Episodios

  • #085 KJ Akay: The Fruits of Victory & Post-War Barnsley Story
    Apr 11 2026

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    📚 CTA: Know someone who loves memoirs or history? Share this episode with them.

    KJ Akay joins IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ to discuss her Amazon best-selling memoir The Fruits of Victory, capturing life in post-war Barnsley and the importance of preserving generational stories.

    Amazon Books: The Fruits of Victory, KJ Akay

    Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor

    KJ Akay, born Jennifer Wragg, is an 80-year-old author from Barnsley, England, and the writer of the Amazon best-selling memoir The Fruits of Victory: An Autobiography of a Childhood in Barnsley 1945–62.

    Her book captures life in a post-World War II northern mining town, offering a vivid, often humorous look at childhood, family, and resilience during a time of rebuilding. Through deeply personal storytelling, KJ Akay brings to life the everyday experiences that shaped a generation growing up in working-class Britain.

    The Fruits of Victory is more than a memoir—it is a preservation of history, culture, and identity through lived experience. Her writing resonates with readers interested in memoirs, British history, post-war life, and generational storytelling.

    On the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, KJ Akay shares her journey as an author, the importance of documenting personal history, and how storytelling connects generations—reminding us that every life holds a meaningful story worth sharing.


    Greg A Jankowski, CPT NASM
    thebalanceprofessor@gmail.com
    GUESTS WANTED!
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/greg.imgn.jankowski/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/balanceprofessor/
    website: www.thebalanceprofessor.com

    IM​AG​iN​E FITTING IN™ Podcast Creator/Host
    Apple:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagine-fitting-in/id1758995032
    Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/show/2aXLHvRK8mE2kSroXaUyHZ?si=XNtZ0ksdRm22hVn2Jn88qQ&preview=coverart
    Video YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@IMAGiNEFiTTiNGIN

    🎙️ IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast – Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski, The Balance Professor
    Greg Alan Jankowski is the creator and host of IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™, a podcast born from personal loss and a powerful mission: to inspire mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship. Fueled by the memory of his late nephew Eion Roger Jankowski, Greg shares stories of transformation, resilience, and belonging—offering a space where guests of all ages explore what it truly means to “fit in” while staying authentic to their own vision.

    Welcome to the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, where mentorship, creativity, wellness, and purpose come together to inspire the next generation. Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor, this show explores powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and human potential from athletes...

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    58 m
  • #084 Diane Gagel: Genealogy, Family History & Ohio Heritage
    Apr 5 2026

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    📜 CTA: Know someone researching their family roots? Share this episode with them.

    Diane Gagel joins IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ to discuss genealogy, ancestry research, and preserving Ohio’s rich local history and family traditions.

    Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor

    Diane Gagel is a historian and genealogy researcher based in Maria Stein, Ohio, dedicated to preserving the stories, heritage, and cultural roots of families and communities across the region.

    Through her work in genealogy and local history, Diane helps individuals uncover their family lineage while connecting personal identity to broader historical narratives. Her efforts highlight the importance of remembering where we come from—ensuring that stories, traditions, and values are not lost across generations.

    Her connection to local families and historical figures, including ties to the Gagel and Goettemoeller families, reflects the deep-rooted cultural fabric of western Ohio’s heritage communities. Her work supports a growing appreciation for ancestry, storytelling, and the role of history in shaping identity.

    On the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, Diane shares insights into genealogy, historical preservation, and why understanding family history can strengthen connection, belonging, and purpose—especially for younger generations seeking identity and meaning.

