fear of Not Trying

Why do we tend to overlook opportunities while some see potentials? In today’s episode, our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ‘83), Ph.D. is joined by Craig Dubitsky, a serial entrepreneur, founder of Hello Products, Chief Innovation Strategist at Colgate-Palmolive and a previous guest of the #InRealityPodcast.Craig will catch us up on his entrepreneurial journey since our previous interview in 2019 and what led to his current role as a Chief Innovation Strategist for Colgate-Palmolive.
We’ll discuss in a broader view of what innovation is, how innovation originate and the importance of trying something new by embracing the idea of FONT (Fear of Not Trying). Craig also will share his insights on how emotional spark can ignite new ideas, and the process to unleash your optimism and creativity in whatever you do.
Support us by sharing or reviewing our podcast series. Recaps and links to each episode can also be found on our blog, The Achievement Index. Listen to our previous episode with Craig here, Season one, Episode five.

Embrace an Innovative Mindset

As we kick off season 5 of the “In Reality: Lessons from Leaders and Entrepreneurs,” our host John Rebecchi, PhD (M.B.A. ‘83), is joined by Lorraine Marchand, a life sciences consultant, business executive, speaker and writer. She recently authored a book, The Innovation Mindset: Eight Essential Steps to Transform Any Industry
Lorraine will walk us through the roadmap in which had guided her to successfully launch businesses while demystify the process to transform in any industry. We’ll also learn the significance of having a positive energy as an entrepreneur and why it is important to embrace an innovative mindset.
Support us by sharing or reviewing our podcast series. Recaps and the link to each episode can also be found on our blog, The Achievement Index.

In Reality Podcast Season 5 Trailer

Looking to take your business or career to the next level? We are very excited to announce that we will be releasing season 5 of the #InRealityPodcast!
In this season, you'll hear our host John Rebecchi (M.B.A. ‘83), Ph.D., interview today’s most innovative thinkers and entrepreneurs. We'll gain insider views on how to uncover problems to finding solutions.
Stay tuned as our 1st episode will launch on September 26, everywhere podcasts are available.
If you’re a first-time listener, be sure to check out past episodes.

Revealing Untold Stories

In today’s episode, our host John Rebecchi, Ph.D. (M.B.A. ’83) had the pleasure of speaking with Snigdha Sur, founder and CEO of The Juggernaut. The Juggernaut is a premium media company and community focusing on global South Asian stories for the diaspora and beyond.
We’ll dive into the geniuses behind Sur's media company from its name to how she successfully pitched to preeminent companies such as Y Combinator and Precursor Ventures. We will also discuss the effectiveness of running subscription-based business model, Sur's mission to diversify storytelling and the importance of uncovering stories untold by mainstream media.