Coming Home Podcast

Michael Cannetti

Coming Home Podcast is a show focusing on the alumni, the history, and the memories of Fairleigh Dickinson University and its impact on our lives, and the world. Each episode we interview alumni past and present about their time at the university, which campus they went to, their time at Wroxton, and where they are today.

  1. I Discovered My Passion for Film at FDU - Here's How!

    May 18

    I Discovered My Passion for Film at FDU - Here's How!

    I Discovered My Passion for Film at FDU - Here's How! I discovered my passion for film at FDU, and it completely shaped my career. In this episode of the Coming Home Podcast, Michael Cannetti and Mike Ramos sit down with FDU alumnus Dan Quiyu — cinematographer, video producer, and founder of RJD Creative Lab. Dan shares his journey from studying film at Fairleigh Dickinson University to building a career in cinematography, documentary storytelling, and commercial video production. We discuss filmmaking, networking, adapting to new technology, AI in media, and what it really takes to succeed in today’s creative industry. Whether you’re a film student, aspiring creator, or working professional, this conversation offers real insight into turning creativity into a career. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Topics include: 🎬 Documentary filmmaking 🎥 Cinematography & video production 🎓 The FDU film experience 🤖 AI and the future of filmmaking 📈 Networking & career growth 🎞 Building a production company 💡 Storytelling in modern media No matter where life takes you… you can always come home again. Chapters 00:00:00 - Introduction and Disclaimer 00:00:30 - Introduction of Guest - Dan Quiyu 00:01:43 - Dan's Journey to FDU 00:03:13 - Dan's Career after FDU 00:07:53 - Dan's Filmmaking Style 00:11:35 - Dan's Experience at FDU 00:13:46 - Dan's Work on 'Inspired' 00:16:10 - Dan's Advice for Film Students 00:17:01 - Dan's Perspective on Filmmaking Opportunities 00:20:27 - Dan's Experience with Flexibility in Filmmaking 00:25:06 - Dan's Collaboration with FDU Students 00:27:06 - Dan's Vision for the Future 00:29:24 - Dan's Awards and Achievements 00:31:51 - Dan's Upcoming Projects 00:32:35 - Dan's Views on Education in Filmmaking 00:34:25 - Dan's Experience at Princeton University 00:36:16 - Dan's Preference for Freelancing 00:36:53 - Dan's Love for Documentary Style Storytelling 00:37:38 - Dan's Final Advice for Film Students 00:38:53 - Conclusion https://www.rjdcreativelab.com #FilmMaking #Cinematography #DocumentaryFilm #FilmSchool #FDU #VideoProduction #ContentCreation #Storytelling #Filmmaker #Podcast #AIinFilm #CreativeCareer #ComingHomePodcast #FilmIndustry #BehindTheCamera RSS Feed:  https://feeds.transistor.fm/coming-home-podcast Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@FDUComingHome Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coming-home-podcast/id1841922196 Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5lgIo5VyxoF0sgSC5y3K2s Amazon Music:  https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b7bb9234-52bd-408b-8912-2376ffb78758/coming-home-podcast Deezer:  https://www.deezer.com/us/show/1002232011 Listen Notes:  https://lnns.co/a8rYNqJ60Vy https://cominghomepodcast.com/

