Shows
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsOff the Cuff with Kirt Jacobs: #9: Labor DayJoin Kirt as he explores the history of Labor Day.
2021-09-0902 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsOff the Cuff with Kirt Jacobs #8: Friday the 13thJoin Kirt as he talks about the history of Friday the 13th.
2021-08-1702 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsOff The Cuff with Kirt Jacobs Episode 6: JuneteenthKirt talks about the important history of Juneteenth.
2021-06-2802 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsKirt Jacobs - Founder & Host, MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsKirt Jacobs is the host and producer of MoxieTalk, a talk show that gives an intimate look into the courage, character and defining moments of today’s most inspiring individuals. In 2005, Kirt Jacobs conceived an interview talk show to showcase the vision and influence of local leaders and launched Leadership Landscape in partnership with MetroTV. Over 250 guests have been featured on this unique TV forum including leaders from the world of politics, business, sports, entertainment, art, community activism, and philanthropy. Today, MoxieTalk is a multimedia platform that continues this unique and intimate format on...
2019-05-2000 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsJack Hughes Jacobs (1935-2018) - The Guest that Got AwayJack Hughes Jacobs was born on March 31st, 1935 in Grayson, KY. to Ira Gee “Big Jack” Jacobs and Elizabeth Pryor Hughes. He became a lifelong Louisvillian and was a life-long member of Christ Church Episcopal Cathedral where he began singing in the choir during the mid-1940’s and becoming an altar boy. Jack was a 1953 graduate of Manual High School and went on to serve in active duty with the U.S. Coast Guard. Upon his return, he became a 1962 graduate of the University of Kentucky. While at the University of Kentucky, he became a fraternal member of the Sigma...
2019-05-1400 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #189: Ingrid HernandezIngrid Hernandez delivers high quality design while building personalized client relationships. As president and creative director at InGrid Design since 2002, Hernandez leads her business and team, while also providing expertise as a creative director and project manager. InGrid Design is an award-winning graphic design firm offering services from concept to completion, as well as Spanish translation services. The firm helps companies communicate regionally, nationally and globally with a multicultural sensibility. Hernandez grew up in Puerto Rico and attended the Instituto San Miguel de Allende with a focus on painting. She then went on to the...
2017-06-2930 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #188: Donald M. VowelsDonald M. Vowels is a psychotherapist and spiritual counselor with Body, Mind, Spirit Health and Wellness in Louisville. He has an extensive resume in psychotherapy, theology and social work. While his professional life was in full swing, a December 2011 routine colonoscopy profoundly and instantly changed Vowel’s personal life when he was diagnosed with anal cancer. A May 2014, recurrence of cancer in his chest area led Vowels to creating his own Caring Bridge Blog for followers of his cancer journey. This is what ultimately led Don, or Donnie as some call him, to our program, not to me...
2017-06-2931 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #187: Sterling LapinskiSterling Lapinski is an entrepreneur and angel investor. In 2012, he co-founded ClipperData, an energy market information service, where he currently serves as CEO. Lapinski is also the co-founder of Genscape, the world’s leading provider of real-time energy information. The technology and intellectual property core of the business were created and managed by Lapinski. In 2006, Lapinski and his partners sold Genscape to the Daily Mail & General Trust for almost $200 million. Lapinski has invented more than a dozen domestic and foreign patents. In 2003, Ernst and Young named Lapinski an Entrepreneur of the Year. He is...
2017-06-2932 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #186: Nina MoseleyWhen Nina Moseley talks about her work helping those in poverty, her eyes light up with hope and her enthusiasm fills the room. Since 1988, Moseley has been the chief operating officer of Wayside Christian Mission. The organization helps Louisville’s homeless population “not with a hand-out, but with a hand up.” The organization has grown from an overnight shelter for the homeless, to a center for hope with education and skills training as well. Along the way, they’ve taken on the city, enlisted HUD and the Louisville community at large. Moseley traded in a career i...
2017-06-2931 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #185: Mitzi FriedlanderMitzi Friedlander has spent much of her career bringing stories to life for the blind. After 50 years of recording books, Friedlander holds the record for most talking book titles narrated for the National Library Service. As a Louisville-native and former singer, Friedlander once performed in the Kentucky Opera Association. She sang and acted in many operas, musicals and plays in the 1950s. Friedlander also holds a master’s degree in theatre arts from the University of Louisville. She went on to become a celebrity in the narrated books world and recorded more than 2,200 titles. In 1993, Fr...
2017-06-2928 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #184: Rebecca EvesRebecca Eaves saves and protects animals suffering from abuse and neglect. A long-time animal rescuer and activist, Eaves is the founder and president of The Arrow Fund, a Kentucky based non-profit that provides medical treatment to animal victims of torture, abuse, or neglect, and then finds them loving homes. The organization takes legal possession of the animal and holds the abuser responsible by pursuing legal action against them. This selfless mission is truly fueled by love, as all the members of The Arrow Fund Board are volunteers and are not paid for their services. Eaves...
2017-06-2932 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #183: Dr. Berry DentonBarry Denton is passionate about his hometown of Louisville. In 2003, he began work as a bomb squad commander and police sergeant. Currently, Denton serves in the police force, and in educating the next generation. He works as a patrol officer for Audubon Park Police, and serves as an adjunct professor with the American Military University, the University of Louisville, and Indiana Wesleyan University. Since 2013, he has served as the executive director of the Louisville Metro Police Foundation. Denton strives to make Louisville the best city in the nation through his work and through volunteerism with...
2017-06-2925 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #182: Joey WagnerJoey Wagner, Owner of the J Wagner Group, has been putting on some of the biggest events in the city of Louisville and the midwest region for the past 10 years. J. Wagner Group, a full-service event planning, marketing, and promotions firm, serves many well-known and high-end clients. Wagner also owns DerbyVIP.com, a full-service concierge service providing rental houses, car service, fashion, security, and tickets to celebrity and charity events for Kentucky Derby Weekend. Wagner previously served as the marketing and promotions coordinator for the athletic department at Morehead State University. He holds...
2017-06-2929 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #181: Gale LivelyGale Lively always felt her job was to help people excel in their jobs. She brought this view to her leadership position as the executive vice president of the Louisville Apartment Association. She served in this position for over 37 years prior to announcing her retirement in 2014. The non-profit represents apartment owners, vendors, and apartment communities in Louisville and advocates on behalf of the apartment industry through legislative lobbying on the local, state and national levels. Focused on bringing visibility to the association, Lively has served on several committees of the National Apartment Association. In the...
