Explore every episode of the podcast Connect The Dots
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| S7E9: Siya Rajpal | Accessible Education | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:33:17 | |
Connect with Geoffrey:
Sponsored by the AIQ newsletter for snackable AI content for the busy professional. | |||
| S7E8: Tesäen “T” Chavis | Take Up Space | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:46:47 | |
On this episode, Geoffrey chats with Tesäen “T” Chavis, Product Manager, Music Promotion and Gen AI Video at YouTube, who shares how generative video tools are empowering artists—and why she measures success by kindness and naps. From starting college at 15 to leading zero-to-one products (focusing on building something unique and valuable, rather than copying current solutions) at YouTube, T Chavis has always chased possibilities. In this powerful conversation, T details her journey through pharma comms, data-driven marketing at L’Oréal, and product roles at Spotify and Uber before landing at YouTube to revolutionize music promotion with generative AI video. T explains how creators can treat AI as a “sous-chef,” speeding post-production and unlocking visuals never seen before, while still valuing human craft. She also opens up about imposter syndrome, advocating for yourself in boardrooms, and redefining success around mental health, inclusion, and—yes—epic naps. T shares:
By episode’s end, you’ll have practical tips for leveling up your AI literacy and a fresh perspective on purposeful innovation. T is passionate about harnessing emerging tech to empower artists, as she champions diversity, inclusion, global travel, karaoke, and the restorative power of a good nap. Resources & Links
Connect with Geoffrey:
Sponsored by the AIQ newsletter for snackable AI content for the busy professional. Music produced by Sam Miller. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Connect the Do... | |||
| S6E10 (Bonus) Mike Gabler | Serve Those Who Serve Us | 15 Feb 2023 | 00:45:05 | |
In this episode we go on an adventure with the one and only Gabler aka the Ali-Gabler, the heart valve specialist and most recent winner of the reality TV show Survivor. From growing up and wanting to be an international business man, Gabler appreciates the positive role models from family, teachers, and coaches who believed in him. After watching a surgery, which he describes as the closest thing to magic, he was fascinated by how elegant and meaningful it was and became a heart valve specialist working as part of incredible teams of medical professionals. As a longtime fan, competing in Survivor was a thrill – one that came with intense challenges, from dehydration, hunger and bug bites on your bug bites. Gabler describes his time on the show as a season of beautiful people that despite the competition brought them all together and created lifelong friends. Gabler encourages anyone who wants to do it – to go for it – though be prepared for the hardship – physical, emotional and intellectual. A Doors fan and checklist guy, Gabler believes in writing down your goals, and being dedicated to achieve them. He made the remarkable decision to donate his winnings from Survivor to veteran charities to serve those who serve us. Book recommendation: Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl Connect with Gabler: Special Operations Warrior Fund Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions Connect with nine dots: | |||
| S2E1: Wayne Kimmel | Passionate, smart, and NICE | 26 Sep 2018 | ||
About This Episode: Wayne Kimmel is an accomplished and experienced author and speaker. He is a networker extraordinaire who has created investment company Seventy Six Capital which invests in passionate, smart and nice entrepreneurs who are launching game-changing tech startups. In this podcast Wayne Kimmel talks about how storytelling is important in connecting with your audience and how major companies are evolving by utilizing their networks to expand and connect with their customers across various platforms. Mentions: Six Degrees of Wayne Kimmel – Book Connect with Wayne Kimmel: Connect with nine dots: If you have any suggestions for podcast guests, please email us! Thanks! | |||
| Season 2 - Trailer | 24 Sep 2018 | 00:01:53 | |
About This Episode:
Presented by nine dots and hosted by Geoffrey Klein, Connect the dots podcast shares stories and explore their power to impact others. Our aim is to share some edutainment – to give some useful nuggets that can be applied to your business while also entertaining you. Thank you for listening. In Season 2, Geoffrey interviews successful individuals about their perspective on the power of story. Then each guest shares a story where they connected the dots. We are fortunate again to have amazing guests from best seller authors, a venture capitalist, a juice guru and a professional doodler, among others. Thanks for listening. | |||
| Season 2 – Trailer | 24 Sep 2018 | ||
Presented by nine dots and hosted by Geoffrey Klein, Connect the dots podcast shares stories and explore their power to impact others. Our aim is to share some edutainment – to give some useful nuggets that can be applied to your business while also entertaining you. Thank you for listening. In Season 2, Geoffrey interviews successful individuals about their perspective on the power of story. Then each guest shares a story where they connected the dots. We are fortunate again to have amazing guests from best seller authors, a venture capitalist, a juice guru and a professional doodler, among others. Thanks for listening. | |||
| S1E9: Scott Blumstein | The Deuce of Hearts | 27 Jan 2018 | 00:57:31 | |
About This Episode:
I am a huge poker enthusiast. I like poker much more than I am good at it. That is not true of this episode’s guest, American poker player Scott Blumstein. Blumstein graduated from Temple University with an accounting degree before becoming a professional poker player. Last summer, he entered his first World Series of Poker Main Event, along with over 7000 other hopeful players. Outlasting everyone in a week’s plus of poker play, Scott Blumstein won the World Series of Poker Main Event, a coveted WSOP bracelet and $8,150,000. He won in dramatic fashion when the Deuce of Hearts landing on the river (which for you non-poker players was one of only 3 cards that could have won him the event). In this episode we explore Scott’s story and how he went from online player to a poker World Champ. Not surprisingly his favorite card in the deck is the 2 of Hearts. Connect with Scott Connect with nine dots | |||