    Greg A Jankowski, CPT NASM
    thebalanceprofessor@gmail.com
    GUESTS WANTED!
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/greg.imgn.jankowski/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/balanceprofessor/
    website: www.thebalanceprofessor.com

    IM​AG​iN​E FITTING IN™ Podcast Creator/Host
    Apple:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagine-fitting-in/id1758995032
    Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/show/2aXLHvRK8mE2kSroXaUyHZ?si=XNtZ0ksdRm22hVn2Jn88qQ&preview=coverart
    Video YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@IMAGiNEFiTTiNGIN

    🎙️ IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast – Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski, The Balance Professor
    Greg Alan Jankowski is the creator and host of IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™, a podcast born from personal loss and a powerful mission: to inspire mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship. Fueled by the memory of his late nephew Eion Roger Jankowski, Greg shares stories of transformation, resilience, and belonging—offering a space where guests of all ages explore what it truly means to “fit in” while staying authentic to their own vision.

    Welcome to the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, where mentorship, creativity, wellness, and purpose come together to inspire the next generation. Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor, this show explores powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and human potential from athletes...

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    1 h y 17 m
  • #083 Tony Houston: Dayton Blues Guitarist & The Primetime Blues Band
    Mar 8 2026

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    Tony Houston, Primetime Blues Band, Dayton Ohio blues, blues guitar interview, American blues music, blues band leader, Ohio music scene

    Know someone who loves blues music or live guitar? Share this episode with them.

    Tony Houston joins IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ to discuss his life in blues music—from picking up a guitar in 1972 to leading Dayton’s Primetime Blues Band today. Tony reflects on the power of music, mentorship, and keeping blues traditions alive for new generations.

    Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor

    IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast Guest Bio — Tony Houston

    Tony Houston is a Dayton, Ohio musician, bandleader, and lifelong blues guitarist who has spent decades keeping the spirit of American blues alive through live performance and mentorship.

    Born in Dayton in 1950, he grew up in a large family with four brothers and one sister, eventually raising three children and becoming a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. His musical journey began in 1972 when he picked up the guitar and discovered a lifelong passion for the blues.

    By 1974 he had formed his first band, launching a career performing throughout the region and becoming part of Dayton’s rich local music culture. Today Tony serves as the bandleader of The Primetime Blues Band, bringing classic blues sound, storytelling, and community connection to audiences across Ohio.

    Resilience, creativity, and community Tony's life in music demonstrates how the arts can connect generations and inspire young people to discover their voice.

    houstontony95@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/tony.houston2

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thouston0


    Greg A Jankowski, CPT NASM
    thebalanceprofessor@gmail.com
    GUESTS WANTED!
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/greg.imgn.jankowski/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/balanceprofessor/
    website: www.thebalanceprofessor.com

    IM​AG​iN​E FITTING IN™ Podcast Creator/Host
    Apple:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagine-fitting-in/id1758995032
    Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/show/2aXLHvRK8mE2kSroXaUyHZ?si=XNtZ0ksdRm22hVn2Jn88qQ&preview=coverart
    Video YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@IMAGiNEFiTTiNGIN

    🎙️ IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast – Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski, The Balance Professor
    Greg Alan Jankowski is the creator and host of IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™, a podcast born from personal loss and a powerful mission: to inspire mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship. Fueled by the memory of his late nephew Eion Roger Jankowski, Greg shares stories of transformation, resilience, and belonging—offering a space where guests of all ages explore what it truly means to “fit in” while staying authentic to their own vision.

    Welcome to the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, where mentorship, creativity, wellness, and purpose come together to inspire the next generation. Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor, this show explores powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and human potential from athletes...

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    1 h y 23 m
  • #082 Eddie Brett: From Fame to Recovery, Faith & Honest Music
    Feb 22 2026

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    🎧 CTA: Share this episode with anyone rebuilding after addiction, loss, or identity struggles.

    Eddie Brett joins the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast to share his journey from Britain’s Got Talent fame to sobriety, faith, and a renewed creative purpose. Eddie speaks openly about addiction, recovery, and his upcoming album Common Kalos, offering hope and honesty for listeners navigating life after the spotlight fades.