2017-06-2925 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #180: Ankur GopalAnkur Gopal’s desire to make an impact has fueled his success building a technology application company. Gopal is the founder and CEO of Interapt LLC, a Google Glass partner. Interapt is an award-winning company specializing in mobile apps and wearable technology. Interapt partners with businesses in the healthcare and long-term care industries, helping them use technology more effectively to complement their overall business strategy. Interapt was selected by Google as one of only ten global companies to be a Glass at Work Partner. It has also earned the Gartner Cool Vendor Award, an...
2017-06-2936 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #179: Chris MorrisA competitive spirit drives Chris Morris in his pursuit for excellence as a master distiller. A Louisville native, Morris is only the seventh master distiller at the Brown-Forman Corporation since 1870, as well as its current spirits historian. He is responsible for maintaining the award-winning taste of the Woodford Reserve family of brands and serves as brand ambassador at trade and consumer functions. Morris is one of three generations in his family to work at Brown-Forman. He began as a trainee at Brown-Forman in the central lab under the master distiller in 1976. He left to work...
2017-06-2929 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #178: Lee W. RobinsonSince Lee W. Robinson was seven years old and constructing scale models, he has had a passion for design and building beautiful homes. After a 14-year career in banking, Robinson decided to pursue his dream to open a design company that offers drafting, remodeling and design services in one location. The Lee W. Robinson Company, now in St. Matthews, fills two floors with a beautiful collection of furniture and accessories from artisans and design houses. The collection includes Robinson’s three lifestyle lines, each named after his sons Owsley, Thurston and McDowell. Business First magazine na...
2017-06-2933 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #177: Kevin GrangierKevin Grangier is driven by his desire to create things that make people happy. Grangier began his career in marketing and communication locally, before heading to Los Angeles to start his own company. Carry On Communication Inc. is an award winning firm specializing in branding, public relations, and marketing. It expanded to five communication companies and offered services to some of the largest, most significant brands in the U.S. like Yahoo!, Clorox and many others. In 2010, Grangier returned to Louisville to open The Village Anchor Pub & Roost, an eclectic European “bistropub.” The restaurant received crit...
2017-06-2929 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #176: Dan McDonnelDan McDonnell loves to compete, loves to win, and loves seeing the growth in his players as he coaches the University of Louisville baseball team. Since McDonnell’s hiring in 2006, the team has accomplished amazing statistics. In his first year, McDonnell led the team to the College World Series. Then he led the Cardinals to seven more NCAA appearances in eight years, including two more to the College World Series. Louisville is ranked 6th place nationally, with a school record of 51 wins in 2013. The Cardinals also hold six regular-season titles and two tournament championships in th...
2017-06-2926 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #175: Tom JurichTom Jurich cites his motivation to do things right and see results as he leads athletic programs at the University of Louisville. Since 1997, Jurich has made a permanent mark at the University of Louisville by leading an athletic department that has enjoyed tremendous athletic and academic accomplishments. In 2003, Jurich began his run as vice president at U of L. Under Jurich, the Cardinal athletic teams have produced unparalleled success in multiple sports. Louisville’s 2012 – 2013 year marked the first time any university has ever won a BCS level bowl game, placed both its men’s and women’...
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #174: Jeff WalzJeff Walz has a passion for excellence that drives him as the head coach of the University of Louisville Women’s basketball team. Walz was hired as the head coach in 2007. Since then, he has helped the Cardinals burst into national prominence as one of the most competitive and successful teams. In his eight seasons with the team, the women Cardinals have gone to the NCAA Sweet 16 six times, had two NCAA Runner Up finishes, two All-Americans, 18 All-Conference selections, and five WNBA draft picks. His team has averaged 26 victories per season with a record 34 victories in the 2008 – 2009 seas...
2017-06-2829 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #173: Heather HowellHeather Howell’s desire to inspire her children and fear of failure power her in selecting her projects and in growing beverage brands. As director of innovation for Brown-Forman Corporation, Howell is responsible for developing the global portfolio expansion strategy and acts as brand leader for Collingwood, a premium blended Canadian whiskey. Howell joined Brown-Forman in 2015. She previously worked for Rooibee Red Tea, where she served as chief tea officer, CEO and, board member, helping take the organic tea brand from the farmers market to the national market. Howell has been recognized numerous ti...
2017-06-2829 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #172: Jackie FordDriven by conscience and seeing challenges as possibilities drive Jackie Ford as she leads the Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana. Tennessee-native Ford brings over 25 years of non-profit experience to the Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana. Previously, Ford served as the executive director of Literacy Volunteers of America in Connecticut for 10 years. In 1988, she began her career with the Girl Scouts as director of membership and marketing in southwest Connecticut and moved on to COO in 2002. A few years later, Ford was named CEO for the Girl Scout Council of Savannah, Ga, and moved on to Girl Scouts...
2017-06-2824 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #171: Emily ClevelandEmily Cleveland has a passion for helping children see past disability through friendship. Cleveland is the Kentucky state director of Best Buddies International, providing direct support for the state’s school-based programs. These programs create opportunities for youth and adults, with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities and disorders, though friendship pairings. Best Buddies of Kentucky has seen significant growth since Cleveland has been with the organization. The number of school-based programs has doubled. She helped secure a $100,000 gift from the NASCAR Foundation, and revenue increased by 27% for the annual Friendship Walk. Her goal is to...
2017-06-2827 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #170: Vicki Yates BrownVickie Yates Brown brings passion to all of her projects – from shaping health care policy to the Nucleus project. Brown is an experienced health care law and finance attorney. She worked on planning, development, and finance for Nucleus: Kentucky’s Research and Innovation Center alongside the University of Louisville Foundation and U of L President James Ramsey. Brown was named president and CEO of Nucleus in 2008. Brown also serves as the chair of the Health and Life Sciences Practice Group at Frost Brown Todd LLC. She is the chairwoman of the Health Law Section of the...
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #169: David L. NicholsonDavid Nicholson learned the importance of community involvement from his late father, Jefferson County Circuit Court Judge S. Rush Nicholson. In 1991, Nicholson joined the Metro Criminal Justice Commission and in 1998, became its executive director. During this time, the commission, which helps first responders, received millions in grants. This included a multi-million-dollar grant from the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security, which captured national headlines. In 2006, and again in 2012, Nicholson was elected and re-elected Jefferson County circuit court clerk. He manages a staff of over 300 employees and operates from eight locations. Nicholson’s community in...
