Best Astros Highlights Podcasts (2025)

1
Toby Michaud: Wildlife biologist, WinSETT, and principal at Linkside Consulting 55:43

3h ago55:43

55:43

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we sit down with the thoughtful and dynamic Toby Michaud, a former wildlife biologist, DEI advocate, and founder of a facilitation practice centered on inclusion, equity, and collaborative leadership. With over 25 years of experience in STEM and a deep commitment to creating systems where everyone feels seen,…

1
Houston Astros Foundation Diamond Dreams Gala With Emelda Douglas 35:35

5h ago35:35

35:35

How can the philanthropic arm of a business draw and engage sponsors for it's annual gala or signature fundraising event? In today’s episode, I talk with Emelda Douglas, Senior VP of Community Affairs for the Houston Astros and Executive Director of the Houston Astros Foundation, to talk about its annual signature event, the Diamond Dreams Gala. Ce…

1
Chelsea Barron: Red Seal machinist, BCIT Instructor, and advisor for the National Indigenous Tradeswomen Advisory Circle 43:55

3d ago43:55

43:55

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week, we’re joined by Chelsea Barron, an Indigenous Two-Spirit Red Seal Machinist, instructor at BCIT, and advocate for representation in the trades.Chelsea shares her remarkable journey from discovering the trades through BCIT’s Women in Trades program, to becoming its first full-time female machinist instructor.…

1
Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market With Angie Lane And Susan Binney 35:16

2d ago35:16

35:16

How can an organization successfully create a multi-day signature fundraising event that is both fun and impactful? In today’s episode, I talk with Houston Ballet Chief Development Officer Angie Lane and Susan Binney Market co-chair of the upcoming Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market®. For over 40 years, Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market® has been one …

1
Kihana Wilson: The Astro Stud, Astrophysicist, and STEM Communicator 55:44

17d ago55:44

55:44

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we sit down with astrophysicist, science communicator, and STEM icon Kihana Wilson, known online as The Astro Stud. Kihana shares her incredible journey from a curious 10-year-old discovering a life-changing astronomy book in her school library, to becoming a post-baccalaureate researcher at Argonne National …

1
Perot Museum's A Night At The Museum With Chantel Boudreaux 35:57

14d ago35:57

35:57

How can an organization host a signature fundraising event that allows patrons innovative ways to connect with an organization's mission? In today’s episode, I talk with Chantel Boudreaux, Senior Director of Events and Operations for the Perot Museum to talk about the organization's signature fundraising event, A Night at the Museum. The Perot Muse…

1
Brandy Kawulka: Owner of Tartan Contracting, Host of All Things Renovation Podcast and Journeyman Joiner 52:03

16d ago52:03

52:03

Take a break, we're on Smoko! This week we're joined by Brandy Kawulka, a powerhouse in the trades and a fierce advocate for women in the industry. Brandy shares her journey from studying joinery at BCIT to running her own successful renovation and contracting business: Tartan Contracting. We dive into the realities of working in the trades, the ch…

1
IM Houston's Tapestry Gala With Sheroo Mukhitar and Maria Magee 32:26

18d ago32:26

32:26

How can an organization host a fundraising gala that reflects the tapestry of the communities they serve? In today’s episode, I talk with IM Houston's CEO Sheroo Mukhitar and Chief Development Officer Maria Magee, about the organization's upcoming signature fundraising event, The Tapestry Gala. The Tapestry Gala has long been known for drawing vari…

1
Lacey Rose & Jess Kaknevicius Co-founders of Women in Wood 54:33

1M ago54:33

54:33

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we’re joined by Lacey Rose and Jess Kaknevicius the founders of Women in Wood, a community that champions representation, support, and advocacy for women in the forestry sector. Jess is the CEO of Forest Canada, a national leader in restoration, education, and community engagement. Lacey is a registered fores…

1
The Trail Conservancy's Twilight On The Trail With Anna Caitlyn Butler and Madeline Meyer 37:09

25d ago37:09

37:09

How can an organization effectively use pre-events to sell out their gala well in advance of the event date? In today’s episode, I talk with Anna Caitlyn Butler and Madeline Meyer, co-chairs of the upcoming Twilight on the Trail benefiting The Trail Conservancy. The Trail Conservancy protects, enhances, and connects the Roy and Ann Butler Trail, th…

