Shows
Pittman and Friends PodcastHousing, Land, and Regulation with Secretary Jake DayHousing is at a crisis point in Maryland, with a shortage of nearly 100,000 units driving up costs and leaving communities struggling. In this eye-opening conversation, County Executive Steuart Pittman sits down with Maryland Housing Secretary Jake Day to unpack not just the problems, but the potential solutions.Secretary Day brings a fascinating background to his role—from small-town Eastern Shore kid to Salisbury mayor to state cabinet secretary. His journey through architecture school, military service, and local government has shaped his perspective on how housing connects to every aspect of community well-being. "I never sought to become th...2025-06-1130 minPittman and Friends PodcastTalking Tourism with Kristen PironisTourism is evolving beyond simple transactions – it's now about creating transformational experiences that benefit both visitors and residents alike. In this enlightening conversation with County Executive Steuart Pittman, Kristen Pironis, CEO of Visit Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, reveals how she revitalized the organization during a challenging transition period to become a dynamic force for community development.Pironis took a leap of faith when she left a comfortable 16-year career at the Naval Academy Alumni Association to lead a tourism organization during a pandemic. That confidence has transformed the organization, which now champions both visitor experiences and co...2025-06-0330 minPittman and Friends PodcastPride, Politics, and Personal Growth with Joe ToolanListen to County Executive Steuart Pittman and Joe Toolan candidly discuss growth, visibility, and the life-saving power of community. Joe Toolan, chair of Annapolis Pride, shares his remarkable journey from feeling isolated as a young gay person of color in Pasadena, Maryland, to leading one of the region's most impactful LGBTQ+ organizations. Born in Guatemala and adopted at three months old, Toolan's early experiences of difference shaped his commitment to ensuring no one feels alone in their identity.The upcoming Annapolis Pride Parade, featuring 250+ organizations and drawing crowds of 10,000+, represents more than just celebration—it's a v...2025-05-2730 minPittman and Friends PodcastFrom Prison to Public Service with Chris Klein and Josh HatchWhat happens when a community decides to embrace rather than reject those returning from incarceration? Anne Arundel County has discovered a powerful answer through an innovative partnership between detention facilities and community organizations.This eye-opening conversation brings together Superintendent of Detention Facilities Chris Klein and Joshua Hatch, Vice President of Community Action Agency's diversion and reentry services. Together, they reveal how their unique collaboration has created a seamless system of support that begins inside detention facilities and continues throughout the reintegration process.At the heart of their approach is the groundbreaking Reentry Hub concept at...2025-05-2038 minPittman and Friends PodcastBehind the Badge with Chief Amal Awad In this revealing conversation with County Executive Steuart Pittman, Chief Awad opens up about the extraordinary path that led her to law enforcement leadership.At just nine years old, following her father's departure, Awad became a co-parent to her six siblings, navigating life in economically challenged neighborhoods while watching her mother struggle to provide. This firsthand experience with adversity shaped her understanding of community needs and cultivated leadership skills that would define her career. Two high school teachers recognized her potential, investing in her development and igniting a passion for public service that eventually led her to a...2025-05-1336 minPittman and Friends PodcastPut Your Money Where Your Heart Is with Budget Officer Chris TrumbauerPeek behind the curtain of local government finance with County Executive Steuart Pittman and Budget Officer Chris Trumbauer as they reveal how Anne Arundel County achieves fiscal resilience while expanding essential services.Trumbauer, who initially joined the administration as a Director of Policy and Communications before becoming Budget Officer, brings unique insight into the county's financial strategy. "Budget isn't numbers," he explains. "Budget's about values, budget's about people." This philosophy has guided the county through six budget cycles, creating what Trumbauer calls "a strong fiscal foundation" that protects residents during economic uncertainty.The conversation illuminates...2025-05-0628 minPittman and Friends PodcastSaving Nature with Matt JohnstonWhat happens on the land ends up in the water. This simple truth drives the passionate work of Matt Johnston and the Arundel Rivers Federation, a small but mighty nonprofit making big waves in Chesapeake Bay conservation.Johnston, the organization's Executive Director, shares how their team monitors water quality in three southern Anne Arundel County watersheds while advocating for policies that protect our precious waterways. From their popular pump-out boat program preventing recreational boat sewage from polluting the Bay to extensive restoration projects that transform degraded streams and shorelines, their work exemplifies environmental stewardship in action.2025-04-2233 minPittman and Friends PodcastDr. Tonii Gedin on Leading Anne Arundel County Department of HealthDr. Tonii Gedin, Anne Arundel County's Health Officer, pulls back the curtain on what actually happens inside a health department with over 800 employees. What begins as a friendly conversation quickly transforms into a masterclass on modern public health approaches that save lives every day without most residents ever realizing it.Dr. Gedin's path from ICU nurse to health department leadership reveals how public health work extends far beyond what most citizens understand. Through her straightforward explanation of the department's five bureaus—covering everything from school health to environmental protection—we gain insight into the vast scope of work...2025-04-1536 minPittman