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #168: John VaraneseCreativity in food, atmosphere and service fuel John Varanese in his career as chef and restaurant owner. After an impressive food and restaurant background, Varanese opened Varanese on Frankfort Avenue in 2007. Eight years later, he announced his second restaurant, River House, located on the riverfront. Later that year, Varanese announced another restaurant at the River House location, Levee, which would feature live entertainment and a unique cuisine, a completely separate experience from River House. Starting at age 14 in Cleveland, Ohio, Varanese credits Dino De Franco as his mentor and teacher for what it takes to...
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #166 & 167: Patrick Henry Hughes & Mr. Patrick John HughesLove for family drives both Patrick John Hughes and his son, Patrick Henry Hughes, to expand possibilities. Patrick Henry was born without eyes and without the ability to fully straighten his arms and legs, making him unable to walk. He has overcome these physical issues to excel as a musician and public speaker. Musician Patrick Henry has flourished with the support of his family. His father, Patrick John, sees his blessings with family as his driving inspiration to serve them each day. Patrick Henry played in the University of Louisville Marching Band for...
2017-06-2859 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #165: Terri FosterTerri Foster knew from a young age she had musical gifts, and now seeks to use her gifts to help other young people develop theirs. Since 2007, Foster has been named artistic/executive director of the Louisville Youth Choir. She directs the Chamber and Aria Choirs at LYC, as well as the all-female Adult Alumni Choir. Under her direction, the Louisville Youth Choir performed with the Moscow Ballet in their U.S. touring production of “The Great Russian Nutcracker.” Conducting since 1993, Foster was formerly the conductor of Bella Voce and the Louisville Children’s Choir, which perfor...
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #164: Michael BlowenMichael Blowen’s fear of horses grew into a deep love for horses, and for saving their lives. Early in his career, Blowen was a writer and movie critic for The Boston Globe. He eventually held the enviable position of movie critic, which gave him contact with film stars and celebrities throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s. A chance outing in 1997 to Suffolk Downs in Massachusetts proved to be a life-changing event. Wanting to learn more about horses to improve his chances to win at the track, Blowen asked to work the stables for free, and he fel...
2017-06-2828 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #163: Katie GeorgeKatie George sees her daily challenge to make herself and others better. Louisville-native George graduated from Assumption High School where she played volleyball for Coach Ron Kordes. She received several volleyball sports accolades and was featured in the 2010 Faces in the Crowd in Sports Illustrated magazine. Among her many accomplishments and recognitions, George led her team to the Regional 7 Tournament Championship twice, was named in Under Armour’s All-American Watch List, and was also named Region 7’s Player of the Year. George came to the University of Louisville volleyball team and quickly moved to a star...
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #162: Patricia ByronThe 1993 tragic murder of their daughter, Mary, thrust Pat Byron and her husband, John, into advocacy work for domestic violence victims. Mary was shot and killed by the assailant who previously raped and stalked her, the very same day he was released from prison. Mary was not aware he had been set free. This flaw in the system led the Byron’s to create the Victim Information and Notification Everyday system. Known as VINE, the system calls crime victims any time there is a change in their offender’s status. Honoring their daughter’s memory, The Ma...
2017-06-2829 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #161: Tyrone CottonTyrone Cotton’s love of music and desire to create fuels his music and the songs he writes. Cotton is a Louisville musician and songwriter. Inspired by his grandfather, a preacher, and singer, he fused his sound from blues, jazz, folk, and rock. His mother loved gospel and R&B, and at a young age, BB King thrilled Cotton with his playing. Later, he would study Jerry Garcia, Jimi Hendrix, Buddy Guy and Mississippi John Hurt. Cotton began playing guitar and by his early 20s, he was playing clubs and dives. His work has taken hi...
2017-06-2828 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #160: Robin MillerRobin Miller grew up in a family active in politics and the community, spurring her to serve in the public sector. Miller serves as the executive director for downtown Louisville’s Main Street Association, a business and historical preservation company. She also recently launched her own community marketing firm. Miller has worked within the public education, social service, and business association sectors for 20 years. She pursued a career in the public sector immediately after college. Her first professional post was with the American Federation of Teachers, a teachers union where she and a colleague led th...
2017-06-2828 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #159: Leslie SquiresA love for horticulture inspired Lee Squires in his career managing the 300-acre Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, Ky. Squires was the general manager of Cave Hill Cemetery for more than 40 years (1975-2015). He was its 5th president since the cemetery's founding over 150 years ago, in 1848. He also acted as president of the Kentucky Cemetery Association and is the past executive director of the Kentucky Nursery and Landscape Association. Squires is the current president of the Kentucky State Council of Trout Unlimited, monitoring and conserving fish and cold-water fisheries of Kentucky. He is a 1965 graduate...
2017-06-2825 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #158: Dianne MedleyDiane Medley and her business partner founded their CPA firm to treat people in a way that they can achieve their dreams. When Medley became managing partner of Mountjoy Chilton Medley, she was named the first female managing partner of a CPA firm in this U.S. region and the only female managing partner of a Top 100 firm, as well as a founding member of a firm. In her role she determines and executes Mountjoy Chilton Medley’s strategic goals and has led the firm through several mergers and acquisitions. Under her management, Medley has he...
2017-06-2825 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #157: Wayne HettingerThe exciting challenge of creating a sense of wonderment is what drives Louisville-native Wayne Hettinger to create memorable events on a grand scale. Hettinger’s company produces special events on a spectacular scale for corporate, community and non-profit organizations. Since 1990, they have been best known for creating and producing Thunder Over Louisville, a waterfront fireworks event attracting 750,000 spectators every year. Thunder is the largest annual fireworks display in North America and it marks the kick-off to the Kentucky Derby Festival. The event has earned Hettinger three Emmy awards. Hettinger’s company has also produced other publ...
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #156: Robert S. SilverthornMajor General (retired) Robert S. Silverthorn Jr. credits growing up in a military family as his inspiration and drive to achieve excellence. Silverthorn has served the United States in the military and as a counselor of law. He is a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran and was mobilized for Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He also served during the Global War on Terror from 2001 to 2005. Silverthorn retired as Major General (2 stars) in 2008. He received many military decorations, including the Distinguished Service Medal, two Bronze Stars, an Air Medal, seven Meritorious Service Medals, and three Army Commendation Medals.
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #155: Matt JamieMatt Jamie’s motto of “Slow. Small. Simple.” guides his company in producing high quality, bourbon-based sauces. Louisville-native Jamie established Bourbon Barrel Foods in 2006. Made in re-purposed bourbon barrels, Jamie uses Kentucky grown non-GMO soybeans, soft red winter wheat, and limestone-filtered Kentucky water to produce his soy sauce. The smoky, brothy, meaty sauce has a subtle sweetness, similar to fine Kentucky bourbon. Bourbon Barrel Foods has since grown to include smoked spices, artisan sugars, gourmet sauces and marinades, grill wood, sorghum, vanilla extract, and a Woodford Reserve® branded line. Jamie’s studio is based in the Butch...
