Best Rob Giardinelli Podcasts (2025)

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Gay Mens Guide To Working the Room Without Working Too Hard – with Rob Giardinelli 37:48

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4d ago37:48

37:48

In this episode I’m joined by keynote speaker and workshop leader Rob Giardinelli to unpack the real reason so many of us as gay men fumble in rooms (not back rooms) full of people, and how to flip that script without turning into someone you’re not. Whether it’s a networking mixer, a conference, or that awkward social gay happy hour—you’ll walk aw…

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Waterloo Greenway Conservancy Glow In The Park With Lynn & Tom Meredith 43:31

6d ago43:31

43:31

Having a vision isn't enough. How do you lead your community to get behind a transformative vision that will be felt for generations to come? In today’s episode, I talk with Lynn and Tom Meredith, co-chairs—along with several of their children and spouses—of the upcoming Glow in the Park benefiting the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy. Lynn and Tom’s …

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Poetry, Prostate Cancer, and Preserving Queer Legacy – A Conversation with Mickie Kennedy 33:28

10d ago33:28

33:28

In this deeply moving episode, Rick sits down with poet and cancer survivor Mickie Kennedy to explore how poetry became a tool for healing after prostate and colon cancer. Together, they unpack the power of storytelling, the challenges of queer survival during the AIDS crisis, and the urgency of preserving LGBTQ+ histories. From laughter about fidu…

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Houston PetSet Fierce & Fabulous Le Brunch With Tena Faust 30:53

13d ago30:53

30:53

What should an organization consider when considering a format change for an annual gala or signature fundraising event? In today's episode, I talk with Tena Faust, Board Co-President of Houston PetSet to talk about the upcoming Fierce & Fabulous Le Brunch. One of Houston's most beloved and successful annual signature fundraising events for many ye…

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A Story of Queer Family, Reinvention & Radical Love – Brian and Brandon Gorman 37:50

18d ago37:50

37:50

What do you get when a 63-year-old gay man becomes the adoptive father of a homeless 21-year-old gay teen? You get a story that redefines family, masculinity, and what it means to show the hell up for someone. In this episode, I sit down with Brian Gorman—maverick coach, neuroscience nerd, and proud single dad—to talk about the unexpected journey t…

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Round Top Film Festival Gala With Shanna Schanen And Shonnery Pettit 39:27

21d ago39:27

39:27

How does an organization build on the success of a highly successful first-year gala? In today's episode, I talk with Shanna Schanen, Co-Founder of the Round Top Film Festival, and Round Top Film Festival Board Member Shonnery Pettit to talk about the second annual Round Top Film Festival Gala. The smallest incorporated town in Texas, with approxim…

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Why Gay Men Struggle with “No”: Rejection, Control & the Path Back to Embodiment – JoJo Bear 57:03

24d ago57:03

57:03

Why is hearing “no” so hard for gay men? Why does rejection cut so deep—and why do we sometimes choose control over connection? In this powerful and revealing episode, somatic guide and sacred intimate JoJo Bear joins us to explore how gay men navigate fear of rejection, touch deprivation, aging, and the need for control in a world that taught us w…

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State Fair Of Texas® With Karissa Condoianis 39:25

27d ago39:25

39:25

How can an organization host multiple signature fundraising events throughout the year that engage various segments of its donor community? Today, I talk with Karissa Condoianis, Senior Vice President of Public Relations for the State Fair of Texas® to talk about the upcoming Texas State Fair and other signature fundraising events the organization …

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Party of 3: Love, Lust, and Throuple Realness with Christopher Rice – C. Travis Rice 39:04

1M ago39:04

39:04

Author Christopher Rice (aka C. Travis Rice) talks about his newest steamy romance Party of 3—and the real-life complexities behind the fantasy. From open relationships to throuples, they dive deep into poly dynamics, personal authenticity, post-sex separation cues, and why queer relationships don’t need to fit straight molds. Whether you’re monoga…

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Creating Successful Events With All Budgets And Sizes With Mia Sims 41:29

1M ago41:29

41:29

How does an organization successfully work with an event producer regardless of the size of your budget? Today, I talk with Mia Sims, Founder of Mia the Event Diva and event producer for many notable events of all sizes in and around Central and North Texas. Over the years, Mia has been a go-to event producer for everything from organizations hosti…

