Gateway to Growth

Jamal Cornelious
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Careers

Introducing Gateway to Growth 🎙️ Gateway to Growth is a career and personal development podcast spotlighting the people, stories, and ideas shaping St. Louis. Hosted by Jamal Cornelious in partnership with STL Bucket List, each episode features candid conversations with creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals navigating their own paths to growth.From career pivots and creative pursuits to leadership, community, and opportunity, Gateway to Growth explores what it really takes to build meaningful work and thrive especially early in your career. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or professional looking for your next chapter, this podcast offers real insight, practical advice, and inspiration from those doing the work. Made in partnership with STL Bucket List

  1. 15h ago

    Betting on Yourself: Dr. Jonathan W. Solomon ,on Career Pivots, Burnout & Building Men's Community

    What does it really take to walk away from the career you thought was your calling? How do you know when passion for your work has quietly turned into burnout? And what can losing 200 pounds and finishing a marathon teach us about what we're actually capable of? 🏃‍♂️💪🌱 In this episode of Gateway to Growth, our host Jim Cornelius sits down with Dr. Jonathan Solomon, Partnership Director at an ed-tech company, to explore what it takes to reinvent yourself — professionally, physically, and personally. Jonathan's own path winds from growing up between Cleveland, Minnesota, and Los Angeles while he and his sister were in foster care, to becoming a first-generation college student at Langston University, to eventually pivoting out of higher education and into ed-tech for the sake of his own health. He shares how his family's struggle with addiction shaped his early identity around school and learning, and how that same intensity later put him on a path toward burnout. Throughout the conversation, Jonathan breaks down the self-preservation instinct that pushed him to leave higher ed after nearly a decade, how his wife helped him recognize blind spots he couldn't see in himself, and how losing almost 200 pounds and completing the LA Marathon reshaped his understanding of his own capacity. He also offers candid advice for anyone standing at the edge of their own career pivot. This episode explores: Jonathan's personal story, from foster care in Cleveland to first-generation college student at an HBCU.Why he made the leap from higher education student affairs into ed-tech.The self-preservation instinct behind walking away from a “calling.”How his wife helped him recognize burnout blind spots he couldn't see himself.Losing nearly 200 pounds and completing the LA Marathon while cramping from mile 8.Building men's mental health community through Yoga With Your Bros and the Run Crew.Why he chose Saint Louis, and how he built (and was built into) community there.Practical advice for anyone considering a career pivot, and sitting with fear instead of waiting for it to pass. Whether you're navigating your own burnout, weighing a career pivot, or just need a reminder that you're capable of more than you think, this conversation is a powerful look at what it means to bet on yourself. Connect with Dr. Jonathan SolomonInstagram & TikTok ▶ @dr.jsolo 🎙 New episodes of Gateway to Growth drop bi-weekly on Monday 🔔 Subscribe for future episodes exploring leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and career growth. 🎧 LISTEN ON: Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS 🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST: Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/ Website ▶ https://stlbucketlist.com/ 🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode? Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.com Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/

  2. Jul 6

    Welcoming St. Louis: Blake Hamilton on Immigration, Community & the Future of the Region

