Coffee With Convery

Welcome back to Coffee with Convery, where we explore the journeys of students, professionals, and changemakers navigating life, learning, and leadership. Each episode brings you a new perspective, a new voice, and a new story that just might shift your own path forward.Today’s guest is someone whose energy, authenticity, and leadership shine through in everything she does. I’m thrilled to welcome Bianca Barrager, a bright and inspiring student leader currently attending Elon University in North Carolina.Bianca’s journey takes us from her hometown roots in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to the vibrant community at Elon—where she’s not just adjusting to university life, but actively shaping it. Whether she’s advocating for others, stepping up in leadership roles, or simply being a source of encouragement to her peers, Bianca is already leaving a mark and paving her own purposeful path. Her story is one of heart, resilience, and bold ambition—especially as a young woman finding her voice and using it to uplift others.Bianca shares everything from her high school-to-university transition, to what leadership and identity mean to her, and the advice she has for students who are still figuring it all out.

Welcome back to another episode of Coffee with Convery — where we bring you conversations with trailblazers shaping the future of work, education, and leadership.  Today, I’m thrilled to welcome someone whose name is synonymous with impact in the cybersecurity world - Heather Ricciuto. With over 35 years at IBM, Heather is not only a seasonedtechnology and project management expert but also a tireless advocate for closing the cybersecurity gender gap. She’s the force behind the global CyberDay4Girls program, has led IBM’s Women in Security Excelling group, andwas named one of Canada’s Top 20 Women in Cybersecurity. From classrooms to boardrooms, from mentoring future leaders to transforming global cybersecurity outreach - Heather is a powerhouse of passion, purpose, and progress.

Welcome to Coffee with Convery, where we dive into inspiring stories, uncover life-changing strategies, and explore how individuals define and achieve their own success.Today, I’m pumped to introduce someone who truly lives and breathes entrepreneurship, leadership, and growth—Max Notis. Max is the Founder and President of CoMission, a company he built to transform how sales teams perform and grow. With years of experience in sales leadership, Max has coached high-performing teams, written winning playbooks, and now helps companies unlock sustainable revenue with scalable strategies. Max knows what it takes to close deals—but more importantly, he knows how to build people and culturesthat thrive. So whether you’re a student just starting out, someone in your first big job, or you’ve been thinking about making a bold move in your career—Max’s journey has gems for you.

Welcome back to Coffee with Convery, your go-to podcast for authentic conversations that inspire and inform your career journey.Today, I’m excited to introduce Brendan Gignac to the show. Brendan is a builder of AI-driven software solutions, the founder of Genie Digital Solutions, and a Master ofApplied Computing student at the University of Windsor. From machine learning to entrepreneurship, Brendan combines his technical chops with business savvy to create real-world impact. Brendan’s journey from high school to university, and now into the world of startups and advanced computing, makes him a perfect guest for those of you who are navigating yourown transitions—whether from high school to college, or from the classroom to your first job.

Welcome back to Coffee with Convery, the podcast where we dive into the stories and insights of professionals who are shaping their industries and creating impact. Today, I’m excited to welcome Rebecca Fiamboli to the show! Rebecca is a recent Mechanical Engineering graduate from the University of Guelph, and she’s already buildingan impressive career. With hands-on roles at Tigercat Industries, Blue Valley Building, and Engineers of Tomorrow, she’s navigating the early stages of her professional journey with purpose and passion. From swimming instructor to mechanical design work, Rebecca brings a fresh, relatable perspective toanyone looking to transition from school into the working world.

Welcome to Coffee with Convery ☕️, the podcast where we sit down with industry leaders, and outstanding individuals making a difference. Today, I have the pleasure of introducing our esteemed guest, David Levangie. 🎙David is a Partner-Litigation at Fogler Rubinoff LLP in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. With an impressive 16 years of experience in the legal field, David has become a leading figure in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Group at Fogler Rubinoff. ⚖️David's practice focuses on complex commercial litigation and arbitrations, where he has excelled in cases involving breach of contract, shareholder disputes, oppression, and breaches of fiduciary duties. He's not just an exceptional litigator; he's a strategic thinker and a problem solver. 💼David's journey includes academic excellence, having earned his Bachelors Social Science in Criminology and Political Science, graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of Ottawa. He furthered his education at Osgoode Hall Law School, obtaining an LL.B. in 2008 and being called to the Ontario bar in 2009. 🎓What sets David apart is not just his legal accomplishments but also his commitment to service. Proudly serving in the Canadian Armed Forces for 6 years, David received numerous awards, including Soldier of the Year for his Regiment and Service Person of the Year for the entire Communications Group. 🏅I’m excited now to welcome David as we jump into his journey, exploring his experiences in complex litigation, his dedication to veterans' rights, and his role in advancing diversity and inclusion within the legal profession. 🌟

