Shows
The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.10 Chuck Ondo, a former USMC and SERT officer, Valor Men's Grooming owner and Co-Founder of Semper Fi Mission organizationIn this episode, Chuck Ondo shares his incredible life journey, starting with a calling as a teenager to join the U.S. Marine Corps. After five years of service, he transitioned to the Pennsylvania State Police, becoming an undercover detective and SERT (SWAT) operator in Philadelphia.Despite a highly decorated career with over 30 commendations, the accumulated trauma of witnessing death and violence—including a heartbreaking infant drowning—wore Chuck down. He began using alcohol and eventually stole cocaine from the police evidence room to cope with PTSD. His career ended when he was arrested by his own team...
2025-12-141h 27
The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.9 Chris Berg, an author, seminary graduate, and software executive from Plum, PA.Chris Berg is a Pittsburgh area resident, sci-fi author, seminary graduate and software executive currently living in Plum, PA.In this episode, we reconnect after nearly a decade with a podcast guest whose life has woven together seminary study, sociology, software engineering, AI, nonprofit innovation, and deep community engagement in Pittsburgh.Our conversation begins with how we first crossed paths as Storyburgh had just started its journey in 2016 – inside the office of Adrien Walnoha, then the CEO of Community Human Services (CHS) – and follows the unlikely connections that carried him from Washington State, to seminary housing in East...
2025-11-291h 03
The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.8 Michel Sauret, a military photojournalist turned to a commercial and service photographer from Springdale, PA.Join us for an insightful conversation with photographer, storyteller and U.S. Army veteran Michel Sauret as we trace his remarkable journey from Rome to Pittsburgh—and from mechanic-training soldier to award-winning photojournalist. We cover everything from his childhood footsteps from the Vatican, to immigrating to the U.S. at age 10, to learning the language and culture through TV and grit, to enlisting at 17 and finding his true calling behind the lens. We also dive deep into his deployments, the evolution of his creative vision, his signature bold and saturated photographic style, his travel work in...
2025-10-281h 26
The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.7 Patrick Fisher, a leader, artist, and social transformer from Upper LawrencevilleIn this episode of The Pittsburgh Convos, arts advocate and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council Patrick Fisher dives into the power of public art, storytelling, and community connection. From curating murals to bridging institutions and creatives, Patrick shares how art can shape identity, foster inclusion, and spark civic pride.🔸 Highlights:Patrick’s journey into arts leadershipWhy public art mattersNavigating challenges in creative spacesBuilding inclusive cultural ecosystemsAdvice for emerging changemakersListen in for a thoughtful conversation on creativity, collaboration, and the soul of Pittsburgh.
2025-09-181h 31
The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.6 Caroline Fisher, a storyteller, curator, creator, and teacher's pet from Highland ParkCaroline Fisher, a self-described storyteller, curator, creator, equal parts class clown, and teacher's pet, shares her journey from a childhood rooted in academics and a love for learning in Pittsburgh's Mount Lebanon, to a dynamic career path that eventually led her back home. After graduating from Davidson College and pursuing a master's in education at Wake Forest, she began her teaching career in Boston. Despite finding it fulfilling, the demanding lifestyle of a teacher in the US led her to seek a change.She moved to New York City without a clear plan, eventually landing a community manager role...
2025-07-291h 08
The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.5 Daniel Rossi-Keen, a husband, a father, and a community advocate from Aliquippa, PADaniel Rossi-Keen, a dedicated husband, father, and community advocate from Aliquippa, PA, recently shared his insights on community development, the challenges facing non-profits, and his hopeful vision for Southwestern Pennsylvania.- A Journey to Community Advocacy (03:10): Daniel moved to Aliquippa in 2011, driven by a passion for grassroots community building and economic growth.- Aliquippa's Past and Present (05:25): He recounted Aliquippa's history as a steel town, once home to J&L Steel, which employed a third of its 30,000 residents before its collapse in the 1980s. While a direct replacement for those jobs hasn't emerged, the recent...
2025-07-081h 08
The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.4 Theresa Nightingale, an activist and business owner from GreenfieldIn this episode, Teresa Nightingale and I talked about the latest primary elections, cannabis reform, and sex work advocacy. She is a mom, an activist, a double cancer survivor, a nerd, and also a Yinzer Anna Nicole Smith who’s preoccupied with politics, gaming, dinosaurs, and being a good neighbor. As a dedicated Democratic committee member for Ward 15-2, she shares insights on the recent primary election where Cory O'Connor narrowly won the Democratic committee vote for Allegheny County. She discusses the division within the Democratic committee and the pushback against progressive politics in some areas.Teresa and her hu...