| S1E9: Scott Blumstein | The Deuce of Hearts | 27 Jan 2018 | ||
I am a huge poker enthusiast. I like poker much more than I am good at it. That is not true of this episode’s guest, American poker player Scott Blumstein. Blumstein graduated from Temple University with an accounting degree before becoming a professional poker player. Last summer, he entered his first World Series of Poker Main Event, along with over 7000 other hopeful players. Outlasting everyone in a week’s plus of poker play, Scott Blumstein won the World Series of Poker Main Event, a coveted WSOP bracelet and $8,150,000. He won in dramatic fashion when the Deuce of Hearts landing on the river (which for you non-poker players was one of only 3 cards that could have won him the event). In this episode we explore Scott’s story and how he went from online player to a poker World Champ. Not surprisingly his favorite card in the deck is the 2 of Hearts. CONNECT WITH Scott CONNECT WITH nine dots | |||
| S1E8: Rich Middlemas | My Bromance with Brad Pitt | 13 Jan 2018 | 01:04:24 | |
About This Episode:
Rich Middlemas won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature for producing the high school football story UNDEFEATED. Rich began his career in Hollywood working in the office of the President at MGM Studios working on films such as Legally Blonde, Agent Cody Banks, Barbershop and James Bond film, Die Another Day. Rich Middlemas graduated from University of Tennessee’s College of Communication and Information with a BS in broadcasting. In this episode, Rich shares his Oscar experience as we follow the journey from making a little football documentary to getting into SXSW’s film festival, to his bromance with Bratt Pitt at the Oscar nominations luncheon, to going on stage to accept the little gold statute. We are happy to report Rich’s Oscar is no longer in a paper bag in his cupboard, but you’ll have to ask to find out what place of prominence it now lives. Connect with nine dots | |||
| S1E8: Rich Middlemas | My Bromance with Brad Pitt | 13 Jan 2018 | ||
Rich Middlemas won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature for producing the high school football story UNDEFEATED. Rich began his career in Hollywood working in the office of the President at MGM Studios working on films such as Legally Blonde, Agent Cody Banks, Barbershop and James Bond film, Die Another Day. Rich Middlemas graduated from University of Tennessee’s College of Communication and Information with a BS in broadcasting. In this episode, Rich shares his Oscar experience as we follow the journey from making a little football documentary to getting into SXSW’s film festival, to his bromance with Bratt Pitt at the Oscar nominations luncheon, to going on stage to accept the little gold statute. We are happy to report Rich’s Oscar is no longer in a paper bag in his cupboard, but you’ll have to ask to find out what place of prominence it now lives. CONNECT WITH nine dots | |||
| S1E6: "Crazy" Aaron Muderick | Is it pretty? Is it fun to use? | 14 Dec 2017 | 00:26:19 | |
About This Episode:
Aaron Muderick, Owner of Crazy Aaron Enterprises https://puttyworld.com, is the inventor of Crazy Aaron’s thinking putty. Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty is available in more than 30 countries around the world and comes in over 30 colors and includes some that can be magnetized or are heat-sensitive. Crazy Aaron employs a labor force of over 500 people made up of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities that help manufacture and ship Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty. In this episode Aaron talks about how he always wanted to be an inventor, how Steve Jobs served as a role model and his interest in cave exploration. He believes you should never discount an idea just because it seems impossible. Book recommendationHow to Talk With Practically Anybody About Practically Anything Connect with Crazy Aaron Connect with nine dots | |||
| S1E6: “Crazy” Aaron Muderick | Is it pretty? Is it fun to use? | 14 Dec 2017 | ||
Aaron Muderick, Owner of Crazy Aaron Enterprises https://puttyworld.com, is the inventor of Crazy Aaron’s thinking putty. Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty is available in more than 30 countries around the world and comes in over 30 colors and includes some that can be magnetized or are heat-sensitive. Crazy Aaron employs a labor force of over 500 people made up of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities that help manufacture and ship Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty. In this episode Aaron talks about how he always wanted to be an inventor, how Steve Jobs served as a role model and his interest in cave exploration. He believes you should never discount an idea just because it seems impossible. Book recommendation: How to Talk With Practically Anybody About Practically Anything Connect with Crazy Aaron: Connect with nine dots:
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| S1E5: Professor William Taubman | The CIA and the Pulitzer Prize | 27 Nov 2017 | 00:44:51 | |
About This Episode:
William C. Taubman is currently the Bertrand Snell Professor of Political Science at Amherst College. The son of a New York Times journalist who learned the importance of working hard and thinking carefully as well as to accept challenges, but not possible ones. In this episode we learn how Professor Taubman entered Harvard at only the age of 16. In his early career it was unclear if he might pursue journalism instead of academia. Even after he entered academia he almost ended up leaving the halls of learning for the CIA. As an academic, he considered how he could combine his interest in not only teaching but in research and writing. He worked long and hard to find a way to write scholarship that would be accessible to general readers. His biography of Nikita Khrushchev won the Pulitzer Prize for biography in 2004 and the National Book Critics Circle Award for Biography in 2003. Connect with Professor Taubman Connect with nine dots | |||
