cityCURRENT Radio Show

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Jenny Matthews, Executive Director of A Step Ahead Foundation of Middle Tennessee, who discusses the nonprofit organization's 10-year anniversary and mission to prevent unplanned pregnancies by providing education and access to free long-acting reversible contraception. Jenny explains how the foundation has served nearly 7,000 clients by breaking down barriers like cost and transportation through partnerships with over 120 community organizations and medical clinics, offering services like a well woman exam, STI testing, the cost of the device, and removal at any time. She highlights common questions from clients about eligibility and menstrual cycles, shares success metrics showing 96% of clients reporting decreased stress and increased happiness, and describes how the organization's educational outreach is particularly valuable in rural communities. Jenny outlines multiple ways the community can support their work through financial donations, volunteer opportunities at health fairs, sharing resources with organizations, and helping spread awareness about their services. Summary Jenny Matthews, Executive Director of A Step Ahead Foundation of Middle Tennessee, discusses the organization's 10-year anniversary and its mission to provide long-term contraception to prevent unplanned pregnancies across 29 counties. The foundation has served nearly 7,000 clients with contraception options including IUDs, hormonal and non-hormonal methods, and arm implants, aiming to eliminate cost and transportation barriers. Clients can contact the call center Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 4 PM to be connected with partner clinics within 2-3 weeks, with the foundation acting as the payer of last resort for costs not covered by insurance. Jenny discusses their partnership approach, explaining they provide two types of education: clinical services at medical appointments and community outreach through over 120 partners in prevention. The clinical services include well woman visits, STI testing, Pap tests, device insertion and removal, while the community education reaches various settings including job training programs, substance use recovery centers, and universities. Jenny notes that their community education partners view A Step Ahead Foundation's services as supportive of their work and helping prevent plans from being derailed by unplanned pregnancies. Jenny discusses common questions received regarding contraception options, particularly about IUDs and implants for women who haven't had children yet. She explains that these methods can be used before having children and addresses misconceptions about menstrual cycles stopping, clarifying that this is healthy when using contraception. Jenny explains the importance of contraception work at both micro and macro levels. At the micro level, she noted that 96% of clients reported decreased stress and increased happiness due to contraception, allowing women to focus on education and careers while spacing pregnancies. At the macro level, she described positive community outcomes, including increased community involvement and independence for women. She also highlighted that 80% of the women served are unwed, indicating a significant need for pre-marital contraception services. Jenny discusses the organization's work serving both urban and rural communities, noting that while most clients are in urban areas, there has been a 7% increase in serving rural populations over the past two years. She explains that education in rural communities is particularly valuable as these areas often have fewer resources and less frequent conversations about contraception. The organization is working to expand clinical partnerships in rural areas despite access challenges, with a goal of serving people closer to where they live or study. Jenny discusses various ways the community can support their organization's efforts, including financial donations, community education, and providing resource guides to clients. She mentioned that it costs approximately $250 to serve one client with contraception without insurance, highlighting the impact of donations. Volunteer opportunities, such as tabling at community events, are also mentioned as a way for people to get involved, especially during the summer months. Jenny highlights the apolitical nature of their services, which receives broad community support. She explains that they aim to complement rather than replace parent-child conversations, offering education through engaging activities like bingo while maintaining transparency with parents. When asked about future goals, Jenny expressed a desire to expand their services to reach more people in need, particularly in rural areas, while maintaining their commitment to never turning anyone away due to cost barriers. Visit https://www.astepaheadmiddletn.org to learn more and get involved.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Leighanne Soden, President and Founder of West Cancer Foundation, who discusses the nonprofit organization's mission and efforts to break barriers to cancer care and provide access to free services for those in need, particularly in underserved areas of Memphis. Leighanne highlights that Memphis has some of the highest cancer mortality rates in the country, making it "Ground Zero" for cancer. She highlights the organization's growth from its inception in 2020 to its current state with 9 employees and a $4 million operational balance sheet. The foundation tracks patient data by zip code to understand and address disparities in cancer care. The foundation's largest program provides transportation for cancer patients, having arranged over 7,500 rides in 2025. Leighanne shares heartwarming statistics for their transportation program, reporting 658 rides provided to patients in need of treatment this month alone. The program primarily assists patients receiving radiation treatment, ensuring they don't miss appointments that could affect their outcome. The program works by connecting with medical providers like Regional One Health, West Cancer Center, Baptist Memorial Health Care, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, and St. Francis who refer patients, and a team handles online booking and tracking of rides including wheelchair-assisted transportation. Each round trip costs $120, with staff ensuring patients are safely transported to and from appointments. Leighanne also highlights their Sweet Wig Beauty Boutique, where patients can receive free wigs, hats, and scarves, noting that many find losing their hair to be one of the most challenging aspects of cancer diagnosis and treatment. West Cancer Foundation also offers mental health counseling for patients and caregivers, and funding for oncology nursing research at UT Health Science Center. Leighanne talks about working closely with area hospitals to provide comprehensive cancer care, and expresses hope for the future in clinical trials and research, specifically mentioning a new blood test for colorectal cancer that could provide an alternative to colonoscopies. She emphasizes the importance of mental health counseling, which has helped over 200 patients and their caregivers in the past year through a partnership with Alliance Healthcare Services. Leighanne touches on the significance of these types of collaborative relationships in the community and the need for funding support through donations and upcoming events. The organization's signature fundraising event, West Fight On, will take place on September 12th at Shelby Farms Park, featuring a 5K run, cycling routes, and celebration of survivors and caregivers. She explains the foundation's other revenue streams including major gifts, planned giving, and corporate partnerships. Leighanne also describes the "Ride to Rosemary" cycling event, which began 16 years ago with 9 men and has since expanded to include an all-female team who raised $140,000 in March. She encourages listeners to visit westcancerfoundation.org or westfighton.org for more information and to support their programs. So, visit https://westcancerfoundation.org or https://westfighton.org/ to learn more and get involved with West Cancer Foundation.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews the award-winning chef, best-selling author, restaurateur, and featured television personality, Ben Vaughn, who shares his journey to becoming Founder and CEO of The Center of Culinary Cultivation and The Sow Project, and Culinary Director for Brewed to Serve Restaurant Group and Be Nice Hospitality Group. During the interview, Ben talks about his journey from a 30-year career as a chef to launching the nonprofit organization that is focused on transforming culinary workforce development through a no-cost, paid apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training, industry mentorship, and job placements for individuals seeking a new path forward in Memphis. The program currently serves high school students and adults. It has grown from teaching basic cooking skills in a home kitchen to operating a fully developed 6-month curriculum approved by the Tennessee Department of Labor, serving approximately 90 students annually. Ben discusses the growth of their program, success stories, their collaborations for kitchens and training space, and how they now provide healthcare access through a concierge program and partnership with Lifedoc's VidaPlus. He outlines plans to expand into a 10,000 square foot space at 409 South Main, where they will establish a student-led restaurant and teaching center, and discusses their partnership with IOTA Community Schools, which will be expanding to serve 50 students in the 2026-2027 school year. Ben encourages community support through donations, volunteering, and helping with student transportation. Visit https://www.sowproject.org/ to learn more and get involved with The Sow Project and The Center of Culinary Cultivation.