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Rope, Ritual & Erotic Expression In A Chaotic world: A Conversation with Court Vox 44:45

1M ago44:45

44:45

In this powerful and vulnerable episode I sit down with somatic sex educator and retreat leader Court Vox for an unfiltered conversation on reclaiming erotic truth, surrender, and personal power—especially as gay men navigating a heavy, noisy world. We dive into: Why rope work is more than kink—it’s about presence, trust, and release How global unr…

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4ATX Foundation's A Night In Verde Gala With Kaitlin Mauro 35:02

1M ago35:02

35:02

What are the keys to creating a successful foundation arm for your organization that allows you to create a broad impact on the community it serves? Today, I talk with Kaitlin Mauro, Executive Director of the 4ATX Foundation to talk about the organization's signature fundraising event, the A Night In Verde Gala. Celebrating its 5th year, the A Nigh…

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Coming Out Later in Life: The Power, The Pain, and The Freedom – Mark Dembo 37:57

2M ago37:57

37:57

What happens when two grown men finally stop pretending and start living as their fully authentic selves? In this powerful episode, Rick Clemons sits down with Mark Dembo to talk about coming out later in life, the messy beauty of self-discovery, and the liberating (and terrifying) freedom that comes with being unapologetically you. They cover: Gui…

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2025 Houston Cattle Baron's Ball With Jenny Todd 36:30

2M ago36:30

36:30

How does an organization host a successful kickoff party to keep guests excited about...and sets the tone for your upcoming gala or signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Jenny Todd, Vice President at the American Cancer Society to talk about one of their upcoming signature fundraising events: The 2025 Houston Cattle Baron's Ball. The Amer…

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App Fatigue, Real Connection & Becoming Your Own Damn Matchmaker – with Tammy Shaklee 44:58

2M ago44:58

44:58

Tired of swiping? You’re not alone. Tammy Shaklee—LGBTQ relationship expert and founder of H4M Matchmaking—is here to say what most of us already know: app fatigue is real, and no one’s finding true love buried in DMs and torso pics. In this episode, Tammy and I talk about how real, lasting connection happens offline—and how you can start being you…

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Imagine A Way Gala With Sarah Gilbreath 42:10

2M ago42:10

42:10

What are the keys to getting your board fully engaged in an annual gala or signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Sarah Gilbreath, Central Texas Board Chair for Imagine A Way, to talk about their upcoming annual Imagine A Way Gala: Mad Money for A Mission. Imagine A Way provides critical services for families who have children living with …

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The Weight of Shame: Gay, Latinx, and Finding Your Way Back to Yourself – Lucas Saiter 40:43

2M ago40:43

40:43

Why is it still so hard to just be in your own skin when you’re a gay Latinx man? From religious guilt to macho pressure, the layers of shame and silence can run deep. In this episode, therapist and NYU instructor Lucas Saiter joins us to unpack the mental health challenges gay Latinx men face—and how we can finally stop carrying everyone else's ex…

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Using Event Software To Elevate The Guest Event Experience With Leya Simmons 38:42

2M ago38:42

38:42

How can an organization effectively utilize event software to elevate the experience for your event guests? In today's episode, I talk with Co-Founder and CEO of BetterUnite, Leya Simmons to talk about how event software is a core, critical component to any successful event. Since its founding in 2017, BetterUnite "helps the helpers" in taking thei…

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How to Navigate A World Bent On Not Talking To Each Other – David Grasso 33:39

2M ago33:39

33:39

The world has become galvanized, polarized, and hell bent on not talking and seeing each other. You're either on my side or out...even in our own LGBTQ+ Community. So how do we find center, find each other, and let each other be the gay men we are, without throwing each other under the bus of hate? David Grass, journalist and television commentator…

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Creating An Effective Event Promotion Strategy With Henry Yau 38:24

2M ago38:24

38:24

What are the keys to creating an effective media and promotion strategy for your event? In today's episode, I talk Vice President of Public Relations for Children's Museum Houston, Henry Yau. Hosting over 90 events per year ranging from community family events, to million-dollar black-tie galas, Henry and Children's Museum Houston are the gold stan…