| S6E9: Brittany Charlton | Where are the gaps? | 08 Feb 2023 | 00:38:44 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode we hear the story of a young, Canadian entrepreneur, Brittany Charlton, Founder and CEO of Ohh Foods that create vegan, gluten-free and allergen-friendly edible cookie doughs and snack bites. From making pillows for friends dolls to pursuing a career in law, Brittany knew early on she needed to find something she would be passionate about. As her business started to get some traction, Brittany was aware she needed to learn a lot. Using Google and Youtube she accelerated her knowledge and then asked used - Where are the gaps? Using Linkedin to find people with the right skill set. Brittany has learned the great importance of mentors and surrounding yourself with great people to help you reach your potential. By being intentional about your business, Brittany has scaled and grown Ooh Foods and made sure she is having fun along the way. Connect with Brittany Connect with Ohh Foods Connect with nine dots | |||
| S1E5: Professor William Taubman | The CIA and the Pulitzer Prize | 27 Nov 2017 | ||
William C. Taubman is currently the Bertrand Snell Professor of Political Science at Amherst College. The son of a New York Times journalist who learned the importance of working hard and thinking carefully as well as to accept challenges, but not possible ones. In this episode we learn how Professor Taubman entered Harvard at only the age of 16. In his early career it was unclear if he might pursue journalism instead of academia. Even after he entered academia he almost ended up leaving the halls of learning for the CIA. As an academic, he considered how he could combine his interest in not only teaching but in research and writing. He worked long and hard to find a way to write scholarship that would be accessible to general readers. His biography of Nikita Khrushchev won the Pulitzer Prize for biography in 2004 and the National Book Critics Circle Award for Biography in 2003. CONNECT WITH PROFESSOR TAUBMAN CONNECT WITH nine dots | |||
| S1E4: Chet Harding | No Laughing Matter | 09 Nov 2017 | 00:57:30 | |
About This Episode:
Chet Harding is the co-founder and owner of Improv Asylum – a nationally-acclaimed improvisation and sketch comedy theater based in Boston as well as stand-up sister theater Laugh Boston and Asylum Gaming and E-Sports production house. As well as acting, writing, directing and producing, Chet has developed Improv Asylum’s global corporate training program, and has worked with companies such as Google, Harvard Business School, Red Bull and Fidelity. In this episode Chet talks about his youthful dream of becoming a professional athlete, but recognizing he had more talent for making people laugh. From his early career in advertising to the famed Improv mecca Second City in Chicago, Chet eventually landed in Boston to plant roots in both family and in comedy. And no, Chet was not a member of Amherst College’s Mr. Gad’s House of Improv. Connect with Chet Connect with nine dots | |||
| S1E4: Chet Harding | No Laughing Matter | 09 Nov 2017 | 00:57:29 | |
Chet Harding is the co-founder and owner of Improv Asylum – a nationally-acclaimed improvisation and sketch comedy theater based in Boston as well as stand-up sister theater Laugh Boston and Asylum Gaming and E-Sports production house. As well as acting, writing, directing and producing, Chet has developed Improv Asylum’s global corporate training program, and has worked with companies such as Google, Harvard Business School, Red Bull and Fidelity. In this episode Chet talks about his youthful dream of becoming a professional athlete, but recognizing he had more talent for making people laugh. From his early career in advertising to the famed Improv mecca Second City in Chicago, Chet eventually landed in Boston to plant roots in both family and in comedy. And no, Chet was not a member of Amherst College’s Mr. Gad’s House of Improv. CONNECT WITH CHET CONNECT WITH nine dots | |||
| S1E3: Judge Renée Cardwell Hughes | Here comes the Judge | 02 Nov 2017 | 00:39:26 | |
About This Episode:
Judge Renée Cardwell Hughes is the outgoing CEO of the American Red Cross for the Eastern Pennsylvania region. Judge Hughes is also well known for her work with The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce as well as the contributions she has made towards the Beasly School of Law at Temple University. In this podcast Judge Hughes talks about the risk and rewards of her career path and also how she earned her own set of pearls. Judge Hughes talks about what matters most to her and why it’s important to always love yourself. MentionsConqueror by Estelle and Jussie Smollet Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly Connect with Judge Hughes Connect with nine dots | |||
| S1E3: Judge Renée Cardwell Hughes | Here comes the Judge | 02 Nov 2017 | ||
Judge Renée Cardwell Hughes is the outgoing CEO of the American Red Cross for the Eastern Pennsylvania region. Judge Hughes is also well known for her work with The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce as well as the contributions she has made towards the Beasly School of Law at Temple University. In this podcast Judge Hughes talks about the risk and rewards of her career path and also how she earned her own set of pearls. Judge Hughes talks about what matters most to her and why it’s important to always love yourself. Mentions: Conqueror by Estelle and Jussie Smollet Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeremy McCarter Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin Connect with Judge Hughes: Connect with nine dots: | |||
| S1E2: Sharon Pinkenson | Set in Philadelphia | 26 Oct 2017 | 00:41:30 | |
About This Episode:
Sharon Pinkenson has served as the Executive Director of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office https://film.org/ (GPFO) for 25 years during the terms of four mayors and six governors. Sharon has been responsible for all aspects of the office since 1992. Under Sharon’s leadership, the GPFO has been responsible for $4 billion of economic impact to the southeastern Pennsylvania region, as it attracts film and TV productions to the region. Films & TV Credentials include: Trading Places, Philadelphia, Boy Meets World, Silver Linings Playbook, Sixth Sense, Pretty Little Liars, National Treasure, Split. In this episode, Sharon shares her story from making her own clothes to becoming a costume designer and dressing a chimp to rubbing shoulders with Hollywood stars. Connect with SharonSharon on Twitter on Twitter Sharon on Linkedin (make sure to introduce yourself) Connect with nine dots | |||
| S1E2: Sharon Pinkenson | Set in Philadelphia | 26 Oct 2017 | 00:41:29 | |
Sharon Pinkenson has served as the Executive Director of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office https://film.org/ (GPFO) for 25 years during the terms of four mayors and six governors. Sharon has been responsible for all aspects of the office since 1992.