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Cecily Berry, Miss Shelby County 2026 and financial advisor with First Horizon Advisors, who discusses her journey in the Miss America organization and her work promoting financial literacy through Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South. Cecily talks about her ties to and passion for Memphis, her recent graduation from Union University with degrees in economics and executive leadership, and how her mother's previous competition 30 years ago inspired her to join, describing the organization's focus on developing professional leadership skills in women while serving their communities. The program involves various components including interviews, public speaking, and on-stage presence, with significant emphasis on community service and advocacy. Cecily discusses her work as a financial advisor and her decision to volunteer with Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South to address a lack of financial literacy in early education. She explains how Junior Achievement's experiential learning programs, from 3rd grade to high school, help develop essential financial skills like budgeting and investing. She shares how volunteering has transformed her as a leader, allowing her to better teach complex financial concepts to both children and adult clients, and demonstrating that financial education can be effective at all age levels. The conversation covers her experience competing at local, state, and potential national levels, emphasizing the personal growth in confidence and professional development that comes with representing the title, as well as the responsibility of representing the organization and cause. Cecily shares how she has built friendships and been inspired by the other contestants, and how the competition has brought her closer with her mother. She explains the differences between local, Miss Tennessee, and Miss America competitions, noting variations in scoring systems and the number of participants. She discusses how competing in these events has helped her grow in confidence and professional development, particularly in networking and public speaking situations. Jeremy asks how others can support and follow her journey, to which Cecily suggests following her on social media and providing support through likes and comments online and through support of Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South. Follow @MissShelbyCountyTN on Instagram.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Megan McInnis, Founder and Executive Director of Doing Good, a 501(c)3 B2B nonprofit that serves other agencies by providing marketing and PR tools and opportunities. She describes how the organization started when she was looking for positive information about nonprofits in Nashville, eventually speaking with over 300 people about their experiences with nonprofits. Megan outlines their current monthly process of celebrating one organization through podcast episodes, blog posts, social media, and press releases, while also serving as a matchmaker to connect nonprofits with other potential media and marketing partners. She explains that Doing Good is entirely volunteer-run with team members located across the country, though about half are in Middle Tennessee. She describes the volunteer base as diverse, including creative people at various experience levels who volunteer remotely to help celebrate the work of nonprofits across the country. Megan explains how Doing Good seeks to celebrate nonprofits and volunteers through nominations on their website, with a focus on providing visibility during relevant times or events. She notes that while planning can vary depending on the situation, they prefer working further in advance to allow for more creativity and additional opportunities for the organizations being featured. Megan mentions the example of the Middle Tennessee Space Society being highlighted during the eclipse as an instance of timing-specific celebration. Megan discusses feedback from nonprofit partners regarding their service. The partners express amazement at receiving service at no cost and appreciate the overall experience, including their first podcast interviews. Megan emphasizes that the service not only provides valuable content but also shows appreciation for the nonprofits' work. She discusses a new TV show opportunity that is ready to launch but needs funding. The show is planned as a weekly half-hour program combining documentary and reality TV elements, similar to Extreme Makeover Home Edition and Dirty Jobs, focusing on volunteer work across different organizations with the same mission. The show aims to highlight various volunteer efforts, provide visibility to organizations, and surprise volunteers with gifts or celebrity visits. The discussion touches on starting with three episodes and seeking support from both individual and corporate donors to help reach the necessary funding levels. Megan invites listeners to volunteer with or become media partners for Doing Good, emphasizing the importance of various contributions including donations and providing meeting spaces. She shares contact information including the website doinggood.tv and phone number 615-934-5087. Megan expresses gratitude to Jeremy and the cityCURRENT team for their partnership and shared commitment to community impact. Visit https://doinggood.tv to learn more and get involved with Doing Good.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Lori Alhadeff, CEO of Make Our Schools Safe (MOSS), who discusses the nonprofit organization's efforts to improve school safety following the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida that claimed the lives of 17 people, including Lori's daughter, Alyssa. Lori explains how Make Our Schools Safe advocates for Alyssa's Law, which requires wearable panic buttons for teachers to quickly alert 911 during emergencies, and has successfully passed legislation in 12 states including Tennessee. The organization also operates student-led MOSS Clubs in schools to promote safety culture and awareness, with Lori encouraging listeners to start clubs in Tennessee and advocate for the law through the organization's website. The discussion covers practical safety measures schools should implement, including locked doors, security cameras, and regular lockdown drills, while highlighting the importance of mental health support and community involvement in creating safer school environments. Visit https://makeourschoolssafe.org to learn more and get involved with Make Our Schools Safe. Summary Make Our School Safe Organization - Lori discusses the founding of Make Our School Safe, a nonprofit organization established after the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, where her daughter Alyssa was one of the 17 victims. The organization focuses on school safety, and its logo features an infinity symbol that represents Alyssa's soccer jersey number 8 turned sideways. Lori explains how the tragedy turned her family's pain into action, leading to the creation of "Alyssa's Law," which aims to transform school safety laws at both state and national levels. Alyssa's Law Implementation Discussion - Lori explains Alyssa's Law, a wearable panic button for teachers that can trigger emergency responses for medical situations, behavioral problems, or active shooter incidents. She describes how the law was first passed in New Jersey and has since been implemented in 12 states, with her goal to expand it nationwide to ensure consistent school safety standards. Jeremy asks about the implementation process across different states and shares insights from a previous discussion about active shooter drills, including how smoke from gunshots can trigger fire alarms, potentially confusing students. Make Our School Safe Program - Lori discusses the Make Our School Safe program, which includes student-led safety clubs that help create safer school environments through student leadership and teacher sponsorship. She highlights communication failures during the Parkland shooting in 2018, including problematic radios and delayed cameras, which led to tragic consequences including the death of her daughter Alyssa. Lori emphasizes the importance of learning from these mistakes and taking school safety seriously, noting that Florida has been a leader in creating school safety laws over the past eight years. MOSS Clubs School Implementation Discussion - Lori discusses the implementation of MOSS Clubs in schools, which focus on activities like anti-bullying, mental health awareness, and school safety through initiatives such as safety pep rallies and mental health journals. She reports positive feedback from schools, including plans for additional training like first aid and CPR. Jeremy inquires about community involvement in promoting both MOSS Clubs and Alyssa's Law. School Safety and Fundraising Initiatives - Lori discusses school safety measures including locked doors, single points of entry, cameras, and panic buttons, emphasizing the importance of regular lockdown drills involving all stakeholders. She highlights the organization's efforts to promote Alyssa's Act at both federal and state levels through their website and student engagement initiatives. Lori also mentions their fundraising activities, including the Live for Alyssa Gala, golf fundraiser, and tennis fundraiser, encouraging involvement through donations and starting MOSS Clubs at high schools. Alyssa's Law Implementation in Tennessee - Lori discusses the implementation of Alyssa's Law in Tennessee, emphasizing the importance of school districts having wearable panic buttons and conducting drills. She encourages the formation of MOSS clubs in high schools to promote school safety and urged parents to speak up about potential vulnerabilities. Lori provides information about getting involved with Make Our School Safe through their website, social media platforms, and offers thanks for the support in promoting school safety across Tennessee. Visit https://makeourschoolssafe.org to learn more and get involved with Make Our Schools Safe. https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-alhadeff-802b02179/ https://www.facebook.com/MakeOurSchoolsSafe17

