CEO's You Should Know - Pittsburgh

What if the way we’ve handled documents for decades… is completely broken? On this episode of CEO You Should Know, we sit down with Joe Hipsky, President of U.S. Operations at Factify—a company on a mission to fundamentally change how businesses create, manage, and trust information in the age of AI. Joe is no stranger to building from the ground up. As co-founder of IRALOGIX, he helped take the company from its very first line of code to national recognition—earning a spot among the top 20% of the Inc. 5000, multiple WealthTech 100 honors, and recognition as a Forbes Top 500 Start-up Employers company. Now, with more than 20 years in financial and B2B enterprise technology, Joe is tackling a new challenge—helping companies safely and responsibly integrate AI into their most critical workflows. From the limitations of PDFs to the future of “intelligent documents,” this conversation explores how trust, accuracy, and innovation collide in today’s fast-moving tech landscape. And why did Factify choose Pittsburgh as a key part of its growth strategy? Joe shares what makes this region a rising force in tech—and what it takes to build something that truly lasts. If you care about the future of business, AI, and where technology is headed next… this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

P3R is an innovative full-service event management organization, specializing in transformative sporting events and exhilarating experiences that unite. Our clients (like the Pittsburgh Steelers, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the National Senior Games Association, just to name a few) trust us to bring every aspect of operational excellence to their special events. From operations planning, permitting, and execution to meaningful sponsorships, creative marketing and advertising, and engaging public relations, P3R is the region’s premier sporting event and experience expert. As part of our non-profit mission to inspire any and all to MOVE with us, we provide premium event experiences and robust programming - including the Run for a Reason Charity Program, our award-winning Kids of STEEL program, the Pittsburgh Corporate Challenge, RUN Varsity, and more - that engage everyone in the Western Pennsylvania community and beyond.

On this episode of CEOs You Should Know, we sit down with Sam Milligan, co-owner of Cousins Roofing, Siding & Decks—one of the fastest-growing, family-owned exterior remodeling companies in the Pittsburgh region. What started humbly—building decks out of pickup trucks alongside his cousin and business partner Calvin—has grown into a trusted name in roofing, siding, and custom outdoor living spaces. Sam shares how he helped transform the company from its early days as CNS Construction into the Cousins brand you see today, built on craftsmanship, integrity, and a commitment to treating every home like it’s their own. While Calvin didn’t participate in this interview, his role as co-founder and partner remains central to the company’s story and success. From scaling a business in a competitive industry to building a reputation rooted in trust, relationships, and community impact, this conversation dives into what it really takes to grow a family business the right way. If you’ve ever wondered how hustle, values, and a little Pittsburgh grit can turn a small operation into a regional powerhouse—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. https://www.callthecousins.com/

Great events don’t happen by accident. Behind every unforgettable wedding, festival, or corporate celebration is someone making sure the right talent meets the right moment. In this episode of CEOs You Should Know, we talk with Jackie Danko, Founder and President of Sound Advice Entertainment, a Pittsburgh-based full-service entertainment and event booking agency. For more than a decade, Jackie has been connecting clients with musicians, DJs, specialty acts, and speakers—helping create memorable experiences across weddings, corporate events, festivals, retirement communities, and private parties. Jackie shares how she turned a lifelong passion for music into a thriving business, the art of matching performers with the perfect audience, and why relationships and reputation are everything in the entertainment industry. We also talk about her life as a performer with The Joe & Jackie Show and The Pittsburgh PolkaMeisters, and how being on stage shapes the way she runs her company. It’s a conversation about entrepreneurship, creativity, and the business of bringing people together through music and entertainment.

In this episode of CEOs You Should Know, we sit down with Brian McMahon — an entrepreneurial powerhouse who took the reins of his family’s business and transformed it into one of South Pittsburgh’s go-to home improvement and repair teams. As Owner and CEO of Ace Handyman Services South Pittsburgh, Brian brings over 7 years of hands-on leadership and business management experience to a company that helps homeowners and businesses solve their toughest property needs. From his early hustle — kicking off ventures as a teen — to mastering the art of running a local services company, Brian’s journey is a testament to grit, community focus, and smart scaling. Under his guidance, Ace Handyman Services has become a trusted name across Monongahela, Bethel Park, West Mifflin, and beyond, tackling everything from drywall and carpentry to aging-in-place renovations with integrity and craft. In this conversation we explore: If you’re curious about leadership lessons from someone who literally helps keep homes running — and who believes no job is too small — this is a CEO worth meeting.