    What does it really take to welcome someone into a brand new country? How does immigration shape the growth of a city like Saint Louis? And what can nonprofit work teach us about building a career rooted in purpose? 🌍🤝🏙️ In this episode of Gateway to Growth, our host sits down with Blake Hamilton, President and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis, to explore the story of immigration in Saint Louis — past, present, and future. Blake's own path winds from a multicultural border town in South Texas, to living and working in China as an outsider learning to navigate a new culture, to leading one of the region's most impactful nonprofits. He shares his family's own immigration story — including his great-grandfather's journey fleeing conscription in Russia — and how that legacy shapes his approach to welcoming newcomers today. Throughout the conversation, Blake breaks down the 105+ year history of the International Institute, why immigration is essential to a growing, prosperous region, and how initiatives like Move to STL are working to attract new residents to the city. He also offers candid advice for anyone considering a career in the nonprofit sector. This episode explores:  • Blake's personal and family immigration story, from South Texas to China to Saint Louis.  • The 105+ year history and mission of the International Institute of St. Louis.  • Why immigration is critical to reversing population decline and driving regional growth.  • How Bosnian immigrants transformed the Bevo neighborhood into "Little Bosnia."  • Addressing the misconception that welcoming immigrants is a "zero-sum game."  • The Move to STL initiative and why Saint Louis is an underrated destination for newcomers.  • Career advice for anyone looking to break into nonprofit and service-oriented work.  • The power of board service, volunteering, and networking in the nonprofit space.  • Everything you need to know about the Festival of Nations. Whether you're passionate about community development, considering a career in the nonprofit sector, or just curious about the forces shaping Saint Louis' future, this conversation offers a powerful look at why welcoming newcomers is one of the smartest investments a region can make. Connect with the International Institute of St. Louis:  Website ▶ https://festofnations.com/ Festival of Nations ▶ August 29th & 30th, Tower Grove Park 🎙 New episodes of Gateway to Growth drop bi-weekly on Monday 🔔 Subscribe for future episodes exploring leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and career growth. 🎧 LISTEN ON:  Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO  Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS 🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:  Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/  Website ▶ https://stlbucketlist.com/ 🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?  Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.com  Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/

  3. Jun 22

    Leading in the Age of AI with Jackson Nickerson, Dean of SLU Business

    What skills will matter most in an AI-driven economy? How can universities better prepare students for the future of work? And what role can community, leadership, and even relationships play in shaping the future of a city? 🤖🎓🌆 In this episode of Gateway to Growth, Jamal Cornelious sits down with Jackson Nickerson, Dean of the Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping careers, leadership, higher education, and the future of St. Louis. Jackson's career journey spans engineering, academia, and executive leadership. He began as a control systems engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, helping manage communications for spacecraft exploring our solar system. He later spent more than 25 years as a professor and administrator at Washington University's Olin Business School before joining Saint Louis University, where he now leads one of the region's top business schools. A nationally recognized scholar in leadership, strategy, and innovation, Jackson has authored six books and more than 85 academic publications focused on organizational performance, innovation, and leadership. Under his leadership, the Chaifetz School is pursuing a vision where "Mission Meets the Market," preparing students to combine ethical leadership with practical business expertise in a rapidly changing world. Throughout the conversation, Jackson shares why human-centered leadership is becoming more valuable as AI advances, how SLU is reimagining business education, and why attracting and retaining young professionals may be one of the most important challenges facing St. Louis. This episode explores: • Jackson's journey from NASA engineer to business school dean. • Why AI is making human skills more valuable, not less. • The leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills employers are seeking today. • How SLU is redesigning business education to prepare students for an AI-enabled workforce. • The concept of dignity-based leadership and why it matters in today's workplace. • How cooperative education programs can help students graduate with real-world experience and less debt. • The growing challenge facing young professionals entering the workforce. • Why career development is becoming more important than simply finding a job. • Jackson's perspective on St. Louis' population challenges and retaining young talent. • Creative ideas for building stronger community connections and helping St. Louis grow. Whether you're a student, business leader, entrepreneur, or professional navigating rapid changes in the workplace, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of leadership, education, career growth, and the uniquely human skills that will matter most in an AI-driven world. Connect with Saint Louis University: Instagram: sluchaifetzbiz TikTok: sluchaifetzbiz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sluchaifetzbiz 🎙 New episodes of Gateway to Growth drop bi-weekly on Monday 🔔 Subscribe for future episodes exploring leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and career growth. 🎧 LISTEN ON: Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS 🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST: Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/ Website ▶ https://stlbucketlist.com/ 🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode? Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.com Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/