    40 min
  2. From Dorm Cooking to TV Star 🍝 Dina Deleasa-Gonsar’s Story

    Apr 27

    From Dorm Cooking to TV Star 🍝 Dina Deleasa-Gonsar’s Story

    FDU alumna Dina Deleasa-Gonsar shares how a passion for cooking that began in her college dorm turned into a career in television, social media, and entrepreneurship. From Married to Jonas to Guy’s Grocery Games and beyond, Dina breaks down her journey from student to media personality and brand builder. Chapters:00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:31 - Guest Introduction and Initial Conversation 00:02:16 - Dina's Early Life and How She Found FDU 00:04:26 - Dina's Major and Career Shift 00:06:06 - Transitioning to Becoming a Chef 00:10:11 - Impact of Education on Dina's Career 00:11:37 - Mentors and Supporters at FDU 00:13:55 - Role of FDU in Dina's Career 00:16:10 - Dina's First On-Camera Cooking Experience 00:16:16 - Overcoming Nerves and Preparing for On-Camera Cooking 00:18:12 - Public Speaking Experience and Missed Opportunities 00:19:53 - Career Progression and Television Appearances 00:21:31 - Experience on Guys' Grocery Games 00:22:54 - Publishing a Cookbook 00:27:20 - Starting a Podcast 00:27:25 - Balancing Work and Personal Life 00:30:11 - Seeking Business Advice and Learning from Mistakes 00:31:48 - Understanding the Value of Work and Time 00:33:51 - The Reality of Being an Influencer 00:36:31 - The Role of Education and AI in Influencing 00:40:42 - The Importance of Authenticity Online 00:41:31 - Experiences in Television Cooking Shows 00:43:34 - Dina's Favorite Foods and Go-to Meals 00:45:12 - Promoting Dina's Work and Final Thoughts www.dishitgirl.com@DishItGirlDina on InstagramBook:  At The Kitchen Sink:  https://www.amazon.com/At-Kitchen-Sink-Recipes-Cookbook/dp/0593728939/ref=sr_1_3?crid=25CLU8OU4VINQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.peoPJZejXMy1nRUJebavCF_UmfKke770YkPHPFQ2jw_sKoej4QN2Oe9Ed3s04mNM3rLGrowXjrFCTerMoZ9R_IIG6JbYNgBxccR1MbD3SdvmndTBeG2yw68vC_un5WHRiNTGsqb5tOOfhae1zGPmuZJthshRWuqxCcqPRNR5puN5JV2M65eo1bv8X7g7PUWaLYu7Fo78Ht1ZguKocqsLoE6gDpMgykSIrHRaX2YZ7Ig.fm6I2H38r0v6sQlpBSElpchHO7Q3fZBc9fzVUjyBWxg&dib_tag=se&keywords=at+the+kitchen+sink&qid=1777264230&sprefix=at+the+kitchen+sink%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-3 @FDUComingHome  RSS Feed:  https://feeds.transistor.fm/coming-home-podcast Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@FDUComingHome Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coming-home-podcast/id1841922196 Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5lgIo5VyxoF0sgSC5y3K2s Amazon Music:  https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b7bb9234-52bd-408b-8912-2376ffb78758/coming-home-podcast Deezer:  https://www.deezer.com/us/show/1002232011 Listen Notes:  https://lnns.co/a8rYNqJ60Vy https://cominghomepodcast.com/

    48 min
  3. She Said “Yes”… And It Changed Everything | From FDU to Hospitality Leader

