<![CDATA[Wit or Wit-Out]]>Our Ode to Philadelphia told one story at a time. We interview Interesting Philadelphia area people with intriguing stories. We have a wide array of interest and it will show in our guests.

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 28 May 2026 05:46:41 GMTMon, 23 Mar 2026 17:25:45 GMT60Dennis Valerino<p>Our Ode to Philadelphia told one story at a time. We interview Interesting Philadelphia area people with intriguing stories. We have a wide array of interest and it will show in our guests.</p>episodicDennis Valerinodslack3@me.comyes<![CDATA[Wit or Wit-Out Episode 8 Vince DiPasquale]]>The conversation delves into Vince Di Pasqual's personal and professional journey, covering his family background, upbringing in Camden, experience in the seminary, work as a priest, and the founding of Starting Point. It explores themes of family, spirituality, community impact, challenges, and personal transformation. The conversation with Vince D. Pisquel covers his diverse career journey, the impact of Starting Point, and his passion for baseball and the Yankees. It delves into the beginnings of Starting Point in New Jersey, his transition away from the priesthood, the growth and expansion of Starting Point, relocation to Haddon Township, the evolution of Starting Point's services, transition to virtual lectures, authorship and documentary, Yankee Fantasy Week experience, and the legacy and future of Starting Point.

Takeaways

  • Family and upbringing
  • Religious and spiritual journey
  • Community impact and outreach
  • Challenges and setbacks
  • Recovery and transformation Diverse Career Journey
  • Impact of Starting Point

Chapters

  • 00:00 Founding Starting Point
  • 37:50 Phasing Out the Houses
  • 43:55 Starting Point's Beginnings in New Jersey
  • 49:13 Growth and Expansion of Starting Point
  • 55:47 Transition to Virtual Lectures
  • 01:02:08 Yankee Fantasy Week Experience
  • 01:08:16 Legacy and Future of Starting Point
]]>d96f8b75-c307-4556-8add-09c36674d076Wed, 27 May 2026 00:38:19 GMT<p>The conversation delves into Vince Di Pasqual's personal and professional journey, covering his family background, upbringing in Camden, experience in the seminary, work as a priest, and the founding of Starting Point. It explores themes of family, spirituality, community impact, challenges, and personal transformation. The conversation with Vince D. Pisquel covers his diverse career journey, the impact of Starting Point, and his passion for baseball and the Yankees. It delves into the beginnings of Starting Point in New Jersey, his transition away from the priesthood, the growth and expansion of Starting Point, relocation to Haddon Township, the evolution of Starting Point's services, transition to virtual lectures, authorship and documentary, Yankee Fantasy Week experience, and the legacy and future of Starting Point.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Family and upbringing</li><li>Religious and spiritual journey</li><li>Community impact and outreach</li><li>Challenges and setbacks</li><li>Recovery and transformation Diverse Career Journey</li><li>Impact of Starting Point</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Founding Starting Point</li><li>37:50 Phasing Out the Houses</li><li>43:55 Starting Point's Beginnings in New Jersey</li><li>49:13 Growth and Expansion of Starting Point</li><li>55:47 Transition to Virtual Lectures</li><li>01:02:08 Yankee Fantasy Week Experience</li><li>01:08:16 Legacy and Future of Starting Point</li></ul>no01:13:0118Wit or Wit-Out Episode 8 Vince DiPasqualefull<![CDATA[Wit or Wit-Out Episode 7 Big Rube Harley]]>Rube Harley, also known as Big Rube, shares his journey from growing up in Philly to becoming a successful entrepreneur, marketer, and photographer. His story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of relationships. Big Rube's journey from athlete to cultural icon, overcoming adversity, and inspiring others through resilience and ambition. His impact on fashion, sports, and media, as well as his battle with health issues and the outpouring of support from the community.