2017-06-2827 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #154: Kelli CampbellAs the owner of Joseph’s Salon and Spa, Kelly Flint Campbell sees the growth of her staff and client relationships as her inspiration. Since the early 1990s, Campbell has been the owner and president of Joseph’s Salon/Spa in Louisville, Ky. Originally opened 40 years ago by her parents, Joseph’s set out to be a beauty destination with highly skilled professionals who have an unwavering commitment to customer service. Joseph’s has grown and now includes the Aveda Lifestyle Salon and Spa. With her positive spirit, Campbell strives to make a personal connection with her...
2017-06-2825 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #153: Terry TaylorTerry Taylor’s drive to bring peace to communities, through understanding each other’s differences, powers his work. Taylor is the recently retired executive director of Interfaith Paths to Peace, also known as IPP, a Louisville-based inter-religious, non-profit organization. His collaborative projects include working with countless of the religious councils and centers throughout Louisville. He was instrumental in Louisville’s designation as a Compassionate City. In 2013, Taylor played a significant role in the planning of Louisville’s three-day hosting of the Dalai Lama. Taylor’s global travels include attending a ceremony marking the anniversar...
2017-06-2829 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #152: Karen MorrisonKaren Morrison sees her job as president and CEO of Gilda’s Club as winning the job lottery. Gilda’s Club is a cancer support community, for families and patients, helping them live with joy. Morrison joined the organization eight months before the clubhouse opened in 2007. The Louisville Chapter is its 22nd club. Prior to Gilda’s Club, Morrison spent 17 years as chief operating officer for the American Red Cross, directing programs for the Southern Arizona Chapter, and then as development director for the Mid-Rio Grande Chapter in Albuquerque. She also served as the major gifts...
2017-06-2829 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #151: Pamela DarnallPam Darnall focuses her professional life on helping children and families facing abuse and violence. Darnall was named president and CEO of Family & Children’s Place in 2014, setting the vision, leadership, and coordination of all the organizational. From 1994 to 2008, Darnall served as president of The Family Place. She played an essential role in the merger of The Family Place and Family and Children First to create Family & Children’s Place. Her prior experience includes 10 years with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services in a supervisory and training role for Child Protective Services. Darn...
2017-06-2828 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #150: Heather WarmanA commitment to environmental responsibility as a principle of her faith powers everything Heather Warman does. Warman is the executive director of the Kentucky Environmental Foundation. She speaks regularly on green building, sustainable design, recycling, and reuse. Warman is an avid proponent for green building initiatives in Kentucky. She has volunteered locally with American Cancer Society, the U.S. Green Building Council, Bluegrass Junior Women’s Club, and American White Water which focuses on river protection issues. Warman’s commitment to help in the community is not just limited to Kentucky. She has trav...
2017-06-2831 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #149: Erica Lee WilliamsJudge Erica Lee Williams sees discipline and community service as core values grounding her career. Williams was a practicing attorney when she was appointed to serve as district court judge of the 30th Judicial District in Division 17 by Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear in 2009. The following year, Williams was elected to a full term, and then was re-elected in 2014. She currently serves as presiding judge for teen court in Jefferson County. Williams holds numerous professional accolades, such as being named one of Louisville magazine’s 2014 50 Most Powerful People, as well as a 2013 Enterprising Women to Watch an...
2017-06-2828 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #148: Elizabeth KizitoElizabeth Kitzito sees her cookie business as a way to provide for her family here and in Uganda. Born in Uganda during the 1950s, Kizito moved to America in 1975 to attend school. Unfortunately, civil unrest and war in Uganda prevented her from returning. She moved to Louisville in 1978 and began making and selling cookies – originally as a way to pay for her son’s birthday present. She started selling cookies downtown and within a few years, in 1989, she traded her cart for her own bakery on Bardstown Road. Kizito’s heritage plays a large part in her...
2017-06-2825 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #147: Summer AuerbachSummer Auerbach is committed to local independent businesses and leads Rainbow Blossom Natural Foods. In 1977, Auerbach’s parents started the first Rainbow Blossom Food Market in Louisville. After growing up in the business, she decided to go away to school and travel extensively. Auerbach graduated from Bentley University in Massachusetts with a degree in international studies. She had plans to serve in AmeriCorps and help in disaster relief. However, when her father became critically ill, Auerbach came back to Louisville to help with the store. She ended up staying for ten years, bringing the business ba...
2017-06-2829 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #146: Donna HargensDr. Donna Hargens’ unwavering belief that every child can learn serves her as she leads the country’s 28th largest school system, with more than 101,000 students and nearly 17,000 teachers and staff. In 2011, Hargens began her position as the superintendent of Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS). She quickly brought the community and education communities together with a series of ongoing forums dubbed the Superintendent’s Summit. These valuable meetings allowed the School Board and her to initiate a five-year plan for the district’s future. Hargens has proven to be a distinguished and caring educator, and was chos...
2017-06-2824 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #145: Jim AllenJim Allen cites leadership by example as his style leading Hilliard Lyons. Allen is the president, chairman, and CEO of Hilliard Lyons. After joining the firm in 1981, he has devoted his entire working career to the same company. In 2003, Allen was named the president of Hilliard Lyons and a year later, he was elected chairman and CEO. Allen oversees more than 70 offices in 12 states and assets management of over $40 billion. He founded and served as president of both the Hilliard Lyons Growth Fund and the Hilliard Lyons Research Advisors. The firm is consistently included on “Be...
2017-06-2827 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #144: Matt ThorntonMatt Thornton cites his desire to win as the trait that drives him in his roles leading Thorntons and contributing to the community. Thornton is president and CEO of Thorntons Inc., a leading, independent gasoline and convenience chain retailer with well over 170 stores. Originally founded by Thornton’s father, James H. Thornton, the first location opened in Clarksville, Ind., in 1971. For eight years, Thornton served as vice president of operations. During this time, Thorntons revolutionized the convenience store industry with a new award-winning prototype store, featuring a wide variety of fast food products, groceries, and be...
2017-06-2828 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #143: Cathe FyockCathy Fyock’s belief in being true to your heart sparked her career as an author and human resources consultant. Fyock launched her author-consultancy business, named Your Possibility Partner, to provide professionals with coaching support to help them cut through the daily distractions of everyday life and find the focus they need to write their books. She has provided keynotes and workshops for hundreds of clients and has authored six books, including “On Your Mark: From First Word to First Draft in 6 Weeks.” Fyock was an employment strategist with several business and HR consulting firms before...