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Your Gay Psyche is a Temple Where Your Super Comes Alive – Cory Schneider 38:53

2M ago38:53

38:53

What if your anxiety wasn’t something broken—but an invitation? In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Cory Schneider (LMFT, SPHR, CDE), a queer therapist and leadership coach who brings serious depth to the conversation around identity, mental health, and healing. We talk about how we’re living in an anxiety generation—where everything from…

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How Event Catering Elevates The Guest Event Experience With Cameron Lockley 37:29

3M ago37:29

37:29

What are the keys to creating a menu for a gala or signature fundraising event that is both delicious and cost-effective? In today's episode, I talk with one of Texas's top event caterers, Cameron Lockley, Founder of Flavor Hospitality Group. Over the past several years, this top Austin restaurateur has expanded his offerings to include event cater…

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Sashaying Away From Shame This Pride Season – Adam MacLean 47:49

3M ago47:49

47:49

Shame is that pebble in the shoe that many of us as gay men just can't seem to get away from. Whether its religious shaming, masculinity shame, or simply the shame of "being gay," there is nothing sacred about owning shame. It's time to uncover the shame of our past, deal with it in our present, and not allow it to leak into our future. Sacred inti…

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The Art Of Signature Cocktails Kara Newman Author Of The Cocktail Cabinet 34:22

3M ago34:22

34:22

What are the keys to creating a great signature cocktails that help you set the tone for your event? In today's episode, special guest co-host Lance Avery Morgan and I talk with Kara Newman, Spirits Editor for Wine Enthusiast and author of The Cocktail Cabinet. The Cocktail Cabinet features two different books: one about gin, the other about whiske…

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Pride, Power & the Politics of Showing Up: A Conversation with Brad Pritchett – Equality Texas 35:26

3M ago35:26

35:26

As Pride 2025 is upon us, what are we really celebrating—and what are we resisting? In this urgent, unflinching episode, Brad Pritchett (he/him), Interim CEO of Equality Texas, joins us to unpack how Pride must return to its roots as a community-centered movement, not a corporate spectacle. We dive deep into what the political right is really afrai…

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Capturing The Essence Of Your Event Through Photography With Tamytha Cameron And Celeste Cass 48:29

3M ago48:29

48:29

How does a great event photographer an essential part of any successful gala or signature fundraising event? They serve as the eyes of the event. In today's episode, I talk with two of the very best event photographers in Texas, Tamytha Cameron and Celeste Cass. For many years, this mother-daughter duo has photographed just about every high-profile…

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How to Embrace Queer Joy This Pride Season – Damian Pelliccione (They/Them) 44:19

3M ago44:19

44:19

What exactly is Queer Joy? How do you create it? And where can we, as gay men, unleash its power to make the biggest impact? I’m sitting down with Revry TV Co-Founder and CEO Damian Pelliccione (They/Them), who knows a thing or two about it—after all, their unapologetic Queer Joy helped land them on Goldman Sachs’ Top 100 Most Intriguing Entreprene…

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The Art Of Dynamic And Dazzling Auctions With Bobby D. Ehlert 36:55

3M ago36:55

36:55

What are the keys to creating a dynamic, dazzling live auction that both raises a lot of money and has guests talking about your gala...and auction long after your event has ended? In today's episode, I talk with one of the very best auctioneers in the business, Bobby D. Ehlert, Co-Founder & Chief Inspiration Officer of Inspire Hearts Fundraising. …

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Taking PRIDE in our Mental Health – Will Dempsey 48:30

3M ago48:30

48:30

Pride season is supposed to be all glitter, joy, and celebration—but for many, it can bring up waves of anxiety, loneliness, and even depression. So how do you keep your spirit lifted when everyone else seems to be riding rainbows, and you’re just trying to stay afloat? In this powerful and heart-centered episode, we’re joined by the fabulous Will …

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Mack, Jack & McConaughey And Dell Children's Partnership With Jennifer Stevens and Susan Hewlitt 36:06

3M ago36:06

36:06

What are the keys to creating a strong partnership between philanthropic organizations and beneficiaries to maximize impact in the communities they serve? There are no two better people to discuss this topic than today's guests: Jennifer Stevens, event producer for Mack, Jack, and McConaughey and Susan Hewlett, the Executive Director for the Dell C…

