The New Cornell Urban Experience, thanks to Tashara Leak and CHE!
Our guest, Dr. Tashara Leak, is the powerhouse behind Cornell’s growing presence in New York City.She’s built a life centered on opportunity and impact—creating pathways for Human Ecology students to live, learn, and work in NYC. Tashara is bringing the classroom to the real world, and she hopes every Cornell college will join the movement.She shares stories about her inspiring mom, her unexpected path from pre-med to public health, and how she’s helping Cornell students find confidence and purpose beyond the Ithaca campus. Plus, stay tuned for our game “What Would It Take?”—where Tashara’s negotiation skills and sense of humor shine.It’s an inspiring conversation with the woman redefining what “One Cornell” really means.Plus we just like her sooooo much!Watch our Instagram for details about an exciting January 15, 2026 event, and connect with Tashara on LinkedIn to see her incredible achievements—including an award from President Joe Biden! Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University.
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42:57
Confronting Abuse and Inspiring Healing with Gwen Whiting
Content warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, though no graphic details are shared.In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Gwen Whiting is back with us to discuss her Marie Claire essay “It Took Me Decades to Realize My Doctor Was a Predator.” She shares her story of surviving sexual abuse and the long process of making sense of what happened to her and so many others.Gwen speaks candidly about her experience as a patient of Dr. Robert Hadden, the journey of coming forward as Jane Doe 443, and the emotional work of moving forward while continuing to make space for difficult conversations. She also discusses how humor, honesty, and community have become central to her healing process.A lifelong creator and community builder, Gwen also tells us about her newest project and part of The Fill Club: her Substack, The Laundry List, where she continues to write and build connections through storytelling, creativity, and self-expression.This episode is a reminder that courage and conversation can be powerful catalysts for healing. Thank you, Gwen.Links:Marie Claire article: It Took Me Decades to Realize My Doctor Was a Predator — https://www.marieclaire.com/culture/gynecologist-predator-essay/The Fill Club — https://thefillclub.comThe Laundry List (Substack) — https://thefillclub.com/the-laundry-listNot sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University
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28:27
Gary Bettman, Commissioner of the NHL and Big Red Legacy
This conversation scores on every level. It’s not every day we get to chat with a commissioner — and not just any commissioner! This week, we talk with Gary Bettman, Commissioner of the NHL, Cornell Class of ’74, and member of the Hockey Hall of Fame.Gary takes us back to his days growing up in Queens, navigating a mid–high school move, and finding his way to Cornell’s ILR School.He shares what campus life was like in the early ’70s, how Cornell shaped his path to law school and eventually to the NHL, and how meeting his wife Shelly at Cornell set the stage for a Big Red family that now spans three generations.Gary brings warmth, wit, and wisdom to this conversation and proves that Cornell connections run deep.And of course, a huge thank-you to our friend and former guest, Sue “Sesame” Scheiner, for helping make this episode happen.Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University.
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Card tricks, Carl Sagan, and Cornell: Steve Cohen’s Magical Launch
At Cornell, Steve Cohen honed more than sleight of hand—he built the foundation for a career performing for the world’s most exclusive audiences. From psychology classes—Steve is another incredible Cornell Human Ecology grad—to campus shows, and from a dean’s living-room gig to a performance for Carl Sagan and his colleagues that earned a standing ovation, Steve’s Big Red experience shaped the signature style of his mind-blowing show, Chamber Magic.Hear the full story of how his Cornell journey became the blueprint for NYC’s premier luxury magic performance. He's entertained 500,000 audience members, including royalty, professional athletes, and even other magicians.His show is a must-see. Michelle still can't get over it three months after seeing him perform. Shout out to Michelle's friend Lori for making this introduction!More information and tickets are here:https://chambermagic.com/Social media: @chambermagicNot sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University
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Paging Dr. Jeff Finance – Jeff Weintraub (and the Hot Truck Recipe?)
Have you ever met anyone who actually worked on the Hot Truck with Bob Petrilose?Well, Michelle met Jeff Weintraub on the Human Ecology Alumni Association Board, where his kindness and commitment to Cornell were immediately obvious. What wasn’t obvious? That Jeff has almost as many letters after his name as the Hot Truck menu board: MD, MBA, CFP.Jeff takes us through his fascinating journey from practicing medicine to managing money, and how he earned the nickname “Dr. Jeff Finance.” He talks about what inspired his bold career pivot, shares the life of a hot truck chef, and gives (pretend) financial advice about how you should be saving for that facelift.Jeff also reminisces about his spirited Cornell days, from his time in the Big Red Band to setting a 40-game attendance record at football games — sometimes with his face painted.It’s a conversation about reinvention, smart planning, and the Cornell connections that shape a lifetime. Jeff’s path will inspire you to rethink what’s possible.Plus, he's just super likable.Find out more about Jeff Weintraub here: https://www.drjefffinance.com/Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University
Take a trip down memory lane with other Cornellians. Weekly conversations with Michelle and Stephanie will introduce you to past and present Cornellians to hear where they are now and why they are most thankful to Cornell. (Not affiliated with or sponsored by Cornell University)
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