Welcome to Coffee with Convery, where we dive into the stories of changemakers, thought leaders, and trailblazers shaping the future of business and leadership. Today, I’m joined by Dr. Steve Yacovelli, also known as “The Gay Leadership Dude®”—a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and leadership development expert who has dedicated his career to fostering inclusive, resilient, and purpose-driven leadership.With a background spanning The Walt Disney Company, IBM, and Tupperware Brands, Steve has spent decades helping organizations create workplaces where everyonecan thrive.As the Founder and Principal of TopDog Learning Group, Steve works with Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits to build leadership skills, champion diversity and inclusion, anddrive meaningful change. His books, including Pride Leadership: Strategies for the LGBTQ+ Leader to Be the King or Queen of Their Jungle and his latest release, Your Queer Career®: Workplace Advice from “The Gay Leadership Dude®”, offer invaluable insights for professionals navigating today’s evolving workforce.  In today’s conversation, we’ll explore Steve’s journey—where it all began, the experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy, and his mission to make workplaces more inclusive, human, and kind.

What's up, hustlers and dream-chasers! 🚀💪 Welcome to another high-energy episode of Coffee With Convery🎙️💥Today we're about to crank the volume up to 11! 🔊🔥 We've got a real estate rockstar 🏠🎸 Cody Galloway-Braman in the house.He's flipping the script on how we think about buying and selling homes. He's a 3x franchise owner 🏆🏆🏆, a community builder 🤝🌟, and an athlete who's still crushing it in the gym 💪🏋️‍♂️. Let's dive into this no-holds-barred conversation that's guaranteed to leave you buzzing with inspiration! 🐝💡🔥

🎙️ Welcome to a special episode of Coffee with Convery! Today, I have the pleasure of introducing you to a remarkable individual who is making waves both on and off the ice.Meet Carson Gates, a dedicated student at Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who's not just chasing pucks 🏒 as the goalie on the Men’s Hockey Team but also pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism 📰.Carson currently holds the role of Editor in Chief at "The Communiqué," where he has been shaping narratives and leading the way in the field of journalism. 🗞️But that's not all. Carson is also a valued contributor to Trainwreck Sports 🚂, and more specifically, the Buffalo Sabres. As a Sabres Contributor, he has been actively involved in creating, editing, and sharing content that brings the spirit of Buffalo Sabres to life for fans and followers. 🏒📣Additionally, Carson is a proud member of the "Crossing Swords Podcast" 🎙️, where he shares insights, stories, and analysis about all things Buffalo Sabres.Carson Gates is more than just a talented content creator; he is also a college hockey player 🎓🏒 who has publicly shared his journey of self-discovery and identity in response to the NHL players' refusal to wear Pride jerseys. Carson is a living testament to the power of breaking barriers, inspiring change, and proving that being true to yourself is always worth it. 🌈💪🎙️ I had the chance to sit down with Carson, and I'm thrilled to share our conversation with you. Enjoy! 😊👂

Welcome to Coffee with Convery ☕️, where each conversation embarks on a journey of discovery and inspiration. Today, as we commemorate International Transgender Day of Visibility, observed annually on March 31st, we stand in solidarity with transgender individuals worldwide. This day is a poignant reminder to celebrate their identities, shed light on the discrimination they endure, and honor their invaluable contributions to society. 🏳️‍⚧️On this significant occasion, we are honored to host Robert Panico, whose story embodies resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, equality, inclusion, and justice. Robert's narrative reflects triumph over adversity as he navigates societal challenges with determination, emerging as a potent advocate for marginalized and minority communities. 💪With a rich tapestry of cultural experiences spanning Europe, Asia, and Oceania 🌍, Robert has found his home in London 🏠, where he passionately champions a society that thrives on diversity, recognizing it as a driver of innovation, progress, and the battle against inequalities 🌈.Drawing from his professional journey encompassing roles as a coach, mentor, and advocate for equality and inclusion, Robert's impact resonates deeply ❤️. Whether advocating for transgender-inclusive policies or supporting those experiencing homelessness, his dedication to social justice remains steadfast 🙌.Academically, Robert holds certifications in EDI and a PGCert in Global Cultures, and is accredited as a facilitator. Currently pursuing a master's in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology at the University of London, he extends his expertise by coaching students for success 📚.So, grab your coffee or beverage of choice, and let's delve into Robert's story, broadening our understanding and support for diversity and inclusion.