In the latest episode of ‘Learning to Fly’ our host, Bruce Mittman, sits down with Jeff Friedman, a seasoned security professional and “legend in the music community” with over 40 years in the biz. Jeff shares the story of how he got his unplanned start in the security business, working at small clubs around Boston, and his rise to becoming the head of Wizard Security, where he manages security for epic concerts. He recounts wild experiences with beloved big-time bands and describes how he managed large, rowdy crowds, including a now-infamous Green Day concert. While stressing the importance of establishing strong relationships within the music industry, Jeff reflects on the joy that has ultimately come from pursuing a passion-driven career over one focused solely on financial success.

www.studio550boston.com

On this episode of Learning to Fly, Bruce is joined by Greg Hill, renowned radio personality and entrepreneur, who shares his journey from hosting a makeshift radio show in his garage to becoming a morning show icon on WAAF and WEEI Sports Network. The episode delves into Greg’s career path, his passion for radio, and the evolution of the industry over the past 35 years. Greg reflects on the challenges and triumphs of building a radio career, his philanthropic efforts through the Greg Hill Foundation, and his entrepreneurial ventures. He also discusses the impact of consolidation on radio and the enduring power of the medium to connect communities and create positive change.

On this episode of Learning to Fly, Bruce is joined by Larry Calderone, President of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association, who recently negotiated one of the best contracts for the union since 1965. The episode explores Larry’s career path, challenges along the way, and the evolution of modern policing. Larry emphasizes his deep-rooted commitment to advocating for his peers and touches on the importance of compassion, discretion, and continuous improvement in law enforcement practices. He describes the delicate balance between upholding the law and maintaining public trust and how he has successfully been able to navigate both.

Massachusetts state auditor Diana DiZoglio joins Bruce on the mic as they discuss and debate governmental accountability and Diana’s unconventional journey into politics-highlighted by how she’s overcome resistance and adversity both personally and professionally.

In this episode, money talks as Bruce sits down with Joe Campanelli, Chairman and CEO of Needham Bank. During his reign, Joe has taken the community bank all the way to the Nasdaq and fostered unprecedented growth. The conversation chronicles Joe’s career in banking, including his tenure at Sovereign Bank where he oversaw a merger which at the time was the largest branch and business divestiture in US banking history, as well as the charitable endeavors he’s helped build in the Boston area.

Bruce is joined by Michael Barsamian, a pioneer in the hairdressing industry, who introduced Lord’s and Lady’s, a chain of salons that catered to both men and women-a radical idea at the time. The episode chronicles his challenges and triumphs and then transitions into topics such as Michael’s foray into the real estate business and building luxury homes, and the launch of his new book entitled “Hair’s the Story".

www.studio550boston.com

Bruce sits down with Christopher Knight, famous for playing the iconic character Peter on the Brady Bunch. While Christopher enjoyed early acclaim as an actor, the discussion also details his work on the other side of the camera, including his success in tech, the launch of his new line of home furniture, and the pressures that come with protecting the beloved Brady brand.

www.studio550boston.com

In the second half of our sitdown, Paul talks about his post rockstar life and his decision to leave the beloved band he built to pursue a solo career in music management.