Close Up Radio
Close Up Radio with veteran award-winning broadcast TV and radio hosts/media personalities Jim Masters and Doug Llewelyn is an exciting, informative, entertaini
Listen to latest episode
Follow Our Podcast
Recent Episodes
Close Up Radio Spotlights Computer Engineer and Attorney Jennifer R. Davis
Douglaston, NY - Innovation isn’t just about new gadgets or clever slogans. Sometimes, it’s about insisting that business—at every step—actually listens to real people. Enter Jennifer R. Davis, Esquire: an independent board director, attorney, and former engineer, whose career has been defined by one simple (but often overlooked) question: “Are we building the right thing, and for the right people?”From her earliest days in New York public schools, Jennifer noticed a disconnect between products on the shelves and her actual needs. “Too often,” she notes, “companies made assumptions about what people like me—a Black woman—wanted or needed. Instead of being seen and heard, companies pushed someone else’s idea of ‘what was right for me’ or ‘what I wanted’. That never sat well with me.”Jennifer’s drive to be part of the conversation, not just observe it, shaped a career that bridges engineering, intellectual property law, and strategic corporate governance. She holds a degree in computer engineering, where her early exposure to building electrical systems and coding gave her a hands-on appreciation for how things work—and, more importantly, how they could work better.After cutting her teeth as an engineer, Jennifer recognized that real influence happens not just in development, but in the boardroom. That insight took her to law school and into the specialized, ever-challenging world of intellectual property. Today, Jennifer is a sought-after counsel and independent board director for technology companies, with a focus on guiding organizations toward genuinely customer-focused, responsible innovation.An Attorney Who Gets StrategyJennifer’s practical experience as both an engineer and a lawyer gives her a rare perspective. She doesn’t just file patents—she asks the tough questions about whether legal protection is even the right approach. “People sometimes think every idea needs a patent,” she observes. “But not everything is patentable—or even worth the investment. Sometimes, a copyright or trademark is a better fit. It always comes back to the larger business strategy. What’s your end goal? Are you building a business, a brand, or just a widget?”Her work, both as a counsel and board director, is driven by a business-first mindset. “The law is the easy part—you can look it up,” she quips. “But understanding how legal tools fit into a company’s three- to five-year plan? That’s where the real value is.” Jennifer’s holistic approach helps companies avoid expensive dead-ends and instead build portfolios—whether of patents, trademarks, or goodwill—that genuinely add value.Advocating for Privacy, Security, and Customer Trust in the Era of AIWith the explosion of AI technologies, Jennifer’s commitment to security and privacy has never been more relevant. “AI isn’t new,” she points out. “It’s been around for decades. What’s changed is how much data is available. People think AI is only about helping them—but, some companies also want to learn from and monetize our use and behaviors.”Jennifer is vigilant about the trade-offs inherent in today’s tech, having advocated for thoughtful terms-of-service agreements and robust privacy protections. “’I’ve always read the terms and pushed back if I didn’t agree,” she laughs. “People find that odd. But if more of us did it, companies and governments would pay closer attention.”As a board director, she has championed a culture of continuous questioning, urging leaders to dig deeper: “Are we really serving our employees, our customers, and all of our constituencies? Are we safeguarding their information and needs? Or just chasing the latest trend?”Board Service: From Nonprofits to Technology CompaniesJennifer’s board experience is both broad and deep, ranging from New York-based nonprofits supporting adoptive and foster families to technology companies. Her work always comes back to strategy—and the value of asking better questions. “A good board doesn’t rubber-stamp management’s plans. It probes, it challenges, it helps make sure the company is really moving in the right direction—for customers, employees, and the broader world.”She is especially passionate about ensuring technology companies don’t lose sight of environmental and social consequences. “Few people consider the resources—like water, electricity and minerals—that go into things like data centers and electronic devices,” she points out. “As scarcity grows, it’s not just an ethical dilemma; it’s a business one.”Guidance for the Next GenerationJennifer’s advice for those considering a career in law, tech, or board service: “Figure out what you’re passionate about—and don’t be afraid to pivot. You can always pick up new skills, but passion and values are your true compass. The world needs more people in leadership who question, who read the fine print, and