Takeaways

  • Resilience
  • Entrepreneurship Resilience
  • Ambition

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Love for Philly
  • 05:19 Ambition and Determination
  • 11:01 Hustling and Resilience
  • 16:02 Mitchell & Ness Journey
  • 32:35 Photography and Relationships
  • 39:19 Education and Self-Discovery
  • 46:27 Fashion, Writing, and Photography
  • 55:08 The Art of Cooking and Black Americana
  • 01:00:34 Dreams and Ambitions for the Future
]]>ccd2b1d7-cb66-4e2e-b742-3de455a6c238Wed, 20 May 2026 02:35:56 GMT<p>Rube Harley, also known as Big Rube, shares his journey from growing up in Philly to becoming a successful entrepreneur, marketer, and photographer. His story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of relationships. Big Rube's journey from athlete to cultural icon, overcoming adversity, and inspiring others through resilience and ambition. His impact on fashion, sports, and media, as well as his battle with health issues and the outpouring of support from the community.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Resilience</li><li>Entrepreneurship Resilience</li><li>Ambition</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Love for Philly</li><li>05:19 Ambition and Determination</li><li>11:01 Hustling and Resilience</li><li>16:02 Mitchell &amp; Ness Journey</li><li>32:35 Photography and Relationships</li><li>39:19 Education and Self-Discovery</li><li>46:27 Fashion, Writing, and Photography</li><li>55:08 The Art of Cooking and Black Americana</li><li>01:00:34 Dreams and Ambitions for the Future</li></ul>yes01:13:5517Wit or Wit-Out Episode 7 Big Rube Harleyfull<![CDATA[Wit or Wit-Out Episode 6 Allen M Hornblum]]>The conversation covers the early life challenges and experiences of Alan M. Hornblum, his transition to college and academic struggles, his involvement in the Philadelphia prison system, his experiences and observations in the prison system, and his transition to political involvement. The conversation covers the speaker's involvement in political activism and prison reform, his investigation of human experimentation in prisons, and his writing process for 'Acres of Skin' and 'City Hall'. The conversation covers the impact of personal testimony in medical education, the forgotten story of tennis legend Bill Tilden, and the atrocities committed at Holmesburg prison. It also delves into the use of children as guinea pigs in medical experiments, shedding light on a dark chapter in history.

Takeaways

  • Early life challenges and experiences
  • Transition to college and academic struggles
  • Involvement in the Philadelphia prison system
  • Experiences and observations in the prison system
  • Transition to political involvement Prison Reform
  • Political Activism Medical experiments on children
  • The forgotten story of Bill Tilden
  • Prison atrocities at Holmesburg

Chapters

  • 00:00 Transition to Political Involvement
  • 49:28 Writing 'Acres of Skin' and Investigating Medical Experiments
  • 59:27 Writing 'City Hall' and Investigating the K & A Gang
  • 01:50:20 Prison Atrocities at Holmesburg
]]>979b8501-493d-4fd5-9d3d-aecb1092e74aWed, 13 May 2026 14:21:38 GMT<p>The conversation covers the early life challenges and experiences of Alan M. Hornblum, his transition to college and academic struggles, his involvement in the Philadelphia prison system, his experiences and observations in the prison system, and his transition to political involvement. The conversation covers the speaker's involvement in political activism and prison reform, his investigation of human experimentation in prisons, and his writing process for 'Acres of Skin' and 'City Hall'. The conversation covers the impact of personal testimony in medical education, the forgotten story of tennis legend Bill Tilden, and the atrocities committed at Holmesburg prison. It also delves into the use of children as guinea pigs in medical experiments, shedding light on a dark chapter in history.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Early life challenges and experiences</li><li>Transition to college and academic struggles</li><li>Involvement in the Philadelphia prison system</li><li>Experiences and observations in the prison system</li><li>Transition to political involvement Prison Reform</li><li>Political Activism Medical experiments on children</li><li>The forgotten story of Bill Tilden</li><li>Prison atrocities at Holmesburg</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Transition to Political Involvement</li><li>49:28 Writing 'Acres of Skin' and Investigating Medical Experiments</li><li>59:27 Writing 'City Hall' and Investigating the K &amp; A Gang</li><li>01:50:20 Prison Atrocities at Holmesburg</li></ul>no01:53:31Wit or Wit-Out Episode 6 Allen M Hornblumfull<![CDATA[Epsiode 5 Angelo Cataldi]]>The conversation delves into the passion for Philadelphia sports, the guest's early life and upbringing, the transition to sports journalism, and the challenges and successes in sports reporting. It provides insights into the unique sports culture of Philadelphia and the journey of the guest from a young sports enthusiast to a prominent sports journalist. Angelo Cataldi shares his journey from journalism to radio, the challenges he faced, and the impact of his personal and professional experiences. His transition, struggles with self-doubt, and the influence of his advisor at Columbia University are key highlights. His loyalty to Philadelphia and the impact of his work on others are also significant aspects of his story.

Takeaways

  • Passion for sports in Philadelphia
  • Early life and upbringing
  • Transition to sports journalism
  • Challenges and successes in sports reporting Work ethic
  • Persona vs. real self