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Janet Rives, Chief Operating Officer for CreatiVets, who highlights the Nashville, Tennessee based nonprofit organization's mission and efforts to use art and music therapy to help veterans heal from trauma and prevent suicide. Janet explains the organization's origins, which began 12 years ago when founder Richard Casper returned from Iraq with a traumatic brain injury and found healing through art and songwriting. She described how CreatiVets now serves veterans nationally using art and music for healing, with programs including songwriting workshops in Nashville with award-winning songwriters, astrophotography, visual arts, and screenwriting initiatives. The programs are offered free of charge through donations and provide veterans with mentorship from other veterans who have gone through similar experiences. She describes upcoming plans for a 3-week accredited art program at Belmont University and mentions their existing longtime partnership with the Chicago School of Arts, concluding with information about their "Scars to Scripts" program scheduled for the Monday before Veterans Day. Janet discusses how their efforts are focused on preventing veteran suicide through these art therapy programs. She shares stories of two veterans who recently told her they had planned suicide but were saved through the organization's programs. The organization also offers community programs on the weekend for local veterans, including stained glass windows, sewing, and painting. The organization is currently renovating a 19,000-square-foot former church building to create a 24/7 veteran art and music center. The facility will include an auditorium for music venues, art rooms, a pottery studio, and a woodworking shop, designed to provide veterans with a safe space for healing outside of traditional business hours. The public can support CreatiVets through donations, monthly giving, volunteering, and streaming their music catalog on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Janet emphasizes that all donations support veterans through art and music programs aimed at preventing suicide, and highlights how the organization's music serves as a powerful tool for both veterans and the public to understand and seek help. Visit https://creativets.org to learn more about CreatiVets and to get involved.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Sylvia Martinez, President and CEO of Girls Inc. of Memphis, who highlights the organization's 80-year anniversary and how the nonprofit inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through direct service and advocacy. The organization provides year-round programming focused on STEM education, leadership development, and life skills, serving more than 1,500 girls across Memphis with a commitment to equity, opportunity, and long-term success. During the interview, Sylvia explains Girls Inc.'s mission of empowering girls through the "strong, smart, and bold" framework, which focuses on healthy living, education, and independence. She describes how the organization brings in experts to teach specific skills, from farming and food preparation to financial management and sports, while Girls Inc. handles the educational framework. Sylvia emphasizes that the partnership model allows them to provide comprehensive training while leveraging external expertise, with partners either coming to their location or transporting the girls to partner facilities. Sylvia discusses their STEM education program for girls aged 5 to 18, highlighting their partnership with Steve Wozniak who provides curricula in areas like robotics, coding, and cybersecurity. The girls surveyed expressed strong interest in robotics, animations, and coding, with the program offering sequential learning opportunities and certifications like drone piloting. Sylvia describes her 8.5-acre Patricia C. Howard Campus in Fraser, which includes a teaching kitchen, event space, and programming areas. The property hosts over 500 volunteers annually who help maintain the land and grow produce. The facility is available for team bonding events and rentals, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces for various activities. She highlights the organization's success in achieving 100% graduation and post-secondary education rates, with 97% of participants developing leadership confidence. Their programs serve 1,500 girls across multiple school partnerships and locations, including their farm campus and sites near the University of Memphis, with additional camps at various locations. Sylvia highlights the organization's free programming since 2019 and discusses volunteer opportunities, noting that the farm alone requires 500 volunteers annually. The conversation concludes with information about how community members can get involved through volunteering, donating, or supporting girls' participation in summer camps, with contact details provided for the organization's website, www.girlsincmemphis.org, and main phone line, 901-523-0217. Visit https://www.girlsincmemphis.org/ to learn more and connect with Girls Inc. of Memphis.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Cornelius Sanders and Ramsay Clark, co-authors of the book "Colorblind: One Coach, One Friendship, and The Lifelong Power of Showing Up," which is set to be released in July 2026 by WestBow Publishing Company. During the interview, Cornelius and Ramsay each talk about their backgrounds as lifelong Memphians, how they met through basketball at a Boys Club in Memphis, and the evolution of their 50-year friendship. The discussion covers the book's themes of mentoring, faith, community engagement, and the importance of consistency, with the authors sharing how their relationship began unintentionally through basketball coaching and developed into a meaningful lifelong friendship. Cornelius shares how Ramsay has continued to play an important role in his life, and how he has become an ordained Minister and President and CEO of Promise Development Corporation. Ramsay, likewise, shares how Cornelius has played an important role in his life, including deepening his faith. Both authors encourage readers to get involved in their communities and emphasize that meaningful relationships can develop organically through shared activities and consistent presence. The book soon will be available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online retailers.

