In the Arena: Conversations of a Lifetime Brad Rieger
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- Society & Culture
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What makes leaders tick? In the Arena podcast delves into the inner workings and personal dynamics of leadership. We’ll shine a light on the life-shaping experiences and perspectives of leaders who have navigated adversity and moved their organizations and themselves forward. Defining moments, lessons learned, and points of inspiration provide a roadmap for these conversations of a lifetime. The podcast title In the Arena has historical roots. In 1910, a year after leaving the presidency, Teddy Roosevelt gave a rousing address in Paris in which he chastised cynics and grenade-throwing critics who lambasted leaders as they worked valiantly to improve the human condition. Over time TR’s “The Man in the Arena” became indelibly linked to the nobility and struggles of leadership. In the Arena host Brad Rieger is the chief executive officer at Cooper-Smith, a full-service marketing and advertising agency headquartered in Toledo, OH with a satellite office in Stamford, CT. Prior to working in the private sector, Brad enjoyed a meaningful 31-year career in education serving in the roles of teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. He is a student of the complexities and nuances of leadership and admires the strivers, trailblazers, and influencers who lead with conviction, courage, and resilience. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023
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Christina Rodriguez – Executive Director, Mom’s House
For over 16 years, Christina has been leading a life-giving organization that helps low-income single moms pursue their educational goals and break the cycle of poverty. Her own harrowing experiences as a child growing up on the west side of Chicago propel her to provide opportunities and hope to young moms and their children traveling a tough road. She is also a beacon of light in the areas of human rights, education, and social justice. As a result of her passion and efforts to improve the human condition, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine tapped her to lead the statewide Martin Luther King Holiday Commission.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023 -
Eamonn Reynolds – Director of Football Communications, The Detroit Lions
Drawing upon his journalism background, love of athletics, and ability to connect with people, Eamonn guides the narrative for the Detroit Lions. He oversees a constant flurry of media activity involving local/national news organizations, reporters, players, coaches, and front office personnel. In 2023 Eamonn and the Detroit Lions Communications team received the prestigious Pete Rozelle Award for excellence in public relations. He credits family members, educators, and coaches for giving him meaningful experiences that prepared him to handle a high-profile and fast-paced position.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023 -
Levi Stubbs III – Business and Community Impact Leader
For over 30 years Levi has held corporate leadership roles and been a strong supporter of numerous charitable organizations and worthy causes throughout the Metro Detroit area. As Vice President and Community Impact Officer for Systems Technology Group (headquartered in Troy, Michigan), Levi leads the company’s sales, new business, and diversity efforts. He also serves on numerous boards including the Motown Museum, Teen Street Skills, and Metro Detroit Youth Clubs. Mentoring young people is one of Levi’s passions. Levi’s father was the standout lead singer for the iconic Four Tops. In addition to his dad’s influence, the artists and songs that comprised the Motown music experience were life-shaping.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023 -
Amy Chang – Associate Principal Cello, Toledo Symphony Orchestra
Amy Chang, who grew up in Taiwan and came to the United States as a high school exchange student, began playing the cello when she was 10 years old. She honed her musical skills at the Taiwan Academy of Arts, Music Institute of Chicago, and Eastman School of Music. Throughout her highly accomplished career as a cellist, Amy has used the platform of music to move people’s emotions and provide a sense of uplift. She believes that a fully expressive musician needs to be courageous and vulnerable in order to connect with listeners.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023 -
Logan Sander - Co-Founder and Editorial Director @ Midstory
Entrepreneur Logan Sander joined like-minded young professionals to establish and run a vibrant nonprofit media thinkhub that highlights the unique qualities, opportunities, and challenges associated with the Midwest region. She has merged a love of multimedia storytelling, research, education, and community service to provide a meaningful contribution to the Midwest narrative.
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023 -
Marco Molesini – International Sommelier and Owner of Molesini Wine Shop
Based in the Tuscan hillside town of Cortona, Italy, Marco Molesini owns and operates the internationally renowned Molesini Wine Shop. His vast knowledge of wine, deep connections with Italian winemakers, frequent wine tasting events in the United States, and a robust wine club membership make Marco one of the most respected and sought-after experts in the wine industry. His passion for what he does is captured in a phrase he often says during wine tasting presentations: “God makes the wine, let’s drink together.”
Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023
Customer Reviews
Amazing interviewer
Just listened to Brad’s interview with Father James Bacik. Brad is able to ask questions that helps his guest reveal their personality, mission, and compassion. I highly recommend his work and will strive to adopt his presence in my work as a therapist and beginning podcaster.
Refreshing leadership talk
Brad is a master of his craft in relationships and leadership. This podcast is refreshing in the way Brad talks with leaders in unique ways, finding the human side and humor in leadership, and talking about lessons learning through mistakes. It’s a deep look at culture, connection, and helping others.
Thank you Brad! -Laura Davidson