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★★★★★

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What makes leaders tick? In the Arena podcast delves into the inner workings and personal dynamics of leadership. We’ll shine a light on the life-shaping experiences and perspectives of leaders who have navigated adversity and moved their organizations and themselves forward. Defining moments, lessons learned, and points of inspiration provide a roadmap for these conversations of a lifetime. The podcast title In the Arena has historical roots. In 1910, a year after leaving the presidency, Teddy Roosevelt gave a rousing address in Paris in which he chastised cynics and grenade-throwing critics who lambasted leaders as they worked valiantly to improve the human condition. Over time TR’s “The Man in the Arena” became indelibly linked to the nobility and struggles of leadership. In the Arena host Brad Rieger is the chief executive officer at Cooper-Smith, a full-service marketing and advertising agency headquartered in Toledo, OH with a satellite office in Stamford, CT. Prior to working in the private sector, Brad enjoyed a meaningful 31-year career in education serving in the roles of teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. He is a student of the complexities and nuances of leadership and admires the strivers, trailblazers, and influencers who lead with conviction, courage, and resilience. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

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Check latest episodes from In the Arena: Conversations of a Lifetime podcast

Christina Dankert – Educator and Author

2026/10/02

Christina Dankert is an elementary school educator, author, and wannabe librarian. She has taught second grade at Sylvan Elementary School in Sylvania Schools for 17 years. Sylvania Schools is a large suburban school district located in Northwest Ohio. In 2025 Christina was named the school district’s Educator of the Year. In 2022 she published her first children’s book, the highly acclaimed The Kindness Machine. Christina has conducted school presentations and teacher workshops highlighting the storyline, themes, and characters of The Kindness Machine. In 2025 she was named The Best New Author by the Toledo City Paper. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Troy Armstrong - Superintendent, Wauseon Schools

2026/05/28

As he closes-out a memorable career in education, Troy Armstrong shares stories and perspectives about leading the school district he attended as a student, his leadership approach, what success looks like, and navigating no-win situations. As he heads-off into the sunset, Troy will most likely be riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Kristie Martin – Superintendent, Washington Local Schools

2026/03/10

Kristie Martin’s student-centered and people-centered leadership approach anchors who she is as superintendent of Washington Local Schools (WLS), a large public school district located in Toledo, Ohio. She has held a wide variety of school leadership roles throughout her 30-year career in education, all of them with WLS. Most of the job promotions that came Kristie’s way she never aspired to, rather she was recruited for these positions because of her instructional expertise, collaborative disposition, and ability to connect with students, staff, and parents. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Bryan Blair – Vice President and Director of Athletics, The University of Toledo

2026/01/17

A laser-focused servant leader who uses a “Rise Together” approach to elevate the culture and achievement levels of the University of Toledo Athletic Department. The road Bryan took leading-up to the University of Toledo included positions as Deputy AD and Chief Operating Officer at Washington University, Senior Associate Athletic Director at Rice University, and administrative roles with the University of South Carolina and the NCAA Office in Indianapolis. He serves on the NCAA Division I Sports Oversight Committee and NCAA Division 1 Committee on Infractions. Bryan has received numerous accolades including the prestigious Sports Business Journal Forty Under 40 and the Twenty Under 40 Community Leadership Award for Northwest Ohio. He earned a law degree from the University of South Carolina and an undergraduate degree in history from Wofford College. While at Wofford Bryan was a standout student-athlete who was a starting defensive lineman and captain of the football team. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Jere Righter – Artistic Director, The Croswell

2025/11/13

Jere Righter has been involved with the historic Croswell Opera House for 35 years. Located in Adrian, Michigan, The Croswell is the oldest theater in Michigan and one of the oldest operating theaters in the United States. Jere was hired-on to be The Croswell’s Artistic Director in 2009. Working with talented staff and volunteers, Jere has overseen professional caliber and highly acclaimed performances within a regional community theater setting. Prior to The Croswell, Jere served as the Associate Director/Senior Major Gifts Officer at the University of Michigan Health System and VP of Advancement at Siena Heights University. She is the past president of the Adrian Kiwanis Club and chair of Hospice of Lenawee County. A native of Adrian, Jere earned a degree in theater and speech communications from Sienna Heights University. In 2020 her alma mater honored her with the Outstanding Alumni Award. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Rev. Ron Olszewski – Educational and Servant Leader

2025/09/30

Fr. Olszewski, a Catholic priest and Oblate of St. Francis de Sales, has been a positive force at St. Francis de Sales High School in Toledo, Ohio for over 51 years. Fr. O., as he is affectionately called, has served as a teacher, principal, and president of St. Francis De Sales High School. He was also the chairman of the school’s foundation for over 30 years and past president of the Toledo Rotary. In addition to his career association with St. Francis High School, Fr. O. is also an alum; the Class of 1962. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in classical languages and education from Niagara University and attained his PhD in educational administration from the University of Notre Dame. Fr. O currently teaches theology courses at St. Francis De Sales and is a weekend priest at Christ the King parish in Toledo. Fr. O was recently inducted into the Northwest Ohio Polish Cultural Center Hall of Fame. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Ginny Boggess – Head Women’s Basketball Coach, The University of Toledo