1
Sophia Malbarosa (Pia Builds): Carpenter, Professor at Humber College, Set Designer & Multi-disciplinary Artist 54:59

1M ago54:59

54:59

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we sit down with Sophia Malbarosa known online as Pia Builds. Pia is a multidisciplinary artist turned carpenter, professor, and advocate for representation in the trades. Pia’s story begins with her first love: dance. After injuries sidelined her dream of becoming a professional ballerina, she sought new way…

1
Cattle Baron's Ball With Courtney Derderian MD and Nina Sasche 31:30

1M ago31:30

31:30

By Rob Giardinelli

1
Polly Britten: 2023 Churchill Fellow & Women in Trades Advocate 50:33

1M ago50:33

50:33

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we sit down with 2023 Churchill Fellow Polly Britten, a woman in trades advocate. Polly speaks to her involvement in the NextGen Tradies - Try a Trade Program, as well as her transformative research on gender equity in skilled trades education. Polly’s study, aimed to highlight how we can create a more inclus…

1
Partners Card With Tiffany Tate And Margette Hepfner 32:14

1M ago32:14

32:14

How do does an organization effectively blend commerce and fundraising in a way that brings the community together? In today’s episode, I talk with The Family Place CEO Tiffany Tate and Margette Hepfner to talk about one of the organization's signature fundraising events: Partners Card. For many years, many top retailers in North Texas have taken p…

1
Aria Joughin: Founder of Make With Hardware & Learning Center 42:13

2M ago42:13

42:13

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! We’re honoured to sit down with Aria Joughin, the founder of Make With, a queer-owned learning center dedicated to equipping individuals—especially women, queer, trans, and BIPOC folks—with essential hands-on skills in home maintenance, repair, emergency preparedness, and self-sufficiency. Aria shares the story behind …

1
AVDA Home Safe Home Gala With Maisha Colter And Vanessa Ames 34:04

2M ago34:04

34:04

How do you create an impactful statement moment at your event where guests carry the moment with them long after the event has ended? In today’s episode, I talk with AVDA CEO Maisha Colter and AVDA Board Chair Vanessa Ames to talk about the organization's signature fundraising event: the Home Safe Home Gala. For over 40 years, AVDA has provided ser…

1
Rosa Fragomeni & Mathilde Tremblay from the Student Association for Geography and Environment 48:15

2M ago48:15

48:15

Take a break we’re on Smoko! This week we’re joined by Rosa and Mathilde, co-presidents of the Student Association for Geography, Geomatics, and the Environment (SAGE). Together, they share their passion for environmental science, their leadership journeys, and the transformative impact of building a thriving student community focused on sustainabi…

1
Klyde Warren Park Party In The Park With Kit Sawers 35:25

2M ago35:25

35:25

What does it take for an organization to host a successful fundraising event in a one-of-a-kind urban green space? In today's episode, I talk with Kit Sawers, President & CEO of Klyde Warren Park, to talk about their upcoming signature fundraising event, Party in the Park. Located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, Klyde Warren Park is a modern city …

1
Lindsay Reynolds: Civil Engineer, Women in construction advocate and Host of She Wears Work Boots Podcast 46:26

2M ago46:26

46:26

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! We’re joined by the multi-talented Lindsay Reynolds, the founding president of Hancock & MacArthur, and the host of the She Wears Work Boots podcast. From her early days studying civil engineering to finding her passion on active construction sites, Lindsay shares candid reflections on overcoming the fear of failure, …

1
Austin Parks Foundation's Party For The Parks With Katie Kennedy And Caitlyn Denham 34:30

2M ago34:30

34:30

What does it take for an organization to host a successful fundraising event when the logistics are anything but simple? In today's episode, I talk with Austin Parks Foundation Vice President of Marketing and Communications Katie Kennedy, and Events Manager Caitlyn Denham to talk about the upcoming Party for the Parks. Held on the grounds of Zilker…