and Friends PodcastThe Palmers Deliver a Faith-Based Nonprofit Service ModelCounty Executive Steuart Pittman holds a deep, enriching conversation with Apostle Antonio Palmer and Dr. Barbara Palmer, founders of Kingdom Celebration Center and Kingdom Care. What began as a single church in Annapolis in 1995 has evolved into a comprehensive service network touching thousands of lives across Anne Arundel County and beyond.When pandemic hunger struck, the Palmers didn't just respond—they scaled, expanding from serving 500 people monthly to feeding 3,000 individuals across 44 zip codes. This remarkable pivot exemplifies their approach: identify community needs, build capacity to address them, and create partnerships that amplify impact.Dr. Barbara Pa...2025-04-0838 minPittman and Friends PodcastAmy Gowan on Anne Arundel Economic Development CorporationCounty Executive Steuart Pittman welcomes Amy Gowan, President and CEO of the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC), for a fascinating exploration of what drives economic prosperity in communities and how local government can facilitate business success.Amy brings a uniquely diverse background to her role, having worked in homeless services, housing policy, planning departments, and as an advisor to both a mayor and city council member before landing in economic development. This nonlinear career path gives her invaluable perspective on both sides of the development equation – understanding regulatory constraints while championing business growth.The co...2025-04-0132 minPittman and Friends PodcastKris Valerio Shock on Leadership Anne ArundelCounty Executive Steuart Pittman welcomes Kris Valerio-Shock, President and CEO of Leadership Anne Arundel, for a fascinating conversation about cultivating community leadership. What begins as a simple introduction to LAA's programs quickly evolves into a deeper exploration of how intentional leadership development transforms communities from the ground up.Valerio-Shock shares the organization's dual approach through their Flagship Program and Neighborhood Leadership Academy. While the Flagship offers a comprehensive 10-month journey through every aspect of county operations, the Neighborhood Leadership Academy specifically removes barriers for grassroots leaders who might otherwise miss development opportunities due to financial constraints or...2025-03-2532 minPittman and Friends PodcastState Senator Shaneka Henson on Her Journey and ServiceWhen Senator Shaneka Henson found herself living in subsidized housing as a young mother at 19, she never imagined that experience would one day inform her work as a Maryland State Senator. Yet that pivotal chapter in her life—navigating parenthood while pursuing her education—gave her a perspective few legislators possess.Senator Henson's conversation with Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman takes us through her remarkable journey from preacher's daughter to public housing resident to attorney and now state senator. Her path wasn't the traditional political trajectory; it sprouted from necessity and firsthand experience with systems many only...2025-03-1833 minPittman and Friends PodcastSuperintendent Dr. Mark Bedell on Choosing Education and Anne Arundel ChallengesJoin Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman for a compelling conversation with Dr. Mark Bedell, the superintendent of the county's public schools. As they delve into the real-life challenges and triumphs of managing a large educational institution, Dr. Bedell shares his remarkable journey from childhood adversity to becoming a leader in education. This episode explores how collaboration—between educators, the community, and local government—can drive educational success. It also addresses issues such as teacher recruitment and retention and legislative policies. Learn more about how Anne Arundel County addresses unique challenges while focusing on student achievement and well...2025-03-0445 minPittman and Friends PodcastGovernor Wes Moore on Budgeting, Poverty, and Being PresentIn this episode, County Executive Pittman recalls their first meeting and Governor Moore's inauguration as they discuss the important work being done to make a positive impact on the people of Maryland – from budget-making to simply being present. Delve into the historical significance of Moore's inauguration, graced by the presence of Oprah, and learn how personal histories intertwine with the present to shape a vision for the future.Moreover, learn more about the intricacies of finance and policy as Governor Moore discusses the critical role budgets play in reflecting government priorities. Together, they explore the challenges of ma...2025-02-1835 minPittman and Friends PodcastColonel Yolanda Gore on Community Impact at Fort MeadeHear the inspiring journey of Colonel Yolanda Gore, the dynamic leader at the helm of Fort Meade, Maryland's largest economic powerhouse. From her humble beginnings in South Carolina to her crucial role in national defense operations, Colonel Gore shares her 22-year military career, the challenges she's faced, and the lessons she's learned along the way. With 66,000 employees under her command and a staggering $17 billion economic impact, Fort Meade stands as a testament to her dedication to both her country and community.Communication and community service are at the heart of our discussion. We explore how leaders in...2025-02-1133 minPittman and Friends PodcastAnne Arundel Delegation Chair Andrew Pruski on Leadership in County and State GovernmentThis episode is a candid conversation with Anne Arundel Delegation Chair Andrew Pruski, examining how his local government experience informs his work in the state legislature. Delegate Pruski discusses the significance of collaboration in government, addresses critical issues such as transportation and consumer protections, and explores the challenges of navigating Maryland's budget cycle.Additionally, Delegate Pruski outlines key initiatives shaping Anne Arundel County, from the forest conservation law passed under a Democratic majority to efforts to alleviate traffic congestion. Listen to learn