2017-06-2830 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #142: Christen BooneChristen Boone is a community connector, social entrepreneur, and leader in nonprofit development and strategic philanthropy. In 2014, Boone was named the president and CEO of Louisville’s Fund for the Arts. Fund for the Arts supports a range of arts organizations and drives accessibility across neighborhoods, schools, community centers, and public spaces. Boone also leads The Boone Group, which focuses on building strong and vibrant communities through the power of collective action and the spark of strategic philanthropy. Before starting The Boone Group, she served in leadership roles within the Greater Louisville Project, 21st...
2017-06-2827 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #141: Tom PartridgeTom Partridge thrives on helping businesses secure capital for projects that will have a positive impact on their communities. Partridge is responsible for 45 bank branches of Fifth Third Bank in the greater Louisville and Lexington areas, and well as over 2.5 billion in assets. He oversees the growth and strategic direction of four lines of business, including commercial banking, branch banking, consumer lending, and investment advisors for the affiliate. Partridge began with PNC in Cincinnati straight out of college. In 1997, he moved on to be a vice president with Fifth Third Bank. He took care of...
2017-06-2829 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #140: Tom FawbusTom Fawbush began in broadcasting as a teenager. He has been the General Manager at WBNA TV, an ION affiliate and the only locally owned station in Louisville, for over 10 years. He sees the impact, and responsibility of the impact, that broadcasting has on the community as a calling. The channel strives to present positive and entertaining programs. Fawbush transitioned the station from a network run entity to an independently run station. He previously served as the operations director at Clear Channel Louisville and in sales for ION Media Networks. Fawbush is a...
2017-06-2824 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #139: Tim LairdTim Laird loves interacting with people and sharing experiences with food and beverage. Laird is an authority on wines and spirits, as well as a gourmet chef, and a master at entertaining and execution. He makes hundreds of appearances a year on radio and television programs and has appeared on multiple news programs. In his current role as the chief entertaining officer of Brown-Forman, Laird serves as its brand spokesperson. He also hosts three weekly television shows: “Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs,” “Secrets of Louisville Chefs Live,” and “Secrets of Resort Chefs.” Laird is a featured columnist fo...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #138: Dawne GeeDawne Gee grew up dreaming of working in communications. In August 1994, Gee joined WAVE 3 News, where she had applied nine times before they hired her as a writer in the promotions department. Eventually, Gee filled in for an anchor on “WAVE Listens,” a television talk show. Four years later, she was named the morning anchor of WAVE 3 News. Gee now co-anchors the 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. newscasts and hosts “WAVE Country with Dawne Gee,” which profiles people making a difference in our community and highlights events of interest in the area. Gee is involved in many...
2017-06-2730 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #137: Ed HartChallenge motivates Ed Hart, and business turnarounds meet that need for him. Hart has a long and distinguished history of entrepreneurial undertakings, with a particular focus on the successful turnaround of high profile, previously failed projects. Hart successfully rescued two real estate buildings in the historic Highlands neighborhood and two theme parks, both of which he and his team brought from bankruptcy and neglect back to vibrant success. Hart is now, again, deeply engaged in the redevelopment and reopening of the Kentucky Kingdom amusement park, which has been dormant for five years. The original Kentucky...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #136: James CallerozDr. James Calleroz White wakes up every morning excited about how education constantly changes to stay relevant to a student’s future. He is the head of school at the Louisville Collegiate School, a Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12 co-ed school with over 700 students in Louisville, Ky. He is a change agent and sees his role as continually improving the education experience. Since arriving in Louisville, White has served as a guest columnist in Business First, has a regular column in the Voice-Tribune, and has served on many leadership and educational organizations and boards. White was also a sp...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #135: Dan RiversDan Rivers sees each day as an opportunity to “do better” and make a contribution. From a near drowning incident at age ten, and teachings from his parents, Rivers has learned to see each day as an opportunity to achieve and contribute to the world. In 2005, Rivers moved to the area to oversee the merger of a number of offices in Kentucky and Sothern Indiana and to create the managing team for the newly created Northwestern Mutual of Louisville. He is currently its managing partner and president. He began with Northwestern Mutual as a co...
2017-06-2722 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #134: Ed WebbEd Webb thrives on the challenges of business, change, and growth. Webb became president and CEO of the World Trade Center Kentucky in 2008. He oversees the operations and strategic direction for global trade and international trade organization. Webb is responsible for strengthening businesses in Kentucky and supports economic development by facilitating import and export opportunities. Webb reports to a 35-member board of directors, which includes the governor of Kentucky, the mayors of Louisville and Lexington, and other high-level business leadership from across Kentucky. Webb has spoken on numerous panel discussions on trade and serves on...
2017-06-2730 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #133: Marty StorchMarty Storch’s competitive nature and commitment to continual improvement shape his contributions at the Louisville Metro Parks department. As department director of Louisville Metro Parks, Storch oversees 120 parks in the greater Louisville area. These parks include 14 miles of parkways, 12 community centers, two amphitheaters, nine golf courses, 135 athletic fields, and 179 playgrounds. He also oversees a huge staff and a $24 million annual budget. Storch serves in numerous activities throughout the community and on several boards of leadership. In 2013, Storch received the Jude Clark Memorial Trophy for serving on the Host and Championship Committee for the Cyclo-cross Wo...
2017-06-2726 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #132: Jennifer AdrioJennifer Adrio desires to do meaningful work and make a positive impact on her community. Adrio began her non-profit career at the American Red Cross and then moved over to Metro United Way as United Way’s executive vice president. During her tenure at United Way, the organization received several national awards for initiatives in increasing revenues in planned giving and major gift programs. In 2013, Adrio rejoined the American Red Cross of Louisville after working with Metro United Way for over 23 years. Having worked closely with the Red Cross during her tenure at United Way, sh...
2017-06-2721 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #131: Saul GarciaSaul Garcia followed his dream of seeing people enjoying themselves while sharing a meal at his own restaurant. Garcia is the co-founder of Los Aztecas and Sol Aztecas restaurants in Louisville, Ky. Originally from Mexico, Garcia spent his early years without most modern amenities and began working at an early age to help his family. At age 11, he learned he had Leukemia, began chemotherapy, and pulled through with a new motivation in life. As a teen, he worked in a restaurant and became fascinated with the restaurant experience. He especially enjoyed seeing how customers left...
