The People of Penn State
Welcome to The People of Penn State, the podcast from the Penn State Alumni Association sharing the stories of Nittany Lions making an impact on the world.Hosted by Katie Farnan ’19, each episode features conversations with Penn Staters who are making their mark in business, science, sports, the arts, and beyond. From career journeys to personal milestones, discover the experiences, ideas, and connections that make the Penn State community so special.Wherever life takes Penn Staters, there’s always a story worth sharing.
Episode 119–Empowering Female Entrepreneurs with Elyse Lupin
On this episode of The People of Penn State, Elyse Lupin ’02 Bus, founder of Elysium Marketing Group, shares her journey from working with major brands like The Walt Disney Company, NBC, and New Balance to building her own full-service marketing agency.
Elyse reflects on her time at Penn State, how she stays connected to the University, and the lessons she’s learned as an entrepreneur. She also discusses the challenges and opportunities of being a woman in business and her commitment to supporting fellow female entrepreneurs through mentorship and advocacy.
For more alumni stor...
Episode 118–Educational Equity and the Black Alumni Reunion with Forrest Coley
In this special episode of The People of Penn State, we talk with Forrest Coley '85 HHD, '90g Bus, a member of the Educational Equity Advisory Board, about the University’s Office of Educational Equity and his participation in Penn State’s Black Alumni Reunion.
Forrest shares why educational equity matters, the importance of supporting first-generation students, and how alumni can help create opportunities for the next generation of Penn Staters. He also reflects on the power of bringing Black alumni together to celebrate shared experiences, strengthen connections, and shape the future of the Penn...
Episode 117–Behind the Scenes at ESPN with Amanda Gifford Lockwood
In this episode, we chat with Amanda Gifford Lockwood ’04 Com, Edu, a senior vice president of production at ESPN, where she helps lead coverage of some of the network’s biggest sporting events.
Amanda reflects on her time at Penn State and the experiences that shaped her career, shares the journey that led her to ESPN and her work in sports production, and talks about how she stays connected to the Penn State community.
She also discusses the lessons she’s learned throughout her career, the people who have influenced her along the way, an...
Episode 116–The Family Plan with Jared Freid
This week, we chat with Jared Freid ’07 Bus, a stand-up comedian, podcaster, and author known for his sharp, relatable take on dating, relationships, and everyday life.
But comedy wasn’t always the plan. After graduating from Penn State, Jared began his career in insurance before leaping to pursue comedy full-time.
Jared looks back on his time at Penn State and the unexpected path that led him to a career in comedy. He talks about deciding to leave insurance, building a career as a comedian and podcaster, and his first book, Walking Red Flag...
Episode 115–From Human Doing to Human Being with Jim Minarik
Jim Minarik ’75 Bus, ’77 MBA is an author, investor, board member, and CEO coach who began his entrepreneurial journey as a Penn State student. After a 25-year career as a CEO, Jim went on to create Sound United, a billion-dollar global home audio business with brands including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, and Polk Audio.
Now, Jim is the author of Reckoning: A Journey Through Tragedy, Triumph, and Transcendence, a deeply personal book about navigating tragedy, achievement, loss, and transformation.
Jim shares his story and reflects on how those experiences changed how he sees life, success, and what...
Episode 114–607 West College Avenue with Mattie Leon
In this episode, we chat with Mattie Leon ’09 A&A, a soulful folk singer-songwriter from Hamilton, Ontario, whose journey from student-athlete to musician has taken him far from the golf course and back to Penn State in an unexpected way.
Mattie shares what it was like balancing life as a student-athlete at Penn State, accepting a golf scholarship, and making memories that would stay with him long after graduation.
We also talk about his transition from competitive golf to a career in music and the stories, places, and experiences from his time at Pe...
Episode 113–Designing for the Digital World with Eric Yeamans
In this episode, we sit down with Eric Yeamans, '10 A&A, to explore the intersection of design, technology, and digital strategy. As the leader of digital initiatives at Actual Size, Eric shares how he leverages emerging technologies, data-driven insights, and innovative marketing strategies to help organizations grow their digital presence and create meaningful audience engagement.
We also discuss Actual Size's work on the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, the evolving role of digital experiences in design, Eric's Penn State journey, and the impact of recognizing the next generation of creative talent through the Ryan Russell A...