2025-07-081h 06
The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.3 Jennifer McCurry, Pastor of First Lutheran Church and Program Director of Religious and Spiritual Life at Carnegie Mellon University from Highland ParkPastor Jennifer McCurry, now serving as Program Director of Religious and Spiritual Life at Carnegie Mellon University, reflects on her journey through ministry, community work, and interfaith dialogue. From local storytelling to global church perspectives, she shares how relationships and experiences have shaped her spiritual leadership.Highlights:Community roots (00:11–03:58): McCurry and the host first connected through Pittsburgh’s Homeless Advisory Board. She later led a 2017 storytelling project on personal transformation, which included public art and an interfaith worship event.Campus ministry (04:28–07:33): Now at CMU, McCurry helps students explore diverse spiritual and ethical identities, engaging with both religious and secular groups...
2025-05-261h 00The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.2 Joanna "Jo" Deming, Founder and Principal Consultant of Hope & Action ConsultingIn Season 2, Episode 2 of Storyburgh, Jo Deming reflects on her journey as a community organizer, consultant, and storyteller rooted in Pittsburgh’s North Side neighborhoods, particularly Perry South and Perry Hilltop. She was also a storytelling coach for one of Storyburgh's DMZ event in 2024 and played a major role in recruiting numerous storytellers for another event. Jo talks about her deep commitment to fostering inclusive community spaces, often inspired by her own church community that emphasized care, play, and shared meals beyond weekly worship. She shares how raising children in a screen-saturated world presents new parenting challenges, an...
2025-04-121h 08The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghSeason 2 Ep.1 Josh Lucas, Director of Programs of Pittsburgh Robotic Network from Duquesne HeightsIt is a conversation exploring the Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN), its funding, and the broader implications of AI and robotics in the region. Josh Lucas provides insight into the network's goals, funding challenges, and the local tech ecosystem. Here are the key takeaways:The Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN) receives funding primarily from the *Build Back Better initiative* of the Biden administration. About four years ago, the region secured a $62 million grant, though ongoing federal budget reviews could impact future funding. PRN is not just a trade association but an **economic development organization**. Its focus is to grow the...
2025-03-181h 04The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.17 Angelica Daniele, Founder of Yoga Recovery PGH from Lawrenceville: a leader and entrepreneur dedicated to community service and holistic wellnessAngelica Daniele, founder of Yoga Recovery PGH and co-owner of Yoga Factory, shares her journey as an innovator, leader, and entrepreneur dedicated to community service. She joined the ownership team of Yoga Factory in October 2022, after seven years of teaching and managing there. The studio expanded to two locations, fostering supportive yoga communities. Angelica highlights various yoga styles like Yin, Slow Flow, Rocket, and Vinyasa Flow, emphasizing their physical and mental benefits.
During the pandemic, she adopted Reiki, an energy healing modality, which aids in mental, physical, and trauma healing, often leaving clients feeling lighter and more...
2024-07-051h 00The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.16 Seth Whitted, CEO of Whitted Media from Beaver Falls: a Journey of Redemption
In the podcast episode, Seth Whitted shares his experiences growing up in Beaver Falls, highlighting the economic impact of the steel industry's decline on the community and contrasting it with Pittsburgh's faster progress and preservation of historical landmarks. He discusses the racial climate in his community, noting that it was more about trust issues between races than overt racism. Seth explains how his generation has begun to break these racial barriers and form interracial friendships. He recounts his journey from involvement in crime to finding purpose through faith and creating content focused on financial literacy and mental health. Seth...
2024-05-221h 07The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.15 Syreeta Gordon, founder of Kangaroo Birthing from Marshall Shadeland: concierge services for mothersSyreeta Gordon is a dedicated birth and postpartum doula, known for her compassionate support for mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Through her work at Kangaroo Birthing and Maternity, she offers both emotional and practical assistance, aiming to alleviate the burdens new mothers face. Inspired by her own journey and driven by a passion for maternal health, Syreeta empowers mothers to navigate their birthing experiences with confidence and support.
And Syreeta reflects on her own struggles with identity and purpose, highlighting how her experiences led her to find fulfillment in helping other mothers navigate pregnancy and postpartum...
2024-03-291h 04The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.14 Muffy Mendoza, Founder/CEO of Brown Mama from Sheraden:Muffy Mendoza, founder of @BrownMamas shared her journey and the profound influence of her mother, Diane. Reflecting on motherhood, Muffy described a pivotal shift in her perspective upon returning to Pittsburgh, inspiring her to establish Brown Mama, a grassroots organization.