2017-06-2728 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #130: Ed LeeChef Edward Lee wakes every morning with a passion for his work, and for learning and discovering new things. Lee is a Korean-American chef from Brooklyn, trained in the kitchens of New York. He is the owner of 610 Magnolia and Milkwood restaurants. In 2001, a Kentucky Derby road trip brought him to discover 610 Magnolia, where he fell in love with his surroundings. Within a year, Lee relocated to Louisville and the growing new southern food scene. Lee’s culinary style draws from his Asian heritage, his New York training, and his embracing of the Am...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #129: Vincenzo GabrieleVincenzo Gabriele and his brothers grew up with a love for fine dining, inspired by their father, a captain in the Merchant Marine. In 1969, Gabriele came from Italy to work with his brother Giovanni in St. Louis. In 1975, Don and Michael Grisanti approached Gabriele to come to Louisville as maître d’ of their family restaurant. With his great people skills and an incredible knowledge of the art of hospitality, Gabriele eventually became the restaurant’s co-owner. In 1981, Gabriele was awarded the Ivy Award, an award given by his peers. In 1986, Humana approached Gabriele to take...
2017-06-2724 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #128: Joseph E. KurtzArchbishop Joseph E. Kurtz experienced the calling and desire to serve others through the clergy while in high school. Kurtz is the 4th archbishop, the 9th bishop of the Archdiocese of Louisville, and Benedict XVI appointed him Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. He served from 1972 – 1999 in the Diocese of Allentown, Pa., receiving the distinguished title of monsignor in 1986. He moved on to be the bishop of Knoxville, Tenn. until 2007. The Archdiocese of Louisville is the oldest Roman Catholic Archdiocese west of the Appalachians, covering 24 counties and hosting a Catholic population of greater than 200,000 in...
2017-06-2728 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #127: Les WaltersTheatre director Les Waters’ interest in contemporary art and new plays drives him in his career. Born to a working class family in rural England, Waters is an award-winning, British theatre director. He has numerous theatre credits in New York and around the U.S., including winning an Obie for the premier of “Big Love” at the Humana Festival. Waters headed the M.F.A. directing program at UC San Diego from 1995 to 2003. He also served as the associate artistic director with the Berkeley Repertory Theatre from 2003 to 2011. In 2000, and again in 2004, Waters came t...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #126: Mark HoggMark Hogg seeks to end the global water crisis. Seeing people using poor quality water while on a college trip to West Africa and how water borne diseases affected their health, then seeing how a chlorinator could help, served as the genesis for Mark Hogg’s passion for making clean water accessible throughout the world. In 1995, Hogg launched the non-profit organization Edge Outreach, recently renamed WaterStep. He works every day to put an end to the global water crisis by bringing clean drinking water to developing communities and disaster environments. Hogg, along with Wa...
2017-06-2728 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #125: Chris HartmanThe mantra “You are pure potential,” from his improv mentor, Dr. Martin de Maat, motivates Chris Hartman in his work against discrimination. Hartman’s work as an activist in the LGBT community has helped stop anti-fairness legislation, and change the conversation. Hartman served as the Philadelphia director of the Democratic National Committee’s open-air grassroots fundraising effort for the 2004 Presidential Election. In 2008, he served as campaign press secretary to Congressman John Yarmuth. Hartman also served as an AmeriCorps VISTA member. Hartman is the first director of Louisville’s 20-year-old Fairness Campaign and a steering c...
2017-06-2723 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #124: Gill HolandGill Holland’s curiosity has led to careers as an independent film producer, building developer, and former lawyer. Holland is changing the landscape of Louisville’s East Market District. He coined the term New Lou for the formerly economically depressed area, turning it into a thriving and sustainable arts district. This is where he opened the Green Building, certified LEED Platinum, which is recognized as the greenest commercial building in Kentucky. Holland is also the founder of the group Entertainment LLC, which includes a film production company, talent management division, music company, and art gallery. He h...
2017-06-2723 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #123: Robert DavenportRobert A. Davenport is passionate about helping his clients with their financial needs. Davenport was born and raised in Kansas, but spent his childhood summer weekends traveling the U.S. to attend his father’s races. His father, Dick Davenport, was a four-time Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) national champion. After Davenport received his bachelor’s degree in history from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, he began working for the Equitable Insurance Company, which was purchased by AXA Financial. Davenport built a nationally recognized sales organization and earned numerous company management awards. In 2...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #122: Mark JohnsonMark Johnson has a deep passion for the sport and spectacle of horse racing; He calls it the greatest theatre on earth. Johnson is only the 6th track announcer in the history of Churchill Downs and the first non-American to hold the position to call America’s greatest thoroughbred horse race, the Kentucky Derby. He has become one of Britain’s senior track announcers, having called many of Britain’s most important races including five Epsom Derbies, a British classic for 3-year-old Thoroughbreds first run in 1780. The Epsom Derby serves as a model for our very own Kentuc...
2017-06-2730 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #121: Lynnie MeyerLynnie Meyer, a well-known civic leader and fundraising executive in Louisville, is fueled by her commitment to the community. Meyer previously worked for Caritas Health, University of Louisville Hospital, Caretenders, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Kosair Children’s Hospital. In 1998, she was selected president and CEO for the Center for Women and Families. In 2004, Meyer became system vice president and chief development officer at Norton Healthcare. She is the system vice president of Women’s and Children’s Community Partnerships and executive director of the Children’s Hospital and Norton Healthcare Foundations. Meyer was...
2017-06-2723 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #120: J.K. McKnightJK McKnight is the founder and captain of the Forecastle Festival, a gathering of musicians, artists, and activists. McKnight is a talented songwriter, musician, and environmental activist. With Forecastle, he pioneered combining art, event and environmental sustainability. This small community event has grown into a 3-day gathering of music, art and environmental activism, which now attracts well over 30,000 attendees – one of the largest outdoor gatherings in the Midwest. McKnight credits his basic values and willingness to persevere as the sources of his success in building the event. He works from four quotes that he keeps on...
2017-06-2723 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #119: Joseph PhelpsPastor Joe Phelps feels a call to embody God’s justice and love in the world. He has been the pastor at Louisville’s Highland Baptist Church since 1997. Over the past 15 years, the church has increased its commitments to sharing its view of the Christian message, mission action, and to work for social justice in the community and beyond. Phelps drew national attention from news stations and radio shows in 2006, when he appeared in an ad campaign titled, “Wake Up Wal-Mart,” which brought to light the company’s record on child labor issues, gender discrimination, and poor h...
