The Marquis Masters Podcast

Marquis Who's Who
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Careers
  • Updated Weekly

The Marquis Masters Podcast spotlights leaders and innovators who have shaped industries and inspired generations. Each episode features an intimate conversation with a Marquis honoree, exploring the stories, pivotal choices, and lessons behind their success. Hear insights from remarkable careers across business, science, education, healthcare, and the arts. Discover what it takes to lead with purpose and resilience. Presented by Marquis Who’s Who. Learn more at marquiswhoswho.com.

  1. 11h ago

    From Struggle to Purpose: Joshua Paulos on Mental Health, Healing, and Leadership

    In this episode of Marquis Masters, host Nick Franck sits down with Joshua Paulos, owner and president of Elegant Leadership, to explore his more than two decades of experience in mental health, counseling, leadership development, and community service. Drawing on his own experiences with addiction, treatment, and personal transformation, Joshua shares how he discovered his calling to help others and how the people who believed in him helped shape his professional journey. Joshua reflects on the mentors who challenged and supported him, the experiences that led him into counseling, and the lessons he learned while working with individuals facing difficult circumstances. He explains his approach to helping people by identifying their strengths and potential rather than treating them as problems to be fixed. He also shares three principles he emphasizes in professional development and relationship-building: consistency, confidence, and comfort. The conversation explores the importance of humility, faith, kindness, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Joshua discusses the challenges of working in mental health, the value of effective communication, and his belief that meaningful change often begins when someone recognizes another person's potential. Looking ahead, he hopes to expand his impact through training, supervision, consultation, and other initiatives that support both personal well-being and financial security. Outside of work, Joshua shares his appreciation for family, travel, music, food, mindfulness, and the beauty of the natural world. Throughout the interview, he returns to a central message: everyone has a purpose, healing is possible, and there are many ways to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Listen to this episode of Marquis Masters for a thoughtful conversation about resilience, personal growth, and the power of helping others discover their potential.

  2. 1d ago

    AI Training, Image Generation and the Future of Work with Kendria Brown

    On this episode of the Marquis Masters Podcast, host Ryan Estes speaks with Kendria Brown, an AI consultant at Abaka.ai, about her work training and evaluating generative AI models, the evolving role of human judgment in artificial intelligence, and the opportunities emerging in this rapidly growing field. Kendria explains how she evaluates AI-generated outputs for instruction-following, overall quality, consistency, and naturalness. As a human evaluator in the AI development process, she helps identify where models fall short so they can improve. She also shares practical advice for generating better images with AI, emphasizing that concise, direct prompts and specific instructions often work better than lengthy, overexplained requests. The conversation explores how businesses can use AI-generated visuals, infographics, and other materials while recognizing the technology’s current limitations. Kendria stresses the importance of reviewing AI-generated content for accuracy, particularly when it involves healthcare, business information, or other areas where mistakes can have serious consequences. She and Ryan also discuss AI-generated video, the challenges of making it appear natural, and the importance of disclosing when AI is used to reproduce someone’s likeness. Looking toward the future, Kendria reflects on the expanding role of AI across industries, the possibility of robots becoming everyday household companions, and the questions surrounding privacy, security, affordability, and accountability. For those concerned about AI changing the job market, she offers an encouraging message: embrace change, continue learning, and be willing to evolve. Her own career journey demonstrates how training, preparation, and initiative can open doors in a field that is still developing. Beyond technology, Kendria discusses her passion for health and fitness, modeling and entertainment, travel, and giving back to her community. She shares why helping others matters to her, how unexpected experiences can prepare us for future opportunities, and why she looks to Michelle Obama as an inspiration. In this episode: Kendria Brown’s role as an AI consultant at Abaka.ai How human evaluators help train and improve generative AI models The importance of instruction-following, quality, consistency, and naturalness Practical tips for writing effective AI image-generation prompts Business applications for AI-generated images, infographics, and documents Why AI-generated information still requires human review for accuracy The current challenges of AI-generated video and realistic audio AI, likeness rights, and the importance of transparency and disclosure The future of household robots and AI-powered assistance Privacy, security, affordability, and accountability in an AI-driven world How to prepare for emerging career opportunities in artificial intelligence Kendria’s commitment to fitness, personal growth, and community service Lessons on embracing change and helping others succeed Tune in to the Marquis Masters Podcast for a conversation about the people shaping artificial intelligence today—and how curiosity, adaptability, and human judgment will continue to matter as the technology evolves.

