MasterStroke with Monica Enand & Sejal Pietrzak

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!In this powerful episode of MasterStroke, Monica Enand and Sejal Pietrzak dive into the age-old debate of luck versus hard work. While talent and the willingness to hustle are common, they argue that courage is the true differentiator – the variable that separates those who reach their goals from those who don’t.Courage, they explain, is about pushing through the fear of failure and staying resilient when faced with setbacks. Monica and Sejal share early career moments when the challenges felt overwhelming, but it was courage that carried them forward.The conversation shifts toward AI and its transformative impact on the world. Monica and Sejal encourage a mindset shift—one that embraces this new wave of digital revolution. In a world that’s evolving at lightning speed, resistance to change only holds us back. Instead, we must face it with courage and curiosity.This episode sheds light on AI’s growing role in our lives and how it’s accelerating the pace of change. AI is change, and navigating it requires adaptability. Life is about continuous learning, and embracing AI means leaning into the future with an open mind and a willingness to grow.Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!Host Monica and guest host Ned Renzi are joined by Vani Hari, better known as “the Food Babe,” for an eye-opening conversation about America’s food system. With over 10,000 chemicals approved for use in the U.S - compared to just 2,000 in Europe. Hari has made it her mission to expose what’s really in our food. Dubbed by The New York Times as “public enemy number one of big food companies,” she shares how her personal health crisis transformed her into an activist who has changed the food industry.Vani’s journey started in childhood, growing up in an Indian immigrant family that embraced American culture through fast food and processed snacks. By her early 20s, she was struggling with eczema, asthma, allergies, and endometriosis, constantly exhausted and feeling like she was in a fog. After an emergency appendectomy became her wake-up call, she started looking into the ingredients in her food—applying the same determination that once made her a top high school debater. What she found shocked her, and she knew she had to share it.What started as a personal blog quickly turned into a movement, with Vani challenging some of the biggest food brands like Subway, Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks to clean up their ingredients. Her campaign against azodicarbonamide, a chemical used in Subway’s bread (and also found in yoga mats), led to major industry changes. But not everyone was thrilled! some companies fought back, trying to dismiss her as a fearmonger.Today, Vani is focused on solutions. Her company, Truvani, creates clean protein powders and bars made without artificial sweeteners, gums, or unnecessary additives. Now available at Whole Foods and Walmart, these products reflect her belief that eating real food doesn’t have to be complicated.this episode sponsored by  www.enjoythework.com.Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!Monica Enand and guest host Ned Renzi sit down with Jeffrey Brashear, a veteran technology consultant with over 30 years of experience advising financial giants like Bank of America and Morgan Stanley. They dive into how AI is reshaping enterprise, from unlocking new revenue streams to raising serious ethical questions.AI is moving fast—some companies are embracing it as a competitive advantage, while others hesitate, unsure of how to navigate the risks. Jeff compares today’s AI revolution to the early days of blockchain, highlighting both its potential and the challenges of implementation in regulated industries like finance and healthcare.The conversation explores real-world examples, including RBC Wealth, and discusses AI-driven innovation while also revealing risks like bias and compliance hurdles. Jeff discusses the importance of transparency, responsible adoption, and the ongoing struggle to find AI talent.Looking ahead, he shares bold predictions on where AI is headed, from industry-specific foundational models to the evolving role of leadership in an AI-driven world. He also reflects on personal growth and the lessons he’s drawn from thought leaders like Bill Gates.This episode challenges listeners to think beyond AI’s technical capabilities and consider its broader impact on business and society. Tune in to MasterStroke on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to stay ahead of the AI revolution.Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!In this episode of MasterStroke, Sejal and Ned are joined by @Sunil Wadhwani, a tech entrepreneur and philanthropist whose journey from co-founding Mastech, Inc.  and IGate to leading a $4.5 billion acquisition by Capgemini is nothing short of remarkable. Sunil has not only built businesses but transformed industries. After navigating the ups and downs of tech and finance, he pivoted to creating lasting social change through AI-powered solutions in education and healthcare.From his early beginnings in India to making his mark on the global stage, Sunil’s story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. In this episode, you will  get to hear how Sunil overcame challenges, took calculated risks, and built companies that didn’t just succeed but made a significant impact. His work in healthcare and education is groundbreaking, proving how technology can improve lives in underserved communities.What’s even more compelling is his approach to leadership. Sunil isn’t just about profit; he’s about building systems that make a difference. His commitment to sustainable, purpose-driven ventures provides entrepreneurs and leaders with valuable lessons on navigating uncertainty and staying focused on what truly matters.Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!In honor of Grammy season and our love of music, Monica Enand and Sejal Pietrzak, joined by Executive Producer Georgianna Moreland, sit down with the legendary Tre Nagella. A four-time Grammy-winning engineer, record mixer, and music producer—now nominated for his fifth Grammy—Tre’s career spans multiple genres, from pop to country. He’s collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Lady Gaga, Kirk Franklin, Blake Shelton, Snoop Dogg, Ed Sheeran, and Travis Scott, to name just a few.As the co-owner of Luminous Sound, one of the country’s premier recording studios based in Dallas, Tre has also served as a Governor of the Texas Chapter of The Recording Academy (Grammys). Over the years, he has dedicated himself to advancing the music industry and mentoring the next generation of creators.Tre takes us through his inspiring journey—from the mentorship of Paul Loomis and gospel legend Kirk Franklin in his early days to his work on groundbreaking projects. He provides a candid and insightful look into the ever-changing music industry, discussing the rise of streaming platforms, the transformative role of AI, and how evolving technology is revolutionizing music creation and ownership. Tre also dives deep into the business side of the industry, shedding light on 360 deals, music ownership, and the delicate balance between creativity and business strategy.Tre also shares behind-the-scenes stories from some of his most meaningful projects, including “The Impossible Dream,” an extraordinary album nominated for Best Traditional Pop Album. Led by Broadway star Aaron Lazar, this project features music icons such as Sting, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Josh Groban, and Kristin Chenoweth, all united to raise awareness for ALS. He also discusses “Romani,” a breathtaking collaboration between the Dallas String Quartet and the London Symphony Orchestra, composed by Ion Zanca, and “Perla,” the viral hit by rising stars Los del North Texas, reflecting his passion for mentoring and nurturing new talent.With warmth, humor, and unparalleled expertise, Tre shares career-defining lessons and unique perspectives. This episode offers inspiration for aspiring creatives and practical insights for seasoned industry professionals navigating the rapidly changing landscape of music.Don’t miss this exciting conversation—it’s a must-listen for anyone who loves music, creativity, and the stories behind the songs.Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!Join host Monica Enand and guest host Ned Renzi as they welcome Anna Maria Ponzi, second-generation vintner former CEO of Ponzi Vineyards and author of Pinot Girl, for an in-depth conversation about the evolution of Ponzi Vineyards.Maria shares her family’s inspiring journey, from pioneering Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine industry in 1969 to their landmark sale to the Bollinger Family of Champagne, France. She reflects on transforming a modest vineyard into a global powerhouse alongside her sister, Luisa, while preserving tradition and embracing innovation.Explore the realities of running a family business, the challenges of winemaking in a changing climate, and Maria’s transition to community work and personal growth. With insights into family dynamics, the science of winemaking, and the power of intentional living, this episode is a masterclass in resilience and vision.If you’d like to support Maria Ponzi’s nonprofit, Anthony’s Circle, which is dedicated to supporting foster youth in the Portland area, please visit Anthony’s Circle.For a deeper dive into Maria Ponzi’s incredible journey, check out her memoir, Pinot Girl: A Family. A Region. An Industry. @amponzi.com a heartfelt book details her experiences growing up in one of Oregon’s pioneering wine families and their legacy of revolutionizing Pinot Noir in the Willamette ValleyThank you to our sponsor Luminous Sound StudiosState of the art recording studios for music, production, audio-post and all things sound!  -  Book your session today info@luminoussound.comGeorgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!What would you do if you were next in line to scan your boarding pass for a work trip, expected at an important board meeting the next day—but your gut was telling you to not get on the flight?In this powerful episode of MasterStroke, Executive Producer Georgianna Moreland and Host Monica Enand welcome back co-host Sejal Pietrzak, who recently returned from a leave of absence. Sejal shares a deeply personal story about the life-changing decision she made at that very moment. As she stood at the gate, just about to board her flight, a powerful sense of urgency took hold, prompting her to step aside, and go home. That choice led her to uncover the reason behind unexplained, subtle changes in her husband’s behavior—a discovery that ultimately revealed a brain tumor. Sejal’s journey illustrates the profound importance of listening to one’s inner voice, especially when it comes to health and family.The episode also explores what it means to support a team member during a time of crisis. Georgianna, Monica, and Sejal discuss the importance of empathetic protocols, flexibility, and compassionate communication when someone needs to take leave to care for a loved one. They share strategies for creating a supportive work culture where team members feel secure stepping away and confident  they’ll be met with understanding.Beyond the immediate family dynamic, Sejal speaks to the critical role of community, friends, and family, who became her support system through her husband’s diagnosis and treatment.  Her story underscores the importance of being prepared as a partner for life’s unexpected turns! Sejal’s experience offers a candid look at the courage, resilience and positive mindset required to manage personal challenges while balancing professional responsibilities. This episode reminds us that trusting our intuition, leaning on those around us, and fostering a culture of empathy at work can help us face life’s most difficult moments.Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!Join host Monica Enand and  guest host Ned Renzi for an enlightening conversation with Thomas Kramer, a distinguished CFO known for steering companies like Cvent, Opower, and IonQ through the complex waters of public offerings and technological advancements. "If we do not figure out how quantum computing will works our world will eventually be covered with data centers and power plants..." Thomas break down  the evolving landscape of quantum computing and its revolutionary potential to reshape our world by leveraging qubits for remarkable power and energy efficiency. Through Thomas’s extensive experience, we gain insights into the profound implications of quantum technology in transforming data centers and energy consumption, a crucial step in addressing future sustainability challenges.The conversation moves into the intricacies of public markets and career navigation with Thomas, sharing personal anecdotes that underscore the value of humility and mentorship during pivotal career transitions. Reflect on the current challenges within IPOs and liquidity markets, the impact of the SPAC era on public trust, and the emotional nuances behind organizational budgeting decisions. By examining the role of luck, reputation, and networking, we offer valuable perspectives on achieving career success while balancing strategic financial management with personal growth. This episode is a wealth of insight  on understanding the intersection of technology, finance, and personal development.Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!Robyn  Benincasa,  World Champion Adventure Racer, a  CNN Hero, a Guinness World Record Endurance Kayaker, a best-selling author,  founder of The Project Athena Foundation, and one of the Top 10 Speakers featured by Harvard Business Review shares her incredible story of resilience and triumph in the tough world of adventure racing. She reveals how her experiences, from grueling Ironman triathlons to the Borneo Eco Challenge, have shaped her understanding of building high-performance teams. Robyn takes us back to her early days with Mark Burnett, creator of the Eco Challenge, whose influence was pivotal in her career. Her insights offer a powerful testament to the impact of mindset—specifically, how being driven by the hope of success can lead to extraordinary achievements.Experience the exhilarating account of Robyn's team as they became the first American champions in adventure racing in Ecuador in 1998. Fast Company Magazine highlighted their victory, underscoring their extreme teamwork alongside high-profile organizations like NASA. Robyn opens up about her personal battles with osteoarthritis and multiple hip replacements, sharing how these challenges taught her invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptation. Her story is one of overcoming physical limits and embracing new opportunities for growth despite significant obstacles. Robyn's journey with Project Athena illustrates the transformative power of blending passion with talent. She underscores how finding what you excel at and combining it with genuine enthusiasm can lead to extraordinary success. We explore identity transformation and resilience, inspired by "Atomic Habits" by James Clear, and hear moving accounts from Project Athena participants. Robyn also offers practical insights from her background in sales and firefighting, highlighting team-building strategies that can be applied in any context. Robyns mission to unveil people's true potential through endurance adventures is compelling, and she invites listeners to embark on their own transformative journey with Project Athena.This episode brought to you by - Enjoy the WorkGeorgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor; Matt Stoker - Editor