In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, Andrew Bartolotta sits down with speaker, author, and communication expert Dave Delaney to explore a powerful and often misunderstood topic: The ADHD Advantage. With millions of adults navigating ADHD — many without even realizing it — Dave shares how what is often seen as a challenge can actually become a strength when properly understood and supported. Through his Root Down Framework — Know Yourself, Respect Yourself, and Connect Yourself — Dave provides practical tools to help individuals and organizations better understand neurodiversity, improve communication, and unlock hidden potential. In this conversation, we cover: • What ADHD really is — and common misconceptions • Why many adults go undiagnosed • How to turn distraction into focus and strength • The importance of self-awareness and mindset • Simple communication strategies for better connection • How leaders can support neurodiverse teams   Whether you have ADHD, work with someone who does, or simply want to improve how you communicate and perform, this episode offers actionable insights to help you thrive in both work and life. Learn more: https://www.davedelaney.me/

In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Rob Baughman of Ironsmith Fire to break down one of the most overlooked — yet critical — aspects of running a business: fire protection and safety compliance. From sprinkler systems and fire pumps to inspections and NFPA regulations, fire protection is more complex than many business owners realize — and missing key requirements can lead to costly surprises, failed inspections, or even serious safety risks.   In this conversation, we cover: • What fire protection really includes beyond alarms and sprinklers • Key requirements for commercial buildings and business owners • What to look for before buying or leasing a property • How building use changes can impact fire code compliance • What annual inspections actually involve — and why they matter • Common mistakes business owners make when it comes to fire safety   Rob also shares insights on building trust in a relationship-driven industry, growing a service-based business, and balancing the technical side of work with creativity and personal passions. Whether you're a business owner, property manager, or entrepreneur, this episode offers practical, real-world guidance to help you protect your building, your team, and your investment. To learn more, visit ironsmithfire.com or connect with Rob Baughman online.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Bonnie Bowles, Associate Director of VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), and Tierra Fuller, Senior Financial Counselor with the Financial Empowerment Center, who highlight and discuss their programs with United Way of Greater Nashville. Bonnie explains that VITA provides free tax preparation services to households making $84,000 or less from late January through April 15th, offering multiple options including online filing, traditional sites, and walk-in services, while Tierra describes how the Financial Empowerment Center has been serving Nashville since 2013 by helping clients with debt reduction, increasing credit scores, budgeting, and financial planning through one-on-one monthly sessions. The interview highlights how both programs work together to build community wealth, with VITA helping clients understand their tax refunds and connecting them to financial counseling services, and emphasizes that both programs are free and serve low-to-moderate income families across Middle Tennessee. Learn more about volunteering for IRS certification training through unitedwayfilefree.org. Contact information was provided for both programs, with fec.nashville.gov for the FEC and unitedwaygreaternashville.org for United Way's main website. So, visit https://www.unitedwaygreaternashville... to learn more about United Way of Greater Nashville and their Financial Empowerment Center and VITA programs.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Gene Garcia, Outreach Director for Heartland Adult & Teen Challenge Murfreesboro, who discusses the organization's mission and plans for expansion in Rutherford County, Tennessee. Gene shares his personal journey from opioid addiction to recovery through Adult & Teen Challenge, which led to his current role helping operate multiple locations including Memphis, Clarksville, and Murfreesboro. The discussion focuses on their plans to establish a residential facility in Murfreesboro, requiring at least 3,000 square feet with spaces for a chapel, cafeteria, kitchen, offices, bedrooms, and recreational areas. Gene explains their holistic approach to addiction recovery, which includes biblical counseling, life skills training, and practical exit planning, emphasizing that residents must genuinely want help rather than being forced into the program. The interview concludes with information about how community members can support their efforts through donations, building contributions, or by connecting them with potential program participants. To learn more and connect with Adult & Teen Challenge visit their website ATCTN.org and or call Gene at 615-624-7878.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Zach Hartman, founder of Forever Field Day, who highlights his Nashville, Tennessee-based business that brings creative activations and nostalgic field day games to groups and gatherings of all ages for corporate events, team building, and personal celebrations. Zach explains how the concept originated from playing flag football with friends and realizing adults miss the impact-driven games from childhood that build community, communication, and teamwork skills. He describes the business's flexibility to scale from 10 to 3,000 people, with services including custom game creation, referees, DJs, and setup for events within a 3-4 hour radius of Nashville. Zach shares a moving story about a recent event with the nonprofit, From Your Father Foundation, where children without fathers experienced joy through activities like parachute games, and he emphasizes his company's approach of incorporating philanthropy into for-profit events. The interview concludes with examples of creative games like "Plunger Pass" and information about how to learn more about Forever Field Day through their social media channels and website, https://www.foreverfieldday.com. Visit https://www.foreverfieldday.com to learn more and connect with Forever Field Day.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Marissa Chaney, Executive Director of Speedway Children's Charities – Texas Chapter, who discusses the organization's efforts to support children in need through collaborative partnerships and strategic grant funding, sharing that they have distributed $12.6 million since 1997 in the North Texas area. Marissa explains their grant application process, which includes thorough review by trustees and site visits to selected organizations. She highlights several upcoming events including the NASCAR Tripleheader Weekend at Texas Motor Speedway in May, Laps for Charity in June, a new Hearts in High Gear benefit concert in July, and a December grant ceremony. The interview covers their support of nonprofits serving children with the most critical needs, their partnership with corporate sponsors like Premier Truck Group and GoVision, as well as the impact of volunteer support on their mission. Visit https://www.speedwaycharities.org to learn more and to get involved with Speedway Children's Charities and the Texas Chapter.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Tad Kinchla, bassist and vocalist of Blues Traveler, who highlights their upcoming performances on May 5 at the Graceland Soundstage in Memphis and June 12 at Bonnaroo in Manchester, Tennessee. Tad shares how his older brother and guitarist, Chan Kinchla, was one of the original members of the band in high school, and how he grew up with the band and was a fan before having the opportunity to join them full-time in 2000. He shares his circuitous route to joining the band, including attending college, playing lacrosse, and playing in different bands, before joining Blues Traveler after the tragic loss of original bass player Bobby Sheehan. Tad shares how he initially learned to play the electric bass without an amp, then transitioned to the upright bass before switching back to the electric bass for convenience with shows. Tad shares his experience playing with his brother and what it was like stepping in to perform with Blues Traveler for the first time since Bobby's passing, describing it as surreal and emotionally charged. He reveals that he was one of five bass players auditioned for the position, and mentions that Oteil Burbridge, who was also considered for the role, ultimately joined Allman Brothers Band, which kicked off his 15-year tenure with that band. Tad describes the welcoming environment where he was immediately encouraged to contribute songs, with one of his compositions becoming their first single on his debut album with Blues Traveler. He explains his approach to fitting into the band's sound by positioning himself with the drums and apart from the mid-range frequency space between other instruments like guitar, keyboard, and harmonica. He discusses Blues Traveler's musical style and the live performance experience. Tad explains how his approach has evolved from filling notes to playing with more restraint, describing his favorite aspect of playing live as interacting with the audience, particularly at outdoor venues. Tad wraps up discussing the VIP experience and information about upcoming shows at Graceland Soundstage in Memphis on May 5th and at Bonnaroo on June 12th. Visit https://bluestraveler.com to learn more about Blues Traveler.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Dr. Amber Adams, Clinical Research Coordinator II for the Southern Environmental Health Study (SEHS) with Vanderbilt University Medical Center: Cancer & Chronic Disease Epidemiology, who discusses the research project focused on examining environmental exposures and their impact on cancer and chronic disease risk in people aged 30-70 across 17 southern states and the District of Columbia. She highlights the disproportionately high cancer and chronic disease rates, including diabetes, obesity, hypertension, respiratory illness, and cardiovascular disease, in the U.S. South compared to other regions. Dr. Adams explains that the health study began in 2021 with a 6-year enrollment period ending in 2027. The study targets participants aged 30-70 in southern states, requiring them to complete a 30-60 minute health questionnaire covering lifestyle, medical history, and environmental exposures. Participants receive a silicone wristband to wear for seven days to measure up to 1,400 chemical exposures, with optional compensation for additional biospecimen donations including saliva, blood, and urine samples. The study aims to investigate how environmental factors like water contamination, air pollution, forever chemicals, and microplastics contribute to health outcomes, particularly addressing the high incidence and death rates of cancer and chronic diseases in the southern region. Dr. Adams explains the importance and urgency of their study examining chemical exposure and its effects on cancer and chronic diseases, highlighting a gap in existing research. The study aims to investigate how chemicals interact with each other and how individuals may respond differently to the same exposures. Dr. Adams shares how the work has increased her awareness of environmental health impacts, including the importance of considering what she consumes and breathes daily. She mentions specific actions she's taking, such as composting and recycling, to address these concerns for both her health and the environment. Dr. Adams invites people aged 30-70 living in southern states to participate. She shared contact details including the website www.sehsstudy.org and a toll-free hotline (855-710-9489), and offered her personal email for further inquiries. Visit https://www.sehstudy.org to learn more about the Southern Environmental Health Study.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Eric Jackson, founder and CEO of Element 47, who highlights his Nashville, Tennessee-based creative branding agency that helps clients align their core messaging and grow through effective marketing strategies. Eric explains their three-meeting process that helps organizations discover and articulate their unique value proposition, using the example of how Dew Tinnin from Skillway communicates that they help people "crush their sales goals and love what they do." The conversation then shifts to AI's role in branding and marketing, where Eric discussed the CRIT prompting method (Context, Role, Interview, Task) for getting better responses from large language models like ChatGPT and Claude. Eric shares how Element 47 uses AI to automate repetitive tasks, creating a blog writing system that can produce 500-5,000 word posts in 10 minutes while maintaining brand voice and sourcing accurate information, allowing the team to focus more on strategic client conversations rather than administrative work. Visit https://element47.co to learn more about Element 47 and to connect with Eric Jackson. https://www.linkedin.com/company/element47co/posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/element47co/  