1
Emma Priestner: Welder, Technical Education Specialist at CWB Welding Foundation and founder of Hashiriya Ladies 40:12

2M ago40:12

40:12

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! We’re joined by Emma Priestner, a Technical Education Specialist with the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) Foundation and a driving force behind transformative initiatives like the Women of Steel program. Emma shares her inspiring journey, from her first welding certification experience at a Women of Steel workshop to bec…

1
Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala With Vanessa Cain And Katie McGuiness 39:55

2M ago39:55

39:55

What are the keys to highlighting artistic talents throughout a successful gala or signature fundraising event? In today’s episode, I talk with Dallas Symphony Orchestra Chief Artistic Officer Katie McGuiness and Vanessa Cain, event chair for the upcoming Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala. Celebrating it's 125th anniversary, the Dallas Symphony Orches…

1
Carly Steiman: Electrician, Owner of Lady Electric, and Founder of Workbee 57:05

3M ago57:05

57:05

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we sit down with Carly Steiman, an entrepreneur and a licensed electrician with nearly 20 years of experience, eight which operating her residential electrical business Lady Electric. Carly specializes in lighting consulting and smaller scale jobs. Carly shares her story of discovering her passion for electri…

1
Waterloo Greenway Conservancy Glow In The Park With Lynn & Tom Meredith 43:31

3M ago43:31

43:31

Having a vision isn't enough. How do you lead your community to get behind a transformative vision that will be felt for generations to come? In today’s episode, I talk with Lynn and Tom Meredith, co-chairs—along with several of their children and spouses—of the upcoming Glow in the Park benefiting the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy. Lynn and Tom’s …

1
Marg Latham: Engineering Consultant & Chair for the Canadian Centre for Women in Science, Engineering, Trades and Technology (WinSETT) 52:24

3M ago52:24

52:24

Take a break, we’re on Smoko. This week, we sit down with Marg Latham, an influential leader in engineering, project management, and mentorship. With an impressive career spanning decades Marg has not only excelled in technical expertise but has also been a driving force in fostering inclusion and diversity in STEM. Marg Latham, P.Eng., was the onl…

1
Houston PetSet Fierce & Fabulous Le Brunch With Tena Faust 30:53

3M ago30:53

30:53

What should an organization consider when considering a format change for an annual gala or signature fundraising event? In today's episode, I talk with Tena Faust, Board Co-President of Houston PetSet to talk about the upcoming Fierce & Fabulous Le Brunch. One of Houston's most beloved and successful annual signature fundraising events for many ye…

1
Lindsay Lashley: Senior Project Manager, Rail Engineer, and Board Member of Black Engineers of Canada 55:36

3M ago55:36

55:36

Take a break, we’re on Smoko. We’re thrilled to be joined by Lindsay Lashley, ancivil engineer and concrete materials specialist involved in Canada’s rail and transportation sectors. Lindsay has made remarkable contributions to high-frequency rail projects, demonstrating both technical expertise and a commitment to driving positive change in her fi…

1
Round Top Film Festival Gala With Shanna Schanen And Shonnery Pettit 39:27

3M ago39:27

39:27

How does an organization build on the success of a highly successful first-year gala? In today's episode, I talk with Shanna Schanen, Co-Founder of the Round Top Film Festival, and Round Top Film Festival Board Member Shonnery Pettit to talk about the second annual Round Top Film Festival Gala. The smallest incorporated town in Texas, with approxim…

1
Caeley Looney: Forbes 30 under 30, Aerospace Engineer and Founder at Reinvented Inc 46:38

3M ago46:38

46:38

Take a break, we’re on Smoko. We sit down with Caeley Looney an aerospace and space systems engineer and passionate advocate for diversity in STEM fields. With an enthusiasm for both engineering and outreach, Caeley has dedicated her career not only to advancing aerospace technology but also to breaking barriers and creating space for more women an…

1
State Fair Of Texas® With Karissa Condoianis 39:25

3M ago39:25

39:25

How can an organization host multiple signature fundraising events throughout the year that engage various segments of its donor community? Today, I talk with Karissa Condoianis, Senior Vice President of Public Relations for the State Fair of Texas® to talk about the upcoming Texas State Fair and other signature fundraising events the organization …