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Reimagining Mental Health for Gay, CIS and Trans Queer Men – Rahim Thawer 44:23

4M ago44:23

44:23

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Rahim Thawer (he/him)—psychotherapist, educator, and queer Muslim thought leader—joins us to unpack what sets queer men apart from our straight counterparts. From anticipating rejection in dating and navigating body image pressures, to managing our sexual health with a unique blend of hypervigilance and…

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Houston Children's Charity Chariots For Children With Laura Ward 32:11

4M ago32:11

32:11

How does an organization effectively showcase how the funds raised from a signature fundraising event benefit the community they serve? In this episode, I talk with Laura Ward, Founder, President & CEO of Houston Children's Charity to discuss the organization's upcoming Chariots for Children event. For nearly 30 years, Houston Children's Charity ha…

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What does it really mean to be Queer and Christian? – Brandan Robertson 48:02

4M ago48:02

48:02

Today the word "Christian" is polarizing. In fact for many it conjures up words like hate, nationalism, evil, fear. WOW...it should not. Then couple that word with Queer, and you might as well be burned at the stake! Let's not do that. Instead, let's invite Queer Christians to the table to embrace their love of goad and faith, and invite others who…

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ReuNight For The Family Place With Jess Bass Bolander, Melissa Keeling, And Holly Krug 36:18

4M ago36:18

36:18

How does having a strong event committee help event chairs successfully execute their vision for a gala or signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Holly Krug, Board Development Chair for The Family Place, and Jess Bass Bolander, and Melissa Keeling, co-chairs of ReuNight one of the organization's signature fundraising events. Featuring one …

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The Trouble With Throuples – Jeff Hudson 40:51

4M ago40:51

40:51

Maybe you find yourself bored in your couple. Then you decide playing together with another guy could be fun...and it is. Then you decide that maybe having another guy in the middle (so to speak) on a permanent basis will make your relationship thrive (so to speak). And then it doesn't! Helping us explore this whole concept of the Throuple live, is…

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House Of DIFFA With Jacob Samson and Payton Martin 40:19

4M ago40:19

40:19

What are the keys to hosting a successful fashion and runway show at your gala or signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Jacob Samson and Payton Martin, co-chairs of DIFFA Dallas' signature fundraising event House of DIFFA 2025: Dreamstate. Over the past several decades, DIFFA has consistently been one of Texas' most anticipated, successfu…

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Navigating Breakups and Toxic Relationships as A Gay Man – Lonay Halloum 42:15

4M ago42:15

42:15

Navigating gay relationships isn't easy, but it can be worth it. Yet, for most gay men, that 1st breakup can be a doozy and waht we often don't realized is where that pain is rooted...it's not where you think. Shedding light on how to overcome trauma, is RTT Therapy specialist, Lonay Halloum, who guides us to explore a powerful therapy technique fo…

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Conspirare Hidden Music With Craig Hella Johnson 49:02

4M ago49:02

49:02

How can an arts organization consistently attract top talent and inspire top donors at their annual gala or signature fundraising event? In this episode, I talk with Craig Hella Johnson, Founder & Artistic Director of the multi-GRAMMY AWARD®-winning ensemble Conspirare, to discuss their signature fundraising event, Hidden Music. For over 30 years, …

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Why Staying In Your Hetero Marriage As A Gay Man Can Work – Wayne Scott 39:44

5M ago39:44

39:44

Relationships are messy - gay or straight! So what happens when you have that candid conversation with your spouse, letting her know that your biseuxal, but you mutually decide that for the betterment of each other, your family, and your future to have a non-monogamous open marriage? What could go wrong? What could go right? Today's guest, and debu…

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Equest Blue Ribbon Gala With James and Kristin Hallam & Eric Lindh 42:56

5M ago42:56

42:56

What are the keys getting prominent philanthropists in your community to say yes? Today, I talk with Eric Lindh, CEO of Equest & James and Kristin Hallam, co-chairs of the organization's signature fundraising event, the Blue Ribbon Gala. Equest provides equine therapy for individuals aged two and over to help them cope with physical, mental, and em…