    Apr 13

    She Said “Yes”… And It Changed Everything | From FDU to Hospitality Leader

    In this episode of Coming Home, we sit down with FDU alum Agnes Zaranski, a leader in the hospitality industry whose journey is rooted in mentorship, community, and saying yes to opportunity. Agnes reflects on her time at Fairleigh Dickinson University, the relationships that shaped her career, and how she continues to give back through alumni engagement, fundraising, and leadership. We explore the importance of education, work ethic, and balancing career growth with family life—along with valuable advice for the next generation entering the hospitality field. 00:00 Introduction  00:33 Guest Introduction  01:29 Getting to Know Agnes  01:48 Agnes’ Journey at FDU  02:48 Post-Graduation Careers  05:20 Mentors and Influences  08:18 Choosing FDU  11:22 Giving Back and Mentoring  15:28 Hospitality Department Alumni Network  15:57 Professional Development Series and Gala  16:26 Transition to Reception Style Fundraiser  16:39 Joining the Alumni Chapter  17:15 Fundraising and Scholarships  18:48 Hospitality Industry Culture and Work Ethic  19:31 Servant Leadership in Hospitality  20:31 Teaching as an Adjunct Professor  22:33 Campus Events and Fundraising  25:53 Cross Training in Hospitality  27:29 Importance of Education  29:54 Balancing Work and Family  30:43 Balancing Work, Travel, and Family  31:45 The Power of Saying Yes  36:07 The Importance of Gratitude and Privacy  36:37 Advice for Young Women Entering the Industry  39:07 Reflections on Fairleigh Dickinson University  41:03 Getting Involved in the Hospitality Tourism Alumni Chapter  #FDU #FDUAlumni #ComingHomePodcast  #HospitalityIndustry #HospitalityCareers  #CareerAdvice #MentorshipMatters  #WomenInHospitality #Leadership  #CollegeToCareer #AlumniSuccess  #Networking #ProfessionalGrowth  #StudentSuccess #HigherEducation  RSS Feed:  https://feeds.transistor.fm/coming-home-podcast Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@FDUComingHome Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coming-home-podcast/id1841922196 Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5lgIo5VyxoF0sgSC5y3K2s Amazon Music:  https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b7bb9234-52bd-408b-8912-2376ffb78758/coming-home-podcast Deezer:  https://www.deezer.com/us/show/1002232011 Listen Notes:  https://lnns.co/a8rYNqJ60Vy

    42 min
  4. This FDU Grad Went From Magic Tricks to Hollywood Horror

    Mar 30

    This FDU Grad Went From Magic Tricks to Hollywood Horror

    Anthony Masi’s journey is anything but traditional. A graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University with a background in creative writing, Anthony began his career as a professional magician before finding his way into the world of horror filmmaking. In this episode of FDU Coming Home, Anthony reflects on the people and experiences that shaped his path — including the influence of Harvey Flaxman, his close friendship with Mark Sapara, and the creative foundation he built at FDU. Now a film producer, Anthony has worked on projects such as Halloween: 25 Years of Terror and the 2025 reboot of Silent Night, Deadly Night, bringing iconic horror stories to new audiences.  This conversation explores: Reinventing yourself creativelyTurning passion into professionBuilding a career in film productionThe role of mentorship and collaborationWhy your path doesn’t have to be linear to be successfulWhether you’re a student, creative, or professional looking for your next move, Anthony’s story is a reminder that the unconventional path can lead exactly where you’re meant to go. ⏱️Chapters⏱️00:00 Intro00:45 Welcome Anthony Masi02:10 IMDB Credits03:15 Name on the Big Screen04:15 Going to be a Magician05:45 Doing it because you want to do it07:30 The move to Los Angeles09:00 Getting over insecurity11:44 Movies that inspired14:00 The effort of making a movie16:00 Make what you can on a budget19:00 First Horror Documentary22:00 The Impact of Harvey Flaxman27:00 The Motivation for a Change28:45 The Impact of Halloween35:00 Film Editing today39:00 The Magic Castle LA42:00 Friday the 13th Documentary45:30 The Found Footage Horror Movement47:30 The Shift in Hollywood Filmmaking51:00 How do you get your foot in the door?53:45 Horror Games?55:00 Board Games Movement58:00 Love what you do.1:00:00 Experience on set - Networking1:02:00 Film Festivals1:05:00 Wrap Up1:06:00 Final thoughts for Creators1:07:00 Farewell @FDU_Arts on Instagram

    1h 8m
  5. How Tragedy and 9/11 Shaped a National Security Career | Todd Rosenthal