2017-06-2726 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #118: Sam SwopeSam Swope has had a historic 60 years in the automobile dealership business. He began his company with a dealership in Elizabethtown in 1951 and expanded into Louisville in 1956. After two unfortunate incidents, causing two separate locations to burn down, Swope persevered and continued to grow his business. Today, Swope operates over 20 dealerships throughout Kentucky. Swope has a long list of lifetime awards, including the prestigious Louisvillian of the Year Award and the University of Louisville Presidential Medal for service to the university and the Louisville community. In 2012, Swope announced his retirement, naming his daughter...
2017-06-2724 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #117: Mandy CownellMandy Connell is a talk radio host who credits her competitive nature as a driver to be her best. Connell was working as a flight attendant when her quick wit and fun personality made a stranger take notice. The stranger happened to be Dick Robinson, founder of the Connecticut School of Broadcasting, and it led him to offer Connell a scholarship to attend school there. In 2010, Connell was hired to fill the WHAS Radio 84 9 a.m. to noon time slot, chosen among 130 applicants. She stood out for her energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to giving listeners...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #116: Troy D. BurdenTroy Burden taps his inner drive to help others as the executive director of Highlands Community Ministries. Burden has lead this non-profit and its multiple outreach programs since 2011. The organization currently has a board of directors from 24 local Highland churches. Burden is from Kentucky and moved to Louisville in 1995, devoting his career to the non-profit sector. From 1995 to 2007, he worked for the Christian Care Communities where he served as director of assisted living at Friendship House. From 2008 to 2011, Burden and his family had the opportunity to live in Australia, where he served as an administrator...
2017-06-2723 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #115: Deeanna EsslingerEsslinger serves as the vice president of community relations and development for the Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. She brought her background of events management, accounts management, and membership development to help this local non-profit to grow and develop. The University of Louisville graduate joined the association in 2004, overseeing employees and fundraising in Louisville, Lexington and Evansville. Esslinger leads special events, grants, and donations, and has helped raise over $2 million to fund local programs and services to more than 80,000 residents affected by some form of dementia. She received a ce...
2017-06-2728 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #114: David EasterlingDavid Easterling is a software entrepreneur engaged in a labor of love to bring back an iconic Louisville beer brand. He began in sales and management in the paper industry and moved on to a career in information technology consulting. As the software executive for Everest Technologies, he grew the operation and eventually bought it. Now called Prosoft, Easterling has become a leader in the Louisville area for software development consulting and staffing, with offices across the nation. When this beer-lover learned of the expired Falls City Beer trademark (a local beer company from 1905 to 1978...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #113: Pat GallagherPat Gallagher creates visual art based on the connection he feels when talking with people. Gallagher was a corporate employee in 2006 when an unnamed man in a New York hotel bar in Times Square saw him doodling on a napkin and declared him an artist. He decided to veer away from his life path at the time and embrace his natural talents. With innate talent and no formal training, Gallagher has an innate ability to sit and talk with his subject and create art based on how they see themselves. He approaches his art with...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #112: Lora TuckerLora Tucker loves leadership responsibility – and making a difference – and has used that love from childhood through her military career and as CEO of the Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana. Tucker is a retired US Army colonel. She led troops in Operation Desert Storm, jumped out of airplanes as part of the Airborne Corps, directed public affairs officers in the US Army Reserve, and commanded a joint press camp at Guantanamo Bay. Tucker earned the Bronze Star Medal and served 25 years as a soldier and officer for the U.S. Army. She was walking outside of the Pentagon and...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #111: Angela McCormik BisigAngela McCormick Bisig is a Jefferson County district court judge who is driven to get out into the community and make a difference. She has been a Jefferson County district court judge since 2002 and is a strong supporter for foreign language education for court personnel. As judge, Bisig introduced the enhanced family supervision docket to review domestic violence cases. She is also an advocate for more training on multi-cultural court issues and created a Spanish language and cultural emersion program for the Jefferson County court system. Before becoming a judge, Bisig earned a J.D...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #110: Derek AndersonGrowing up Derek Anderson listened to the positives around him. This drove him through his NBA career and the founding of a successful business and charitable foundation. Anderson played for the championship-winning men’s basketball team at the University of Kentucky. He then went on to be the 13th overall pick in the NBA Draft, selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Anderson played with five other NBA teams throughout his basketball career. After retiring from the NBA, Anderson became a director and screenwriter. His documentary about playing on the Kentucky Wildcats team quickly sold out in st...
2017-06-2719 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #109: Gerald NealGerald Neal credits his parents’ commitment to the community as laying the foundation for his career in politics. Neal advocates for economic development, education, health, welfare, and safe communities. He is a powerful voice for those who need it most. In his five years as Kentucky state senator of Louisville’s 33rd district, Neal has been included in the Kentucky Civil Rights Hall of Fame and received both the Clarence Mitchell Award from the NAACP and an Anderson Laureate Award. Neal was awarded the 2005 Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award and served as a United Nations obse...
2017-06-2726 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #108: Jeff Van NoteJeff Van Note played football eighteen years for the NFL Atlanta Falcons, the second longest for any player on one team. After attending grade school in Louisville and college at the University of Kentucky, Van Note established himself as one of the finest centers in the NFL, playing for the Atlanta Falcons. He was voted by fans as their favorite Falcons player, inducted into the Falcons Ring of Honor, and also inducted into seven different football halls of fame. Van Note is a 6-time Pro Bowler and was Second Team All-Pro in 1982. He holds one...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #107: Carol HaddadCarol Haddad is driven by a desire to be a participant, not a spectator, in improving education for children. At the critical juncture of the education merger and a federal judge’s order for busing, Haddad ran for the JCPS school board. She felt strongly that her voice could make a difference to improve education standards. Haddad’s motivation to advocate for children and their education came from joining the Parent Teacher’s Association in 1967. From there, Haddad continued to help the PTA for seven years, including the two years she served as its president. From 1...
2017-06-2716 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #106: Bruce SimpsonInspired by creativity, Bruce Simpson credits the joy of life for what drives him and fuels his career in ballet. Simpson came to the Louisville Ballet as artistic director in 2002, bringing over 30 years of experience in the ballet world with him. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Simpson mastered the art of ballet. He danced for South Africa’s State Theatre Ballet for 30 years and experienced many performances and leading roles. In 1983 Simpson was named ballet master, and in 1985, he was named senior ballet master. He retired from the stage in 1998 at the age of 50. Si...
2017-06-2723 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #105: Donald C. StormMajor General Donald Storm dedicated 37½ years to serving his country with the U.S. Army. Storm first enlisted in the Army in 1970. He served in the MACV, or Military Assistance Command in Vietnam. Storm later transferred to full-time service with the Kentucky Army National Guard. He was then commissioned as an infantry officer. Storm commanded and served in staff officer positions at the Company Battalion Brigade at state headquarters level with senior level leadership assignments. Storm was the Kentucky Army Guard chief of staff from 2001 to 2003, and because of the global war on terror, made m...