  3. Oct 7

    From Mountain Biking to Mobility Innovation: MacClain “Mac” Figueroa on Adventure, Exoskeletons and the Future of Movement

    What happens when a passion for mountain biking, snowboarding and the outdoors evolves into a mission to help people stay mobile? On this episode of the Marquis Masters Podcast, host Nick Franck sits down with MacClain “Mac” Figueroa, founder and CEO of Rad Adventures Mobility Lab, to explore his unconventional journey from a 21-year corporate career to entrepreneurship—and his growing interest in the future of human mobility. Mac shares how an unexpected experience during a flight layover in Canada introduced him to the possibilities of lower-body exoskeleton technology. What began as an e-bike and outdoor adventure business eventually developed into a mobility lab focused on helping people find technologies and products that can help them move better and get back outside. The conversation explores Mac’s vision for the future, including AI-powered exoskeletons and an AI-based assessment tool designed to help identify potentially appropriate exoskeleton technologies and exercises. He also discusses the injuries and challenges that have shaped his own approach to mobility, perseverance and problem-solving. Mac and Nick also discuss Mac’s book, Ride America: The Best E-Bike Trails from Coast to Coast, which highlights e-bike destinations, trails, safety considerations, laws, packing and battery care. Mac also reflects on his recognition as a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Business by the League of American Bicyclists. Throughout the episode, Mac offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, shares lessons from his transition out of the corporate world, and explains why building something of your own can be so rewarding. Above all, he emphasizes curiosity, perseverance, community and the importance of helping others stay active and engaged with the world around them. In this episode: Mac’s journey from corporate life to outdoor entrepreneurshipThe origins of Rad Adventures and its evolution into a mobility labThe unexpected airport experience that changed the direction of Mac’s businessHow lower-body exoskeleton technology sparked a new vision for mobilityThe potential role of AI in the future of exoskeletons and movement assessmentLessons Mac has learned from injuries and physical challengesRide America: The Best E-Bike Trails from Coast to CoastEntrepreneurship, perseverance and building something of your ownThe importance of curiosity, community and helping othersMac’s vision for making mobility and outdoor adventure more accessible

  4. Sep 15

    The Physics of the Shot (Tracey Scherban, Michael Yednak & Zion Zvi)

    In this special edition of the Marquis Masters Podcast, host Tracey Scherban sits down with accomplished billiards professionals Michael Yednack and Zion Zvi to explore the fascinating science, mathematics, and strategy behind the game of pool. A scientist, engineer, professor, and passionate pool player herself, Scherban takes listeners beyond the traditional perception of pool as simply a game of touch and instinct. Together, they examine how physics, geometry, angles, speed, spin, and precision all come together to determine the outcome of a shot. Throughout the conversation, Scherban, Yednack, and Zvi share their personal journeys into the world of billiards. Scherban recounts how her retirement and move into recreational pool led her to professional players and coaches, including Danny Baroudi, whose accomplishments include an extraordinary 250-ball straight-pool run. Yednack describes discovering pool through his family in Arizona before becoming a professional-level competitor, while Zvi reflects on beginning with snooker in Israel before transitioning to American pool and ultimately becoming one of the top players in his country. Their stories highlight the different paths that can lead to mastery and the importance of practice, mentorship, and passion. The discussion then turns to the mechanics of the game, exploring everything from thin cut shots and fractional aiming systems to cue-ball control, draw, English, deflection, swerve, and bank shots. The guests explain how experienced players think several shots ahead, positioning the cue ball not only to pocket the current target but also to create the best opportunity for the next shot. They also examine how table conditions, cloth, rails, humidity, temperature, ball cleanliness, and even the speed of a shot can dramatically affect the trajectory of the balls. The conversation offers a fascinating look at why professional pool requires both precise technical knowledge and the ability to adapt instinctively to changing conditions. The episode also explores the competitive and personal side of billiards. Yednack and Zvi reflect on memorable matches, influential players, professional competition, and the mentors who helped shape their careers. They discuss legendary players and record-setting straight-pool performances, including John Schmidt and Jason Shaw's remarkable 800-ball runs, as well as their experiences playing at Amsterdam Billiards in New York City. As the conversation comes to a close, the guests share their future goals and perspectives on respecting the game, continuing to learn, and finding enjoyment in competition. Scherban also reflects on her own goal of eventually competing, demonstrating that the pursuit of mastery can be rewarding at every level. This conversation explores: The origins and evolution of pool, from the lawn game of croquet to the modern billiards table.The mathematics and physics behind angles, cut shots, cue-ball control, speed, and spin.How professional players use geometry, diamonds, visualization, and experience to plan shots.The importance of position play and thinking several shots ahead.How English, draw, deflection, and swerve influence the path of the cue ball.The mechanics of bank shots and how speed, rail compression, and table conditions affect angles. Discover how the science of physics and geometry transforms pool from a simple game of pocketing balls into a sophisticated discipline of strategy, precision, and skill—and hear from accomplished players about the passion, mentorship, and dedication required to master it. For more information about the Marquis Masters Podcast and other honorees, visit marquiswhoswho.com. If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more listeners discover stories from leaders, experts, and innovators shaping their industries and pursuing excellence in their fields.

