Owl Talk - A Sigma Pi Podcast

Finding Purpose: Reflections from Chapter Leaders

In this special bonus episode of Owl Talk, undergraduate leaders from across the country talk about the successes they achieved during their terms in office. Listen in as brothers from coast-to-coast share their accomplishments and talk about their hopes for their chapter's next executive councils. Also, this year-end wrap-up episode includes these young leaders talking about the Fraternity's new slogan and what it means to them.

Featuring:

Chase Norton (Wisconsin-Platteville '24)
Anthony Cona (Monmouth '23)
Michael Gudinas (Orlando, FL '22)
Gavin Cracchiola (Orlando, FL '24)
Kaufman (Wisconsin '24)
Alex Arriola (Arizona State '25)
Dayton McCann (Arizona State '23)
Sudin Dhakal (CSUDH '25)

A Shared Purpose at Zeta-Alpha

In this episode of Owl Talk, we speak with Chase Calvarese (West Chester '25) and Owen Harris (West Chester '25) – newly elected officers at Zeta-Alpha Chapter at West Chester University. As first and fourth counselors, these undergraduate leaders share how they found their way to Sigma Pi, what motivates them to serve, and how the chapter is building momentum through philanthropy, accountability, and brotherhood. From Lift the Stigma to breast cancer fundraisers, you’ll hear how Zeta-Alpha is living out the “Find Your Purpose” message – and setting the stage for the next chapter of growth.

113 Years Strong: Eta Chapter at Purdue

What’s it like to lead the oldest continuously operating chapter in Sigma Pi Fraternity? In this episode of Owl Talk, we sit down with Gavin Lindsay ('24), Cody Waling ('24), and Jason Gottesman ('24) of Eta Chapter at Purdue University. With 113 years of uninterrupted brotherhood behind them, these chapter leaders talk about what sets Eta apart... from their historic house in the heart of campus to their standout chapter culture, strong alumni support, and commitment to service. You’ll hear about their signature philanthropy event (yes, it involves smashing a car), how they're navigating growth, and what “Find Your Purpose” means to them as student leaders.

A Conversation with Scholarship Recipients

On this episode of the Owl Talk podcast, we’re joined by three previous Sigma Pi scholarship recipients: Ryan Russell (Illinois State '22), Victor Verhil (Ferris State '21), and Jack Kerdasha (Georgia '19). They share their collegiate experiences, how meaningful the scholarship was to them, and words of wisdom for the next generation of Sigma Pi brothers.

Leadership and Service with Nick Zeisler (Colorado State ’93)

In this special Veterans Day episode of Owl Talk, we sit down with Nick Zeisler (Colorado State ’93), founding father of Ada-Sigma Chapter and a veteran of more than 30 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. From writing to generals to stay in the military, to advising chapters in Texas and Colorado, Nick shares a impactful journey across military service, corporate America, and higher education. He reflects on leadership, adaptability, and the brotherhood that helped shape, and save, his career. You’ll also hear how Sigma Pi helped him find his purpose at every stage of life: as an undergraduate, an executive, a volunteer, and a mentor.

Fireside Chat #3 with Grand Sage Christian Miele (Towson '00)

Join Owl Talk as we host Grand Sage Christian Miele (Towson '00) for his third fireside chat of the biennium. In this episode, GS Miele discusses the Grand Council traveling to visit chapters across the nation, chapter connection through programming, fall recruitment, Convocation planning, the Executive Director search, and much more!

Leading Growth with Alexander Pettigrew (IUP ’18)

Alexander Pettigrew (IUP ’18) shares his journey from campus leader to national staff member and now Vice President of Business Development for Sigma Pi Fraternity. In this episode, Alexander reflects on how his time as Sage of Theta-Epsilon Chapter and IFC Vice President prepared him for a career guiding chapter growth, recruitment, and educational programming. He also discusses the evolution of flagship initiatives like the Tony Siress Leadership Summit, Mid-Year Leadership Conference, and Sigma Pi Engage, and how leaning into opportunities, even when uncomfortable, can unlock new potential for members and the organization alike.

Bonus Episode - The Undergraduate Experience

Join Blake Marushak (Monmouth '23) and Brandon Blythe (Monmouth '23) in this bonus episode of Owl Talk! The guys recently took over the microphone to interview attendees at the Greater New Jersey Province Workshop. Topics include what the undergraduates are most looking forward to this academic year and how Sigma Pi Fraternity's new slogan, "Find Your Purpose," resonates with today's chapter members.

Football and Fraternity with Anthony Zampese (San Diego ‘17)

From a career-ending injury to a rising career in college football, Anthony Zampese (San Diego ‘17) shares a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and purpose. In this episode, we explore how Anthony transitioned from player to coach after a torn hamstring derailed his athletic career, and how Sigma Pi played a pivotal role along the way. He reflects on his time as Sage of Epsilon-Chi Chapter, lessons learned in the recruiting world, and how football and fraternity shaped his approach to mentorship, sacrifice, and building lasting relationships. Plus, don’t miss his “Three B’s of Life” and a behind-the-scenes look at coaching future NFL talent.

On Target with Avery Newell (Drury '20)

Season 4 of Owl Talk kicks off with a bang! Join us as we sit down with Avery Newell (Drury ’20), former Sage of Epsilon-Rho Chapter and squad leader for Drury University’s national champion shotgun sports team. In this episode, Avery shares how a chance encounter on move-in day led him to Sigma Pi, how eight years in competitive shooting taught him patience and leadership, and how those lessons shaped his time as a chapter president. We also talk about post-grad life, finding purpose, and what it means to stay involved after college.