Owl Talk - A Sigma Pi Podcast

Student Athletes - Collegiate Wrestling

This episode of Owl Talk is all about college wrestling! Host PGS Joe Palazzolo talks with Franny Gonzalez (East Stroudsburg '23) to talk about juggling leadership as his chapter's Fourth Counselor and competition. In addition, he talks to undergraduate athletes Luke Petaccia (Monmouth '22) and 2024 Guy "Red" Mackey Award winner John Dooley (Monmouth '23) to discuss their experiences in both building and competing for a new program. The discussion delves into the challenges and triumphs of competing in wrestling, from navigating the unique demands of being part of a team to winning significant accolades. The brothers share personal stories about their wrestling careers, including wrestling through the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as managing the demands of college athletics alongside fraternity life. 

Alumni Volunteering with Bradley Poronsky (Texas '01)

In this episode of Owl Talk, host PGS Joe Palazzolo sits down with Brad Poronsky, a decorated JAG officer in the United States Air Force and the award-winning Chapter Advisor for Iota-Delta Chapter at UTSA. Brad shares his journey from his days as a student-athlete at the University of Texas, where he was part of the 2005 National Championship-winning football team, to his current roles as a military lawyer and a dedicated alumni volunteer for Sigma Pi.

Brad offers valuable insights on the importance of leadership, service, and building community through alumni volunteering. He reflects on his experiences mentoring undergraduate members, the lessons learned from his career and athletic accomplishments, and the immense impact of giving back. This conversation is filled with advice for Sigma Pi brothers, alumni, and undergraduates alike on how to stay involved and make a difference.

Alumni in Sports: Matt Healing (Monmouth '01)

In this episode of Owl Talk, Past Grand Sage Joe Palazzolo sits down with Matt Healing (Monmouth '01), the head coach of Pace University's men's basketball team and an alumnus of Delta-Beta Chapter at Monmouth University. Coach Healing shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey to becoming a successful collegiate basketball coach, including winning Pace's first-ever Northeast-10 Conference Championship. The two discuss the impact of fraternity life on leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the bond that connects Sigma Pi alumni well beyond their college years. 

Our Williamsburg with Alpha-Eta Chapter

In this episode of Owl Talk, host Joe Palazzolo dives into the impact of community involvement with special guest Will Katabian (William & Mary '22), Sage of Alpha-Eta Chapter at William & Mary. They explore the story behind Our Williamsburg, a student-led group advocating for student rights and bridging the gap between college students and local residents. This episode offers a powerful look at how college students can build lasting connections in their communities and the broader purpose of fraternity life.

Fireside Chat with GS Christian Miele

In this special episode of the Owl Talk podcast, host PGS Joe Palazzolo sits down for an engaging "Fireside Chat" with Grand Sage Christian Miele. Inspired by the historic radio addresses of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, this conversation offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the current state of the Fraternity. Christian shares updates from the recent Grand Council retreat, insights into key initiatives like the Growth Opportunities Task Force, and the importance of in-person meetings for driving the Fraternity’s strategic direction. The two also dive into the latest developments in recruitment, alumni engagement, and upcoming programs, including an exciting first-ever national livestream celebration of Founders' Day. 

Alumni Club Operations with OCAA

Join host PGS Joe Palazzolo as he welcomes David De Filippo (Fullerton, CA '87) from the Orange County Alumni Association for an insightful discussion on alumni clubs! Learn how these clubs operate, from organizing reunions to hosting golf outings, and discover strategies to elevate your events and strengthen connections within your alumni community.

State of the Fraternity with CEO Frost and GS Miele

Join host PGS Joe Palazzolo for a special episode of Owl Talk, featuring Grand Sage Christian Miele and Chief Executive Officer Jon Frost as they deliver the State of Fraternity address. Tune in as they discuss key topics like committee appointments, the Growth Opportunities Task Force, expansion efforts, and highlight the exciting new IMPACT campaign. Don’t miss this insider look at the future of the fraternity!

International Student Athletes with Max Pilipovic

Join host PGS Joe Palazzolo as they discuss the experience of being an international Student Athlete with Australian Max Pilipovic (Eastern Illinois '21). Tune in as Max shares insights on his experience in America as a tennis player, student, and Sigma Pi chapter sage. 

Sustained Excellence with Iota-Tau at St. John's

Owl Talk is back for a new season! Join host PGS Joe Palazzolo and Grand Sage Christian Miele as they discuss sustained excellence within the fraternity world. This episode features a special guest, Gunnar Mills, Sage of Iota-Tau Chapter at St. John's, the only chapter to ever win the Grand Sage Cup four years in a row. Tune in as Gunnar shares insights on upholding the legacy and prestige of his chapter with tips for other chapters.

1 on 1 with Ryan Post (Valparaiso ’09)

CEO Jonathan M. Frost sits down with Grand Council Director-At-Large Ryan Post (Valparaiso '09) to discuss his career, experiences within Sigma Pi, and why he gives back to the Fraternity.

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