1
Creating Successful Events With All Budgets And Sizes With Mia Sims 41:29

3M ago41:29

41:29

How does an organization successfully work with an event producer regardless of the size of your budget? Today, I talk with Mia Sims, Founder of Mia the Event Diva and event producer for many notable events of all sizes in and around Central and North Texas. Over the years, Mia has been a go-to event producer for everything from organizations hosti…

1
4ATX Foundation's A Night In Verde Gala With Kaitlin Mauro 35:02

4M ago35:02

35:02

What are the keys to creating a successful foundation arm for your organization that allows you to create a broad impact on the community it serves? Today, I talk with Kaitlin Mauro, Executive Director of the 4ATX Foundation to talk about the organization's signature fundraising event, the A Night In Verde Gala. Celebrating its 5th year, the A Nigh…

1
2025 Houston Cattle Baron's Ball With Jenny Todd 36:30

4M ago36:30

36:30

How does an organization host a successful kickoff party to keep guests excited about...and sets the tone for your upcoming gala or signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Jenny Todd, Vice President at the American Cancer Society to talk about one of their upcoming signature fundraising events: The 2025 Houston Cattle Baron's Ball. The Amer…

1
Imagine A Way Gala With Sarah Gilbreath 42:10

4M ago42:10

42:10

What are the keys to getting your board fully engaged in an annual gala or signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Sarah Gilbreath, Central Texas Board Chair for Imagine A Way, to talk about their upcoming annual Imagine A Way Gala: Mad Money for A Mission. Imagine A Way provides critical services for families who have children living with …

1
Using Event Software To Elevate The Guest Event Experience With Leya Simmons 38:42

4M ago38:42

38:42

How can an organization effectively utilize event software to elevate the experience for your event guests? In today's episode, I talk with Co-Founder and CEO of BetterUnite, Leya Simmons to talk about how event software is a core, critical component to any successful event. Since its founding in 2017, BetterUnite "helps the helpers" in taking thei…

1
Creating An Effective Event Promotion Strategy With Henry Yau 38:24

5M ago38:24

38:24

What are the keys to creating an effective media and promotion strategy for your event? In today's episode, I talk Vice President of Public Relations for Children's Museum Houston, Henry Yau. Hosting over 90 events per year ranging from community family events, to million-dollar black-tie galas, Henry and Children's Museum Houston are the gold stan…

1
How Event Catering Elevates The Guest Event Experience With Cameron Lockley 37:29

5M ago37:29

37:29

What are the keys to creating a menu for a gala or signature fundraising event that is both delicious and cost-effective? In today's episode, I talk with one of Texas's top event caterers, Cameron Lockley, Founder of Flavor Hospitality Group. Over the past several years, this top Austin restaurateur has expanded his offerings to include event cater…

1
The Art Of Signature Cocktails Kara Newman Author Of The Cocktail Cabinet 34:22

5M ago34:22

34:22

What are the keys to creating a great signature cocktails that help you set the tone for your event? In today's episode, special guest co-host Lance Avery Morgan and I talk with Kara Newman, Spirits Editor for Wine Enthusiast and author of The Cocktail Cabinet. The Cocktail Cabinet features two different books: one about gin, the other about whiske…

1
Capturing The Essence Of Your Event Through Photography With Tamytha Cameron And Celeste Cass 48:29

5M ago48:29

48:29

How does a great event photographer an essential part of any successful gala or signature fundraising event? They serve as the eyes of the event. In today's episode, I talk with two of the very best event photographers in Texas, Tamytha Cameron and Celeste Cass. For many years, this mother-daughter duo has photographed just about every high-profile…

1
The Art Of Dynamic And Dazzling Auctions With Bobby D. Ehlert 36:55

6M ago36:55

36:55

What are the keys to creating a dynamic, dazzling live auction that both raises a lot of money and has guests talking about your gala...and auction long after your event has ended? In today's episode, I talk with one of the very best auctioneers in the business, Bobby D. Ehlert, Co-Founder & Chief Inspiration Officer of Inspire Hearts Fundraising. …

