My Last Name | Robert Slagel

Hosted by Robert Slagel

Business Entrepreneurship

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Episodes

Latest episode

Sep 2025

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EN-US

About the show

The most valuable thing my dad ever gave me was his last name. It didn’t cost him anything. It didn’t cost me anything, but it’s the most valuable thing that I have. You don’t get a good solid last name by not doing what’s right. My Last Name is a podcast about leadership and entrepreneurship.

Listen to episodes

14 recent

September 30, 202529 min

13 - Audy Perry

Join us on this episode of My Last Name as we sit down with Audy Perry. Owner and Operator of Heritage Farm in Huntington, Wv. Audy is a native to Huntington and raised on a reclaimed dairy farm. After his family discovered a hidden cabin on their property they decided to rehab it instead of leaving it to be reclaimed by nature it. Lawyer by profession but historian by birthright Audy does everything in his power to educate and inspire the people around him. From locals to out of state visitors, wonderful people come to see Audy's farm. The facility is recognized by the Smithsonian as an affiliate of their nation wide program of museums and historic sites. Sit back and slow down to hear the story of Audy Perry and his last name.

July 3, 2024Episode 1238 min

12 - Verna Gibson

Join us on this episode of My Last Name as we sit down with Verna Gibson, a nationally recognized leader in the specialty retailing industry. From her humble beginnings at the Smart Shop in Huntington to becoming the first female CEO of a Fortune 500 company, Verna’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.In this interview, Verna shares her story of passion and determination, starting with her early days in retail and her swift rise through the ranks at The Limited Stores. Hear how she transformed the company into a billion-dollar specialty store chain and launched beloved brands like Limited Too and Cacique. She discusses how she became a disruptor in the industry and how she shattered the glass ceiling as a woman in the position at the head of table.

January 17, 202438 min

11 - Parker Bauer

On this episode of My Last Name Rob sits down with Naturalist writer and film maker Parker Bauer. Parker has worked as an environmental columnist for The Columbus Dispatch and a documentary film writer for National Geographic, Discovery Channel, and the National Park Service. They discuss life lessons Parker has learned from his global travel, creative ventures, Roosevelt's doctrine of A Strenuous Life, and being lucky that Appalachia is so rooted in nature. So grab your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and tune in to this episode of My Last Name.

December 11, 202336 min

10 - Alys Smith

On today's episode of My Last Name, Rob sits down with Marshall University's First Lady Alys Smith. Alys is a native of the Ohio Valley Region and had the opportunity to return after spending her formative years in Silicon Valley. With a love and passion for Appalachia she is a proclaimed Guardian Ad Litem of the area. Bringing innovation, empowering leaders, and raising the bar for women of power are just a few of the insights she discusses with Rob. Turn up the volume and prepare to listen to the visionary insights from one of the leaders shaping the future of Appalachia.

October 18, 202358 min

09 - Joe Plummer

On this episode of My Last Name Rob sits down with marketing extraordinaire and fellow Appalachian Joe Plummer. You may not know Joe but we bet you know some of his famous creations such as Tony the Tiger, The Keebler Elves, Jolly Green Giant, and creating THE Ohio State University as well as many, many more... This is a special son of Appalachia whose work can still be found everywhere including you pantry and driveway. We can guarantee this is an episode you truly don't want to miss!

August 16, 202327 min

08 - David "Whitey" White

On this Episode of My Last Name Rob sits down with David "Whitey" White. The President of BSE (Border States Electric) and college friend of Robert's. They discuss Appalachian Industry, building a support network professionally and personally, the foundation principle of discipline, and watching each other succeed. This is a motivational episode so tune in this week to My Last Name!

July 19, 202332 min

07 - Gerardo & Kathy Mejia

On this episode of My Last Name, Robert sits down with Gerardo "Rico Suave" and Kathy Mejia. They discuss the stark contrast between Southern California and Kentucky, finding peace in Appalachia, and changing life paths from latin pop star to youth pastor. Tune in and enjoy this episode of My Last Name.

June 21, 2023Episode 637 min

06 - Chris Fabry

In this episode, Rob chats with author Chris Fabry . During their conversation, Chris and Rob chat about Chris' writing process and how your roots are a strength because they make you uniquely you.

May 17, 2023Episode 524 min

05 - Tom Hardiman

In this episode, Rob sits down with Tom Hardiman, a non-profit director with over two decades of experience. During the conversation, Tom and Rob talk about their chance meeting far away from home and the common bond they share within their industry.

April 19, 2023Episode 419 min

04 - Patrick Farrell

This episode of "My Last Name" features Patrick Ferrel, a native of West Virginia who shares his love for West Virginia. Patrick offers guidance to the younger generation and his younger self, having left the region and returned with the purpose of ensuring that no one feels they have to leave to thrive. We conclude the episode by discussing the significance of having a shared mission and how it creates a sense of family. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation.