Best Launchpad Studios Podcasts (2025)

1
Making the World More Colorful - Tracy Lefkowitz 56:04

9d ago56:04

56:04

On today's very special episode of Agents of Humanity, the co-hosts are joined by Tracy Lefkowitz. Tracy serves as Art Director & Program Director of The Art Guild in Port Washington, NY. Previously, she has worked as an Art Director at Golden Books after working at Scholastic Publishing, Early Childhood Today Magazine, and Workman Publishing and t…

1
Growing Up Together - Program Director Brooke Mellett 1:04:07

23d ago1:04:07

1:04:07

On today's very special episode of Agents of Humanity, the co-hosts are joined for a fun-filled chat with our friend, Brooke Mellett. Brooke is the proud Program Director of The Nicholas Center, where she has worked for the past decade, watching our co-hosts blossom through the program. She is also the recent winner of Long Island Business News' 40…

1
You Gotta Laugh...Through Cancer - Comedian John Ziegler 31:22

1M ago31:22

31:22

John Ziegler, a Long Island native who uses his comedy to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer. John dreamed of going into stand-up comedy as a child. He made it a reality when he switched careers at age 40. But everything changed after more than a decade on stage when at age 54 he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. After learning the news, h…

1
The Nonprofit Sector Connector - Tommy DiMisa 42:09

2M ago42:09

42:09

Tommy DiMisa, "Tommy D" is “the Nonprofit Sector Connector!” - a philanthropic activist, he serves on multiple nonprofit Boards and hosts a weekly live program, “Philanthropy in Phocus,” interviewing nonprofit leaders -to share their story and amplify their message. Tommy D is active with the LindyLoo Foundation honoring the life of his cousin. bel…

1
Shining a Spotlight on All Abilities - Maria Dente-Higgins 40:45

2M ago40:45

40:45

Maria Dente-Higgins is the founder and director of “Dente’s Dreamers”, an inclusion-based production company through which she creates theatrical experiences that are nothing short of magic—where every voice is heard, every talent is honored, and every ability shines. Additionally, Maria is a devoted special education teacher of 13 years with the N…

1
Creative Steps to Inclusion - Lisa Szilagyi 49:39

3M ago49:39

49:39

Lisa Szilagyi began her career in special education after the birth of her daughter Emily who was born with “Tuberous Sclerosis Complex” or TSC. An award winning Special Education Teacher, Lisa has been involved with the TSC Alliance, created multiple programs connecting people with and without disabilities, and more. Today, Lisa is the co-founder,…

1
Disabled Does Not Mean Unable - Kevin Schultze 43:22

3M ago43:22

43:22

Kevin Schultze joins us from the Farmingdale Public Library, where he works through Helen Keller Services’ work experience program. One of his many duties at the library is creating and hosting their first ever podcast, “Beyond the Rotunda”, where Kevin interviews authors, people of interest from the community and more. https://www.farmingdalelibra…

1
Keeping Our Community Clean - Nadine Delmonte 30:19

4M ago30:19

30:19

Nadine Delmonte is 3 years into her 1st term as Port Washington Garbage District Commissioner. A Port Washington native, she attended Boston University and is a former owner of LaMotta’s Waterside Restaurant in Port Washington. https://pwgarbagedistrict.com/home-page Today's podcast is hosted by our very own agents of humanity: Robert, Tomas, Tara,…

1
Dream Creator - Stacey Saltzman 42:12

4M ago42:12

42:12

Stacey Saltzman, and her “My Style Camp” studio invites viewing fashion as a vehicle for self-expression. At the start, it was Pop-Up workshops and utilizing her garage for classes! Today, a thriving studiowhere children, tweens and adults learn to design, sew and upcycle and repurpose clothing and accessories. Stacey's philosophy creates a safe sp…

1
Being the Mayor : It's all about problem solving - Mayor John Popeleski 48:49

5M ago48:49

48:49

Having previously worked for the Water District, the Fire Department and more, Mayor John Popeleski of the Village of Manorhaven, New York has worked in the public sector for over 30 years. Affectionately known as “Mayor Pop,” he has served on the Village board as a Trustee since 2016 and Mayor since 2022. Most recently, Mayor Pop welcomed TNC Choc…

1
Mission Accomplished: Serving Those in Need - Sister Kathy Somerville 32:25

5M ago32:25

32:25

For over four decades, Sister Kathy has served as Director of Parish Outreach at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Port Washington. As a primary advocate for those in need, particularly the most vulnerable and those without a voice, OLF Parish Outreach assesses and meets the specific needs of community members. Sister Kathy and OLF Parish Outreach work …

1
Season 2 Finale (and Special Olympics and Mets updates, of course) 34:31

5M ago34:31

34:31

We have made it all the way to April with Episode 27 plus special episodes, so this season has run for 30 episodes. You know things are looking up because baseball is back. The Mets just won three games in a row from the Blue Jays, and the season promises to be fun. Special Olympics Update John had his first soccer practice of the season yesterday …

1
Paintbrush In-Hand Wherever She Goes - Michelle Shain 33:10

5M ago33:10

33:10

Michelle Shain has lived in Port Washington, NY for 28 years with paintbrush-in-hand wherever she goes- on the road, on a boat, train or plane. Michelle’s art ranges a variety of mediums and topics from graphic design and ad campaigns, to murals, children’s books and so much more. Shain was instrumental in the design and launch of the Residents’ Mu…

1
Warehouse Store, More Love Life, and Inclusive Entrepreneurs 41:06

5M ago41:06

41:06

John and Mark are back for another episode and here's what’s on their minds today: more developments in John’s love life, a World Down Syndrome Day celebration, our 3/21 Inclusive Entrepreneur Award, opening a warehouse store, hiring people with differing abilities, Mark’s trip to Nashville, and whatever else might pop into John’s mind. Business of…

1
The Strength of Kindness, Nashville, and Fake London Trips 34:02

6M ago34:02

34:02

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are back and they are spreading happiness as always with jokes, stories, and their usual banter. Here's what’s on their minds tonight: John’s love life, a World Down Syndrome Day celebration, update on the dinner parties and Mark’s Song of the Day, Mark’s trip to Nashville, fake trip to London, opening a wareho…

1
Take Your Library Wherever You Go - Keith Klang 46:13

6M ago46:13

46:13

Keith Klang - Born & raised in Port Washington, NY, Keith earned a Masters Degree in Library Science from Queens College, Queens, NY. He began working at the Port Washington Public Library (PWPL) in 2009 and has served as Library Director since 2018. Under Keith’s leadership, the PWPL has focused on inclusiveness with a new mission and vision state…

1
Bocce, Wold Down Syndrome Day, and Kevin James 34:53

6M ago34:53

34:53

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are spreading happiness again, offering jokes, stories, and their usual banter. Today's show: John’s love life, a new Special Olympic sport for John: Bocce, a World Down Syndrome Day celebration, dinner parties and Mark’s Song of the Day, hanging with Kevin James, and whatever else might pop into John’s mind. B…

1
Winter Games, World Down Syndrome Day, and John's Love Life 34:13

6M ago34:13

34:13

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are back! Here's what’s on their minds tonight: Special Olympics Winter Games, John’s love life, World Down Syndrome Day is coming, supporting people with differing abilities in today’s cultural and political climate, and whatever else might pop into John’s mind. Business of the Week: Sweet Jordan’s. Located in…

1
Rebel Culture & Leveraging Your Passion - Michael Sonbert 43:37

6M ago43:37

43:37

Michael Sonbert is bestselling author, speaker, performance coach, educator and Founder and CEO of Skyrocket Education and Rebel Culture. Michael is the author of the Amazon best-seller, "Skyrocket Your Teacher Coaching" and Co-Host of the Podcast, "Informal Observations." He is Founder and CEO of Skyrocket Education, started to provide a more prec…