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Doris Dunn, founder and owner of DunnWise Consulting, who discusses her background in leadership coaching, consulting, keynote speaking and hosting a podcast. During the interview, Doris talks about her 35-year career in the insurance industry, including her role as VP of Marketing and Training, before launching her coaching business in August 2023. She describes her coaching services, including one-on-one coaching, group coaching, mastermind sessions, and workshops focused on clarity, mindset, and resilience. She mentions her newly launched podcast, which interviews people who have overcome challenges and discusses the role of mindset in resilience. Doris explains her coaching approach, which begins with helping clients envision their future 3-5 years out and then creating strategic plans to achieve those goals. She discusses the importance of shifting from a fixed to growth mindset and reframing goals using "I am" statements rather than "I want to be" statements to help clients adopt a growth mindset and reach their goals more effectively. Doris discusses the importance of active listening, emphasizing the need to be fully present and focused on the speaker rather than planning one's response. She shares her long-standing commitment to community service, particularly with the Red Cross, where she has volunteered since age 17 and currently serves on the Nashville Red Cross board. Doris also mentions her involvement in the Tiffany Circle, a women's philanthropy group, and then discusses how volunteerism, particularly with the Red Cross, has helped her develop leadership skills from a young age. She explains that starting volunteer work early provides opportunities to lead, teach, and develop empathy, which are valuable for both personal growth and professional leadership roles. Doris encourages listeners to visit her website at dunnwise.com, follow her podcast "DunnWise Perspectives," and connect with her on LinkedIn to learn more about her consulting services and speaking engagements. Visit https://www.dunnwise.com to learn more about DunnWise Consulting.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Jerry Rosa, Operations Director for Nashville Diaper Connection, who discusses the organization's efforts and mission "to connect families with diapers because every baby deserves a healthy start." Jerry explains how Nashville Diaper Connection began in 2013 when founder Doug Adair identified diaper need as a critical unmet community requirement, growing from distributing 18,000 diapers in a garage to now providing 4.5 million diapers annually across 28 counties, serving approximately 7,000 babies monthly. The organization operates through three main programs: community partnerships with 50 organizations, health connections providing diapers as incentives for medical visits, and Diapers for Diploma offering 200 diapers monthly to 25 campus students. Jerry shares personal stories from deliveries demonstrating the significant impact of their work, including a scene where families waited over an hour for diaper distribution. The organization's core values focus on dignity, equity, and strong community partnerships, with volunteers contributing 9,000 hours annually to help package diapers for distribution. Nashville Diaper Connection Initiatives - Jerry provides information about Nashville Diaper Connection, including contact details (info@nashvillediaperconnection.org and nashvillediaperconnection.org) and current initiatives like the World's Largest Diaper Drive and a potential "Putts for Butts" putting competition in June. He mentions their potty training initiative aimed at reducing diaper costs for families, particularly those needing daycare services, as well. Visit https://www.nashvillediaperconnection... to learn more and get involved with Nashville Diaper Connection.