Episode 112–Building Careers and Connections with Eric Wagner and Eric Vishnevetsky
In this episode, we sit down with Eric Wagner '96 Lib and Eric Vishnevetsky '15 Bus to explore their career journeys in wealth management, leadership, and the power of building meaningful relationships.
Eric Wagner, a Managing Director at UBS Private Wealth Management and co-founder of PWJ, has helped build one of New York City’s premier wealth management teams while bringing together his background in finance and law to serve clients and lead with a people-first approach.
Eric Vishnevetsky has spent his career at UBS, growing from the firm’s Graduate Talent Program into a senio...
Episode 111–This Week's Forecast with Jackie Layer
In this episode, Jackie Layer '13 EMS shares how childhood weather events sparked a passion that led her to a career in broadcast meteorology.
Now the Chief Meteorologist at DC News Now, Jackie reflects on her Penn State experience, covering everything from devastating tornado outbreaks to tropical storms, earning her AMS Certified Broadcast Meteorologist designation, and the responsibility that comes with keeping communities informed before, during, and after severe weather.
She also discusses mentoring future meteorologists and why her connection to Penn State remains as strong as ever.
For more alumni st...
Episode 110–Designing a Path to the Olympics with Dan Barefoot
On this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we chat with Dan Barefoot '13 A&A, a professional landscape architect and Team USA skeleton athlete who represented the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina.
Dan shares how he discovered the sport after graduating from Penn State, what it took to balance a full-time career with the demands of elite international competition, and the journey from complete beginner to Olympian.
He also reflects on the power of perseverance, embracing uncertainty, and chasing ambitious goals while staying connected to his profession and co...
Episode 109–Learning Undefeated with Jennifer Colvin
On this episode of the People of Penn State podcast, we sit down with Jennifer Colvin ’97 Behrend, chief innovation officer at Learning Undefeated and self-described “crazy ideas captain.”
Jen reflects on her time at Penn State Behrend, where she earned her biology degree in 1997, and shares how her Penn State experience helped shape her passion for STEM education and community impact.
She shares how Learning Undefeated allows her to fulfill her mission of making STEM education equitable and accessible for all learners, including the development of more than 20 mobile laboratory programs, the importance of comm...
Episode 108–Live from the Anchor Desk with Janelle Burrell
On this episode of the People of Penn State podcast, we chat with Janelle Burrell '05 Lib, Emmy Award-winning journalist and morning anchor at CBS News Philadelphia.
Janelle shares the story of how she almost didn’t attend Penn State — and why changing her mind became one of the best decisions she ever made. She also reflects on her journey from working behind the scenes to earning a seat at the anchor desk, the lessons she learned along the way, and how Penn State helped shape her career.
Janelle also offers advice for new graduates naviga...
Episode 107–Simplism: Finding Creativity in Chaos with Brian Kappel
On this episode of the People of Penn State podcast, we sit down with Brian Kappel ’98 A&A, whose creative career has taken him from Penn State to major brands like Nike, Jordan, Under Armour, ESPN, PlayStation, and more.
Brian reflects on his time as a student, how Penn State helped shape his creative journey, and why he decided to move back to Happy Valley after living in Oregon for more than 20 years.
He also shares the importance of staying connected to the University through mentorship and giving back—and sticks around for a special announ...
Episode 106–All Roads Lead Back to Penn State with Cade Miller
In this episode, we talk with Cade Miller ’24 Com, Associate Director of Admissions at Shepherd University.
Cade reflects on how his Penn State experience and involvement across campus shaped his path, how those experiences led him to his current role in higher education, and how he brings storytelling and student engagement into his work.
Plus, hear how a podcast project turned into an unforgettable experience with a particularly stubborn dairy cow named Barbara Jean.
Listen to the podcasts Cade mentions in the episode:
Franco's Immaculate Legacy
Eas...
Episode 105–Science, Style, and Entrepreneurship with Katie Collins
In this episode, we talk with Katie Collins ’00 HHD, co-founder of both ECM Therapeutics, a regenerative medicine company, and Abigail Collins, a collegiate apparel brand.
Katie reflects on how her Penn State experience and time as a student athlete shaped her path, what it takes to build mission-driven companies, and how she continues to leverage the Penn State alumni network to stay connected to the University and fellow Nittany Lions.
