Christina Rodriguez – Executive Director, Mom’s House Artwork

In the Arena: Conversations of a Lifetime

What makes leaders tick? In the Arena podcast delves into the inner workings and personal dynamics of leadership. We’ll shine a light on the life-shaping experiences and perspectives of leaders who have navigated adversity and moved their organizations and themselves forward. Defining moments, lessons learned, and points of inspiration provide a roadmap for these conversations of a lifetime. The podcast title In the Arena has historical roots. In 1910, a year after leaving the presidency, Teddy Roosevelt gave a rousing address in Paris in which he chastised cynics and grenade-throwing critics who lambasted leaders as they worked valiantly to improve the human condition. Over time TR’s “The Man in the Arena” became indelibly linked to the nobility and struggles of leadership. In the Arena host Brad Rieger is the chief executive officer at Cooper-Smith, a full-service marketing and advertising agency headquartered in Toledo, OH with a satellite office in Stamford, CT. Prior to working in the private sector, Brad enjoyed a meaningful 31-year career in education serving in the roles of teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. He is a student of the complexities and nuances of leadership and admires the strivers, trailblazers, and influencers who lead with conviction, courage, and resilience. Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023

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In the Arena: Conversations of a Lifetime

Christina Rodriguez – Executive Director, Mom’s House

May 03, 2024 • Brad Rieger • Season 4 • Episode 50

For over 16 years, Christina has been leading a life-giving organization that helps low-income single moms pursue their educational goals and break the cycle of poverty. Her own harrowing experiences as a child growing up on the west side of Chicago propel her to provide opportunities and hope to young moms and their children traveling a tough road. She is also a beacon of light in the areas of human rights, education, and social justice. As a result of her passion and efforts to improve the human condition, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine tapped her to lead the statewide Martin Luther King Holiday Commission.

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Stephen Shankster/Jeremy Thomas. Content made possible by Cooper-Smith Advertising LLC 2023