    🎧 Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor • Founder of JANART LLC and the BACE Program

    eddie@cockneypirate.com
    Find Eddie's Music Apple, Spotify and Youtube Music
    Loveable Rogues and Eddie Brett latest Solo Album "Common Kalos"

    Greg A Jankowski, CPT NASM
    thebalanceprofessor@gmail.com
    GUESTS WANTED!
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/greg.imgn.jankowski/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/balanceprofessor/
    website: www.thebalanceprofessor.com

    IM​AG​iN​E FITTING IN™ Podcast Creator/Host
    Apple:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagine-fitting-in/id1758995032
    Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/show/2aXLHvRK8mE2kSroXaUyHZ?si=XNtZ0ksdRm22hVn2Jn88qQ&preview=coverart
    Video YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@IMAGiNEFiTTiNGIN

    🎙️ IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast – Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski, The Balance Professor
    Greg Alan Jankowski is the creator and host of IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™, a podcast born from personal loss and a powerful mission: to inspire mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship. Fueled by the memory of his late nephew Eion Roger Jankowski, Greg shares stories of transformation, resilience, and belonging—offering a space where guests of all ages explore what it truly means to “fit in” while staying authentic to their own vision.

    Welcome to the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, where mentorship, creativity, wellness, and purpose come together to inspire the next generation. Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor, this show explores powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and human potential from athletes...

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    1 h y 21 m
  • #081 Dale Gottemoeller: Community Voices & Small-Town Values
    Feb 15 2026

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    🏡 CTA: Share this episode with students and families who value community and connection.

    Dale Gottemoeller from the Maria Stein, Ohio area joins the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast to discuss local perspectives, community responsibility, and the importance of listening to everyday voices. This episode offers thoughtful insight into how belonging and mentorship begin at the community level.

    🎧 Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor • Founder of JANART LLC and the BACE Program

    Greg A Jankowski, CPT NASM
    thebalanceprofessor@gmail.com
    GUESTS WANTED!
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/greg.imgn.jankowski/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/balanceprofessor/
    website: www.thebalanceprofessor.com

    IM​AG​iN​E FITTING IN™ Podcast Creator/Host
    Apple:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagine-fitting-in/id1758995032
    Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/show/2aXLHvRK8mE2kSroXaUyHZ?si=XNtZ0ksdRm22hVn2Jn88qQ&preview=coverart
    Video YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@IMAGiNEFiTTiNGIN

    🎙️ IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast – Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski, The Balance Professor
    Greg Alan Jankowski is the creator and host of IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™, a podcast born from personal loss and a powerful mission: to inspire mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship. Fueled by the memory of his late nephew Eion Roger Jankowski, Greg shares stories of transformation, resilience, and belonging—offering a space where guests of all ages explore what it truly means to “fit in” while staying authentic to their own vision.

    Welcome to the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, where mentorship, creativity, wellness, and purpose come together to inspire the next generation. Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor, this show explores powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and human potential from athletes...

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    1 h y 24 m
  • #080 Doug Garner: Adaptive Sports, Coaching & Creating Belonging Episode
    Jan 18 2026

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    🏀 CTA: Share this episode with coaches, educators, and families supporting athletes with disabilities.

    Doug Garner joins the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast to discuss adaptive sports, wheelchair basketball, talent development, and the power of inclusion. Drawing from decades of coaching, education, and lived experience, Doug explains how sport can meet physical, psychological, and social needs—when access and mentorship are present.

    🎧 Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor • Founder of JANART LLC and the BACE Program

    Doug Garner is a former Head Coach and Adapted Sports Director at the University of Texas at Arlington, an educator, author, and nationally recognized leader in wheelchair basketball and adaptive sport development. With undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Sociology, a Master’s in Behavioral Science, and a Master’s in Education, Doug’s career has always centered on talent identification, athlete development, and helping every individual reach their potential.