2017-06-2730 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #104: Lynn Abramson SaltzmanA consistent love for sports and entertainment drives Lynn Abramson-Saltzman in her career. Abramson-Saltzman is the general manager of the Louisville Arena Sports and Entertainment Properties, the exclusive marketer for the KFC Yum! Center. In 2007, Abramson-Saltzman hit the ground running, and during her first year she assisted in securing sponsorship commitments exceeding $50 million over the next decade. Abramson-Saltzman graduated from Syracuse University. She came to Louisville with 20 years of experience in the sports and entertainment industry, including the San Diego Chargers, Miami Dolphins, Florida Marlins, bowl games, concerts, special events, and the Super Bowl. Her...
2017-06-2718 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #103: Stephen KleinA passion for the arts and to make things better by introducing new generations to the art drives Stephen Klein in his career. Since 2005, Klein has been president of the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts. He has spearheaded a comprehensive and ongoing strategic plan, served as the chair of the Arts and Cultural Attractions Council, and successfully organized a $9 million request for deferred funds. Klein also assisted in preserving Stage One Children’s Theatre and sits on many boards throughout Louisville. Klein came to Louisville with an exciting theatre background. He played Caiaphas in th...
2017-06-2728 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #102: Kent OylerOver the years, Kent Oyler has started 19 different business ventures and created over 1,000 jobs. Oyler is currently CEO of OPM Services, a financial services and investment firm. In 1996, Oyler and a friend formed high-speed access (or HSA) that delivers broadband Internet over cable television wires, attracting over $90 million in significant, well-known investors. In 1999, at age 41, Lehman Brothers and JP Morgan took HSA public in what still stands as the largest IPO in the history of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. That same year, Oyler donated $1 million to seed a new business challenge grant, which has, so...
2017-06-2729 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #101: Berk BryantBerk Bryant is fueled by a desire to bring bluegrass and traditional country music to the world to enjoy. Bryant was born in Virginia and grew up listening to bluegrass music while helping on his grandparents’ farm. After attending Polytechnic Institute, he went on to serve in the Army, spending time in Korea, Vietnam, and Fort Knox, Ky. During his years in the Army, Bryant managed to work on various radio stations, earning him the title “Mr. DJ USA” from WSM in Nashville. In 1989, he launched his “Sunday Bluegrass” show on public radio, a volunteer-run program on WFPK....
2017-06-2730 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #100: Madeline AbramsonMadeline Abramson served as Louisville’s first lady for 21 years and is a tireless community volunteer. As the wife of the longest serving mayor in Louisville history, Mayor Jerry Abramson, Abramson has selflessly devoted a great deal of her efforts to volunteerism. Her passion for public service has placed her as the board chair for the Kentucky Center for Performing Arts and the Red Cross, and leading the board at Maryhurst. Abramson has also served on the board for the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence and St. Mary’s Foundation at Jewish Hospital. Abramson has earn...
2017-06-2520 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #99: Hal HeinerHal Heiner served as a vice chairman of Greater Louisville, Inc., and in 2002, he was elected to the Louisville Metro Council. On the Council, he spent eight years focusing on finding efficiencies in services, shedding light on the inner dealings of Metro Government, and finding smart ways for the community to grow and prosper. After receiving a master’s degree in engineering from the University of Louisville, he became a partner in one of the city’s largest civil engineering firms. In 1997, Heiner founded Capstone Realty, which helped to bring more than 4,000 jobs to South Jefferson County and...
2017-06-2520 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #98: Greg FischerLouisville-born Greg Fischer is an entrepreneur and community leader. In 2008, Fischer ran for the Kentucky Democratic Primary for the U.S. Senate and finished second among the seven candidates. Fischer co-invented and holds the patent for a combination ice and beverage dispenser. This invention led to forming SerVend, a family business with his father and brother. Under his leadership the small business grew to a global manufacturing company and employed over 300 people. In 1999, Fischer retired from SerVend International and founded Iceberg Ventures, a venture capital firm providing assistance for other start-ups. Fischer has centered on...
2017-06-2518 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #97: Jackie GreenJackie Green, write-in candidate for mayor of Louisville, focuses on the local economy, central neighborhoods, education, energy, quality affordable housing, local food, safety, health, downtown, and transportation. Green originally moved to Louisville in 1975, and has lived in several places around the U.S. and world. He bought and renovated four historic buildings on East Market Street (now the heart of NULU). His entrepreneurial experience includes business consulting, import/export management, and farming. He co-founded Louisville’s only bicycle courier service, as well as manages bike shops and property in Louisville’s neighborhoods.
2017-06-2521 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #96: Bernard M. TragerLiving with a core of gratitude and an attitude of caring and sharing, Bernard Trager founded and built Republic Bank, always with a heart to serve. In 1958, Trager co-founded and became CEO of Union Trust. Almost 20 years later, Union Trust and its seven subsidiaries became part of Commercial Credit of Baltimore, where Trager worked as president and CEO. In 1980, he founded Republic Bank and Trust Company on Bardstown Road in Louisville. The bank expanded and thrived, and today Republic Bank & Trust Company and Republic Bank have well over 40 banking centers in Kentucky, Indiana, Florida and Ohio.
2017-06-2529 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #95: Ramona JohnsonRamona Johnson is driven by the desire to help those with mental illness. She leads Bridgehaven Mental Health Services, which provides the highest quality psychiatric rehabilitation and recovery services for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. Johnson served as Clinical Director at Bridgehaven for four years, before taking the role as president and CEO. In 1976, Johnson earned her nursing degree from Spalding University, graduating summa cum laude. She went straight into a nursing career in Louisville and Maryland. Johnson later became an instructor at the University of Louisville’s School of Nursing. He...
2017-06-2530 min
MoxieTalk with Kirt JacobsMoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs Episode #94: John Y. BrownJohn Y. Brown, Jr. credits his father as the prime motivator and confidence builder in his life, driving his later successes. Brown began working at age 16 selling Electrolux vacuum cleaners and encyclopedias door to door. He made his way to the University of Kentucky, where he earned a J.D. In 1962, his partner and he purchased Kentucky Fried Chicken from its founder, Colonel Sanders for $2 million. In 1971, after building 3,500 KFC’s worldwide and making Colonel Sanders one of the world’s most recognized brands, Brown sold KFC for $285 million. After 1971 he became president of the Amer...
2017-06-2529 min