    Mar 16

    How Tragedy and 9/11 Shaped a National Security Career | Todd Rosenthal

    Todd Rosenthal never planned on attending Fairleigh Dickinson University — until a chance visit to the Florham campus changed everything. In this episode of FDU Coming Home, Todd shares the unexpected journey that led him to FDU and the defining moments that shaped both his education and his career. During his freshman year, a tragedy on campus claimed the life of a close friend — a moment that deeply affected Todd and ultimately led him to be called to active duty and reconsider the direction of his life. That experience, combined with the national impact of September 11 attacks, helped shape Todd’s commitment to security, preparedness, and public service. He later returned to FDU to earn his master’s degree, further strengthening the foundation for a career dedicated to protecting others. Today, Todd serves as the Security Awareness Training and Education Program Lead for Science Applications International Corporation, where he develops training programs focused on critical incident response, cybersecurity awareness, social engineering, and protecting digital footprints. Over the course of his career, he has worked with federal agencies, the intelligence community, all branches of the U.S. military, and some of the nation’s largest government contractors. Todd began his security career with the United States Secret Service and has become a nationally recognized trainer and speaker on topics including active violence response, insider threats, and security awareness. His contributions to industrial security were recognized in 2020 when his program received the prestigious James S. Cogswell Award from the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency. In this conversation, Todd reflects on the moments that shape our lives, the people who influence our paths, and how education and experience can lead to a career dedicated to service and security.

    48 min
  6. FDU Coming Home: Eli Amdur on Mentorship, Motivation & Lifelong Impact

    Mar 2

    FDU Coming Home: Eli Amdur on Mentorship, Motivation & Lifelong Impact

    Eli Amdur’s connection to Fairleigh Dickinson University spans decades — from his time as a student in the 1960s to his ongoing work as a career coach and adjunct professor. Eli Amdur’s connection to Fairleigh Dickinson University spans decades — from his time as a student in the 1960s to his ongoing work as a career coach and adjunct professor. In this episode of FDU Coming Home, Eli reflects on the mentors and moments that shaped his journey and explains how those experiences fueled his lifelong commitment to motivating and guiding others. His story is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact educators and institutions can have across generations. This conversation explores mentorship, purpose, career development, and the deep sense of community that continues to define Eli’s relationship with FDU. ⏱️Chapters⏱️00:00 Introduction00:30 Eli’s FDU Origin Story01:09 When Eli started at FDU01:45 The Mentors that Mattered03:30 How I ended up at FDU05:00 Knowing Peter Sammartino09:00 Total Growth and Stimulation from Professor John Dollar11:00 Ho I began teaching at FDU13:00 Service to the College17:00 Exploring Culture and Art with Students21:00 Giving every student the time and respect they deserve22:50 Being Undecided and landing on Psychology25:22 Being a school teacher in the Bronx28:19 Following the Grateful Dead29:30 Albert Einstein32:04 Peter Sammartino's dreams and the dream of FDU.37:00 Educating students in three key ways.38:30 The most impactful class of his life.39:30 How Peter Sammartino really saw you not just a student.40:50 Being a better writer than researcher.43:30 The impact FDU faculty had on Eli.45:30 Business and Entrepreneur Advice47:00 Wrap and Conclusion The views statements and opinions expressed on the Coming Home Podcast do not represent Fairleigh Dickinson University, its views or affiliates, the content of these episodes are solely focused on the stories, memories, and journeys of FDU Alumni. #FDUComingHome #FairleighDickinson #FDUAlumni #CareerCoaching #mentorshipmatters #HigherEducation #CollegeSuccess #CareerDevelopment #AdjunctProfessor #AlumniStories #Motivation #ProfessionalGrowth #UniversityLife #FDU @FDUComingHome  RSS Feed:  https://feeds.transistor.fm/coming-home-podcast Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@FDUComingHome Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coming-home-podcast/id1841922196 Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5lgIo5VyxoF0sgSC5y3K2s Amazon Music:  https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b7bb9234-52bd-408b-8912-2376ffb78758/coming-home-podcast Deezer:  https://www.deezer.com/us/show/1002232011 Listen Notes:  https://lnns.co/a8rYNqJ60Vy

    50 min
  7. Frank Manzo — From FDU Psychology Major to School Counselor | FDU Coming Home