    Doug’s work in adaptive sports is deeply personal. His eldest son, born in 1986 with Spina Bifida, grew up in an era before the ADA, before accessible programming, and before the internet provided resources. Faced with limited options, Doug became creative—introducing his son to endurance sports such as road racing, swimming, triathlon, and eventually the California Ironman, which his son completed in 2023.

    Doug’s collegiate coaching career includes four Intercollegiate Championships, an ITA National Championship, and the development of athletes competing professionally and on national teams worldwide. He also helped establish a Women’s Wheelchair Basketball program at UT Arlington. Today, Doug continues his mission through books, training videos, and online education, supporting parents, teachers, coaches, and medical professionals working with athletes with physical disabilities.

    📇 Contact & Links

    📧 Email: Dgarner7191@aol.com

    🌐 Website: http://www.speed-training-for-wheelchair-basketball.net

    Greg A Jankowski, CPT NASM
    thebalanceprofessor@gmail.com
    GUESTS WANTED!
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/greg.imgn.jankowski/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/balanceprofessor/
    website: www.thebalanceprofessor.com

    IM​AG​iN​E FITTING IN™ Podcast Creator/Host
    Apple:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagine-fitting-in/id1758995032
    Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/show/2aXLHvRK8mE2kSroXaUyHZ?si=XNtZ0ksdRm22hVn2Jn88qQ&preview=coverart
    Video YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@IMAGiNEFiTTiNGIN

    🎙️ IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast – Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski, The Balance Professor
    Greg Alan Jankowski is the creator and host of IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™, a podcast born from personal loss and a powerful mission: to inspire mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship. Fueled by the memory of his late nephew Eion Roger Jankowski, Greg shares stories of transformation, resilience, and belonging—offering a space where guests of all ages explore what it truly means to “fit in” while staying authentic to their own vision.

    Welcome to the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, where mentorship, creativity, wellness, and purpose come together to inspire the next generation. Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor, this show explores powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and human potential from athletes...

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    27 m
  • #079 Brett Bogan: Sustainability, Youth Action & Building a Waste-Free Dayton
    Jan 11 2026

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    ♻️ CTA: Share this episode with students and community leaders ready to protect their city.

    Brett Bogan, Executive Director of Waste-Free Dayton, joins the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast to discuss sustainability, composting, litter reduction, and how community action creates lasting environmental impact. Brett explains why youth engagement and mentorship are essential to building cleaner, healthier neighborhoods.

    🎧 Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor • Founder of JANART LLC and the BACE Program

    Brett Bogan is the Executive Director of Waste-Free Dayton, a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to sustainability, environmental education, and community action in Dayton, Ohio. A lifelong resident of the Miami Valley, Brett lives in Troy with his wife Laura, their son Adrian, and a lively household of pets.

    Professionally, Brett spent 25 years with LexisNexis and RELX, specializing in data protection and information security for nearly two decades. His background in systems thinking, risk management, and organizational leadership now fuels his mission-driven work in environmental stewardship.

    At Waste-Free Dayton, Brett leads initiatives that promote sustainable living, including monthly community litter cleanups and the operation of two compost drop-off stations serving Dayton residents. His work emphasizes practical solutions, civic engagement, and empowering people—especially young people—to care for their city and planet.

    On the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, Brett shares how sustainability intersects with mentorship, community pride, and everyday choices that shape healthier futures.

    📇 Contact & Links

    🌐 Website: https://www.wastefreedayton.org

    📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WasteFreeDayton

    📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wastefreedayton

    ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WasteFreeDayton

    Greg A Jankowski, CPT NASM
    thebalanceprofessor@gmail.com
    GUESTS WANTED!
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/greg.imgn.jankowski/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/balanceprofessor/
    website: www.thebalanceprofessor.com

    IM​AG​iN​E FITTING IN™ Podcast Creator/Host
    Apple:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagine-fitting-in/id1758995032
    Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/show/2aXLHvRK8mE2kSroXaUyHZ?si=XNtZ0ksdRm22hVn2Jn88qQ&preview=coverart
    Video YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@IMAGiNEFiTTiNGIN

    🎙️ IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast – Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski, The Balance Professor
    Greg Alan Jankowski is the creator and host of IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™, a podcast born from personal loss and a powerful mission: to inspire mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship. Fueled by the memory of his late nephew Eion Roger Jankowski, Greg shares stories of transformation, resilience, and belonging—offering a space where guests of all ages explore what it truly means to “fit in” while staying authentic to their own vision.