  4. Jun 8

    Building Community, Creativity & Career with Anastasia Harris

    What does it look like to build a successful career while also pursuing your passions and creating meaningful community? 🎧✨🏃🏾‍♀️ In this episode of Gateway to Growth, Jamal Cornelious sits down with St. Louis creative, community builder, and entrepreneur Anastasia Harris to explore how she balances a career in public health research while growing multiple passion-driven ventures. Anastasia wears many hats: clinical research associate, DJ, track coach, founder of Run It Back Track Club, mentor, and community advocate. Throughout the conversation, she shares how St. Louis became the perfect place to blend her professional ambitions with her creative pursuits and why community has been the foundation of her success. This episode explores: • How Anastasia built a career in maternal and child health research while pursuing creative passions outside of work. • The story behind Run It Back, St. Louis' adult track and field club creating space for former athletes and newcomers alike. • Why community support has been critical to turning ideas into reality. • The challenges of balancing a full-time career, entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership. • Lessons on avoiding burnout through intentional rest, structure, and boundaries. • How she's growing her DJ career and helping others break into corporate event opportunities. • The importance of delegation, building teams, and learning to let go of control as organizations grow. • Advice for professionals looking to pursue creative passions alongside their corporate careers. • Why St. Louis continues to be a city where entrepreneurs, artists, and community builders can thrive. Key Takeaways 💡 • Start before you're ready—perfection isn't required to begin. • Creative pursuits require discipline, consistency, and sacrifice. • Community can accelerate growth in ways you can't accomplish alone. • Rest is just as important as productivity when pursuing multiple goals. • Building something meaningful means learning not to take every setback personally. Whether you're navigating a career transition, building a side project, pursuing creative work, or searching for ways to connect more deeply with your community, Anastasia's story offers practical insights and inspiration for creating a life that blends purpose, passion, and impact. Connect with Anastasia:   Run it Back Instagram ▶   https://www.instagram.com/runitbacktrackclub/?hl=en   Personal Instagram ▶   https://www.instagram.com/papistazi/?hl=en    LinkedIn ▶https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasia-harris-mph-ches-91315863/   Run it Back Website ▶ https://www.joinrunitback.com/?utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPOTM2NjE5NzQzMzkyNDU5AAGnM-IS5OCd40HohE0OXpEq0BLm86uo0wRyoUhw6OtifTfp6RQBYzxsY20-Dx8_aem_S8TxKEYSJTbAFsFwQoor9A  Connect with Gateway to Growth:  Instagram ▶   / gateway_to_growth   🎙 New episodes of Gateway to Growth drop bi-weekly on Monday 🔔 Subscribe for future episodes exploring leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and career growth. 🎧 LISTEN ON:  Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO  Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS 🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:  Instagram ▶   / stlbucketlist    Website ▶ https://stlbucketlist.com/ 🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST  Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?  Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.com  Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/ab...

  5. May 25

    From Aerospace Engineer to Entrepreneur: Kay Wells on Innovation, Purpose & Building Posie Pots

    On this episode of Gateway to Growth, host Jamal Cornelious sits down with entrepreneur, inventor, and Posie Pots founder Kay Wells for an inspiring conversation about career pivots, entrepreneurship, innovation, and finding purpose through creation. Kay shares her journey from working as a mechanical engineer for companies like Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Amazon to leaving the corporate world and launching Posie Pots — a patented self-watering planter designed to make plant care easier and more accessible. She reflects on her background in aerospace engineering, advanced manufacturing, and 3D printing, and how those experiences unexpectedly laid the foundation for entrepreneurship. The conversation explores startup growth, innovation, resilience, and the realities of building a business from the ground up. Kay opens up about turning an idea into a product, receiving early support through St. Louis’ startup ecosystem, landing opportunities with Walmart, Good Morning America, and Shark Tank, and navigating the emotional highs and lows that come with scaling a company. Kay also discusses mentorship, creating opportunities through STEM education and 3D printing programs, empowering future entrepreneurs, and why St. Louis continues to be an important place for innovation and community building. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, founders, engineers, creatives, and anyone considering a career pivot or pursuing an idea they feel called to build. Connect with Kay Wells & Posie Pots:   Company Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/PosiePot/   Personal Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/kaywells_posiepots/   LinkedIn ▶ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kionna-h-wells/   Website ▶ https://www.posiepot.com/ 🎙 New episodes of Gateway to Growth drop regularly. 🔔 Subscribe for future episodes exploring leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and career growth. 🎧 LISTEN ON:  Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS 🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:  Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/ Website ▶ https://stlbucketlist.com/ 🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST  Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?  Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.com  Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

  6. May 11

    Building Community Through Entrepreneurship: Matt Menietti on Culture, Connection & Career Growth