In this episode, we talk with Christi Robinette, CEO of Fragasso Financial Advisors, about her journey from financial advisor to leading one of Pittsburgh’s most respected wealth management firms. With degrees in social work from the University of Pittsburgh, Christi brings a unique, people-first perspective to financial planning and leadership. We discuss how empathy shapes client relationships, her approach to building a collaborative culture, and what it takes to guide a firm focused on long-term trust and strategic growth. An inspiring conversation about leadership, purpose, and impact in today’s financial world. https://www.fragassoadvisors.com/

On this episode of CEOs You Should Know, we spotlight Kim Hudson, Chief Operating Officer of Seniors Helping Seniors Pittsburgh Northeast. A nurse with more than 30 years of experience in long-term care and senior services, Kim has built her career around compassionate, high-quality support for older adults. Today, she and her husband lead a non-medical home care agency dedicated to helping seniors age in place with dignity, safety, and independence. Kim shares how her clinical background shapes her leadership, why peer-to-peer senior care makes such a difference, and how their mission is creating meaningful connections throughout the Pittsburgh community.

In this episode of CEOs You Should Know, we sit down with Lisa McIntyre, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Pittsburgh Automobile Dealers Association (GPADA), the powerhouse organization representing over 200 franchised automobile and truck dealers across Western Pennsylvania. Lisa takes us behind the wheel of one of the region’s most influential trade associations — from championing local auto dealers and shaping industry advocacy to steering major community events like the Pittsburgh International Auto Show. With decades of experience advancing dealer success and fostering industry growth, Lisa shares her insights on leadership, navigating change in the automotive world, and how GPADA drives economic impact across the region. We dive into how the organization supports workforce development, connects members with cutting-edge trends, and builds engagement that goes beyond the showroom. Whether you’re passionate about business leadership, regional economic development, or the future of mobility — this conversation with Lisa McIntyre is one you don’t want to miss https://www.gpada.com/

Val Porter sits down with Eric Wabrick, Founder and CEO of Autology AI, to talk about making artificial intelligence practical and profitable for today’s businesses. Eric breaks down the myths around AI and explains how companies—especially small and midsize organizations—can use smart automation to streamline operations, boost productivity, and drive real ROI. He shares his entrepreneurial journey, lessons learned, and why strategy and education are critical before implementing AI tools. If you’re curious how AI can truly impact your bottom line, this conversation delivers clarity, insight, and actionable takeaways.

Andrea Soltis of GrandEvents knows how to turn “overwhelming” into effortless. Based in the Pittsburgh area, Andrea brings 10+ years of event-coordination experience, helping clients plan everything from weddings and private celebrations to professional business events. Her style is personal and flexible—whether you need full-service planning or just support bringing your vision to life, she’ll meet you where you are and make every detail feel handled. Andrea’s passion started with organizing a community fundraiser—and it’s grown into a business built on creating unforgettable moments. https://grandeventsplanning.com/

The 9th annual Pittsburgh Travel Showcase™ returns to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center for three big days: Friday, Jan. 23, through Sunday, Jan. 25. AAA’s travel data shows that excitement for traveling is at a high, and the Showcase is the best spot to book vacations this year! The one-of-a-kind event brings travel service representatives from various international, national, and regional exhibitors to one convenient location. Showcase attendees can also access more than 100,000 square feet of displays, Vacation Planning Seminars, and AAA Travel Advisors to book their dream trips on-site! https://www.pittsburghtravelshowcase.com/

Dr. Nicole Coleman is a faith-driven entrepreneur, author, and community leader dedicated to service and second chances. She is the founder of Ada Mae In Home Care Agency, providing compassionate, high-quality care to seniors and individuals with disabilities. In recognition of her leadership, she received an Honorary Doctorate from Emersong Christian University. Dr. Coleman also leads Sherise Catering Services, creating opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals, and Miracle Solutions God We Trust, supporting children and adults with special needs. Guided by unwavering faith, Dr. Coleman continues to uplift her community through purpose-driven leadership and compassion. https://www.adamaeinhomecareagency.com/

Tony Mazzarini turned his entrepreneurial vision toward Pittsburgh’s heritage by transforming a 19th-century rickhouse into The Distillery Complex — a six-story, multi-use landmark that is home to Big Spring Spirits’ distillery, tasting room and bottle shop, a rooftop bar with panoramic city views, a cigar lounge, event spaces and more. Under his leadership, the project blends historic preservation with modern hospitality, reviving a long-dormant pre-Prohibition whiskey site and offering a new destination for craft spirits. It’s a project that honors the past, serves the present — and pours the future. https://www.thedistillerycomplex.com/ https://www.bigspringspirits.com/