1
Housing, Traveling, and Lunch in Indiana 36:10

6M ago36:10

36:10

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks offer jokes, stories and their usual banter in another great episode. Here's what’s on their minds tonight: where is John going to live in the future and what are housing issues for people with differing abilities, looking for local food when traveling, promising lunch to people in Indiana when you live in New …

1
Becoming an Author, Fantasy Football, and Trash Talk 37:31

7M ago37:31

37:31

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are continuing to spread happiness. Here's what’s on their minds tonight: John working on his book, “Down Syndrome Never Holds Me Back,” and how that has led to starting a new publishing company, Paumonok Harbor House. Getting ready for a trip to Ripon College in Wisconsin with Mark’s long ago memories of when …

1
FBI Agent or Superhero - Richard Frankel 41:32

7M ago41:32

41:32

Richard M. Frankel served for more than 25 years in public service, the majority of his career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). A recognized authority in complex investigations, asset recovery, cyber issues and crisis management, Richard also provides regular insight on terrorism, criminal and intelligence related matters. Mr. Franke…

1
Valentine's Day, John's Love Life, and How I Met Your Mother 31:44

7M ago31:44

31:44

John and Mark, two romantics, are here with a special Valentine edition of their podcast. They discuss the ins and outs of John’s love life as he tries to figure out the dating world. John gets Mark to share the story of how he and his mother met. They share some Valentine’s trivia (what country produces the most roses?). They walk through lists of…

1
Misadventures, Elected Officials, and Sock Seasons 35:47

7M ago35:47

35:47

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are spreading happiness on another new episode sharing jokes, stories, and their usual banter. Here's what’s on their minds tonight: travel as they recount some of their adventures and misadventures on the road, meeting with elected officials to advocate for the rights of people with differing abilities, sock s…

1
The Power of Storytelling - Dana Arschin Kraslow 33:12

7M ago33:12

33:12

Dana Arschin Kraslow is a native Long Islander, Port Washington resident and 3 time Emmy-Winning journalist who spent 12 years reporting on-air for News 12 and Fox 5 covering the NY/Tri-State area. Dana is passionate about telling stories and supporting local businesses. She shoots, writes, narrates and edits broadcast-quality "news segments" on lo…

1
Advocacy, Sub-Minimum Wage, and Funcles 36:21

7M ago36:21

36:21

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are spreading happiness, offering jokes, stories and their usual banter. Here's what’s on their minds tonight: advocating for the rights of people with differing abilities, SSI asset levels, sub-minimum wage, John being a Funcle (fun uncle) and, of course, socks. Business of the Week: Ausome Ballon Creator – Ed…

1
The Presidential Campaign, Unity, and Gratitude 35:18

8M ago35:18

35:18

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks offer jokes, stories, and their usual banter. What’s on their minds tonight: the presidential campaign, promoting unity, gratitude for our colleagues, advocating for inclusion, and, of course, socks. Business of the Week: https://www.venturesatl.com/ Good News Story of the Week: Color My World with Love, a Hall…

1
Communication, Inclusion, and a Whole Lot of Positive Energy - Linda Lowell 30:59

8M ago30:59

30:59

Linda Lowell - Physical Educator and Coach, Lexington School for the Deaf. Linda has spent 25 years teaching athletics to deaf and special needs students via teamwork, communication skills and the power of 'moving!" Linda says she just wants "to help kids feel included!"Tapping into her infectious positive energy, Linda taught her deaf students to …

1
Interconnected Women 38:39

8M ago38:39

38:39

The women that take our stage have one thing in common...a connection that transcends themes and individual differences. In this episode of The SPEAK™ Podcast, we focus on three incredible women with three very different stories that share one commonality. Connection. We're featuring talks from some of our recent pop-up events: Shelter, Neurodivers…

1
Candy, Walt Whitman, and Special Olympics 35:26

8M ago35:26

35:26

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks have jokes, stories, and their usual banter today, as always! What’s on their minds tonight? Putting candy in every package, the family tour of Literary Huntington and making socks to honor the Special Olympics, and, of course, socks. Business of the Week: Spectrum Design: https://www.spectrumdesigns.org/ Good …