  5. Sep 8

    Michael Kounavis: Engineering Innovation, Cryptography, and a Life of Continuous Growth

    In this episode of the Marquis Masters Podcast, Nick Franck sits down with Dr. Michael Kounavis, a software engineer whose three-decade career has spanned computer architecture, cryptography, security, and emerging technologies. Michael’s journey began in childhood, inspired by his father’s passion for electronics and computing. From learning about processors, registers, bits, and bytes at an early age to becoming a researcher and engineer working on technologies that helped accelerate encrypted data processing in Intel servers, Michael has spent his career tackling some of computing’s most complex challenges. During the conversation, Michael reflects on the extraordinary pace of technological advancement and the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, comparing today’s AI revolution to the impact of the printing press in making knowledge more accessible. He also discusses his work in cryptographic algorithm acceleration, the design and analysis of encryption systems, and the mathematical foundations of computer security. Beyond his technical career, Michael shares the personal experiences that shaped him, including coming to the United States as a young PhD student, maintaining his Greek roots, building a life and family in New York, and balancing engineering with his lifelong passion for music. From playing piano and composing music to traveling and spending time with his children, he discusses the importance of finding balance outside of professional achievement. At the heart of the conversation is Michael’s perspective on personal growth. He reflects on how three decades in technology transformed him from an ambitious young engineer into someone with a deeper understanding of contribution, community, and the importance of humility. This conversation explores: The evolution of computing and the transformative potential of AIInnovations in computer architecture and encrypted data processingCryptography, security, and the mathematics behind protecting informationThe experience of building a technology career as a first-generation immigrantGreek heritage, family, music, and finding balance outside of engineeringThe importance of community, family, and giving backPersonal growth, humility, and embracing imperfectionLessons learned from three decades at the forefront of technologyIf you’re curious about the intersection of technology, cybersecurity, innovation, and personal growth, this episode offers a thoughtful look at both the engineering challenges shaping our future and the human experiences that shape the people solving them. Links Mentioned in This Episode https://marquiswhoswho.com/ For more information about the Marquis Masters Podcast and other honorees, visit marquiswhoswho.com. If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more listeners discover stories from accomplished professionals, innovators, and leaders shaping industries and improving lives.

  6. Aug 25

    The Lioness of Education: Dr. Cynthia Park on Reflexivity, Social Justice, and 44 Years of Putting Students First

    Episode Summary Dr. Cynthia Park, Faculty Emeritus Full Professor at San Diego State University and founder of its Institute for Transformative Education, joins Ryan Estes for a wide-ranging conversation on what it really takes to transform a student's life. Over a forty-four-year career that began in 1983, Dr. Park rejected the federal "deficit" model of education in favor of an asset-based approach that treats every student's background as a source of strength rather than something to be fixed. She unpacks the metaphor of the lioness that has come to define her work, the discipline of reflection and reflexivity, the metacognitive practice of teaching students to think about how they think, and why she places health at the center of every curriculum she designs. Along the way she shares hard-won lessons on leadership, mentorship, hiring, knowing when to call in a consultant, and the years she spent fighting institutional resistance to get her programs approved. The conversation also travels the globe, from Germany and Holland to Morocco, Mexico, and Colombia, before closing with a few personal favorites. Key Takeaways Flip the deficit into an asset. Treating students from humble backgrounds as problems to fix strips away their power. The real work is helping them discover their own talent. Reflection plus reflexivity equals growth. Writing things down and revisiting past experiences over time is how you extract wisdom that you missed in the moment. Teach metacognition. Telling a student "I want to know how you think" can be something no teacher has ever said to them, and it sparks them to think about how they think. Listening beats lecturing. The skill is knowing when to ask an open-ended question that does not box a student into the answer they assume you want. Put health at the center. Build the curriculum around health objectives first, and the student naturally lands at the center too. Sleep and movement are non-negotiable. Know when you need a consultant. Strong leaders recognize the limits of their own expertise and bring in outside help rather than leaning on subordinates. Ferocity has a purpose. When an injustice occurs, sometimes the right move is to rally everyone in your orbit to make the wrong right. Links and Resources Dr. Cynthia Park on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-park-b5a69123/ Institute for Transformative Education, San Diego State University Council for Opportunity in Education (the organization that sponsored her work in Holland and Morocco) Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain (referenced in the conversation) The Brigantine, La Mesa, California (Dr. Park's brunch recommendation) Marquis Who's Who: https://marquiswhoswho.com