2025/07/17

After her mom passed away, seven-year old Ginny Boggess found solace in shooting baskets in her backyard. Basketball helped Ginny navigate a traumatic personal loss and created a pathway to life-shaping opportunities. She parlayed a successful playing career on the hardwood at Wingate University into the field of coaching. For 22 years she has used the platform of coaching to develop players on and off the court. Goal-oriented and high-energy, Ginny’s leadership approach is grounded in work ethic, gratitude, and faith. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Kate Sommerfeld – President & CEO, Greater Toledo Community Foundation

2025/05/28

By observing her parents’ kindness toward others and her own personal experiences with volunteering, helping people became a driving force early on in Kate Sommerfeld’s life. She is a mission-driven and collaborative servant leader dedicated to lifting up communities, organizations, and individuals. Her enthusiasm for philanthropy is rooted in a steadfast belief in worthwhile causes and people’s generous spirit. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Matt Schroeder – Interim President, The University of Toledo

2025/03/21

As an undergraduate student at the University of Toledo, Matt Schroeder worked three jobs to help pay his way through school and earn a bachelor’s degree in business management. He now leads the organization that put his life on a positive trajectory. As interim president, Matt is laser-focused on elevating the student experience and making the University of Toledo a vibrant part of the Toledo region. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Robin Whitney – Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, SSOE

2025/03/07

At an early age, Robin Whitney knew she wanted to be an engineer. Throughout an extensive career, Robin has utilized her engineering and people skills to shepherd large-scale community initiatives and building projects. She’s a person of vision and a problem solver who strives to elevate the quality of life for organizations and the Toledo region. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Adam Levine - President, Director & CEO, Toledo Museum of Art

2025/02/21

Since 2020, Adam Levine has served as the president, director, and CEO of the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA). His leadership efforts are focused on TMA’s world-class collection, visitor experience, organizational culture, and community outreach. He is a respected scholar of ancient art and a highly sought-after presenter by art museums, universities, auction houses, and think tanks. Raised in NYC, Adam credits family trips to major art museums initiated by his parents and robust art history courses in high school for sparking his lifelong passion for art. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Jason Abodeely – President & CEO, Sunshine Communities

2024/11/21

After 15 years of holding senior executive positions with several multinational companies, Jason Abodeely pivoted to the mission-based nonprofit Sunshine Communities. For the past 11 years he has led a team of compassionate caregivers - nurses, therapists, and direct service professionals - who help children and adults with developmental disabilities live their best lives. Empowerment, dignity, inclusion, and community are central to Jason’s leadership approach. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Amanda Held – Founder and Executive Director, H.O.O.V.E.S.

2024/10/24

It’s been an amazing personal journey for the mission-driven Amanda Held. Overcoming significant odds, Amanda figured out how to merge her love/respect for horses with her military experience to found H.O.O.V.E.S., a nonprofit that provides equine-assisted therapy and intensive programming for veterans and others navigating trauma. For the past 13 years, she has leveraged her extensive knowledge of horse and human behavior to provide high-impact retreats and workshops aimed at helping veterans manage PTSD and find a path forward. She is also co-producer of the award-winning documentary H.O.O.V.E.S. – Healing our Veterans. Prior to running H.O.O.V.E.S., Amanda served in the Air Force in various roles associated with human resources. After finishing active duty in the Air Force, she joined the Air National Guard and is currently a First Sergeant for the 127th Medical Group at the National Guard base in Selfridge, Michigan. Amanda has received numerous recognitions for her life-saving work including being selected as one of Success Magazine’s People of Influence, Hometown Hero (3 times), and the Toledo Community Impact Award. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Lee Conklin - Broadcast News Anchor

2024/09/27

Through his straightforward approach to sharing local, national, and global news, Emmy award-winning TV news anchor Lee Conklin has been connecting with viewers and listeners for 40 years. His trustworthiness, respect for others, and humility are distinguishing personal traits that make him a highly respected news journalist and community leader. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Brad Felver – Fiction Writer and Teaching Professor

2024/07/30

In addition to being a teaching professor at Bowling Green State University, Brad Felver has been writing professionally for over 15 years. His short stories and essays have been published in a wide array of literary magazines. He was recently bestowed the O. Henry Prize for best fictional writing in 2024. This was the second time he has received this prestigious national award. Brad has also been honored with the Drue Heinz Literature Prize, Ohio Arts Council Excellence Award, and Zone 3 Fiction Prize. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

Podcast reviews

Read In the Arena: Conversations of a Lifetime podcast reviews

5 out of 5

13 reviews

★★★★★

RussellStrong 2021/03/28

Amazing interviewer

Just listened to Brad’s interview with Father James Bacik. Brad is able to ask questions that helps his guest reveal their personality, mission, and c...

★★★★★

MarkLaura 2021/01/25

Refreshing leadership talk

Brad is a master of his craft in relationships and leadership. This podcast is refreshing in the way Brad talks with leaders in unique ways, finding t...

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