more about the Route 3 development moratorium, funding for projects like the Route 97 expansion, and a...2025-02-0427 minPittman and Friends PodcastChief Trisha Wolford on Leading the Fire Department In this episode, Chief Trisha Wolford opens up about her path to public service and her experience leading one of the busiest fire departments in the country. Chief Wolford shares her perspective as one of just seven women in her fire academy class, using her leadership position to inspire others from all backgrounds to pursue careers in fire safety.Chief Wolford also gives an insider’s look at the Anne Arundel County Fire Department’s operations, from innovative health programs to securing federal grants for staffing and equipment. Tune in to learn about the future of the depar...2025-01-2834 minPittman and Friends PodcastCouncil Chair Julie Hummer on Land Use, Budgets, District 4 and MoreListen in to the incredible journey of Julie Hummer, a dedicated leader who transitioned from her roots in South Carolina to a pivotal role in Anne Arundel County government. With a background as a special education teacher and a mother of five, Julie's commitment to education and community service shines through in her work. From her inspiring shift from the Board of Education to the County Council, to her compassionate efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, Julie shares how her passion has fueled significant contributions to her district. She also shares visionary plans for transit-oriented development and economic r...2025-01-2130 minPittman and Friends PodcastAsha Smith on Equity and Human RightsIn this episode, Asha Smith, Director of the Office of Equity and Human Rights in Anne Arundel County, discusses the powerful role equity plays in shaping communities. With over two decades of experience and a deep passion rooted in her Bronx upbringing, Asha shares how a personalized approach to equity can foster generational success and drive social change.She also talks about the day-to-day work of the Office of Equity and Human Rights, which helps ensure communities are inclusive and benefit from the positive impacts of equity. Plus, hear more about the emphasis on sustainability and equity...2025-01-1436 minPittman and Friends PodcastClaudia Roll on Being the New Boss at Animal Care and ControlLearn about the future of animal welfare with Claudia Roll, the Director of Anne Arundel County's Animal Care and Control. Coming to this position with over 30 years of experience, Roll shares her insights on navigating potential changes to Animal Care and Control as a standalone department and ways the County can improve animal welfare through collaboration, marketing, and community outreach. In this episode, you'll also hear more about Animal Care and Control's operation, the shift in shelter management philosophy regarding euthanasia, and much more. If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be...2025-01-0728 min
The Sean Pittman PodcastEpisode 272 - Holiday Special With Dr. Audra Pittman and the Pittman GirlsJoin us this week for a special holiday episode with the entire Pittman family. We have a great talk about this holiday season and our expectations for 2025.2024-12-3029 minPittman and Friends PodcastJessica Leys on the Department of Fun (Recreation and Parks)This week on Pittman and Friends, County Executive Pittman talks with Jessica Leys, the Director of the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks, also dubbed the "Department of Fun." In this episode, learn about Jessica's remarkable 20-plus-year career journey with Anne Arundel County, starting her early days as a paralegal and budget analyst to becoming a key player in transforming community recreational spaces. Her innovative leadership, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been pivotal in redefining the role of parks in community engagement and well-being. You'll also gain insights into her passion for fostering real-life c...2024-12-1729 minPittman and Friends PodcastMayor Gavin Buckley and Pittman RiffWhat happens when a mural sparks a political journey? This week on Pittman and Friends, City of Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley joins to share his unconventional path from small business owner to public servant. Buckley shares his story about how a mural on his restaurant wall led to legal action and ignited his run for mayor. We also reflect on our shared frustrations with government inefficiencies and how those experiences drove us into the realm of politics.Facing a budget crisis, Annapolis took steps, including raising taxes to stabilize finances, and ultimately achieved a coveted AAA bond...2024-12-0330 minPittman and Friends PodcastLeah Paley on Leading the Anne Arundel County Food BankLeah Paley, Executive Director of the Anne Arundel County Food Bank, shares her compelling journey from AmeriCorps to leading one of the most crucial community resources in the county. Learn how the food bank is operating after 40 years of service with a $5 million annual budget, all while innovatively sourcing food through community food drives, strategic retail partnerships, and purchasing fresh proteins and produce. As the holiday season nears, hear how the food bank is addressing increased food assistance demands through vital community involvement and fundraising efforts.In this episode, we also uncover the ambitious plans for the...2024-11-2624 minPittman and Friends PodcastCecily Bedwell on the Future of Crownsville Hospital Memorial ParkCurious about how design can honor history and inspire the future? Listen this week as Cecily Bedwell from Design Collective shares the vision behind the Crownsville Hospital Memorial Park Draft Master Plan. We dive into the site's complex legacy, the role of Antonia Hylton's book Madness, and how community input is guiding this innovative idea and shaping this transformative project.From plans for a museum and racial healing spaces to a contemplative "Path of Reverence" and a potential university satellite campus, this episode explores how history, community, and design come together to reimagine Crownsville as a place...2024-11-1937 min