who aren’t afraid to say, ‘This isn’t good enough.’”Looking AheadJennifer R. Davis aspires to continue evolving in her career seeking opportunities that allow her to expand her reach and impact. She is open to new opportunities on for-profit boards and aspires to hold a General Counsel, Chief Legal Officer, or Chief Operating Officer position. Jennifer’s goal is simple but vital: help companies develop smarter, ethical, and more inclusive strategies—by asking the questions others overlook.About Jennifer R. Davis, EsquireJennifer is an experienced board director, attorney and computer engineer dedicated to aligning technology, law, and corporate strategy for real-world results. She is known for her candid, common sense approach to innovation, privacy, and ethical business growth.For more information about Jennifer Davis, Esq. please visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferrdavis/
Close Up Radio Spotlights Senior Executive Consultant Joan Sugerman of Gemini Worldwide
Silver Spring, MD.-- Joan Sugerman is the founder of Gemini Worldwide, a strategic firm that works with business leaders and executive teams to create breakthrough results with velocity. She says this coaching is not so much a cultural shift, but a mindset shift, which can radically impact an organization and its people, values, and goals. Every engagement is customized, because no two organizations are truly alike, and the people and possibilities will diverge.Early in her career, Joan had a job at AT&T as a video and film producer. While planning these corporate projects, she was able to engage in deep business conversations.. She had also talked business strategy with her own father, a corporate CEO, and acquired business insights from different sources over the years. This included the time when at merely 10 years old, she sat next to the CEO of SONY visiting from Japan at a family dinner party. Their exchanges were so powerful they remained pen pals for years.Joan has a Master’s degree in Fine Arts, and a Bachelor’s in Philosophy, which she feels is wonderful grounding for consulting work. Once she discovered coaching, it seemed a natural extension of what she had been doing all along, and she jumped in with passion. She has worked with some very high-powered people ever since, names and political figures we’d easily recognize.“We deliver one on one sessions, group coaching and in-person seminars. It doesn’t matter where we start, in the end, the entire there is a total transformation. While working together, we often, create original approaches and innovative strategies.”Joan says being at the forefront of new thinking is one of many assets that distinguish Gemini Worldwide Consulting, She also mentions being a keen listener, with an inquisitive nature, and the willingness to always go beyond the predictable or even the seemingly “impossible” as valuable aspects of her approach.“When we move clients from what’s possible to a new future, there is often a correlation of the same in my own self-awareness and development. It’s not just a job to me, it’s my raison d’etre.”In her pre interview, Joan mentioned that her son, now 40, had just called for some coaching. He started when he was 5 years old! This is another example of the power of her work, and the reason coaching has long-term impact.Joan also cites authenticity as an important focus for leaders. She has worked with powerful CEOs who instilled fear in their underlings and coached them in finding a vulnerable and relatable side so they could “open the Kimono” as one executive said. It helped his team build trust, a sense of partnership, and highly expanded company revenues.In her podcast, Joan will talk about some case histories throughout the past 25 years when Gemini’s resources made the difference. This includes attendants of her Master-X Program who found elevated purpose, performance and peace of mind through her coaching philosophy, A few to mention are a former newspaper CEO and writer who is now publishing his provocative book without fear, an athletic coach who launched an online app, and a mild mannered psychotherapist who blossomed into an international entrepreneur. She has also worked with people in her Mini Master X Program that included members of Parliament and Congress. Making a difference in their businesses and lives, she says, is more important than any award or acknowledgement.Joan understands that everyone is a leader, both in their personal life and business dealings, so whether they are a government head or a solopreneur is irrelevant; it is important to understand who they are and that they have a huge commitment to aliveness, wholeness and peace of mind.The Gemini approach is also centered on putting the past in the past, staying present, and creating possibilities. Just as the state of ice changes to water, we can learn to shift ourselves and become more productive and effective—not just in our business, but in every aspect of life.Joan credits some of the success to her strong colleagues, years of practice and interactions with businesspeople, and learning to trust. I trust myself, and I earn it from others, she notes. She is not afraid to be brutally honest and authentic, trusting in what she learns, hears and senses.Learn more about this powerful woman and her business and coaching insights in the November podcast.For more information about Joan and her work, visit Gemini Worldwide at www.geminiww.com