Check out the Penn State line at abigailcollins.com
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Episode 104–Prepare with Cher with Cheryl Nelson
In this episode, we talk with Emmy-nominated meteorologist Cheryl Nelson, ’02 EMS, about her journey from Penn State to national broadcast news and beyond.
Cheryl shares why she almost didn’t choose Penn State (but is grateful she did!), how her connection to the University only deepened after graduation, and what shaped her career in broadcast meteorology.
We also discuss what inspired her to launch Prepare with Cher, LLC, where her mission is to help communities stay safe before, during, and after extreme weather.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Episode 103–A Story for Every Voice with Kennedy White
On this episode, we’re joined by Kennedy White ’23 Com, who has always known she wanted to use her voice to make a difference. Now a gift officer at Penn State, Kennedy combines her passion for communication with purpose-driven work every day.
She also recently became a published author with her first children’s book, "I Am Who I Am." Kennedy shares her journey at Penn State and why she chose to stay after graduation, the inspiration behind her storytelling, and why believing in yourself can change everything. Plus, she offers a sneak peek at the ne...
Episode 102–Where Creativity Meets Community with Kassie Hilgert '97
On this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we’re joined by Kassie Hilgert ’97 Com, President and CEO of ArtsQuest, one of Pennsylvania’s largest nonprofit arts organizations.
Kassie shares her unique journey to Penn State and reflects on how her time there helped shape her confidence, leadership style, and sense of purpose. She also talks about building a career rooted in creativity, community, and impact, and how those early Penn State experiences became the foundation for where she is today.
Learn more about ArtsQuest here.
For more al...
Episode 101–Making a Social Impact with Mohan Sivaloganathan
Welcome to season 6 of The People of Penn State podcast!
On this episode, we chat with Mohan Sivaloganathan, who earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering in 2005 and an MBA in 2007.
Known as the “Batman of social impact,” Mohan is a leader, speaker, and artist whose work blends leadership, creativity, and purpose. From his early experiences with leadership and civic engagement to using music and storytelling as tools for change, Mohan shares how he’s built a career focused on creating impact and inspiring others to lead with intention.
Tune in for a though...
Episode 100–The Symbol of Our Best with Mason Reber
It’s our 100th episode! For five seasons, Penn Staters have shared their stories, inspiring past, present, and future generations. We’ve heard from alumni making an impact across every industry, and as our network surpassed 800,000 living alumni this year, we’re just getting started.
To celebrate this milestone, who better to join us than the Symbol of Our Best—the Nittany Lion! For the past three years, Mason Reber has been the man behind the suit, becoming the 54th Nittany Lion in Penn State history. He’s preparing to graduate this month with a degree in civil engi...
Football Letter Podcast Episode: Tara Bandy ’03
As communications chair of our Vermont Chapter, Tara Bandy ’03 keeps her lifelong Penn State connection strong as one of our volunteer leaders. She discusses the chapter's inspiring community work in response to historic flooding, the significance of Alumni Association membership, and much more.
Learn more on the chapter's Facebook page.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Episode 99–Pop, Passion & Penn State with Nancy Rosenberg
On this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we chat with Nancy Rosenberg ('19, Com), Senior Director of Marketing & Creative Services at Crowd Surf. Nancy reflects on her time in the Bellisario College of Communications, what it was like to graduate early, and the real-world lessons that helped launch her fast-paced career.
From her early days in digital marketing to helping create unforgettable fan experiences for artists across genres, Nancy shares how she blends creativity, strategy, and a deep love of pop culture to build meaningful connections between artists and their communities.
Tune...
Football Letter Podcast: Theresa Colligon ’93
In serving as president of our Southern New Jersey Chapter, Theresa Colligon ’93 is continuing her lifelong connection to Penn State. She took classes for two years at Penn State Abington (formerly Penn State Ogontz) and finished her degree at University Park.
She discusses the significance of being a first-generation college graduate, how the chapter has grown, and much more. Plus, stick around for a special cameo from board member Matt Petersen and his son, Luke.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Football Letter Podcast: John Colwell ’16
This week's episode features John Colwell ’16, social media chair for the New York City Chapter. John received the 2025 Joan M. McLane Recent Alumnus/Alumna Award for “revolutionizing” the chapter’s ability to engage with local alumni through social media.