Central to Muffy's narrative was her mother's emphasis on "black excellence" and the importance of striving for greatness. Muffy's advocacy for homeschooling, despite initial skepticism, emphasized the value of in-person interaction alongside online options.
Throughout, Muffy highlighted the evolution of Brown Mama and the challenges faced by grassroots initiatives. Her narrative illustrated resilience, determination, and a...
2024-03-151h 10The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.13 Carsen Brunn, Bridge USA pres. for Point Park U. from New Kensington: assumption to questionsCarsen Brunn, a New Kensington resident, is the president for Bridge USA chapter at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA, which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to depolarizing college campuses across the United States, with similar efforts underway in Europe and Africa. The organization is also to cultivate a healthy democratic society by addressing political polarization, especially prevalent on social media platforms.
Carsen specifically discusses the challenges posed by foreign influence and bot-driven events, citing instances during protests where both sides were orchestrated by external entities. The conversation takes a personal turn as Carsen reflects on his own political...
2024-01-191h 23The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.12 Anita Varma, Journalism Professor from Austin, TX (former Pittsburgher): basic human dignityProfessor Anita Varma, from the University of Texas in Austin, provides insights into her personal unconventional journey into journalism. Formerly a resident of Pittsburgh, Professor Varma discusses the industry's challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the 2008 economic crash, and reflects on its evolving nature from then till now.
During the conversation, Professor Varma elaborates the term "solidarity journalism," urging for a bias towards basic human dignity and emphasizing support for vulnerable groups. She challenges the notion of impossibility of perfection in journalism, highlighting that it involves making judgments that are not categorized as true or false but rather as...
2024-01-181h 07The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.11 Christine Biancheria, president of Friends of Aseema from Squirrel Hill: law to educationChristine Biancheria grew up in Edgewood, attended Allderdice, and completed her college degrees in University of Pittsburgh.
Upon retiring from her law practice, she reconnected with the fellowship friends she had met while working at the International Commission of Jurists in Geneva, Switzerland. One of them founded Aseema, a Non-Governmental Organization (also known as a nonprofit) based in Mumbai, India, that educates impoverished school-aged children.
2024-01-171h 08
Not Just PoliticsNot Just Politics Episode 42: StoryburghHey everyone! Join us in our latest episode as we sit down with Will Halim, the founding director of Storyburgh. Discover the inspiring mission of Storyburgh, a not-for-profit community storytelling platform dedicated to giving voice to marginalized populations by sharing their underreported stories.
Visit Storyburgh's website: storyburgh.org
2024-01-161h 48The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.10 Maria Manautou-Matos, publisher of Pittsburgh Latino Magazine from Allison Park: resilienceMaria Manautou-Matos, a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University and Duquesne University, founded Pittsburgh Latino Magazine to address the absence of coverage for Latino events. Originating from Puerto Rico, she encountered misconceptions about the territory's relationship with the U.S.
The magazine, which was initiated during the pandemic, offers bilingual content on a variety of topics, events, opportunities, and local businesses. It serves the Latino community by addressing a gap in traditional journalism that often exists in representing and serving the needs of specific communities.
2024-01-1654 minThe Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.9 - Sonja Reis, former publisher of late Gazette 2.0 from McKees Rocks: passion yes, debt yes tooSonja Reis shuttered her Gazette 2.0 magazine for good on All Souls Day on November 2nd, 2023. Several articles in local media outlet have covered its closure, so in this podcast the host and Sonja discuss the circumstances surrounding the closure, her involvement with Gazette 2.0, the challenges faced by the publication and community journalism, the need for stronger partnerships among local newsrooms, and her perspective on the changing landscape of the media industry.
She also talks about her role as a Communications and Marketing Manager at the McKees Rocks CDC and the challenges faced by the organization, where any progress may...
2024-01-151h 03The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.8 - John Bolanos, retiree from Ross Township: being a grandfather (6 of them are black adoptees)John Bolanos, a retired executive from Austin, Texas, relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania a few years ago to be nearer to his grandchildren. His roots trace back to San Bruno, located on the southern side of San Francisco, California, where he was raised with conservative values.
When his daughter expanded their family by adopting seven children, six of whom are African American, John’s political views remained largely unchanged. However, the tragic murder of Michael Brown in 2014, along with the subsequent unjust killings of numerous African Americans, sparked a realization in him. He understood that as his grandchildren grew older, so...