In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Jonathan Torres, Chair of C12 Memphis, to explore how faith and leadership intersect in the world of business. C12 is the largest peer advisory network of Christian CEOs and business leaders, helping executives build stronger companies while staying grounded in purpose, values, and accountability. Through confidential forums, executive coaching, and faith-based leadership development, C12 equips leaders to navigate challenges, grow their businesses, and lead with integrity. In this conversation, we discuss: • What C12 is and how it supports CEOs and business owners • Why leadership can feel isolating — and how community changes that • How faith influences decision-making in business • The biggest challenges leaders are facing today • Why building a business for a greater purpose matters Whether you're a CEO, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this episode offers insight into how surrounding yourself with the right people can transform your leadership, your business, and your impact. To learn more about C12 Memphis, visit joinc12.com and connect with Jonathan Torres and the local leadership community.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Michael Valletta, Founder and Owner of Quickcuts Media, who discusses the power of storytelling in video content creation. Michael explores how AI tools like Synthesia can assist content creation but still require human expertise and relationship-building, emphasizing that authentic storytelling and emotional connection remain crucial. Michael highlights the importance of consistency in content planning and production, noting that most content creators abandon their projects after about seven episodes. They discuss practical tips for effective video creation using phones, including shooting in 4K, maintaining horizontal format, using proper microphones, and keeping content focused and authentic. The conversation concludes with Michael explaining Quickcuts Media's services across three areas: @SocialMedia, InStudio, and OnSite, and sharing how they particularly support nonprofits through affordable storytelling solutions. Visit https://quickcutsmedia.com to learn more and to connect with Quickcuts Media.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Sara Wigal, Associate Professor and Director of Publishing at Belmont University, Executive Director of Ami McConnell Literary Agency, and Executive Director of WriterFest, who discusses her background in publishing and her current roles, as well as the evolution of the publishing industry, including the impact of technology and AI. During the interview, Sara talks about her career journey from being a literary publicist to becoming an Associate Professor and Director of Publishing at Belmont University, where she teaches students interested in writing and book publishing. She emphasizes that despite technological changes and concerns about reading habits, the book publishing industry remains vibrant and lucrative, with books continuing to play a significant role in entertainment and education.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Kirk House, a singer-songwriter and Americana artist, who discusses his musical background and support for veterans and first responders. Kirk shares his journey from growing up in church communities in Arkansas to performing in Abilene, Texas, and now based in Fort Worth, where he developed his unique "Texas Soul" music style blending country, Americana, gospel, blues, and R&B influences. The conversation highlights Kirk's personal connection to veterans through friends and family, his volunteer work with first responders, and his involvement with Airpower Foundation's Walk 22 event, where he has performed the national anthem and supported veterans' mental health awareness initiatives. Visit https://www.kirkhousemusic.com to learn more and connect with Kirk House.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Sara Wigal, Associate Professor and Director of Publishing at Belmont University, Executive Director of Ami McConnell Literary Agency, and Executive Director of WriterFest, who discusses her background in publishing and her current roles, as well as the evolution of the publishing industry, including the impact of technology and AI. During the interview, Sara talks about her career journey from being a literary publicist to becoming an Associate Professor and Director of Publishing at Belmont University, where she teaches students interested in writing and book publishing. She emphasizes that despite technological changes and concerns about reading habits, the book publishing industry remains vibrant and lucrative, with books continuing to play a significant role in entertainment and education.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Anna Traverse, CEO of Contemporary Media, Inc. and Editor-in-Chief for Memphis Magazine, who highlights Memphis Magazine's 50th anniversary celebration and its role in documenting Memphis's history over five decades. Anna discusses the company's approach to covering the city's diverse topics including music, business, politics, arts, and culture. The April 2026 issue will serve as the official 50th anniversary commemorative publication, featuring wall-to-wall anniversary content that examines different aspects of Memphis over the past 50 years through historical cover archives and expert contributions. Anna expresses hope that readers will gain a deeper appreciation for Memphis's rich stories and creative innovation, noting the distinctive creative spirit that sets the city apart.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Matthew Emerzian, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and Founder and CEO of Every Monday Matters, who highlights his new book "Make It Matter: Unlocking Human Potential Through the Mattering Mindset" which releases May 5th. Matthew was in Memphis to keynote the AutoZone hosted cityCURRENT signature speaker series event on January 23, 2026. During the interview, Matthew shares his personal journey from working in the music industry to founding Every Monday Matters, a nonprofit focused on helping people find purpose and meaning in their lives. He explains how the organization has expanded to include K-12 education programs across 50 states and 7 countries, corporate leadership development, and a senior living program.

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Ashley Landes, Chief Operating Officer with Tennessee Prison Outreach Ministry (TPOM), along with Mary McCrary, Development and Recruitment Specialist, who both highlight the nonprofit organization with a Christ-centered mission "to support individuals in and leaving incarceration, as well as their families, with resources and services that empower them to build healthy, fulfilling lives."

In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Colleen Joyce, CEO of Lawyer.com, to explore what it takes to scale a business in today's fast-changing, AI-driven world. Colleen is a dynamic business leader known for blending creativity, strategy, and innovation — from bold marketing moves like celebrity partnerships to implementing AI tools that help businesses grow smarter and faster. In this conversation, Colleen shares: • How to scale a business without burnout using “The Fun Formula” • Why creative marketing is essential for standing out in competitive industries • How AI is transforming business operations and content creation • Common mistakes leaders make when adopting AI • What it takes to build a brand that connects in a digital-first world Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or business owner, this episode offers practical insights on leadership, growth, and staying ahead in an evolving marketplace.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Keusi Donald, Executive Director and Lead Shepherd with Economic Opportunities (known as "EcOp"), along with Consultant Ramsay Clark, who both highlight the 35-year-old nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of justice-impacted and under-resourced adults in the Greater Memphis Area by providing sustainable employment opportunities, life coaching, spiritual guidance, and mentoring through their innovative "Shepherd's Work" program. During the interview, Keusi explains their Shepherd's Work model, which pairs participants with mentors for comprehensive support during employment. The organization and Shepherds offer support in various areas including job training, credentials, and personal development, with a strong emphasis on faith-based principles. Keusi highlights the importance of retention support and accountability to both individuals and employers. He highlights EcOp's evolution, including the implementation of the Shepherd's Work model in 2017 and a pilot for new credential training opportunities in 2024. He emphasizes EcOp's independence as a standalone 501c3 organization since 2024, which provides flexibility in grant submissions and stakeholder involvement. Keusi shares a success story of an individual who went from unemployment to securing a higher-paying job and purchasing a home with the help of EcOp's services. Keusi highlights the importance of giving individuals access to employment resources and the collective effort needed to support their reintegration into the workforce. Ramsay then provides information on how the public and corporate leaders can get involved with EcOp, including visiting the website and contacting him for further information. Visit https://www.ecopmemphis.org to learn more about Economic Opportunities or email Ramsay Clark at ramsayclark1@gmail.com to discuss specific ways to engage with EcOp.

