Unscripted with Ashley Russo artwork

Unscripted with Ashley Russo

110 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 months ago - ★★★★★ - 18 ratings

We see present day versions of empowered business people and formidable influencers, but what’s the story behind their triumph? What hairpin turns and radical choices were made that finally lead them down the path of success? Ashley Russo, President & Executive Producer of ASR Media Productions and host of The PEAK TV, shares the sometimes surprising, always inspiring conversations with accomplished people who run their worlds.

Careers Business Society & Culture education media business careers community entrepreneurs goals health interview lifestyle
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Episodes

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Finale: Laura McHugh

June 01, 2023 12:00 - 35 minutes - 65.5 MB

On the season 7 finale of Unscripted, Ashley welcomes a long time friend, colleague and community advocate: Laura McHugh. Take a listen as Laura shares her journey as a reporter, and how the skills and lessons she learned allowed her to succeed in her current role at United Way of The Greater Lehigh Valley.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Episode 10: Dr. Christopher Jackson

May 18, 2023 12:00 - 43 minutes - 81.5 MB

Music has always been an integral part of guiding Dr. Christopher Jackson throughout his life, way before he arrived to the Lehigh Valley. On this episode of Unscripted, Ashley and Christopher talk about his teaching and conducting career that led him to The Bach Choir in Bethlehem, and the lessons he's learned along the way.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Episode 9: ASR Media's Original Crew

May 04, 2023 12:00 - 45 minutes - 84.6 MB

Celebrating their 10 year anniversary, ASR Media Productions crafts stories and helps brands come to life thanks to an exceptional team. On this episode, Ashley sits down with the original members: Troy, Abby, Will, and Katie, and discusses the growth of ASR and hopes for the future.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Episode 8: Dave Fagerstrom

April 20, 2023 12:00 - 32 minutes - 61.1 MB

The YMCA has always been a big part of Dave's life, both personally and professionally. On this episode of Unscripted, Ashley and Dave discuss the importance of the YMCA in a community and why he's chosen to build his career with the organization over the years.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Episode 7: Joetta

April 06, 2023 12:00 - 37 minutes - 68.8 MB

As a 4-time Olympic athlete, entrepreneur and speaker, Joetta's determination and focus has opened many doors throughout her career path. On this episode of Unscripted, Joetta discusses her journey to success, advice for young athletes, and what she loves about the Lehigh Valley.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Episode 6: Chris Morganelli

March 23, 2023 13:00 - 33 minutes - 62 MB

As a Lehigh Valley native, Chris Morganelli is proud to have planted the roots of his businesses and be a part of the thriving community. On this episode, Chris discusses the growth in his business, MCIT, and why he's chosen to stay and raise his family in the area.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Episode 5: Westley Morris

March 09, 2023 13:00 - 36 minutes - 67 MB

Westley Morris's story is one of perseverance, determination and triumph. On this episode of Unscripted, Ashley and Westley discuss the journey that led him to his current success, and how he's making a difference in the Lehigh Valley community as a motivational speaker.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Episode 4: Dr. Hasshan Batts

February 23, 2023 13:00 - 38 minutes - 71.3 MB

Dr. Hasshan Batts is the Executive Director of Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley, but his journey to getting there is one filled with many twists and turns. In this episode, Hasshan shares his story, the lessons he's learned along the way, and why his personal mission is to make a contribution to the betterment of society through compassion, education, healing and collaboration.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7, Episode 3: Natasha Ljuljic

February 09, 2023 13:00 - 34 minutes - 64.4 MB

Natasha Ljuljic grew up as a shy book-lover who enjoyed numbers, but once she started working as an accountant, she realized she had to do something different. On this episode, Ashley and Natasha talk about staying open to opportunities and how Natasha is proud to serve in her role at Air Products and advocate for those in need.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7, Episode 2: Don Seiple

January 26, 2023 13:00 - 32 minutes - 60.4 MB

Don Seiple's career has always been in the healthcare industry; however, he didn't realize his journey as a biomedical equipment technician would eventually lead to his current position as President of St. Luke's University Health Network Monroe campus. On this episode of Unscripted, Don shares how starting from the ground up has allowed him to be a well-rounded president and how the St. Luke's Monroe campus is providing accessible healthcare to the Monroe County community.

Unscripted with Russo Season 7 Premiere: Tim Mulligan

January 12, 2023 13:00 - 41 minutes - 77.8 MB

Before he was President & CEO of Communities in Schools of Eastern PA, Tim Mulligan had an interesting career with many twists and turns. On this episode of Unscripted with Russo, Ashley and Tim discuss the importance of being active in the community and why he's proud to call the Lehigh Valley home.