Brandon Mullen is the CEO and driving force behind MPWR Aesthetics + Wellness, a fast-growing brand dedicated to helping people look and feel their absolute best. With a focus on personalized care, cutting-edge treatments, and a compassionate client experience, Brandon leads a team committed to confidence, empowerment, and whole-body wellness. His vision blends medical expertise with modern aesthetics to deliver results that are both natural and transformative. Under Brandon’s leadership, MPWR continues to expand its footprint and impact — redefining self-care, one confident client at a time. https://www.mpwraesthetics.com/

This week on CEO’s You Should Know, Jonny Hartwell sits down with Mike and Lizzy Connors, the husband-and-wife team behind Leacon Digital, one of Pittsburgh’s fastest-growing creative and marketing agencies. From reimagining brand identities to building high-performance websites, Mike and Lizzy have helped more than 100 businesses sharpen their message and expand their reach. Their approach blends strategy, storytelling, and clean, modern design—powered by a 92% client-retention rate and a reputation for treating every project like a partnership. In this episode, they talk about how Leacon Digital began, why authenticity matters more than ever in marketing, the challenges of growing a creative business in a crowded digital landscape, and how small and mid-sized companies can use powerful branding, video, photography, and targeted digital campaigns to level up. It’s a conversation about entrepreneurship, creativity, teamwork, and building a business that lifts other businesses. https://www.leacondigital.com/ CEO’s You Should Know — spotlighting the leaders shaping Pittsburgh’s future.

In today’s episode of CEO’s You Should Know, Val Porter sits down with Rachel Petrucelli – a passionate and visionary leader whose 25-year career in development, fundraising and operations spans pediatric healthcare and higher education. Rachel serves as President & Chief Development Officer of the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation, where she leads more than 55 mission-driven professionals to advance major gifts, capital campaigns and philanthropic innovation. https://www.chp.edu/about/executive-leadership/rachel-petrucelli

Major Marcus Jugenheimer serves as Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania, overseeing programs and services across 28 counties. A lifelong Salvationist ordained in 1994, he most recently served as General Secretary of The Salvation Army’s Greater New York Division and has also held key leadership roles in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Ohio. Alongside his wife, Major Joy Jugenheimer, he is focused on expanding community partnerships, strengthening local outreach, and leading the annual Red Kettle Campaign to help neighbors in need throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Ronnie Esposito is the co-founder of Acton Academy Pittsburgh, a learner-driven school transforming education. Inspired by a podcast that challenged traditional schooling, Ronnie and his wife, Meghan, founded Acton to nurture every child’s genius through curiosity, challenge, and real-world experiences. Motivated by their own children’s educational journey, they built a thriving community where learners take ownership of their growth and purpose. Passionate about innovation and empowering youth, Ronnie helps students discover their gifts and prepares them for their own hero’s journey. He also collaborates with Acton founders nationwide to reimagine what education can be. https://actonacademypittsburgh.com/

In this episode of CEO You Should Know, we sit down with Dr. Nikki Helbling, the founder of Nikki Helbling Wellness—a functional medicine practice dedicated to helping women and men uncover the root causes of their health challenges and reclaim lasting vitality. With a background that spans emergency and critical care, endocrinology, geriatrics, and palliative medicine, Nikki brings both deep clinical expertise and a compassionate, whole-person approach to healing. Now a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (FMACP) through the Functional Medicine Academy™, she combines advanced lab testing, personalized protocols, and evidence-based strategies to help clients move beyond symptom management and into true wellness. Discover how Dr. Helbling is redefining modern healthcare—one patient, one plan, and one spark at a time. Learn more at www.NikkiHelbling.com

Brien Murphy is the owner and driving force behind EZ Home Exteriors, a Pittsburgh-area exterior remodeling firm rooted in quality, transparency, and integrity. Since taking the helm in 2005, Brien has grown the business into one of the region’s premier exterior specialists, offering roofing, siding, windows, doors and full home exterior renovations. With deep experience in the window and remodeling sectors, he emphasizes a no-games approach—no commission sales, no deposits—just honest work and direct engagement with clients. Brien holds a B.S. from Penn State, is a lifelong Pittsburgher, and leads his team with a belief that excellence should be expected—not negotiated.