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Stephen Boyd, Sales Director with OUTFRONT Media in Nashville and Memphis, along with Don Nolan, Real Estate Manager, who both highlight OUTFRONT Media, the power of Out-of-Home advertising and In Real Life experiences, and their longtime partnership with cityCURRENT. During the interview, Stephen and Don discuss the company's history and evolution, its focus on IRL, "In Real Life" marketing experiences, and its ability to target specific demographics through digital billboards and other products and services. They highlight a successful example of an In Real Life marketing campaign for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, which included interactive events in Times Square to attract tourists. The conversation also touches on OUTFRONT Media's commitment to community engagement through partnerships with nonprofits and its collaboration with cityCURRENT to spotlight charitable organizations. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of understanding a business's audience and creative messaging for effective Out-of-Home advertising, and information on how to learn more about Outfront Media's services. Visit https://www.outfront.com to learn more about OUTFRONT Media. https://www.linkedin.com/company/outfrontmediausa/ https://www.facebook.com/OUTFRONTMediaUSA/

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Nate Calvin, Founder and CEO of Reliant Rides, and India Brown, Director of Community Partnerships and Strategic Funding, who discuss their transportation services for non-emergency medical needs in Memphis, Tennessee. Nate shares some of his entrepreneurial background and explains that Reliant Rides aims to fill a gap in the industry by offering a trusted service for patients who need transportation to appointments but don't require emergency services. The company is currently in a soft launch phase, having completed research and development and raised seed funding. They are working on partnerships with healthcare facilities and other organizations to provide B2B contract-driven services. India highlights the importance of reliable transportation in Memphis and the company's commitment to community impact, noting some of the different partnerships in place, like with the Memphis Medical District Collaborative and their Small Biz Week, taking place May 11-15. Nate expresses interest in finding strategic funding partners, particularly local Memphian investors, and emphasizes the company's commitment to hiring local drivers and supporting Memphis' healthcare and workforce development initiatives. Visit https://reliantrides.com to learn more about Reliant Rides.

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Ann Jarvis, Executive Director of USO Fort Campbell/Nashville, who discusses the organization's 85-year history of supporting military service members and their families through various programs and events. As a nonprofit, the organization provides morale-boosting activities and connects service members to resources and nonprofit partners through their 250 global locations, including their second-largest facility at Fort Campbell, which serves 400-500 service members daily. Ann, who leads a USO Fort Campbell/Nashville staff of five with numerous volunteers, oversees support across Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas, with key centers at Fort Campbell, Nashville, and Little Rock. The organization runs various programs including care packages for deploying and returning service members, therapy dog visits, and music room access for service members, while also focusing on military youth with initiatives like the Month of the Military Child in April, which includes events like a military kid art show, a Military Kids Ball, and a mascot salute featuring corporate mascots. Ann discusses Military Appreciation Month and Military Spouse Appreciation Day in May, and America 250 in July. She highlights the Coffee Connections program, a monthly event for military spouses to build community and learn about resources. Ann mentions plans for a 5K run in Nashville to raise funds, encouraging businesses and individuals to get involved. Ann then highlights other USO programs, including Stuff the Trucks events with Kroger in Clarksville and Nashville, where community members can donate non-perishable items for service members. She details two types of care packages: "bye-bye bags" for deploying service members, which include small toiletries and non-perishable snacks (excluding chips), and larger "welcome home" bags containing essentials like toilet paper, and more substantial food items, like noodles, tuna, and utensils for service members returning at odd hours. Ann shares some of her personal experience serving overseas, emphasizing the organization's impact on military families. She encourages individuals to volunteer by visiting volunteers.uso.org, highlighting opportunities in various locations including Nashville, Fort Campbell, Little Rock, and Knoxville. Ann shares her own journey from volunteer to full-time employee, emphasizing the vital role of volunteers in supporting the USO's programs and events. She highlights the USO's need for in-kind donations and financial contributions to support their programs, and encourages viewers to visit their website for more information on how to get involved. Visit https://fortcampbell.uso.org for more details and to get involved.EVENTSDONATE

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Dr. Mario Ray, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine at UT Health Science Center and Medical Director for the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit and Federal Detention at Regional One Health, who highlights March of Dimes and the nonprofit organization's efforts to support healthy mothers and babies. Dr. Ray shares how his involvement with March of Dimes started years ago through his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, and discusses the organization's work in research, advocacy, and education. He highlights how prematurity is a leading cause of infant death in Tennessee, with rates higher than the national average in Shelby County. Dr. Ray explains that March of Dimes provides on-site support through staff like Ollie Johnson at Regional One Health in Memphis, offering training and support to families with premature babies in the NICU. He shares a personal story about a young family with premature twins to illustrate the significant impact March of Dimes has on supporting families during challenging times. Dr. Ray presents concerning statistics and grades for the United States and Tennessee on the March of Dimes report card for preterm birth, with Shelby County performing even worse with 13.2% of babies born premature. Dr. Ray emphasizes that community support is crucial, particularly through donations, local and national advocacy, and participating in events, like the upcoming March for Babies Walk event scheduled for Saturday, May 30th at Audubon Park. He explains that the event aims to raise awareness about preventing premature births and supporting healthier babies and mothers, with healthcare providers, local leaders, and community organizations expected to attend. Dr. Ray highlights various ways the community can support March of Dimes, including participating in the walk, making donations, starting teams, volunteering, and advocating for policies that support mothers and babies. He encouraged people to visit marchforbabies.org for more information on how to get involved. Visit https://www.marchofdimes.org to learn more about March of Dimes or visit https://marchforbabies.org to learn more about the March for Babies event taking place on Saturday, May 30, 2026 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Randi Smith, who discusses her background at Belmont University, where she studied publishing, her current role as a library assistant, and her debut young adult novel, "Ada Holloway's Had Enough." During the interview, Randi talks about the evolving role of libraries as community hubs offering various services beyond traditional book lending. She shares the inspiration behind her book, which began as a class project at Belmont University, and describes the story's focus on empathetic communication and self-expression. She emphasizes the book's appeal to young adults, parents, educators, and librarians, aiming to spark important conversations. The interview concludes with details about upcoming book events, including a signing at Parnassus Books in Nashville on April 24, and information on how to pre-order the book, which is set to release on April 21, 2026. For more information and to follow Randi's work, visit https://www.randismithwrites.com.