Close Up Radio Spotlights Turf Expert Brad Snavely of STS Turf
Paso Robles, CA - While most might see a golf course or football field as just a patch of grass, Brad Snavely, Vice President & Technical Director of STS Turf, sees a living, breathing ecosystem—and a prime opportunity to rewrite the playbook on how it’s nourished. As the driving force behind Sustainable Turf Science (STS Turf), Snavely is on a mission to make natural grass healthier, safer, and more sustainable than ever before.A Voice for Living TurfWith four decades of experience spanning agriculture and sports turf, Snavely brings a unique blend of hands-on farming know-how and scientific innovation to the turf grass industry. Raised in the heart of California’s agriculture country in the Central San Joaquin Valley, Snavely’s childhood was more about tractors and topsoil then tablets and tech—a foundation that shapes his approach to turf management today.“When people talk about synthetic turf like it’s the answer to all problems, they forget that real grass is a living organism,” says Snavely. “It draws in carbon dioxide, exhales oxygen, cools the environment, and the soil microbiology even helps filter out environmental contaminants. It’s not just green for the eyes—it’s green for the planet.”Snavely’s path from radio and television production to agronomy might seem unconventional, but the communication skills honed in broadcasting now help him translate complex turf science into clear, actionable strategies for superintendents and grounds crews across the country.As Snavely explains, turf grass management is anything but “mow, water, hope for the best.” Managing healthy turf—especially at less than a ½ inch on pro sports fields and sometimes less than a tenth-of-an-inch heights demanded by golf courses for Greens Speeds—means understanding soil microbes, nutrient cycles, and even how wastewater recycling can be used and managed on playing fields without harming the environment. Light, air and water must be properly managed along with nutrition.“Our products at STS Turf are formulated for both warm- and cool-season grasses," Snavely notes. “We’re taking the guesswork out of turf nutrition and giving managers the tools they need to make smart, sustainable choices that are site-specific.”Next-Generation Nutrition—Rooted in ScienceWhat sets STS Turf apart? Snavely points to the company’s “next generation” approach to turf nutrition. Rather than relying on synthetic chemicals or one-size-fits-all solutions, STS Turf’s proprietary product “toolbox” utilizes organic chemistry and enzymatic fragmentation or pre-digestion—breaking down and reacting nutrients into nano-sized, plant-available forms that are rapidly absorbed through the trans cuticular pores on the top side of leaves as well as efficient uptake and translocation through roots. STS Turf products are evaluated in the form of Dalton, which 1 Dalton is equal to one molecule, and you must be less than 600-700 Dalton to get through a plant cell structure, with STS turf core technology well below the max size needed to do so! “That means the nutrients are actually getting into the plant where they’re needed, rather than being washed away or locked up in the soil,” explains Snavely.STS Turf also takes pride in its sustainable practices, steering clear of traditional synthetic chelates and instead prioritizing organic inputs. With every application, turf managers aren’t just feeding grass; they’re re-mineralizing soils with 75+ colloidal minerals, supporting long-term plant and soil health and minimizing the need for harsh chemicals.Data-Driven DiagnosticsAnother key differentiator is STS Turf’s diagnostic approach. Rather than reacting to problems after they arise, Snavely’s team combines comprehensive soil and water testing with predictive analytics and site-specific data, ensuring that every nutrient is delivered in the right form and at the right rate the right time of year. Termed – proactive, soil testing becomes a monitoring tool as opposed to the traditional soil test, react, soil test, react… and continue to promote inconsistent results. The proactive approach helps turf managers maintain a more consistent stand of grass that is strong, vibrant and naturally more resistant to stress—making for safer play and easier management.From NFL Fields to Neighborhood LawnsSTS Turf’s client list reads like a “Who’s Who” of sports turf, including almost half the NFL’s natural grass stadiums, nearly all of Arizona’s spring baseball training fields, Major League Soccer Fields, and prestigious universities such as Notre Dame. But Snavely insists the same science that keeps college and pro athletes safe can benefit parks, schools, and even the family backyard.In fact, Snavely’s expertise has even saved