Under Sharon’s leadership, the GPFO has been responsible for $4 billion of economic impact to the southeastern Pennsylvania region, as it attracts film and TV productions to the region.
Films & TV Credentials include: Trading Places, Philadelphia, Boy Meets World, Silver Linings Playbook, Sixth Sense, Pretty Little Liars, National Treasure, Split.
In this episode, Sharon shares her story from making her own clothes to becoming a costume designer and dressing a chimp to rubbing shoulders with Hollywood stars. CONNECT WITH SHARON
CONNECT WITH nine dots
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| S1E1: Nick Garnett | The Danger List | 06 Oct 2017 | 00:31:28 | |
About This Episode:
Nick Garnett is a broadcast journalist at the BBC and has been a journalist and news reporter for 30 years. Nick’s reports are broadcast on local and regional TV as well as the BBC world service. He has reported on a number of stories from around the world including Nepal, Tunisia, Paris, Malta, Jordan, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, France, Ireland, Scotland, Turkey, South Sudan and Iraq. Nick has won a New York radio festival award and a United Nations award. Nick Garnett of BBC Radio 5 Live is now a digital-first journalist after many years in radio storytelling. Connect with Nick Connect with nine dots | |||
| S1E1: Nick Garnett | The Danger List | 06 Oct 2017 | ||
Nick Garnett is a broadcast journalist at the BBC and has been a journalist and news reporter for 30 years. Nick’s reports are broadcast on local and regional TV as well as the BBC world service. He has reported on a number of stories from around the world including Nepal, Tunisia, Paris, Malta, Jordan, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, France, Ireland, Scotland, Turkey, South Sudan and Iraq. Nick has won a New York radio festival award and a United Nations award. Nick Garnett of BBC Radio 5 Live is now a digital-first journalist after many years in radio storytelling. CONNECT WITH NICK CONNECT WITH nine dots | |||
| Season 1 - Trailer | 23 Sep 2017 | 00:03:24 | |
About This Episode:
Presented by nine dots and hosted by Geoffrey Klein, Connect the dots podcast share stories of success and the dots that people connect along the way. In Season 1, Geoffrey interviews successful individuals to explore their path to success and examines the dynamic between luck or happenstance and intentional planning and the choices people make. From successful CEOs to an Academy Award winner, the aim is to be entertained through these conversations while hopefully gaining some useful insights as well. In the end, the goal is to help others…connect the dots. Thanks for listening. | |||
| S6E9 Brittany Charlton | Where are the gaps? | 08 Feb 2023 | 00:38:43 | |
In this episode we hear the story of a young, Canadian entrepreneur, Brittany Charlton, Founder and CEO of Ohh Foods that create vegan, gluten-free and allergen-friendly edible cookie doughs and snack bites. From making pillows for friends dolls to pursuing a career in law, Brittany knew early on she needed to find something she would be passionate about. As her business started to get some traction, Brittany was aware she needed to learn a lot. Using Google and Youtube she accelerated her knowledge and then asked used – Where are the gaps? Using Linkedin to find people with the right skill set. Brittany has learned the great importance of mentors and surrounding yourself with great people to help you reach your potential. By being intentional about your business, Brittany has scaled and grown Ooh Foods and made sure she is having fun along the way. Connect with Brittany: Connect with Ohh Foods Connect with nine dots:
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| Season 1 – Trailer | 23 Sep 2017 | ||
Presented by nine dots and hosted by Geoffrey Klein, Connect the dots podcast share stories of success and the dots that people connect along the way. In Season 1, Geoffrey interviews successful individuals to explore their path to success and examines the dynamic between luck or happenstance and intentional planning and the choices people make. From successful CEOs to an Academy Award winner, the aim is to be entertained through these conversations while hopefully gaining some useful insights as well. In the end, the goal is to help others…connect the dots. Thanks for listening. | |||
| S6E8: Maika Isogawa | Success is Variable | 01 Feb 2023 | 00:28:24 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode I have the opportunity to chat with Maika Isogawa, CEO of Webacy - the protection layer for self-custody. Born in Japan and then moving to Minnesota at a young age, Maika, shares her varied interests form youth circus to physics. Learning about dedication from her father and studying artificial intelligence at Stanford, she pursuit of making something great. Whether as an acrobat for Cirque Du Soleil, working as an engineer for Microsoft or creating the next technology for managing digital assets, Maika is grateful to live her life of excitement and experience as she recognizes that success is variable. Book recommendation: How to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald J. Robertson Connect with Maika Connect with Webacy Connect with nine dots | |||
| S6E8 Maika Isogawa | Success is Variable | 01 Feb 2023 | ||
In this episode I have the opportunity to chat with Maika Isogawa, CEO of Webacy – the protection layer for self-custody. Born in Japan and then moving to Minnesota at a young age, Maika, shares her varied interests form youth circus to physics. Learning about dedication from her father and studying artificial intelligence at Stanford, she pursuit of making something great. Whether as an acrobat for Cirque Du Soleil, working as an engineer for Microsoft or creating the next technology for managing digital assets, Maika is grateful to live her life of excitement and experience as she recognizes that success is variable. Book recommendation: How to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald J. Robertson Connect with Maika: Connect with Webacy
Connect with nine dots: | |||