    On this episode of Gateway to Growth, host Jamal Cornelious sits down with for a thoughtful conversation about entrepreneurship, community building, and what it really means to create meaningful work and culture. Matt shares his journey from growing up in Iowa and studying engineering to finding purpose through nonprofit work, entrepreneurship, and community leadership in St. Louis. He reflects on how experiences with AmeriCorps and youth-focused nonprofit work shaped his perspective on service, collaboration, and creating opportunities for others. The conversation explores topics like workplace culture, leadership, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and the evolving nature of careers in today’s world. Matt discusses the importance of finding purpose beyond a paycheck, building authentic relationships, creating environments where people can thrive, and why strong communities are essential for long-term growth and innovation. Matt also shares practical advice for young professionals looking to build their network, navigate career transitions, and get more involved in their local community through service, mentorship, and meaningful connection. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, young professionals, nonprofit leaders, and anyone looking to build a more intentional career and community. Connect with Matt Menietti:  Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmenietti/  TechArtista Website: https://www.techartista.org/ 🎙 New episodes drop bi-weekly on Monday. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔 🎧 LISTEN ON:  Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO  Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS 🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:  Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram  Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com 🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST  Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?  Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.com  Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

  7. Apr 27

    The Power of the Arts: Vanessa Cooksey on Access, Equity & Community Impact

    On this episode of Gateway to Growth, host Jamal Cornelious sits down with Vanessa Cooksey, President and CEO of the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis, for a powerful conversation about leadership, purpose, and the role of arts in building stronger communities. Vanessa shares her dynamic and non-linear career journey—from working at Mary Kay and Cartoon Network to leadership roles across corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors—ultimately leading one of the largest public funders of the arts in the region. She reflects on the challenges of navigating change, stepping into executive leadership, and the importance of relationships, integrity, and community in shaping both career and impact. The conversation dives deep into themes like inclusive leadership, organizational culture, career growth, and the power of the arts to create access, belonging, and opportunity. Vanessa also shares practical advice on succeeding in new roles, building meaningful connections, and staying grounded in your purpose. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating career transitions, stepping into leadership, or looking to make a meaningful impact in their community. Connect with Vanessa Cooksey: Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vlafc/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/regional-arts-commission-of-st-louis/ Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stlouisarts/ 🎙 New episodes drop bi-weekly on Monday. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔 🎧 LISTEN ON:  Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS 🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:  Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com 🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST  Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?  Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.com  Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

  8. Apr 13

    From Athlete to Anchor: Mikala McGhee Bass on Career Pivots, Purpose & Personal Brand

    On this episode of Gateway to Growth, host Jamal Cornelious sits down with Mikala McGhee Bass for a powerful conversation about growth, reinvention, and the winding path of a modern career. Mikala shares her journey from being a student-athlete to working service jobs after college, breaking into broadcasting, winning Miss Missouri USA, and ultimately building a career in corporate communications. Along the way, she opens up about the challenges of career pivots, the importance of resilience, and how every experience helped shape her professional identity. The conversation explores key themes like personal branding, storytelling, leadership, and the evolving role of communications in today’s world—including how professionals can leverage AI to stay ahead. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating change, building their career, or learning how to turn every experience into opportunity. Connect with Mikala Mcghee Bass: Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikalamcghee/  Booking Inquiries: https://forms.gle/UNgnKbiT33awGELH6  Personal Instagram: @mikalamcghee  🎙 New episodes drop bi-weekly on Monday.  🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔 🎧 LISTEN ON: Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

See All (15)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Introducing Gateway to Growth 🎙️ Gateway to Growth is a career and personal development podcast spotlighting the people, stories, and ideas shaping St. Louis. Hosted by Jamal Cornelious in partnership with STL Bucket List, each episode features candid conversations with creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals navigating their own paths to growth.From career pivots and creative pursuits to leadership, community, and opportunity, Gateway to Growth explores what it really takes to build meaningful work and thrive especially early in your career. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or professional looking for your next chapter, this podcast offers real insight, practical advice, and inspiration from those doing the work. Made in partnership with STL Bucket List

Information

  • Creator
    Jamal Cornelious
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Gateway to Growth
  • Show Website
    Gateway to Growth

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