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How To Make Money Your Gay Best Friend (MGBF) – David Lester 53:22

5M ago53:22

53:22

Financial uncertainty in 2025? Don’t panic—David Lester, TV money expert, coach, and author, is here to help! Known as "Your Money Gay Best Friend" (MGBF), David dishes out tough love, smart money moves, and a little fabulous flair to get your finances in check. Key lessons you'll learn: How to build a rock-solid money mindset Smart strategies for …

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The Broach Foundation Stand Up For Brain Cancer Gala With Jamie Broach And Deanna Kotrla 51:59

5M ago51:59

51:59

What are the keys to success in starting a foundation that honors a departed loved one? Today, I talk with Jamie Broach Byrd, Founder of The Broach Foundation For Brain Cancer Research and Deanna Kotrla, Executive Director of the organization to talk about the 13th annual Stand Up For Brain Cancer Gala. The Broach Foundation was started in honor of…

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Discovering The Connection to My Inner Erotic Self – Rick Clemons 21:40

5M ago21:40

21:40

Connection. We all yearn for it in different ways - personally, professionally, and erotically. Plus, connection in so many other ways. Yet what happened for me over a 4-day Connect Retreat with Court Vox - Certified Intimacy and Sex coach, was surprising, intriguing, scary, exiting, and led me places I never would have imagined - in all areas of m…

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Performing Arts Houston Kaleidoscope Ball With Jordan Drum 37:18

5M ago37:18

37:18

How does an organization create fun, inventive themes that creates a loyal following for an annual signature fundraising event? Today, I talk with Performing Arts Houston Director of Development Jordan Drum to talk about the organization's annual signature fundraising event, The Kaleidoscope Ball: Rhapsody in Blue. For nearly 60 years, Performing A…

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How to step into the color of your life - Corey Powell 34:58

5M ago34:58

34:58

COVID changed everything—our priorities, our beliefs, and the way we see ourselves. For celebrity hair colorist Corey Powell, it sparked a deeper calling: to help others in the LGBTQ+ community break free from the stories holding them back. After years of coaching clients from his salon chair, Corey took the leap to become a life coach, guiding the…

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HeartGift Gala With Christy Casey-Moore And Kristi Jones 50:43

5M ago50:43

50:43

How does an organization be a part of two highly successful signature fundraising events that are within a few weeks of one another? Today, I talk with HeartGift CEO Christy Casey-Moore and Vice President of Marketing and Fund Development, Kristi Jones to talk about their annual signature fundraising event, the HeartGift Gala. HeartGift provides li…

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Children's Cancer Fund Gala With Jennifer Arthur And Shannon McGough 34:33

6M ago34:33

34:33

How does an organization effectively evolve its signature fundraising event so it remains a must-attend event year after year? Today, I talk with Jennifer Arthur, CEO of the Children's Cancer Fund and Children's Cancer Fund Board Member Shannon McGough to talk about the Children's Cancer Fund 35th Anniversary Gala. Over the past 35 years, the Child…

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The Law of Zero For Gay Men – Chad Michael Hardy 47:38

6M ago47:38

47:38

Life feeling a little too much lately? You’re not alone. But what if you could hit reset and find your calm—no matter what’s happening around you? Even if that means you relinquish your family upbringing, get ex-communicated from your church, and finally start living your truth as a gay man, as you always meant to be. Enter Chad Michael Hardy, auth…

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Safe Ways To Travel and See The Planet as a Gay Man – Lindsey Danis 43:42

6M ago43:42

43:42

We all love a good adventure, but let’s be real—traveling as a gay man isn’t just about picking a destination; it’s about finding places where you can truly feel safe, seen, and celebrated. So, where in the world can you be your fabulous, free self without worry? This week, I’m joined by LGBTQ+ travel expert & Queer Adventurers founder, who’s here …

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Junior League Of Dallas Milestones Luncheon With Tandra Allen And Lauren Combest 39:00

6M ago39:00

39:00

How does an organization effectively host a signature fundraising event that draws top professionals during the workday? Today, I talk with Tandra Allen, President of the Junior League Of Dallas, and Lauren Combest, co-chair for the organizations signature fundraising event, The Milestones Luncheon. Over the past 103 years, the Junior League of Dal…