| S6E7: Dr. Hannah McLane | Psychedelic Famous | 25 Jan 2023 | 00:43:04 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode we explore the word through the eyes of Dr. Hannah McLane. A free spirit who as a young child wanted to be the Easter Bunny. With a thirst for learning through travel from Brazil to backpacking in Asia, her medical calling was initially inspired by a doctor who started a school for the blind in Tibet. Dr. Hannah discovered the power of facilitated psychedelic therapy to access a patient’s thoughts, dreams and unconscious memories to provide tools for genuine, permanent healing - so long as the Psychedelic Industrial Complex doesn’t take over. Connect with Dr. Hannah Connect with nine dots | |||
| S6E7 Dr. Hannah McLane | Psychedelic Famous | 25 Jan 2023 | ||
In this episode we explore the word through the eyes of Dr. Hannah McLane. A free spirit who as a young child wanted to be the Easter Bunny. With a thirst for learning through travel from Brazil to backpacking in Asia, her medical calling was initially inspired by a doctor who started a school for the blind in Tibet. Dr. Hannah discovered the power of facilitated psychedelic therapy to access a patient’s thoughts, dreams and unconscious memories to provide tools for genuine, permanent healing – so long as the Psychedelic Industrial Complex doesn’t take over. Connect with Dr. Hannah: Connect with nine dots: | |||
| S6E6: Jake Shimabukuro | Bring Joy | 18 Jan 2023 | 00:42:25 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode I had the pleasure to chat with someone I have admired for years, Jake Shimabukuro. Saying Jake is an incredible ukulele performer is quite an understatement. Jake is a true ukulele virtuoso and composer. Jake’s talent is equaled by his pure spirit and desire to connect with the people he plays with and for. Jake approaches playing music as a creative problem solver and finds both satisfaction and occasional frustration using creativity with limitations. His perspective on success is to be a good person first, then a good musician. Jake always aims to create impact by connecting with his audience so he can bring joy to the community with the hope to inspire them with something unexpected. Connect with JakeWebsite: jakeshimabukuro.com Instagram: @jakeshimabukuro Youtube: @jakeshimabukuro Facebook: @jakeshimabukuromusic Connect with Geoffrey/nine dots | |||
| S6E6 Jake Shimabukuro | Bring Joy | 18 Jan 2023 | 00:42:24 | |
In this episode I had the pleasure to chat with someone I have admired for years, Jake Shimabukuro. Saying Jake is an incredible ukulele performer is quite an understatement. Jake is a true ukulele virtuoso and composer. Jake’s talent is equaled by his pure spirit and desire to connect with the people he plays with and for. Jake approaches playing music as a creative problem solver and finds both satisfaction and occasional frustration using creativity with limitations. His perspective on success is to be a good person first, then a good musician. Jake always aims to create impact by connecting with his audience so he can bring joy to the community with the hope to inspire them with something unexpected. Connect with Jake: Website: jakeshimabukuro.com Instagram: @jakeshimabukuro Youtube: @jakeshimabukuro Facebook: @jakeshimabukuromusic Connect with Geoffrey/nine dots: | |||
| S6E5: Shantell Martin | Freedom to Create | 11 Jan 2023 | 00:38:04 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode we step into the wonderful world of Shantell Martin, with her unique style and voice in the contemporary art world. Her mastery of the spontaneous hand drawn line has captivated an audience of international patrons, admirers and collectors alike. Grandmother taught her to strives for creative independence. Even within her working class environment, Shantell has always felt like the “other,” though found that by using hope and imagination she could be herself. As pens and pencils were generally available it had a way to level the playing field and opened up the power of drawing. Shantell believes we all have a natural gift in the path from the head to the heart to the hand as an outlet to express. While Shantell sees a canvas as a way to explore, she is partial to pens and markers – as you can’t erase yourself – it enables you to live with your mistakes and be confident in your expression. Feeling that you can be very honest with the pen as you create in the moment. This has been particularly true as she has done live drawings often to music, serving as a visual jockey or improvisational artist. Shantell continues to pursue her freedom to create what she wants, where she wants in a safe creator space. All this to learn to be yourself while making and sharing the expression of self. Connect with ShantellWebsite: shantellmartin.art Instagram: @shantell_martin Twitter: @shantell_martin Youtube: @shantellmartin Facebook: @shantellmartinartist Connect with nine dots | |||
| S7E7: Brandon Krakowsky | Yes Always Opens a Door | 03 Sep 2025 | 00:40:15 | |
Resources & Links
Sponsored by the AIQ newsletter for snackable AI content for the busy professional. Music produced by Sam Miller. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Connect the Dots and leave a quick review—it helps more listeners connect their own dots with AI insights! | |||
| S6E5 Shantell Martin | Freedom to Create | 11 Jan 2023 | ||
In this episode we step into the wonderful world of Shantell Martin, with her unique style and voice in the contemporary art world. Her mastery of the spontaneous hand drawn line has captivated an audience of international patrons, admirers and collectors alike. Grandmother taught her to strives for creative independence. Even within her working class environment, Shantell has always felt like the “other,” though found that by using hope and imagination she could be herself. As pens and pencils were generally available it had a way to level the playing field and opened up the power of drawing. Shantell believes we all have a natural gift in the path from the head to the heart to the hand as an outlet to express. While Shantell sees a canvas as a way to explore, she is partial to pens and markers – as you can’t erase yourself – it enables you to live with your mistakes and be confident in your expression. Feeling that you can be very honest with the pen as you create in the moment. This has been particularly true as she has done live drawings often to music, serving as a visual jockey or improvisational artist. Shantell continues to pursue her freedom to create what she wants, where she wants in a safe creator space. All this to learn to be yourself while making and sharing the expression of self.