Unscripted with Russo Season 6 Finale: Beth Grys

November 24, 2022 13:00 - 36 minutes - 67.3 MB

As Principal of Mercy School for Special Learning, Beth Grys has always loved to educate and assist those with special needs. In this episode, Ashley and Beth discuss how the Lehigh Valley community accepts to students of Mercy with open arms and how Beth's passion has led to her current success.

Unscripited with Russo Season 6 Episode 6: Jennifer Bright

November 10, 2022 12:00 - 37 minutes - 69.7 MB

As a Lehigh Valley native, Jennifer Bright has always found her way back to the region she loves. On this episode, Ashley and Jennifer discuss her time serving in the U.S. Army, the development of Bright Communications LLC, and how perseverance has lead to her current success.  

Unscripted with Russo Season 6 Episode 5: Tony Iannelli

October 27, 2022 12:00 - 30 minutes - 57.1 MB

As President & CEO of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, Tony Iannelli has grown the Lehigh Valley community into a thriving community for both work and play. On this episode, Ashley and Tony talk about the chamber's efforts to support local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and why Tony loves to call the Lehigh Valley his home.

Unscripted with Russo Season 6 Episode 4: Chaz Hayden

October 13, 2022 12:00 - 47 minutes - 87.6 MB

At three months old, Chaz was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a form of Muscular Dystrophy. Only given a year to live, Chaz has continued to defy the odds and achieve many great feats throughout his young adult life. Take a listen as Chaz and Ashley discuss the importance of perseverance and his upcoming novel debut: The First Thing About You.

Unscripted with Russo Season 6 Episode 3: Dawn Godshall

September 29, 2022 12:00 - 36 minutes - 67.1 MB

Dawn Godshall is a true community advocate as the executive director of Community Action Lehigh Valley. On this episode of Unscripted, Ashley and Dawn talk about the importance of education in the local youth and how going through hardship allows Dawn to better serve the community.

Unscripted with Russo Season 6 Episode 2: Mike Mittman

September 15, 2022 12:00 - 37 minutes - 69.6 MB

On this episode of Unscripted with Russo, Ashley talks with her PEAK TV cohost, Mike Mittman about the journey that has lead him to his current success. Take a listen as Mike shares his advice to young entrepreneurs and how saying "yes" has afforded him amazing opportunities.

Unscripted with Russo Season 6 Premiere: Janish Kothari

September 01, 2022 12:00 - 26 minutes - 49 MB

Janish Kothari is a cardiology resident at St. Luke's University Health Network with two distinct loves: fashion and medicine. On this episode, Ashley and Janish discuss what makes the Lehigh Valley a great place to live and work, and how style is an opportunity to express yourself. 

Unscripted with Russo Season 5 Finale: Mimi Griffin

May 19, 2022 12:00 - 37 minutes - 69.8 MB

Coming from multiple generations of female basketball players, Mimi Griffin has continued that legacy in paving the way for other female entrepreneurs. On the season 5 finale of Unscripted, Mimi and Ashley talk about the upcoming US Senior Open being held at Saucon Valley Country Club, and the lessons that helped Mimi get to where she is today.

Unscripted with Russo Season 5 Ep. 8: Terry Wallace

May 05, 2022 12:00 - 43 minutes - 79.8 MB

Born in a military family, Terry Wallace has always had a strong drive for success. On this episode, Ashley and Terry discuss work-life balance, and how after commuting to NYC for years inspired him to create VentureX in Bethlehem.

Unscripted with Russo Season 5 Ep. 7: Jackie Bassett

April 14, 2022 12:00 - 19 minutes - 36.6 MB

As a young entrepreneur, Jackie has always been devoted to conservation and sustainability in the Lehigh Valley community. In this episode, Ashley and Jackie talk about the work that goes into maintaining FD Market Co and how following her passion led her to being a business owner. 

Unscripted with Russo Season 5 Episode 6: AnnMarie Supinski

April 07, 2022 12:00 - 32 minutes - 59.7 MB

Annmarie Supinski's love for fashion started young when her aunt gave her a sewing machine, and that passion has grown into quite the successful career. On this episode, Ashley and Annmarie talk about being business owners in the Lehigh Valley, and how Annmarie's 30-year experience in the retail industry has shaped her business, AM Luxe.

Unscripted with Russo Season 5 Ep. 5: Maraleen Shields

March 24, 2022 12:00 - 46 minutes - 85.7 MB

From loving high school mock trial to becoming the first person of color shareholder at Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba, Maraleen Shields has had an outstanding career. On this episode of Unscripted, Ashley and Maraleen discuss their passion for the Lehigh Valley community, and how dedication and hard work can help anyone achieve their goals.

Unscripted with Russo Season 5 Episode 4: Adrian Shanker

March 10, 2022 13:00 - 29 minutes - 55.5 MB

Growing up with activist parents, Adrian Shanker has always had a passion for supporting the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, Adrian shares the journey to co-founding Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center and why it's important for everyone to have a voice and opportunities in their community.