John discusses the strides the chapter has made and how the group unites Penn Staters, shares his own Penn State story, and much more.
Learn more by visiting the chapter's website.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Episode 98–Planting the Seeds of Passion and Purpose with Audrey Subers
On this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we talk with Audrey Subers (’23 Eng), an entrepreneur inspiring environmental education through event planning.
Audrey earned her degree in biological engineering and was heavily involved in the Student Farm Club. Her passion for food and sustainability motivated her to leave her 9–5 job and visit a nature retreat center, where she learned to cook with a biologist using ingredients grown just steps away in the backyard farm.
Her love for bringing people together through food grew into hosting dinner parties and planning eco-retreats across Panama. Now base...
Football Letter Podcast: Isaac Smolko ’06
This week's episode features letterman tight end Isaac Smolko, a key contributor to the 2005 team that finished 11-1 and No. 3 in the country while winning the Big Ten and besting Florida State in a three-overtime epic clash in the Orange Bowl.
As many fans will remember, Isaac made a clutch reception on fourth-and-15 at Northwestern during the ’05 season, helping to preserve Penn State's undefeated record early in the campaign. He discussed what made that team special, the lessons he learned at Penn State, and much more, including how he works with fellow Penn State letterman Paul Posluszny!
Football Letter Podcast: Sam Cipar ’16
This week's episode features Sam Cipar ’16, president of our Greater Chicago Chapter.
Sam discusses how he first started volunteering with the chapter, how fellow Penn Staters can get involved with their local chapter, and much more, including all the great things the Chicago Chapter has going on.
Learn more about the Chicago Chapter by visiting psuchicago.org.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Football Letter Podcast: Sam Cipar ’16
This week's episode features Sam Cipar ’16, president of our Greater Chicago Chapter.
Sam discusses how he first started volunteering with the chapter, offers his advice to fellow Penn Staters on how they can get involved, and much more, including all the great things the Chicago Chapter has going on.
Learn more about the Chicago Chapter by visiting its website, which has all of the chapter's social media links at the top.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Episode 97–Mentorship, Media, and Making It Happen with Adriana Lacy
In this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we chat with Adriana Lacy (’18 Com), an award-winning journalist, entrepreneur, and digital media strategist.
As Founder and CEO of Adriana Lacy Consulting, she helps publishers and businesses expand their digital reach, drawing on her experience in the newsroom at The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and Axios.
Adriana reflects on her time at Penn State, including how switching her major put her on a new path, and shares how her early journalism experiences led her to start her own consulting firm. She al...
Football Letter Podcast: Michael Kozar ’11, ’11g
This week's episode features Michael Kozar ’11, ’11g, a two-time Penn State grad and co-president of our Tallahassee Chapter. An expert meteorologist who earned his Ph.D. from Florida State, learn how Michael's time at Penn State molded him as a person and professional, how getting involved with his local chapter provided support when he most needed it, and much more.
Learn more on the chapter's website and Facebook page. You can also connect with Michael on LinkedIn.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Episode 96–Live from the Sidelines with Lisa Salters
In this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we sit down with Lisa Salters (’88 Com), an Emmy-winning sports reporter with more than 30 years of experience. As the longest-tenured sideline reporter in Monday Night Football history and a familiar face on NBA broadcasts, Salters has built a trailblazing career in sports media.
Lisa reflects on her early days as a news reporter, her transition into sports broadcasting, and the lessons she’s learned while covering unforgettable moments on the sidelines. She also shares stories from her Penn State years, both in the classroom and on t...
Football Letter Podcast: Brian Shaunessy ’86
Brian Shaunessy knows the Penn State experience well, having attended Penn State Brandywine and University Park. A 1986 graduate of the Smeal College of Business, Shaunessy danced in THON as a student and has stayed involved with local chapters as an alumnus. Currently, he serves as president of our Triangle Chapter in North Carolina, which received this year’s Fundraising Award for providing relief in the wake of Hurricane Helene last year.
Learn more on the chapter’s website and Facebook page. You can also connect with Brian on LinkedIn.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Episode 95–Storytelling on a Global Stage with Brett King
On this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we sit down with Brett King (’81 Lib), producer, creative consultant, and longtime media executive.
