Intentional Performers With Brian Levenson

Interviewer extraordinaire Cal Fussman joins Brian Levenson to talk about how essential curiosity is in the realm of interviewing. Cal has interviewed some of the most famous people in the world ranging from Kobe Bryant to Al Pacino to Dr. Oz. He is also a best selling author and not surprisingly the host of a very popular Podcast called Big Questions. In this free flowing episode they discuss how Brian should introduce himself and the power of motivation and inspiration (5:30), why he loves Podcasts (16:30), the use of opening interview questions to get a better sense of a person (22:30), how asking someone a question can open you up to something unexpected and what constitutes a hero (29:00), why getting out of your comfort zone and getting back up after being knocked down are essential for success (37:30), what drew him to writing about sports at a young age (41:00), Kobe’s interest in storytelling and how storytelling has changed as technology has evolved (51:00), how his constant curiosity led to him le

Houston sports radio host and freelance writer Sean Pendergast joins Brian Levenson to discuss his journey starting in sales before becoming a radio host (4:45), the value of money in relationship to happiness and the serendipitous moment that led to working in sports radio (12:00), and advice for college students on choosing a career (27:00). Then they talk about his transition to sports radio and the value of enthusiasm in the workplace (37:30), the importance his time in sales has had in his success in radio (52:00), how has mindset changed for maximizing the impact of the show after the 1st couple of years and why he started writing (1:01:30), and learning to develop a better feel of how to prepare and still be able to adapt on the fly (1:09:30). Then Sean describes the best interview he ever did with the man who shot Osama Bin Laden: Rob O’Neill (1:17:00). Finally, he discusses how he prepares before going on the air (1:25:00). Thanks to Sean for coming on the podcast. Make sure to give him a follow on

Former NBA Player/Executive Danny Ferry joins the podcast to discuss being a star in high school for legendary Dematha coach Morgan Wooten (8:15). Growing up as part of a basketball family (12:20). Being recruited to Duke and Coach K's vision (16:40). How he handled stress while playing there (29:00). Then they talk about Danny’s time playing in the NBA starting as the #2 overall pick playing in Italy for a year, and how it changed his mindset, as he struggled for the first time (35:04). How a book helped him refocus (38:40). The value of systems (47:00).  Balancing ego and the difference between individual vs. team sports (55:00). Playing for the Spurs while adjusting to coach Gregg Popovich and his holistic approach (57:00). Then Danny talks about transitioning from playing into the front office (1:11:50). Finally, he picks between his 3 coaches for various hypothetical scenarios (1:18:00).