On Thursday, I had the privilege of delivering the keynote at the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce 2026 Workforce Summit at the historic Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel.
Standing in front of hundreds of high school students, college attendees, and local professionals, I shared a message that is incredibly close to my heart: "Why Not You?"
I walked them through my own journey, leaving the stability of a 22-year career in morning television to bet on myself. I talked about how "comfortable" became the enemy of growth, and how the fear of jumping is real, but the preparation makes it possible.
The biggest takeaways I wanted to leave them with today:
•Shoot your shot. Get out of your comfort zone on purpose.
•Build your net now. Your reputation with teachers, coaches, and peers is your brand. Show up and be reliable.
•Stop shrinking. I learned the hard way that people-pleasing leads to watered-down work. Lead with your experience.
•Find your "straight-shooters." The people around you are either fuel or an anchor. Choose wisely.
To every student who asked a question and every job seeker who showed up today: Nobody has it figured out. The people you admire just figured it out as they went. You are living in the greatest time to bet on yourself.
If not you, then who?
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