Connect with Shantell: Website: shantellmartin.art Instagram: @shantell_martin Twitter: @shantell_martin Youtube: @shantellmartin Facebook: @shantellmartinartist Connect with nine dots:
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| S6E4: Jason Feifer | The Price of Admission | 05 Jan 2023 | 00:28:40 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode we are invited into the world of Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine, author of the book Build For Tomorrow, a startup advisor, and host of the podcasts Build For Tomorrow (yes, same name as the book) and Problem Solvers. Jason shares how he started writing with comic strips in elementary school and then short stories and really terrible poetry. Eventually writing for a local music magazine led to having powerful chats with bands he loved, that invited him into their world. Today, Jason is very grateful for the opportunity to have fascinating conversations with people he finds very interesting – which he believe is a rare gift. As an editor who writes, he believes when you edit other people you become a much better writer yourself. He encourages those who want to write to worry less about who you are writing for and worry a lot more about gaining the opportunity to write. Jason likens being a professional writer to winning the lottery. The way to win the lottery is to buy as many lottery tickets as you can – through hard, grinding work. As Jason shares, every great thing has a price of admission. Connect with JasonTwitter: @heyfeifer Instagram: @heyfeifer Facebook: @heyfeifer LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jasonfeifer Website: jasonfeifer.com Newsletter: jasonfeifer.bulletin.com Book: Build for Tomorrow Connect with nine dots | |||
| S6E4 Jason Feifer | The Price of Admission | 05 Jan 2023 | ||
In this episode we are invited into the world of Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine, author of the book Build For Tomorrow, a startup advisor, and host of the podcasts Build For Tomorrow (yes, same name as the book) and Problem Solvers. Jason shares how he started writing with comic strips in elementary school and then short stories and really terrible poetry. Eventually writing for a local music magazine led to having powerful chats with bands he loved, that invited him into their world. Today, Jason is very grateful for the opportunity to have fascinating conversations with people he finds very interesting – which he believe is a rare gift. As an editor who writes, he believes when you edit other people you become a much better writer yourself. He encourages those who want to write to worry less about who you are writing for and worry a lot more about gaining the opportunity to write. Jason likens being a professional writer to winning the lottery. The way to win the lottery is to buy as many lottery tickets as you can – through hard, grinding work. As Jason shares, every great thing has a price of admission. Connect with Jason: Social: Twitter: @heyfeifer Instagram: @heyfeifer Facebook: @heyfeifer LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jasonfeifer Website: jasonfeifer.com Newsletter: jasonfeifer.bulletin.com Book: Build for Tomorrow
Connect with nine dots:
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| S6E3: Mahé Drysdale | One Chance, One Opportunity | 21 Dec 2022 | 00:41:54 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode we chat with New Zealander Mahé Drysdale a two-time Olympic champion and a five-time world champion in the single sculls. He is a seven-time New Zealand national champion and five-time recipient of New Zealand Sportsman of the Year. Mahé shares what it takes to be a champion including often times brutal training. While Mahé was more interested in drinking that training when he first began, once he committed to the goal of competing at the Olympics, his hard work and dedication were unwavering. Mahé shares that success is all about giving your best and your all, as you need to be satisfied with the result. He expresses the need to have passion to endure the hard work. In the end, he appreciated doing something he loved and focuses now on the welfare and wellbeing of athletes. Connect with Mahé Connect with nine dots | |||
| S6E3 Mahé Drysdale | One Chance, One Opportunity | 21 Dec 2022 | 00:41:53 | |
In this episode we chat with New Zealander Mahé Drysdale a two-time Olympic champion and a five-time world champion in the single sculls. He is a seven-time New Zealand national champion and five-time recipient of New Zealand Sportsman of the Year. Mahé shares what it takes to be a champion including often times brutal training. While Mahé was more interested in drinking that training when he first began, once he committed to the goal of competing at the Olympics, his hard work and dedication were unwavering. Mahé shares that success is all about giving your best and your all, as you need to be satisfied with the result. He expresses the need to have passion to endure the hard work. In the end, he appreciated doing something he loved and focuses now on the welfare and wellbeing of athletes. Connect with Mahé: Connect with nine dots: | |||
| S6E2: Kate Scott | The Game is the Fun Part | 14 Dec 2022 | 00:46:09 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode we hear from the amazing Kate Scott, - the television voice of the Philadelphia 76ers – who continues to break barriers as a leader in sports broadcasting. Among her many accomplishments, Kate was the first woman to call an NFL & NBA game on the radio, men’s basketball at the Olympics, Copa América and Gold Cup soccer for Fox and an NHL game in the United States. Kate shares her story of being the little girl who loves sports. Kate almost became a teacher until one of her teachers identified Kate’s interest in sports and journalism. Having watching Sports Center since she was in kindergarten, Kate feels lucky to be able to get paid for her passion and she likens sports broadcasting to a ballet. Kate feels extremely lucky and grateful and is keen to see how her success can impact others. Her philosophy is simple: Work Hard. Be Kind. Connect with Kate Connect with nine dots | |||