As the founder of NON LP B-SIDE, Brett partners with legacy media, emerging technologies, brands, and creators to amplify stories that are both culturally specific and globally relatable. He also serves as Editor-in-Chief of Culture & Editorial at Network in a Box (NAIB), a media operations partner for advertisers, platforms, broadcasters, and content owners, and as Senior Sales Advisor for Ranked Technology, a creator-driven social amplification platform.
Brett shares the be...
Football Letter Podcast: Dominic DeFreece ’01
Dominic DeFreece ’01 has always been driven to give back and serve his community. The former sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves, DeFreece continues to make an impact as president of our Berks County Chapter. It's a family effort, as Dominic's wife, Mayleene ’01, herself a Penn State grad, serves as chapter vice president. They attended Penn State games and events as they raised their three children, Derek ’24, Isabella ’28 and Devin. Derek graduated last year from University Park, Isabella is currently attending Penn State Abington, and Devin is a high school senior looking forward to the next chapter.
Learn mor...
Football Letter Podcast: Steven Williams ’14g
A highly accomplished player and coach, Steven Williams ’14g spent several seasons in Happy Valley (2012-15), serving as an offensive and defensive assistant and assistant strength and conditioning coach. With the Nittany Lions, he created weekly scouting reports, organized practices and assisted with the Nittany Lions’ wide receivers, secondary and linebackers. On gamedays, he signaled play calls, assisted with special teams and advised both the head coach and defensive coordinator on in-game decisions.
Williams starred as a three-time Harvard letterwinner (2005, 2006, 2007), tying the school record for most interceptions in a season (eight in 2007) and setting the program standard for...
Football Letter Podcast: Lehigh Valley Chapter
Volunteer leaders Joe Huxta ’71 and Michael Turk ’87 have deep ties to Penn State and possess a strong sense of volunteerism, especially with wanting to give back to the University and our alumni.
In overseeing our Lehigh Valley Chapter—one of our largest affiliate groups—they’ve aligned their personal and professional passions, while keeping more than 10,000 local Penn Staters connected through chapter watch parties, community service projects, networking events, and much more.
For more info, visit the chapter’s website, Facebook page, and Instagram page for more info. You can also donate to the Lehigh Valley Chapte...
Episode 94–Turning Concepts into Connections with Laura McKinney
On this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we chat with Laura McKinney (’20 Com), founder of StrataBrand.
After graduating amid a global pandemic, Laura took the skills she developed at Penn State to New York City, where she launched StrataBrand to bridge the worlds of marketing, PR, and strategy. Her company helps to move ideas from concept to reality with speed and authenticity.
Her work spans industries and scales: from collaborating with the head of a global media company and contributing to an international magazine, to shaping the strategic vision for one of th...
Football Letter Podcast: Janelle Rushton ’15
This week's episode features Janelle Rushton ’15, longtime volunteer leader for our Philadelphia Chapter and current president-elect of our H&HD Alumni Society.
Janelle discussed her path to becoming a Penn Stater, the mission of the Philadelphia Chapter, why she's passionate about higher education fundraising and engagement, and much more.
To learn more, visit the chapter's website and follow the chapter on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can also donate to the chapter's trustee scholarship. Plus, connect with Janelle on LinkedIn.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
Episode 93–Riding for a Cure with Joe Apgar
In this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we talk with Joe Apgar (’08 Bus), CEO of Pelotonia.
During his senior year at Penn State, Joe was diagnosed with testicular cancer. After his recovery, he began riding and fundraising for Pelotonia, a nonprofit founded in 2008 to support lifesaving cancer research.
After earning his finance degree in 2008, Joe joined Rockbridge Capital, where he focused on capital raising and strategic initiatives, and co-founded RTRX, a leadership event centered on advancing cancer research. Today, as CEO of Pelotonia, he continues to champion that mission. His work has be...
Football Letter Podcast: Jim Keib ’11g
This week's episode features Jim Keib ’11g, president of our Greater Syracuse Chapter. Jim discussed following in his son's footsteps when he earned his graduate degree from World Campus in 2011, memories of spending time with his family on the University Park campus, and the importance of giving back to his community, both on behalf of Penn State and his neighbors.
Learn more about the chapter and stay updated on everything Jim and the group are doing by following them on Facebook.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