    Welcome to the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, where mentorship, creativity, wellness, and purpose come together to inspire the next generation. Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor, this show explores powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and human potential from athletes...

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    48 m
  • #078 Gregory DeGroat | Art, Design & Creative Purpose | IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN Podcast
    Jan 4 2026

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    🎨 CTA: If you’re a young artist, student, or creative wondering how to turn passion into purpose, this episode is for you.

    On this episode of the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, host Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor – welcomes Gregory DeGroat, Dayton-based fine artist, illustrator, and graphic designer.

    Gregory shares his journey from music and labor to professional art and design, discussing mentorship, creative resilience, and the importance of trusting your artistic voice. His story offers powerful lessons for 14–22 year olds, parents, teachers, and anyone navigating a creative path.

    🎧 Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor • Founder of JANART LLC and the BACE Program
    📺 Watch & Subscribe → https://www.youtube.com/@ImagineFittingInPodcast

    Gregory DeGroat is a retired fine artist, licensed artist, graphic designer, and illustrator from Dayton, Ohio, and the founder of DeGroat Art and Design. Born in Springfield, Ohio, Gregory grew up in an intensely creative household. His father was an Air Force illustrator and multi-disciplinary artist, while his mother and siblings nurtured music, harmony, and visual expression.

    Although Gregory initially pursued music—singing in gospel groups, choirs, and fronting bands—his artistic path shifted decisively while working physically demanding railroad labor. That moment sparked a lifelong commitment to visual storytelling and design.

    Gregory earned an Associate’s degree in Commercial Art and began a successful career with the Dayton Daily News, working across marketing, advertising, and editorial art departments. Today, he focuses on freelance graphic design and fine art, driven by a passion for solving creative problems and producing meaningful, functional artwork for reproduction and exhibition.

    His journey speaks directly to young artists navigating identity, purpose, and creative persistence—proof that art, adaptability, and self-belief can shape a lifelong career.

    📧 Email: gregorydegroat@yahoo.com
    🌐 Website: https://gregorydegroatartanddesign.artcall.org/
    📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/I.am.watercolor
    📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i.am.watercolor/
    🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gdegroat

    Greg A Jankowski, CPT NASM
    thebalanceprofessor@gmail.com
    GUESTS WANTED!
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/greg.imgn.jankowski/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/balanceprofessor/
    website: www.thebalanceprofessor.com

    IM​AG​iN​E FITTING IN™ Podcast Creator/Host
    Apple:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagine-fitting-in/id1758995032
    Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/show/2aXLHvRK8mE2kSroXaUyHZ?si=XNtZ0ksdRm22hVn2Jn88qQ&preview=coverart
    Video YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@IMAGiNEFiTTiNGIN

    🎙️ IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast – Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski, The Balance Professor
    Greg Alan Jankowski is the creator and host of IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™, a podcast born from personal loss and a powerful mission: to inspire mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship. Fueled by the memory of his late nephew Eion Roger Jankowski, Greg shares stories of transformation, resilience, and belonging—offering a space where guests of all ages explore what it truly means to “fit in” while staying authentic to their own vision.

    Welcome to the IMAGiNE FiTTiNG IN™ Podcast, where mentorship, creativity, wellness, and purpose come together to inspire the next generation. Hosted by Greg Alan Jankowski – The Balance Professor, this show explores powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and human potential from athletes...

    Más Menos
    1 h y 26 m