| S6E2 Kate Scott | The Game is the Fun Part | 14 Dec 2022 | ||
In this episode we hear from the amazing Kate Scott, – the television voice of the Philadelphia 76ers – who continues to break barriers as a leader in sports broadcasting. Among her many accomplishments, Kate was the first woman to call an NFL & NBA game on the radio, men’s basketball at the Olympics, Copa América and Gold Cup soccer for Fox and an NHL game in the United States. Kate shares her story of being the little girl who loves sports. Kate almost became a teacher until one of her teachers identified Kate’s interest in sports and journalism. Having watching Sports Center since she was in kindergarten, Kate feels lucky to be able to get paid for her passion and she likens sports broadcasting to a ballet. Kate feels extremely lucky and grateful and is keen to see how her success can impact others. Her philosophy is simple: Work Hard. Be Kind. Connect with Kate: Connect with nine dots: | |||
| S6E1: Cory Pesaturo | Music as a sport | 07 Dec 2022 | 00:45:50 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode, we talk with Cory Pesaturo (“C Pez”) who is revolutionizing the Accordion. Cory is the only person to ever win the trio of World Championships on Acoustic, Digital & Jazz Accordion, and the only Accordion graduate of the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. Cory has given 2 TED Talks, 2 Google Talks, an EG Talk, and spoken at various other conferences on the accordion. Pesaturo’s extensive resumé includes appearances at the White House, TV appearances on The Tonight Show with David Letterman, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon and Let’s Make a Deal with Wayne Brady. In this episode Cory expresses his desire to change the stereotypes of people play the accordion as only being 75 year old men playing the polka. Cory shares his philosophy about being the best musician you can be – regardless of the instrument you play. Cory believes in putting in the hard work to learn music theory while always striving to play with people better than yourself. This episode also features a few snippets of tunes that Cory plays flawlessly, illustrating that Cory is not your average accordian player – in fact he shows his mastery of both his instrument and of music. Connect with Cory Connect with nine dots | |||
| S6E1 Cory Pesaturo | Music as a sport | 07 Dec 2022 | ||
In this episode, we talk with Cory Pesaturo (“C Pez”) who is revolutionizing the Accordion. Cory is the only person to ever win the trio of World Championships on Acoustic, Digital & Jazz Accordion, and the only Accordion graduate of the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. Cory has given 2 TED Talks, 2 Google Talks, an EG Talk, and spoken at various other conferences on the accordion. Pesaturo’s extensive resumé includes appearances at the White House, TV appearances on The Tonight Show with David Letterman, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon and Let’s Make a Deal with Wayne Brady. In this episode Cory expresses his desire to change the stereotypes of people play the accordion as only being 75 year old men playing the polka. Cory shares his philosophy about being the best musician you can be – regardless of the instrument you play. Cory believes in putting in the hard work to learn music theory while always striving to play with people better than yourself. This episode also features a few snippets of tunes that Cory plays flawlessly, illustrating that Cory is not your average accordian player – in fact he shows his mastery of both his instrument and of music. Connect with Cory: Connect with nine dots: | |||
| S5E9: Niels Duinker | Juggling For Impact | 31 Aug 2021 | 00:33:54 | |
About This Episode:
In this week’s podcast, we talk with Niels Duinker, a professional comedy juggler who first thought of becoming a successful international performer when he was 12 years old, and well before the end of his teenage years, his dream had become a reality. Niels has set 9 Guinness World Records in juggling and was voted Juggler of the Decade by the International Magicians Society. He also received the Award of Excellence from the Museum of Juggling History. Modestly beginning his career in a Rotterdam youth circus, Niels now spends his time jetting between high-profile engagements at theaters, casinos, cruise ships, theme parks, and corporate events. More than just a pretty face with a bag full of cool tricks, in the spring of 2009 Niels completed the course work for his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. Another dream turned reality. Sharing his love of the arts with the performers of tomorrow, Niels regularly lectures as a guest artist at two Government-funded professional circus schools in the Netherlands: Codarts Circus School in Rotterdam and the Fontys Circus School in Tilburg. He also serves as a board member with the International Jugglers Association and he’s the president of the International Sport Juggling Federation, which is the governing body for the sport of juggling. Connect with Niels Connect with nine dots | |||
| S7E6: Dasanj Aberdeen | Lean Into Yourself | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:43:03 | |