marriages—or so says one grateful spouse who credits him with restoring work-life balance for her overworked golf superintendent husband.Looking AheadWith STS Turf heading into its 16th year in 2026, Snavely is taking a slow-and-steady approach to growth. The company is proudly debt-free, reinvesting profits to expand methodically and maintain quality. A household name in the making, STS Turf is poised to bring its innovative products to a global audience, changing the conversation around turf health one field at a time.In an era where “sustainability” is often just a buzzword, Brad Snavely and STS Turf are proving that science, soil, and a little common sense can yield remarkable results—both on and off the field.About STS Turf (Sustainable Turf Science)Founded in 2010, STS Turf develops next-generation turf nutrition products for golf courses, sports fields, parks, and residential lawns. By combining advanced carbon based organic chemistry, enzymatic fragmentation processes, fermentation extracts, metabolites, along with sound agronomic practices and their commitment to sustainability and customer support, STS Turf is redefining the standard for plant health, safety, and environmental stewardship.For more information about Brad Snavely and STS Turf, please visit https://ststurf.com/
Part 2: Close Up Radio Welcomes Back Robert Polacek of the RoseBernard Studio
San Francisco, CA - RoseBernard Studio, led by co-founder and Creative Director Robert Polacek, brings a deeply human approach to hospitality design celebrated for creating guest experiences that linger long after checkout. With a background rooted in architecture and a passion for hospitality instilled by his grandfather Bernard, a master carpenter and chef, Polacek designs not just spaces but memorable, meaningful moments of connection.Polacek’s journey began in architecture, but his grandfather expanded that foundation, showing him that the real craft is hospitality—where you don’t simply build the furniture or design the menu; you shape the experience and create a place at the table for others. “He taught me that the true heart of hospitality is taking care of people and making sure every part of their experience feels right,” explains Polacek. This ethos shapes every project at RoseBernard Studio, where design acts as the bridge between brand, operations, and the guests’ emotional connections.After earning his architecture degree, Polacek worked in New York with David Rockwell, whose background in theater influenced a dynamic, experiential approach to restaurant design. “Restaurants in the ‘90s were like theater,” Polacek notes. “Really, restaurant design is about the ‘dance’ between front and back of house, ensuring that operations and design work seamlessly so guests always sense harmony—even if they can’t articulate why.”Throughout his career, Polacek has collaborated with celebrated chefs and hospitality brands such as Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, Waldorf Astoria, Kempinski, Taj, and Jumeirah, designing everything from restaurants and hotels to uniforms and tabletop experiences. “At RoseBernard, we design for others—not for our own egos,” he says. “Whether it’s a guestroom or a restaurant, it’s about making people feel like they truly belong.”Brand Identity Rooted in EmpathyRoseBernard Studio’s process always begins with a close partnership with clients, ensuring that brand culture and guest expectations are reflected throughout the project. “Hospitality is the art of empathy, and design is the language. When those connect, you create a ‘love mark’—a brand people return to again and again,” asserts Polacek. A recent project with Kempinski Hotels in Kuala Lumpur showcases this approach: RoseBernard designed the hotel’s dining experiences to echo the vibrant street food culture of Malaysia, blending local context with operational efficiency and signature style.Innovation and the Human Touch in DesignPolacek is a forward thinker regarding technology. He believes artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance the human side of hospitality by automating mundane tasks, allowing staff to focus on personalized service. “AI helps us become more human in hospitality,” he shares. “It anticipates needs, helps us create more thoughtful guest experiences, and allows our team to design more efficiently, saving time and giving us more space to be creative.”A Studio Inspired by Real PeopleThe name RoseBernard honors the legacies of Polacek’s grandfather Bernard and co-founder Justin’s Colombik’s grandmother Rose—a model whose elegance and hospitality left a lasting mark. “RoseBernard isn’t about us. It’s for them and for everyone who works here as equals, bringing craftsmanship and integrity to every project.”With a recently opened studio in London to support their growing global footprint, RoseBernard Studio continues to develop new ways of blending design, empathy, and strategy. Their upcoming “Innkeeper Project” will explore the roots of hospitality, reflecting on the meaningful roles of care taking and belonging in an increasingly digital age.From San Francisco to London, from luxury hotels to local restaurants, Robert Polacek and RoseBernard Studio remain passionate about creating spaces that welcome, comfort, and delight. As Polacek says, “The best part is seeing others enjoy what we’ve created together.”For more information about Robert Polacek or the Rosebernard Studio, please visit https://rosebernardstudio.com/