2023-11-101h 15The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.7 - Kelsey Grushecky, librarian from Observatory Hill: former nomad but remains xenophileDuring her time as a graduate student at the University of Pittsburgh, Kelsey Grushecky shared her personal story in the "Collectors' Items" series hosted by Storyburgh. Her tale was a heartfelt account of her experiences and deep connection with the city and people of Gifu, Japan.
In this particular episode, she recounts her previous adventures during her time in Czechoslovakia and Vietnam. Her fascination with diverse cultures has cultivated an open-minded perspective within her, a trait that is increasingly crucial as a librarian in the face of the growing trend of book banning across the nation.
2023-11-101h 16The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.6 - Pamela Monk from Perry South: the creator and ringleader of The Demilitarized Zone "DMZ"The overall goal of Storyburgh is to build community and understanding through storytelling and there are many ways to tell own stories. In addition to regular published articles published on www.storyburgh.org, we also have "The Convos" where informal conversations take place in a private studio setting that are then broadcasted through various platforms.
In this episode, we have a conversation between Pamela Monk, the StoryburghLive! and DMZ RingLeader, and Will Halim, the Founding Director, about the origins of the recently launched programming: The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in 2022.
Through The Demilitarized Zone - DMZ, Storyburgh believes that sharing...
2023-11-0119 minThe Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.5 - Samson Johnson, mentor from Regent Square: Orthodox Jewish family, religions and philosophySamson Johnson, who was adopted as a toddler and raised by an Orthodox Jewish family in Swissvale, had the unique opportunity to learn about other religions too, including Christianity and Islam. This experience emphasized the value of understanding and respecting diverse belief systems. Despite not pursuing formal higher education, Samson’s intellectual curiosity led him to explore complex philosophies like Stoicism and various religions, demonstrating that self-education can be just as valuable as traditional academic paths.
He reflects on his own schooling experience, growing up with a single parent and five siblings after his father passed away when he wa...
2023-11-011h 30The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.4 - Margo Hinton, teacher (almost retired) from Troy Hill: racism incl. witnessing cross burningIn our third episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with the ever-energetic Margo Hinton from Troy Hill. We delve into a variety of topics that she previously shared at The Demilitarized Zone community storytelling event. This event took place at the Tripoli Street Community Center on September 1st, 2022, and our discussion serves as a follow-up to the intriguing narratives she presented there.
The topics range from "lighter" one, such as the joy of joining a new church against a mother’s wishes, to more serious issues. These include the challenges of growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood an...
2023-11-0159 minThe Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.3 - Mary Beth Spang, Psy.D. candidate from Southside: mental health, OCD, (iterated) diagnosis“The Convos,” a podcast series by Storyburgh, is hosted by its Founding Director, Will Halim. In the second episode, we are joined by Mary Beth Spang from Southside, and the discussion covers a range of intriguing topics:
Mary Beth’s connection with Pamela Monk, the ringleader of StoryburghLive!, and their collaborative efforts in the Storyburgh project.
Her journey as a working therapist dealing with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which inspired her to pursue a doctorate degree in Psychology at Carlow University. Prior to this, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Penn State and Harvard respectively.
The pressi...
2023-11-011h 05The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.2 - Amber Thompson from Sharpsburg, founder of de-bias: racism, equity, nonprofit, accountability“The Convos,” Storyburgh’s podcast series, is hosted by Will Halim and this second episode features Amber Thompson of Sharpsburg, covers her experiences and insights on transparency and challenges living in Pittsburgh.
We discuss issues such as racism, misogyny, and the struggle for equity in education and the workforce as well as the challenges of non-profit organizations and the need for measurable values.
We highlight the importance of data and accountability in decision-making and the need for intentional efforts to ensure inclusivity and accessibility at events and initiatives.
2023-11-011h 44The Pittsburgh Convos by StoryburghEp.1 - Josh Lucas, founder of Work Hard and Tandem: philanthropy, AI, transparency & accountability“The Convos,” Storyburgh’s podcast series, is hosted by Will Halim and in this inaugural episode features Josh Lucas, the dynamic and inspiring leader of Work Hard Pittsburgh, covers the following topics:
the challenges of philanthropy, technological advancements, and societal changes
the impact of technology, potential challenges for the future, and the importance of open dialogue
the need for transparent conversations that lead to accountability for everyone and all organizations, including foundations and non-profit organizations
And, last but not least, having critics are critical—no pun intended—for the growth of individuals and institutions alike; without their input, our...
2023-10-311h 37
2022-03-1616 min