    Feb 16

    Frank Manzo — From FDU Psychology Major to School Counselor | FDU Coming Home

    In this episode of FDU Coming Home, we welcome Fairleigh Dickinson University alumnus Frank Manzo, a psychology major, Wroxton College alumnus, former professional DJ, and school counselor serving students on Staten Island. Frank shares his journey from Staten Island to FDU, how studying psychology shaped his professional path, and the transformative impact of his experience at Wroxton College. He also discusses his unexpected transition from working as a professional DJ to supporting students as a school counselor, and how mentorship and education influenced his career direction. This conversation highlights career development, personal growth, and the lasting value of the FDU experience. The views statements and opinions expressed on the Coming Home Podcast do not represent Fairleigh Dickinson University, its views or affiliates, the content of these episodes are solely focused on the stories, memories, and journeys of FDU Alumni. @FDUComingHome  RSS Feed:  https://feeds.transistor.fm/coming-home-podcast

    1h 15m
  8. Coming Home to FDU | Stephen Bozer

    Feb 2

    Coming Home to FDU | Stephen Bozer

    Coming Home to FDU: Stephen Bozer’s Journey from Forklift to Pinnacle AwardStephen Bozer shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Buffalo, NY and working blue-collar jobs to earning his Master’s degree at Fairleigh Dickinson University and winning the Pinnacle Award, FDU’s highest student honor. A powerful conversation about mentorship, resilience, and the people who shape our paths. In this episode of Coming Home, we sit down with Stephen Bozer, an FDU alumnus whose story proves that success is rarely linear and that mentorship can change everything. Born in Buffalo, New York, Stephen grew up in a struggling family and faced academic challenges throughout high school. He went on to attend SUNY Binghamton, studying biology under the assumption that medical school was the next step or, as his friends joked, becoming a zookeeper. But Stephen knew neither path felt right. After his family relocated to New Jersey, Stephen found himself overwhelmed by the scale and pace of the NY/NJ region compared to Buffalo. He entered the workforce, driving a forklift before working as an analytical chemist in Paterson, NJ. It was there — inspired by working alongside first-generation Americans that Stephen realized an advanced degree was necessary to grow his career and build a future he hadn’t yet imagined. A friend recommended Fairleigh Dickinson University, a school Stephen had never even heard of at the time. What he discovered there changed his life. Stephen was blown away by the industry professionals teaching his graduate courses, the scholars he was exposed to, and the history and mission of the university itself. Most importantly, a mentor at FDU fundamentally altered the trajectory of his life — reinforcing for Stephen just how critical mentorship is to student success and personal growth. Stephen went on to earn his Master’s degree at FDU, receive the Pinnacle Award the highest honor awarded to an FDU student — and now proudly serves on the FDU Board of Governors as an alumnus. In this episode, Stephen reflects on: Struggling academically and finding purpose later in lifeThe power of mentors and industry-driven educationWhy representation and community matter in higher educationHow FDU became more than a university it became homeThis conversation is a testament to perseverance, gratitude, and the people who help us see what’s possible. The views statements and opinions expressed on the Coming Home Podcast do not represent Fairleigh Dickinson University, its views or affiliates, the content of these episodes are solely focused on the stories, memories, and journeys of FDU Alumni. #ComingHomePodcast #FDU #FairleighDickinsonUniversity #FDUAlumni #PinnacleAward #HigherEducation #GraduateSchool #AdultLearners #CareerJourney #FirstGenInspiration #EducationMatters RSS Feed:  https://feeds.transistor.fm/coming-home-podcast Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@FDUComingHome Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coming-home-podcast/id1841922196 Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5lgIo5VyxoF0sgSC5y3K2s Amazon Music:  https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b7bb9234-52bd-408b-8912-2376ffb78758/coming-home-podcast Deezer:  https://www.deezer.com/us/show/1002232011 Listen Notes:  https://lnns.co/a8rYNqJ60Vy

    58 min
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About

Coming Home Podcast is a show focusing on the alumni, the history, and the memories of Fairleigh Dickinson University and its impact on our lives, and the world. Each episode we interview alumni past and present about their time at the university, which campus they went to, their time at Wroxton, and where they are today.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Cannetti
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © GC Media
  • Show Website
    Coming Home Podcast