1
Mack, Jack & McConaughey And Dell Children's Partnership With Jennifer Stevens and Susan Hewlitt 36:06

6M ago36:06

36:06

What are the keys to creating a strong partnership between philanthropic organizations and beneficiaries to maximize impact in the communities they serve? There are no two better people to discuss this topic than today's guests: Jennifer Stevens, event producer for Mack, Jack, and McConaughey and Susan Hewlett, the Executive Director for the Dell C…

1
Houston Children's Charity Chariots For Children With Laura Ward 32:11

6M ago32:11

32:11

How does an organization effectively showcase how the funds raised from a signature fundraising event benefit the community they serve? In this episode, I talk with Laura Ward, Founder, President & CEO of Houston Children's Charity to discuss the organization's upcoming Chariots for Children event. For nearly 30 years, Houston Children's Charity ha…

1
ReuNight For The Family Place With Jess Bass Bolander, Melissa Keeling, And Holly Krug 36:18

6M ago36:18

36:18

How does having a strong event committee help event chairs successfully execute their vision for a gala or signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Holly Krug, Board Development Chair for The Family Place, and Jess Bass Bolander, and Melissa Keeling, co-chairs of ReuNight one of the organization's signature fundraising events. Featuring one …

1
House Of DIFFA With Jacob Samson and Payton Martin 40:19

7M ago40:19

40:19

What are the keys to hosting a successful fashion and runway show at your gala or signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Jacob Samson and Payton Martin, co-chairs of DIFFA Dallas' signature fundraising event House of DIFFA 2025: Dreamstate. Over the past several decades, DIFFA has consistently been one of Texas' most anticipated, successfu…

1
Conspirare Hidden Music With Craig Hella Johnson 49:02

7M ago49:02

49:02

How can an arts organization consistently attract top talent and inspire top donors at their annual gala or signature fundraising event? In this episode, I talk with Craig Hella Johnson, Founder & Artistic Director of the multi-GRAMMY AWARD®-winning ensemble Conspirare, to discuss their signature fundraising event, Hidden Music. For over 30 years, …

1
Equest Blue Ribbon Gala With James and Kristin Hallam & Eric Lindh 42:56

7M ago42:56

42:56

What are the keys getting prominent philanthropists in your community to say yes? Today, I talk with Eric Lindh, CEO of Equest & James and Kristin Hallam, co-chairs of the organization's signature fundraising event, the Blue Ribbon Gala. Equest provides equine therapy for individuals aged two and over to help them cope with physical, mental, and em…

1
The Broach Foundation Stand Up For Brain Cancer Gala With Jamie Broach And Deanna Kotrla 51:59

7M ago51:59

51:59

What are the keys to success in starting a foundation that honors a departed loved one? Today, I talk with Jamie Broach Byrd, Founder of The Broach Foundation For Brain Cancer Research and Deanna Kotrla, Executive Director of the organization to talk about the 13th annual Stand Up For Brain Cancer Gala. The Broach Foundation was started in honor of…

1
Performing Arts Houston Kaleidoscope Ball With Jordan Drum 37:18

7M ago37:18

37:18

How does an organization create fun, inventive themes that creates a loyal following for an annual signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Performing Arts Houston Director of Development Jordan Drum to talk about the organization's annual signature fundraising event, The Kaleidoscope Ball: Rhapsody in Blue. For nearly 60 years, Performing A…

1
HeartGift Gala With Christy Casey-Moore And Kristi Jones 50:43

8M ago50:43

50:43

How does an organization be a part of two highly successful signature fundraising events that are within a few weeks of one another? Today, I talk with HeartGift CEO Christy Casey-Moore and Vice President of Marketing and Fund Development, Kristi Jones to talk about their annual signature fundraising event, the HeartGift Gala. HeartGift provides li…

1
Children's Cancer Fund Gala With Jennifer Arthur And Shannon McGough 34:33

8M ago34:33

34:33

How does an organization effectively evolve its signature fundraising event so it remains a must-attend event year after year? Today, I talk with Jennifer Arthur, CEO of the Children's Cancer Fund and Children's Cancer Fund Board Member Shannon McGough to talk about the Children's Cancer Fund 35th Anniversary Gala. Over the past 35 years, the Child…

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