On this episode of Connect the Dots, host Geoffrey Klein sits down with Dasanj Aberdeen, Director of Artificial Intelligence & Innovation at KPMG and an adjunct professor at Temple University. A polymath consultant, creator, and mentor, she has spent 10+ years guiding Fortune 100 companies in digital transformation—launching AI, low-code, IoT, and cloud solutions that accelerate value creation and enrich customer experiences. Her people-first leadership style champions democratized knowledge and diverse, high-performing teams. Growing up in Grenada, Dasanj’s early love of art and building things sparked a multidisciplinary journey through Wharton, accounting, consulting, and ultimately AI leadership. Dasanj shares:
Listeners will hear candid insights on mentoring, defining personal success, and preparing for the next wave of workplace transformation—all delivered with Dasanj’s trademark curiosity and optimism. Resources & Links
Connect with Geoffrey:
Sponsored by the AIQ newsletter for snackable AI content for the busy professional. Music produced by Sam Miller. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Connect the Dots and leave a quick review—it helps more listeners connect their own dots with AI insights! | |||
| S5E9 Niels Duinker | Juggling For Impact | 31 Aug 2021 | ||
About This Episode: In this week’s podcast, we talk with Niels Duinker, a professional comedy juggler who first thought of becoming a successful international performer when he was 12 years old, and well before the end of his teenage years, his dream had become a reality. Niels has set 9 Guinness World Records in juggling and was voted Juggler of the Decade by the International Magicians Society. He also received the Award of Excellence from the Museum of Juggling History. Modestly beginning his career in a Rotterdam youth circus, Niels now spends his time jetting between high-profile engagements at theaters, casinos, cruise ships, theme parks, and corporate events. More than just a pretty face with a bag full of cool tricks, in the spring of 2009 Niels completed the course work for his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. Another dream turned reality. Sharing his love of the arts with the performers of tomorrow, Niels regularly lectures as a guest artist at two Government-funded professional circus schools in the Netherlands: Codarts Circus School in Rotterdam and the Fontys Circus School in Tilburg. He also serves as a board member with the International Jugglers Association and he’s the president of the International Sport Juggling Federation, which is the governing body for the sport of juggling. Connect with Niels: Connect with nine dots: | |||
| S5E8: Tom Stoltman | Champion's Mindset | 05 Aug 2021 | 00:32:39 | |
About This Episode:
In this episode, we chat with Tom Stoltman, the current World’s Strongest Man. Tom began training at the age of 16 and started strongman at 18! Despite being diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome from a young kid, Tom was often met with negativity from others. Through the love and support of family and friends, and his will and desire to succeed, Tom learned to persevere through tough times and work hard. Tom has overcome hurdles he thought were impossible to conquer, as he was able to achieve through his immense physical prowess. It was, however, when he learned to match his physical strength with his mental strength and develop the Champions Mindset that enabled him to reach his dreams. In June this year, Tom won the 2021 World’s Strongest Man competition, becoming the first man from Scotland to win the World’s Strongest Man. Grounded and humble, Tom continues to approach life with an amazing attitude and appreciation for what real strength is. Connect with Tom Connect with nine dots | |||
| S5E8 Tom Stoltman | Champion’s Mindset | 05 Aug 2021 | ||
About This Episode: In this episode, we chat with Tom Stoltman, the current World’s Strongest Man. Tom began training at the age of 16 and started strongman at 18! Despite being diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome from a young kid, Tom was often met with negativity from others. Through the love and support of family and friends, and his will and desire to succeed, Tom learned to persevere through tough times and work hard. Tom has overcome hurdles he thought were impossible to conquer, as he was able to achieve through his immense physical prowess. It was, however, when he learned to match his physical strength with his mental strength and develop the Champions Mindset that enabled him to reach his dreams. In June this year, Tom won the 2021 World’s Strongest Man competition, becoming the first man from Scotland to win the World’s Strongest Man. Grounded and humble, Tom continues to approach life with an amazing attitude and appreciation for what real strength is. Connect with Tom: Connect with Geoffrey: | |||
| S5E7: Chris Perry | Work in Progress | 19 Jul 2021 | 00:43:09 | |
About This Episode:
In this week’s podcast, we talk with Chris Perry an award-winning writer and director with 25 years of animation experience. He began his career at Rhythm & Hues and Pixar before helping create four award-winning independent short films including THE INCIDENT AT TOWER 37 and CALDERA. Perry’s work has earned him a Sci-Tech Oscar and a MegaGrant from Epic Games. Chris is a tenured professor at Hampshire College and has a screenwriting textbook coming out with Bloomsbury Press in 2022. Connect with Chris Mentions Connect with nine dots | |||
| S5E7 Chris Perry | Work in Progress | 19 Jul 2021 | ||
About This Episode: In this week’s podcast, we talk with Chris Perry an award-winning writer and director with 25 years of animation experience. He began his career at Rhythm & Hues and Pixar before helping create four award-winning independent short films including THE INCIDENT AT TOWER 37 and CALDERA. Perry’s work has earned him a Sci-Tech Oscar and a MegaGrant from Epic Games. Chris is a tenured professor at Hampshire College and has a screenwriting textbook coming out with Bloomsbury Press in 2022. Connect with Chris: Mentions: Connect with Geoffrey: | |||