Unscripted With Russo Season 5 Episode 3: Donald Outing

February 24, 2022 13:00 - 43 minutes - 80.2 MB

After serving in multiple branches of the military while pursuing a degree in mathematics, Donald Outing became aware of the underrepresentation in STEM fields. On this episode, Ashley and Donald talk about his journey to Lehigh University as the VP of Equity and Community and why he chooses to stay in the Lehigh Valley.

Unscripted With Russo Season 5 Episode 2: Russell Fletcher

February 10, 2022 13:00 - 37 minutes - 68.5 MB

Russell Fletcher currently is the first and only Black distillery owner in the state of Pennsylvania and the journey to his success with Mishka Vodka takes many turns. Listen as Ashley and Russell talk about his career in the music industry and why he's committed to providing quality products to those in the Lehigh Valley community.

Unscripted With Russo Season 5 Premiere: Anita Paukovits

January 27, 2022 13:00 - 35 minutes - 65.1 MB

Anita Paukovits was raised in a large family and early on realized the importance of strong connections and relationships. On this episode, Anita shares her journey through her multiple roles at The Children's Home of Easton, and how her willingness to learn allowed the Children's Home to flourish.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Finale - Winston Alozie

December 02, 2021 13:00 - 37 minutes - 69.7 MB

Originally born in Louisiana, Winston Alozie found his way to the Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem when he moved to the Lehigh Valley in 2001. On the season 4 finale of Unscripted, Ashley and Winston talk about how the Boys and Girls Club of Bethlehem helps kids feel seen and heard and the active change Winston is making in the organization he grew up with.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 16 - Veronne Demesyeux

November 18, 2021 13:00 - 28 minutes - 52.4 MB

Before she was the Associate Executive Director of New Bethany Ministries, Veronne Demesyeux, LMSW always had a passion for the non-profit sector and lifting others to their highest potential. Take a listen as Ashley and Veronne discuss what inspired her to pursue a career in social work and what she loves about the Lehigh Valley community.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 15 - William Childs

November 04, 2021 12:00 - 31 minutes - 58.9 MB

As a young creative, William Childs was always immersed in art and bringing his ideas to life. In this episode, Ashley and William talk about his role as Creative Director at Kitchen Magic, the journey to his artistic success, and why he feels his career chose him.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 14 - Ed Hanna

October 21, 2021 12:00 - 37 minutes - 69.8 MB

Although Ed's career started by working for companies like Sony and Warner Music Group, he decided to switch gears and do something different: open his own restaurant, Union and Finch. In this episode, check out what brought Ed back to his Lehigh Valley roots and how Union and Finch became one of the most popular places to dine in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 13 - Laurie Gostley Hackett

October 07, 2021 12:00 - 39 minutes - 73.3 MB

As an active community member who loves to give back, Laurie Gostley Hackett's passion for philanthropy is well known throughout the Lehigh Valley. On this episode of Unscripted, Laurie and Ashley talk about the importance of giving back and how her newest role with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley will help make a difference in the community.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 12 - Chad Butters

September 23, 2021 12:00 - 44 minutes - 81.8 MB

When his wife was diagnosed with cancer, Chad Butters knew that family had to be at the core of everything moving forward. In this episode, Eight Oaks Farm Distillery Founder and CEO Chad Butters discusses the creation of Eight Oaks Farm Distillery and the importance of celebrating the present.  

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 11 - Edith Gutierrez-Hawbaker

September 01, 2021 12:00 - 37 minutes - 69.4 MB

After years of experience as an art director for companies like Business Week and U.S. Polo Assn., Edith knew she wanted to do more for her community. Listen as Ashley and Edith discuss the importance of supporting the Latinx community and her journey to creating her own business in the Lehigh Valley.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 10 - Jean Blanc

July 23, 2021 13:00 - 34 minutes - 63.8 MB

Although many may know Jean Blanc from his appearance on The Bachelorette, he's also incredibly involved with his community and career. On this episode, Jean dives into his engineering career success and how his entrepreneurial spirit helped him seize the opportunities in his life.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 9 - Carolyn Stennett

July 09, 2021 13:00 - 50 minutes - 92.7 MB

Carolyn's career and passion have always been aligned with supporting youth and ensuring their success. On this episode, Carolyn shares the journey to her current position as VP of Human Resources at Victaulic, and why she continues to give back and support her community.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 8 - Abby Silfies

June 25, 2021 17:00 - 39 minutes - 72.2 MB

When her friend passed at an early age due to cancer, it sparked Abby's passion for getting involved with cancer fighting organizations and propelled her career. In this episode, Ashley and Abby chat about being an advocate for your health, and how working for the American Heart Association has helped her impact the Lehigh Valley community.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 7 - Lindsay Watson