1
Nobody Move! (Without Listening to This) - Robert Esposito 24:55

8M ago24:55

24:55

"Nobody Move" is a line that you often hear in movies but in this case it's an entire MOVEment led by author, entrepreneur, and speaker Rob Esposito. The founder of Relocators and the author of "Nobody Move (Without Reading This) sits down with the LaunchDad to talk about his upcoming book release, the book release gala, business, leadership, turna…

1
The Mets, Getting in Shape, and Uncles 36:39

8M ago36:39

36:39

John and Mark share jokes, stories, and their usual banter. Here's what’s on their minds tonight: baseball and the New York Mets, getting in shape, John’s going to be an Uncle (and Dad, a grandfather), Mark putting his foot in his mouth at work, more podcast interviews, and, of course, socks. Business of the Week: The Prospector Theater: https://ww…

1
The Nurse to High Performers & NBA Players - David Nurse 39:12

8M ago39:12

39:12

The doctor may not be in but in this case, I think you'd probably prefer to see the Nurse. The LaunchDad is joined today by his friend David Nurse, a coach, author, and keynote speaker who is widely renowned as one of the top mindset specialists in the world and specializes in helping CEOs, athletes, and high performers maximize their talent. The b…

1
Blossom Respite Garden & Cafe - Reverend Christine Veillon & Fred Ellman 46:41

8M ago46:41

46:41

Reverend Christine Veillon is “Priest in Charge” at St. John’s Church in Pleasantville, NY. St. John’s is a Community Partner of The Nicholas Center and home of many volunteer opportunities for our participants including the Pleasantville Community Garden, another local non-profit organization dedicated to battling hunger in Westchester. Fred Ellma…

1
The New Year's Spectacular! 40:15

8M ago40:15

40:15

John and Mark recorded a special episode to wish you a Happy New Year. You can hear their banter, the funny stories they tell, the jokes they share and the love between a father and son that will make you feel so good. They look back on 2024 and share stories from some of their favorite moments, like John becoming an uncle and Mark a grandfather. T…

1
The Unfragile Redemption - Alphonso James 48:58

8M ago48:58

48:58

WE'RE BACK and season 5 is in full swing. What's changed? The theme of The Launchcast has gotten more specific with stories of Leadership & Turnaround at the center of everything. Same deep dive interviews, just different perspectives. On today's show, the Launchdad sits down with the incredible Alphonso James for a story you're not going to believ…

1
Christmas Memories, Christmas Rituals, and Christmas Jokes 33:15

9M ago33:15

33:15

🎄 Welcome to our Christmas Episode! John kicks off this festive special with a cheerful intro and some Christmas caroling to set the holiday mood. We're spreading extra joy this week as we dive into all things Christmas—no regular segments, but John has jokes, plenty of laughs, stories, and heartwarming moments! 🌟 Segment 1: Reminiscing About Chris…

1
Food is Love: Reflections on Tradition, Food and Famiglia - Dena Fenza 43:21

9M ago43:21

43:21

Dena Fenza is an Italian-American chef, author and blogger. She spreads “La Dolce Vita..." “the sweet life” by sharing delicious and accessible recipes, as well as style & decor tips. Dena has worked as a teacher,authored a cookbook and operated her own restaurant. In 2021, she and her familypurchased and renovated a farmhouse in Tuscany. She infus…

1
Bonus Episode: A Chat with Published SPEAKer Robert Esposito 24:39

9M ago24:39

24:39

In our Season 2 premiere, SPEAK co-leader George Andriopoulos sits down with Published SPEAKer Robert Esposito for a chat in the studio. Robert performed at SPEAK: Freedom in July of 2023 and he chats with George about the process of taking a big stage and preparing for it. He also shares the subsequent events after his SPEAK Talk that led to the p…

