Episodes

  • Full Court Pivot: From Hoops to Financial Freedom with Zachary Krischer

    Full Court Pivot: From Hoops to Financial Freedom with Zachary Krischer
    May 17 2026
    What happens when the final buzzer sounds on an athlete’s career? In this episode of Life Beyond The Finish Line, host IFBB Pro Orlandina Balan sits down with former basketball player turned financial advisor Zachary Krischer. After playing college basketball and competing overseas, Zachary pivoted into the world of finance — helping individuals avoid financial pitfalls and build long-term strategies for success. Drawing on the discipline and teamwork learned on the court, he now mentors athletes, coaches youth basketball, and works to reshape the perception of financial advisors. This episode explores reinvention, financial literacy, and how the mindset of an athlete can become a blueprint for life beyond the game.
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    29 mins
  • From Donuts to Dinners: Serving Beyond the Badge with Chris McGuinness

    From Donuts to Dinners: Serving Beyond the Badge with Chris McGuinness
    May 10 2026
    What happens when a police officer retires — but refuses to stop serving? IFBB Pro Orlandina Balan sits down with retired officer, pitmaster, and author Christopher McGuinness, creator of From Donuts to Dinners. From cooking for grieving families to feeding thousands during Fleet Week, Chris turned a patio smoker into a mission — serving 85+ charities and first responders who often struggle quietly in retirement. This conversation dives into brotherhood, sacrifice, and building legacy beyond the badge. Because sometimes service doesn’t end with the uniform — it simply changes tools.

    Content warning: This episode mentions suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, Help is available. Call, text or chat 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline | Hours: 24/7 | Speak with someone today.
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    28 mins
  • Winning with Integrity: Phil Rizutto, Champion of the Voiceless

    Winning with Integrity: Phil Rizutto, Champion of the Voiceless
    May 3 2026
    In this compelling episode of Life Beyond The Finish Line, host Orlandina Balan sits down with Phil Rizzuto, founder and managing attorney of The Rizzuto Law Firm. From his rare insider experience defending insurance companies to becoming a fierce advocate for injury victims, Phil shares what it truly means to be a Champion of the Defenseless. We explore leadership forged through crisis, rebuilding with integrity, and how his commitment to community service through the Beloveds A. Nania Foundation and Still Blue Inc. reflects his mission to give a voice to those who need it most. Because beyond the courtroom—and beyond the finish line—justice still matters.
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    28 mins
  • Beyond Profit: Building Businesses That Create Real Impact with Michael Needleman

    Beyond Profit: Building Businesses That Create Real Impact with Michael Needleman
    Apr 26 2026
    In this episode of Life Beyond The Finish Line, Orlandina Balan - also known as The Fitter Woman - sits down with Michael Needleman, founder of Exceedia Group, to explore his Five Words for 2026: Collaboration, Impact, Gratitude, Growth, and Giving. Drawing on over 25 years across Wall Street and advisory leadership, Michael shares how businesses can move beyond cost-cutting to create real value, strengthen cash flow, and lead with purpose. This conversation goes beyond the numbers—highlighting how intentional collaboration, disciplined growth, and built-in giving can shape stronger companies and more meaningful leadership.
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    28 mins
  • Lou Cannataro on Why Trust is the Ultimate Currency

    Lou Cannataro on Why Trust is the Ultimate Currency
    Apr 19 2026
    Orlandina Balan - also known as The Fitter Woman - sits down with Lou Cannataro, founder of Cannataro Family Capital Partners, for a conversation on trust, clarity, and long-term financial leadership. With over 30 years of experience, Lou shares why true financial planning goes beyond the numbers—and begins with relationships, transparency, and purpose. This episode explores how aligning personal values with business strategy builds lasting impact, generational trust, and a legacy beyond the finish line.
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    27 mins
  • Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Playing the Long Game with Ken Goldberg

    Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Playing the Long Game with Ken Goldberg
    Apr 12 2026
    What does it take to lead an industry built on connection, entertainment, and community — across generations? Orlandina Balan sits down with Ken Goldberg, President of Emerson Amusements, to explore legacy leadership, industry advocacy, and what it means to stand on the shoulders of giants. From family-run beginnings to navigating post-COVID transformation, this conversation reveals how experience, mentorship, and purpose shape leadership that lasts.
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    28 mins
  • The Price of Ambition: The Cost of The American Dream with Annette Hurd-Runcie

    The Price of Ambition: The Cost of The American Dream with Annette Hurd-Runcie
    Mar 29 2026
    There’s a version of the American Dream we’re sold…
    That the streets are paved in gold. But what happens when you arrive… and realize the gold is sweat? Annette Hurd Runcie didn’t just chase ambition — she paid for it.
    With sacrifice.
    With resilience.
    With reinvention. From Jamaica to corporate America… From Proctor & Gamble to becoming the first Caribbean franchise owner of Golden Krust in the U.S… To building PaNash EuroSoul Catering, founding Alexander Y.E.S., and now strengthening small businesses through MARLS NYC… Annette is proof that legacy is not inherited — it is constructed.
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    29 mins
  • The Power Behind the Press: Strategizing Media to Empower Brand Voice with MJ Pedone

    The Power Behind the Press: Strategizing Media to Empower Brand Voice with MJ Pedone
    Mar 22 2026
    In this episode of Life Beyond The Finish Line, host Orlandina Balan sits down with MJ Pedone, founder of Indra Public Relations, to explore how strategic media, intentional storytelling, and influence shape modern brands.With over 30 years in PR and media, MJ shares insights on building credibility, creating impact, and evolving purpose beyond traditional success. This conversation is a masterclass in visibility with intention—and what it takes to build brands that last.
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    28 mins