This week, we welcome Alli Frank, Cornell class of ’92, who might just become your new favorite author. She’s smart, funny, creative — and the kind of person you instantly wish you’d met on campus. We do.Alli talks about her path from Cornell to publishing, the partnership behind her bestselling novels with Asha Youmans, and the humor and heart they bring to every story. You’ll hear why readers connect so deeply with her books and get a sneak peek at her upcoming release, Run for Your Life, Callie Kingman, coming in December 2025. (Please preorder this book! In the publishing world, preorders are everything!)Find all her books and more at alliandasha.com.Shout-out to Lisa Chin Potash, who put Alli on our radar — thank you!Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University.
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OMG! Ed Marinaro!! - Ivy Legend, NFL Great, TV Star
Well, we are completely starstruck. This week, we talked with Cornell football legend Ed Marinaro ’73—record-setting running back, NFL star, and fan-favorite actor. From Schoellkopf Field to the Super Bowl to Hill Street Blues, Ed’s story has it all. He tells us how Cornell changed his life, why he turned down 30 powerhouse football programs for the Hotel School, and how a purple Porsche and a closet became part of his diploma story. He’s funny, charming, humble, and full of pride for the school we all love! Google him—watch the old TV shows and movies, check out his Sports Illustrated cover, and relive those game films. His records are astounding.We loved every minute with him!Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University
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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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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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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.
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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