1
The Season 2 Trailer 3:25

9M ago3:25

3:25

We're back for an all new season and we can't wait to share more stories with you along with new episodes of The SPEAK Podcast Live, featuring fireside chats from live events and in-studio interviews of SPEAKers, producers, channel partners, and more! The SPEAK™ Podcast is presented by SPEAK™, a public speaking platform for people with ideas and st…

1
Season 5 Trailer! 13:29

9M ago13:29

13:29

Don't call it a comeback! We are back for season 5 and this brief trailer runs through some of the changes at The Launchcast. Our new focus? Leadership and TURNAROUND. Tune in every week for a new episode! Hosted by entrepreneur and keynote speaker George Andriopoulos. Follow @launchpadceo on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, TikTok, and Clubhouse. T…

1
ADA, Barbie, and Mark's Song of the Day 34:36

9M ago34:36

34:36

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are bringing happiness, again! They have jokes, stories, and their usual banter. Here's what’s on their minds tonight: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Barbie with Down Syndrome, greening New York, Mark’s song of the day, more podcast interviews, more tours, and, of course, socks. Business of the Week…

1
Business & Pleasure, Guys Weekend, and Football 38:30

9M ago38:30

38:30

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are bringing happiness with jokes, stories, and their usual banter. Here's what’s on their minds tonight: travel for fun and for business, guys’ weekend, tours of our warehouse, football is coming, their usual busy weeks, and socks. Business of the Week: Rising Tide Car Wash: https://www.risingtidecarwash.com/ …

1
Education through Normalization - Gina DeGregorio-Sonbert 37:16

9M ago37:16

37:16

Gina DeGregorio-Sonbert is the author of the Children's Book series "Theodore Bearkins" - which features the first autistic, non-speaking main character in a children’s book series where autism is NOT the focus of the story. Gina is also the founder of Families for Inclusion, a non-profit with the goal to “educate the world about Autism & Neurodive…

1
Baseball, CPAP Machines, and Dating 41:30

9M ago41:30

41:30

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are bringing the happiness with plenty of jokes, stories, and their usual banter. What’s on their minds today: baseball and keeping score at baseball games, buying chargers for our devices, CPAP machines, dating for John, and their week of tours, podcast interviews, spreading happiness and socks. Business of th…

1
The Thanksgiving Show 43:35

9M ago43:35

43:35

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are here with a special Thanksgiving episode. They’re spreading happiness and John says there are two keys to happiness: Do for others and gratitude. The boys will share what makes them grateful which means plenty of stories about their colleagues, customers, friends, and family. They offer jokes, stories, and …

1
Why Not Me - Tony Mantor 39:04

10M ago39:04

39:04

Tony Mantor is a Nashville, TN-based singer-songwriter, award-winning music producer, pianist and podcast host. He has recorded 33 songs hitting the Top 40 and 16 songs hitting the Top 10 of various major music charts including Billboard & Music Row Magazine. Inspired to make a difference, Tony launched his podcast called “Why Not Me The World.” Th…

1
Fireworks, Business & Pleasure, and Representation 40:26

10M ago40:26

40:26

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are bringing happiness with jokes, stories, and their usual banter. Here's what’s on their minds today: fireworks, mixing business trips and vacations, writing a joke book, Down syndrome representation on organization, and socks. Good News: A new study found that participation in the Special Olympics reduces th…

1
Voting, Graduation, and Medical Studies 34:43

10M ago34:43

34:43

John and Mark from John’s Crazy Socks are bringing the happiness, again! They have jokes, stories, and their usual banter. Here's what’s on their minds today: graduation, medical studies, anniversaries, voting, and, not surprisingly, socks. Good News: A program in England teaching people with differing abilities how to vote. Business of the Week: P…

1
PB Network - John Barney 42:48

10M ago42:48

42:48

John Barney of PB Network. The PB Network was created in honor of John's brother, Patrick who loved game shows. John and Patrick loved watching game shows together....in his memory John launched the PB Network which provides meaningful daily activities for Day Program participants, Residences, and individuals to participate in community involvement…

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