June 11, 2021 17:00 - 45 minutes - 83.6 MB

As an active public speaker and 2020 Lehigh Valley Business "40 under 40" recipient, Lindsay Watson has always followed her true passion: serving the community. On this episode, Ashley and Lindsay chat about the journey to creating FIA NYC, and how using your strengths can help you find the career of your dreams.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 6 - Michael Spigel

May 28, 2021 17:00 - 33 minutes - 60.9 MB

Every profession fascinated Michael Spigel before he realized physical therapy was his true passion. On this episode, Michael and Ashley discuss his journey to Good Shepherd Rehabilitation and how the Lehigh Valley has welcomed Michael and his family to the area.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep 5 - Marco Calderon

April 16, 2021 16:30 - 39 minutes - 71.9 MB

Marco is a well-known photographer in the Lehigh Valley for his work with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and his passion for the community. In this episode, Marco shares where that love for photography started and why he loves being a part of the Lehigh Valley.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep. 4 - Catherine Bailey

April 02, 2021 19:30 - 17 minutes - 31.7 MB

Catherine Bailey is a successful entrepreneur who embraces the idea of reinventing yourself. In this episode, Catherine shares her journey to co-founding Beauty Blender and the importance of following your passions.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Ep 3 - Matt Tuerk

March 19, 2021 19:30 - 43 minutes - 79.8 MB

Education and community have always been an essential part of Matt Tuerk's life. In this episode, Ashley and Matt discuss his plans for running for Mayor of Allentown, and how his journey has shaped him into the ambassador he is today.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Episode 2 - Richard Anderson

March 04, 2021 21:00 - 40 minutes - 74.5 MB

Growing up outside of Pittsburgh and being an avid competitive swimmer, Richard Anderson's journey to CEO and President of St. Luke's University Health Network is one of hard work and dedication. In this episode, Rick and Ashley talk about St. Luke's incredible culture and what they're doing to continue the fight against COVID-19.

Unscripted with Russo Season 4 Premiere - Khanisa Darby

February 19, 2021 20:30 - 27 minutes - 51.6 MB

Cooking full course meals for her family as a child, Khanisa Darby's passion for culinary has always been a part of her life. on this episode, Ashley chats with Khanisa about her transition from working in dentistry to Khanisa's Desserts, and the journey as a business owner in downtown Easton.

Unscripted with Russo Season 3 Ep. 5: Scott Brantingson

December 04, 2020 20:30 - 22 minutes - 41.3 MB

Scott Brantingson, senior financial advisor of Monocacy Wealth Partners, has a passion for connecting with others in the community. In this episode, Scott shares the story of marrying the girl next door and why he chose to call the Lehigh Valley home.

Unscripted with Russo Season 3 Ep. 10: Ken & Kenny Rampolla

November 20, 2020 20:30 - 26 minutes - 49 MB

Born and raised in the Lehigh Valley, the Rampolla family makes a difference by giving back to the community. Listen as they share the journey of growing their businesses, RMI and Lost Tavern Brewing, and how they use family to strengthen their ventures.

Unscripted With Russo Season 3 Ep. 9 - Megan Cannon

November 06, 2020 20:30 - 32 minutes - 61 MB

After experiencing stress and anxiety during sports as a kid, Megan Cannon was inspired to change the lives of young athletes who struggle with mental health issues. Check out why Megan loves what she does and why she continues to stay in the Lehigh Valley community.

Unscripted with Russo Season 3 Ep. 7 - Dr. Mark Erickson

October 09, 2020 19:30 - 31 minutes - 58.8 MB

Dr. Mark Erickson, president of Northampton Community College, knew from day one that the Lehigh Valley was THE place to be. In this episode, Ashley and Dr. Erickson discuss the challenges of growing up as the new kid in school,  and how rewarding his journey to NCC has been.

Unscripted with Russo Season 3 Ep. 5: Nancy Dischinat

September 12, 2020 01:16 - 29 minutes - 55.1 MB

Known for her eccentric personality and pivotal role at Workforce Board Lehigh Valley, Nancy Dischinat tells the story of where her entrepreneurial journey began. Watch as she and Ashley discuss what they love about the Lehigh Valley, and why Nancy has always been a hard worker, no matter the job.

Unscripted with Russo Season 3 Ep. 6: Dr. Tina Richardson

July 15, 2020 18:01 - 35 minutes - 66.5 MB

Before her role as chancellor of Penn State Lehigh Valley, Dr. Tina Richardson had climbed the higher educational ladder as a natural risk-taker. Listen to the journey that led Dr. Richardson to her current success and find out what makes her a champion of the Lehigh Valley community.