Close Up Radio Spotlights Author and Minister Lisa S. Owens of Surrender All
Madison, AL - Lisa Owens, author, minister, and founder of Surrender All, opens up about her remarkable journey from a painful upbringing to a life anchored in faith, healing, and purpose. With the release of her newest book, “Don’t Be Deceived: The Three Sins of the World,” Owens offers a transparent exploration of personal transformation, spiritual warfare, and the pursuit of truth in a world filled with distraction and deception.Owens’ story is marked by perseverance and resilience. Raised in a turbulent environment, she found her earliest exposure to faith through church, even as her home life remained unstable. “As a child, I went to church periodically because my mother worked various shifts,” Owens recalls. “When my mother sent me to North Carolina to finish school, my aunt ensured we (my cousins and I) went to church and served in ministry.” However, Owens’ relationship with God didn’t become deeply personal until her early thirties – sparked by witnessing her mother’s dramatic return to Christ after a season of deep personal tragedy.Her upcoming third book, inspired by her mother’s story, promises to be a heartfelt tribute to a woman who survived incredible adversity. After losing her son, her mother began using illegal drugs and struggled with a severe health diagnosis. Despite that painful chapter, she surrendered her life to Christ and remained faithful for more than twenty years. “Knowing how she was drawn back to God, how He delivered her, inspired me,” Owens says. “It made me say, ‘Mom, I’m going to walk this journey with you - with God.’”Owens’ path led her from North Carolina to serving 17 honorable years in the United States Army. Yet it was an unexpected assignment in Salt Lake City, Utah, that shifted the trajectory of her spiritual life. Feeling isolated and without community, she remembers sitting on the floor of her master bedroom, overwhelmed and asking God, “Why am I out here?” Days later, during a simple errant to Walmart, a stranger invited her to a church that would fundamentally change her spiritual life.“I was introduced to the Holy Spirit in a way that I had never experienced before,” Owens says. “That moment began my awakening to who God truly is.” She credits this season with deepening her understanding of scripture, especially after discovering the Life Application Study Bible, which helped her connect biblical truth to real-life occurrences.In Don’t Be Deceived: The Three Sins of the World, Owens confronts the deeper spiritual issues that impact every believer. She identifies the root causes of sin in three biblical categories: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life. Through practical examples and biblical insight, she challenges readers to examine their own motives and choices. “Every sin we commit falls under one, two, or all three sins,” she explains. Drawing from the story of Eve, she illustrates how these three temptations have shaped human behavior since the beginning of time.Owens’ writing and ministry reflect her deep commitment to uplifting others through faith-based teaching and fellowship. Through her platform, Surrender All, she offers books, Bible studies, and outreach opportunities, creating a welcoming space where individuals can discover strength, identity, and purpose in Christ. “I want to encourage those who are seeking faith and their purpose in Christ, and to help others find their worth in Him,” she explains.Her message resonates deeply with individuals who are experiencing hardship or transition, an audience Owens feels particularly called to serve. “When people come to you in crisis, they are more open to receive truth,” she reflects, drawing from both her personal journey and the lives she mentors.Lisa Owens also brings strong leadership experience to her ministry. As a former Division Director with Toastmasters International, she has helped countless individuals build confidence through peer evaluation and effective communication. Her military background further shaped her discipline, resilience, and commitment to excellence – qualities she now pours into her writing, teaching, and outreach through Surrender All.About Lisa OwensLisa Owens is an author, minister, and the founder of Surrender All, a platform dedicated to faith-based education and personal growth. A veteran of the U.S. military, Lisa draws on her life experiences to inspire others to seek truth, healing, and purpose through faith in Christ. She is passionate about helping individuals discover their worth and destiny through God’s love and grace.For more information about Lisa S. Owens and Surrender All, please visit https://surrenderall4.com/
POWERED BY BLUBRRY