  7. Jul 28

    Richard C. Larson: A Lifetime of Operations Research and Model Thinking

    In this episode of Marquis Masters, host Nick Franck welcomes Dr. Richard C. Larson, professor post-tenure at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and internationally recognized pioneer in operations research. Dr. Larson reflects on a remarkable career spanning more than five decades at MIT, where he evolved from student to professor while making lasting contributions to mathematics, public safety, and education. He explains the foundations of operations research, describing how mathematical modeling and data-driven decision-making are used to optimize complex systems—from airline scheduling to emergency response—and shares how "model thinking" can help anyone make better decisions in everyday life. The conversation explores several of Dr. Larson's groundbreaking accomplishments, including the development of the Hypercube Queueing Model, which revolutionized emergency response planning by accounting for the locations and availability of police, fire, and emergency medical units. He recounts his early work with the New York City Police Department during the implementation of the city's 911 emergency system, where his research led to rapid improvements in emergency call response times. Dr. Larson also discusses the creation of Urban Operations Research, the influential textbook he co-authored with Professor Amedeo Odoni, which helped establish operations research as a powerful tool for solving urban challenges around the world. Beyond mathematics and public policy, Dr. Larson shares the story behind BLOSSOMS (Blended Learning Open Source Science or Math Studies), an innovative educational initiative he developed alongside his late wife and intellectual partner, Mary Elizabeth Murray. Inspired by classroom observations in rural China, the project introduced interactive STEM lessons designed to combine video instruction with classroom discussion, creating a model of blended learning that continues to reach students worldwide. Throughout the interview, Dr. Larson reflects on the importance of mentorship, lifelong learning, and giving back, including his decision to establish the Richard Larson Faculty Chair at MIT. He also discusses his passion for writing, the inspiration behind his book Model Thinking for Everyday Life, and the profound influence mentors—and especially his wife—had on both his career and his life. In this episode, discover how Dr. Richard C. Larson has spent a lifetime applying mathematics, systems thinking, and education to solve real-world problems while inspiring future generations of innovators and decision-makers. For more information about the Marquis Masters Podcast and other honorees, visit marquiswhoswho.com. If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more listeners discover stories from leaders shaping industries and improving lives.

  8. Jul 7

    Dr. Nan Cowardin-Lee, PhD – The Workplace Bullying Strategist Helping Employees Build Resilience

    In this episode of the Marquis Masters Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Nan Cowardin-Lee, organizational psychologist, workplace bullying strategist, and author of 10 Steps to Overcome Workplace Bullying: From Recognition to Resilience. Drawing from decades of research and personal experience, Dr. Nan helps employees and organizations recognize the hidden patterns of workplace bullying, build resilience, and create healthier workplace cultures. After experiencing workplace bullying herself, Dr. Nan transformed adversity into purpose, earning her PhD in Organizational Psychology and dedicating her career to supporting employees navigating toxic work environments. Today, she advocates for stronger workplace protections, develops resilience training programs, and works to advance legislation addressing workplace bullying in the United States. As workplace stress, organizational change, and AI-driven disruption continue reshaping the modern workforce, Dr. Nan explains why bullying has become increasingly common—and why leaders play a critical role in reversing the trend. In this conversation, we explore: How to distinguish workplace bullying from normal conflict and incivilityWhy high-performing employees are often the primary targets of workplace bulliesThe psychology behind mobbing, exclusion, and toxic workplace dynamicsWhy documenting patterns of behavior is critical when facing workplace bullyingThe misconceptions many employees have about Human ResourcesHow healthy boundaries and resilience can reduce a bully's influencePractical strategies for leaders to build psychologically safe workplace culturesThe impact of AI, organizational change, and economic uncertainty on workplace behaviorWhy coaching, onboarding, and kindness are essential leadership skillsHow Dr. Nan turned one of the most difficult experiences of her life into a mission to help others Dr. Nan's message is both practical and hopeful: while workplace bullying can have lasting emotional and professional consequences, employees are not powerless. Through stronger boundaries, healthier leadership, and greater awareness, organizations can build cultures where people thrive instead of merely survive. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us continue sharing conversations with leaders, innovators, and experts who are creating meaningful impact in business, science, leadership, and society.

See All (55)

About

The Marquis Masters Podcast spotlights leaders and innovators who have shaped industries and inspired generations. Each episode features an intimate conversation with a Marquis honoree, exploring the stories, pivotal choices, and lessons behind their success. Hear insights from remarkable careers across business, science, education, healthcare, and the arts. Discover what it takes to lead with purpose and resilience. Presented by Marquis Who’s Who. Learn more at marquiswhoswho.com.

Information