Chapters

  • 00:00 Challenges and Successes in Sports Reporting
  • 43:54 Learning from John Madden
  • 49:39 Struggles with Depression and Self-Doubt
  • 55:32 Family and Personal Challenges
  • 01:00:48 Challenges and Controversies
  • 01:06:12 Loyalty to Philadelphia
  • 01:12:28 Retirement and Transition
]]>74ee9a03-c491-4177-ae22-67a92c8bb754Tue, 05 May 2026 18:48:00 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the passion for Philadelphia sports, the guest's early life and upbringing, the transition to sports journalism, and the challenges and successes in sports reporting. It provides insights into the unique sports culture of Philadelphia and the journey of the guest from a young sports enthusiast to a prominent sports journalist. Angelo Cataldi shares his journey from journalism to radio, the challenges he faced, and the impact of his personal and professional experiences. His transition, struggles with self-doubt, and the influence of his advisor at Columbia University are key highlights. His loyalty to Philadelphia and the impact of his work on others are also significant aspects of his story.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Passion for sports in Philadelphia</li><li>Early life and upbringing</li><li>Transition to sports journalism</li><li>Challenges and successes in sports reporting Work ethic</li><li>Persona vs. real self</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Challenges and Successes in Sports Reporting</li><li>43:54 Learning from John Madden</li><li>49:39 Struggles with Depression and Self-Doubt</li><li>55:32 Family and Personal Challenges</li><li>01:00:48 Challenges and Controversies</li><li>01:06:12 Loyalty to Philadelphia</li><li>01:12:28 Retirement and Transition</li></ul>no01:27:18Epsiode 5 Angelo Cataldifull<![CDATA[Episode 4 Sister Mary Scullion]]>Sister Mary Scullion shares her journey from childhood to becoming a nun and her impactful work with the homeless. The conversation delves into her family background, religious vows, and her experiences working with marginalized communities, providing valuable insights into her life and mission. The conversation delves into the challenges of homelessness and mental illness, the importance of community support and collaboration, the impact of deinstitutionalization on homelessness, the establishment of Women of Hope, the formation of Project Home and community collaboration, the legal battles and advocacy efforts, and the recognition and impact of the work done.

Takeaways

  • Sister Mary Scullion's upbringing and family background
  • Sister Mary Scullion's early experiences and decision to become a nun Homelessness and Mental Illness
  • Community Support and Collaboration

Chapters

  • 00:00 Mercy Hospice and Street Retreat
  • 33:30 Understanding Homelessness and Mental Illness
  • 39:04 Establishing Women of Hope
  • 46:06 Legal Battles and Advocacy
  • 52:55 Recognition and Impact
]]>cc060546-436d-466d-95de-cac9848209daWed, 29 Apr 2026 04:01:23 GMT<p>Sister Mary Scullion shares her journey from childhood to becoming a nun and her impactful work with the homeless. The conversation delves into her family background, religious vows, and her experiences working with marginalized communities, providing valuable insights into her life and mission. The conversation delves into the challenges of homelessness and mental illness, the importance of community support and collaboration, the impact of deinstitutionalization on homelessness, the establishment of Women of Hope, the formation of Project Home and community collaboration, the legal battles and advocacy efforts, and the recognition and impact of the work done.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Sister Mary Scullion's upbringing and family background</li><li>Sister Mary Scullion's early experiences and decision to become a nun Homelessness and Mental Illness</li><li>Community Support and Collaboration</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Mercy Hospice and Street Retreat</li><li>33:30 Understanding Homelessness and Mental Illness</li><li>39:04 Establishing Women of Hope</li><li>46:06 Legal Battles and Advocacy</li><li>52:55 Recognition and Impact</li></ul>no00:51:36Episode 4 Sister Mary Scullionfull<![CDATA[Episode 3 Captain Joe Sacchetti]]>Captain Joe Stachetti shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Yaden to participating in the Olympic Torch Relay and serving in the military. He discusses his experiences in Ranger School, combat in Iraq, and the challenges of leadership and decision-making in high-stakes situations. The conversation covers leadership lessons in combat, the aftermath of combat, transition to civilian life, boxing in the army, wrestling and sports, transition to corporate America, transition to technology, executive education at MIT, coaching and mentorship, family and military service, and entrepreneurship in travel and tours. The speaker shares insights on dealing with the mental and emotional impact of combat, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the pursuit of adventure through travel and sports. I haven't met someone like this since Pat Croce. The Captain was incredible, enjoy.

Takeaways

  • Military Service and Leadership
  • Challenges of Ranger School
  • Combat Experience in Iraq Leadership Lessons
  • Travel and Adventure

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Captain Joe Stachetti
  • 05:20 Running Track and the Olympic Torch Experience
  • 10:38 The Logistics of the Olympic Torch Relay
  • 16:11 Joining the Army and Ranger School
  • 21:47 Becoming a Paratrooper and Ranger
  • 27:21 Combat Experience in Iraq
  • 34:05 Two Tours in Iraq
  • 39:18 Reconnaissance Mission in Iraq
  • 49:12 Dealing with the Aftermath of Combat
  • 54:44 Transition to Technology
  • 01:00:02 Family and Military Service
]]>c5b1aa67-79e9-4657-9ff0-9418b5c0c5dcWed, 22 Apr 2026 11:10:12 GMT<p>Captain Joe Stachetti shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Yaden to participating in the Olympic Torch Relay and serving in the military. He discusses his experiences in Ranger School, combat in Iraq, and the challenges of leadership and decision-making in high-stakes situations. The conversation covers leadership lessons in combat, the aftermath of combat, transition to civilian life, boxing in the army, wrestling and sports, transition to corporate America, transition to technology, executive education at MIT, coaching and mentorship, family and military service, and entrepreneurship in travel and tours. The speaker shares insights on dealing with the mental and emotional impact of combat, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the pursuit of adventure through travel and sports. I haven't met someone like this since Pat Croce. The Captain was incredible, enjoy.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Military Service and Leadership</li><li>Challenges of Ranger School</li><li>Combat Experience in Iraq Leadership Lessons</li><li>Travel and Adventure</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Captain Joe Stachetti</li><li>05:20 Running Track and the Olympic Torch Experience</li><li>10:38 The Logistics of the Olympic Torch Relay</li><li>16:11 Joining the Army and Ranger School</li><li>21:47 Becoming a Paratrooper and Ranger</li><li>27:21 Combat Experience in Iraq</li><li>34:05 Two Tours in Iraq</li><li>39:18 Reconnaissance Mission in Iraq</li><li>49:12 Dealing with the Aftermath of Combat</li><li>54:44 Transition to Technology</li><li>01:00:02 Family and Military Service</li></ul>no01:26:10Episode 3 Captain Joe Sacchettifull<![CDATA[Wit or Wit-Out Episode 2 Vince Marie]]>The conversation covers Vince F. Marie's life in Philadelphia and his journey of overcoming adversity. It delves into his experiences, challenges, and resilience, highlighting the themes of life in Philadelphia and overcoming adversity. The conversation delves into the journey of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the impact of loss and grief. It explores the challenges of starting over, building a business, and the innovative spirit that drives creativity. The narrative also highlights the profound impact of loss and the resilience required to navigate through grief and continue forward.

Takeaways

  • Life in Philadelphia
  • Overcoming adversity Entrepreneurship and resilience
  • The impact of loss and grief

Chapters

  • 00:00 Adversity and Resilience
  • 29:40 Chasing a Vision
  • 38:01 Building a Business
  • 49:24 Loss and Resilience
]]>ac1bf29b-6124-4eb8-bb8a-6cf43d15975dThu, 16 Apr 2026 01:45:00 GMT<p>The conversation covers Vince F. Marie's life in Philadelphia and his journey of overcoming adversity. It delves into his experiences, challenges, and resilience, highlighting the themes of life in Philadelphia and overcoming adversity. The conversation delves into the journey of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the impact of loss and grief. It explores the challenges of starting over, building a business, and the innovative spirit that drives creativity. The narrative also highlights the profound impact of loss and the resilience required to navigate through grief and continue forward.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Life in Philadelphia</li><li>Overcoming adversity Entrepreneurship and resilience</li><li>The impact of loss and grief</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Adversity and Resilience</li><li>29:40 Chasing a Vision</li><li>38:01 Building a Business</li><li>49:24 Loss and Resilience</li></ul>no00:50:29Wit or Wit-Out Episode 2 Vince Mariefull<![CDATA[Wit or Wit-Out Episode 1 - Phil Martelli]]>The first episode of Wit or Without introduces the podcast and its hosts, Dennis Valerino and Michael Moffitt. Coach Phil Martelli shares his early life, family, and upbringing in Philadelphia, discussing his parents, siblings, and childhood experiences. He reflects on his high school and college years, meeting his wife Judy, and his early career as a coach. The conversation also covers his coaching career at Bishop Kenrick and St. Joseph's University. The conversation with Coach Phil Martelli covers his journey as a basketball coach, the challenges of balancing coaching and family, the fulfillment of his dream job, the success and impact of his coaching career, and life after coaching. Coach Martelli shares insights on coaching philosophy, adapting to changes in players, and the importance of trust in coaching relationships.

]]>8603b547-8c79-4a8e-bc5e-c13edc0f11d3Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:27:44 GMT<p>The first episode of Wit or Without introduces the podcast and its hosts, Dennis Valerino and Michael Moffitt. Coach Phil Martelli shares his early life, family, and upbringing in Philadelphia, discussing his parents, siblings, and childhood experiences. He reflects on his high school and college years, meeting his wife Judy, and his early career as a coach. The conversation also covers his coaching career at Bishop Kenrick and St. Joseph's University. The conversation with Coach Phil Martelli covers his journey as a basketball coach, the challenges of balancing coaching and family, the fulfillment of his dream job, the success and impact of his coaching career, and life after coaching. Coach Martelli shares insights on coaching philosophy, adapting to changes in players, and the importance of trust in coaching relationships. </p>no00:54:3411Wit or Wit-Out Episode 1 - Phil Martellifull