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Hope MacGregor, a singer-songwriter, Americana artist, West Point graduate and US Army Aviation Veteran, who discusses her musical journey and charitable work to support other veterans. Hope shares how she transitioned from planning to drop out of high school to pursue music to attending West Point, graduating and serving 8 years as an aviation officer, and later returning to music after experiencing multiple personal challenges during law school. She explains how music helps her communicate complex emotions more effectively than words alone, and where she draws inspiration for her songwriting. Hope discusses the unique position of being based in Jackson, Tennessee, which allows her easy access to both Memphis and Nashville while maintaining a strong connection to her local music scene. She highlights the authenticity of the musicians in Jackson and describes her current band setup, emphasizing their ability to deliver a powerful live performance. Hope also shares her involvement with CreatiVets, a nonprofit organization that provides art therapy and songwriting programs for veterans. Through this initiative, she volunteers as a guitar teacher, offering free lessons to veterans who participate in the songwriting program, aiming to provide them with a therapeutic tool to express their experiences and emotions. Hope then discusses her involvement with the Airpower Foundation's Walk 22 event, a 22-mile walk in June to raise awareness about veteran suicide. She shares her personal experience with suicidal ideation after leaving the military and emphasizes the importance of combating veteran suicide. The kickoff event for Walk 22 will feature a performance by Hope MacGregor and take place on May 31st at Rhinestone Saloon in Fort Worth, Texas. Hope encourages listeners to reach out to her through social media platforms and streaming services to learn more about her music and upcoming performances. Visit https://www.hopemacgregormusic.com to learn more about Hope MacGregor and her music. Visit https://airpowerfoundation.org to learn more about the Walk 22 event.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Brad Federman, Founder and CEO of PerformancePoint, LLC, and author of "Never Delegate Again: Uncover the SECRET to Growing Your Company, Your People, and Yourself." They discuss Brad's company, PerformancePoint, LLC, which focuses on reducing turnover, improving company valuation through culture, and enhancing employee and customer experiences. Brad shares insights on measuring and improving company culture, including a case study of a company that transformed its fractured culture into a unified one through PerformancePoint's guidance. They also explore Brad's book, which addresses the need to redefine delegation and growth in today's rapidly changing work environment. Brad highlights key concepts from the book, such as the growth matrix and investment feedback, and explains how writing the book helped him refine his own leadership approach. The interview concludes with a discussion of Brad's speaking engagements and how viewers can learn more about his work through his websites and social media channels. Visit https://www.performancepointllc.com to learn more about PerformancePoint, LLC. Visit https://www.bradfederman.com to learn more about Brad Federman and his speaking engagements.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Pam Bryant, Executive Director of Begin Anew, a nonprofit organization that has been serving Middle Tennessee for nearly 30 years by empowering adults to overcome poverty through education, resources, and mentoring. During the interview, Pam discusses the nonprofit's three main programs: high school equivalency, English Language Learning, and computer and job skills training. She highlights the organization's impact, including helping students pursue further education or careers, and mentions specific success stories. Pam also explains their partnership with churches for facility use and emphasizes the importance of volunteers in teaching, tutoring, and mentoring roles. The interview covers how the community can support Begin Anew through volunteering, donations, and other means, and concludes with information on how to get involved, including visiting the website BeginAnew.org.

Andrés Martínez, Director of Policy & Communications with Conexión Américas, discusses their mission and efforts to build a welcoming community and create opportunities where Latino families can belong, contribute, and succeed in Nashville and throughout the state of Tennessee. Each year, the organization assists more than 9,000 individuals and their families in their desire to start businesses, improve their English, help their children succeed in school and go to college, and become an integral part of Nashville's social, cultural and economic vitality. During the interview, Martínez also notes some of the pivots due to the pandemic, and how to help their efforts and participate in their virtual events. Learn more: Facebook:             https://www.facebook.com/ConexionAmericas/ Other:                    http://www.casaazafran.org/ Website:                https://www.conexionamericas.org/ Twitter:                  https://twitter.com/conexion_tn

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Jenny Davis, Executive Director of the Memphis Youth Symphony Program (MYSP), who shares her personal connection to the program as a former participant, and how the nonprofit organization serves as the premiere youth symphony program in the Mid-South and celebrates musical development in a fun, inclusive, and collaborative community. During the interview, Jenny details the organization's history, structure, and impact, highlighting its inception in 1966 under the Memphis Symphony Orchestra to its growth and evolution becoming an independent nonprofit in 2006. She explains the MYSP's various ensembles, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, and emphasizes its focus on musical education, teamwork, and character development. She discusses the organization's operations, including rehearsals, concerts, and collaborations with professional musicians. Jenny also outlines ways the community can support MYSP through financial contributions, volunteering, and spreading awareness about the program.SummaryThe Memphis Youth Symphony Program (MYSP) is building on a 60-year legacy of music education and celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026 as an independent nonprofit. The program serves over 300 youth from more than 80 different schools, offering ensembles ranging from beginner to advanced levels, including two bands, three string orchestras, and two full orchestras. MYSP's administrative team includes Jenny Davis, who teaches flute at Rhodes College and performs with Blue Shift Ensemble, along with Courtney Fly as Operations Manager and Conductors who specialize in working with young musicians.Music Education's Impact on Students - During the interview, Jenny discusses the benefits of music education and mentorship through MYSP, highlighting how students develop skills, character, and confidence through music. Jenny emphasizes the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and personal growth in musical performances, particularly in orchestra settings where students learn to take ownership of their parts and contribute to the overall piece. She notes that while musical progress is visible and concrete, these skills transfer to broader life experiences, including perseverance through challenges and the development of empathy and leadership qualities.Youth Music Program Structure Overview - Jenny details the structure of their programs, starting with how they conduct auditions in May for ensemble placement and begin rehearsals in late August at the University of Memphis. The program holds four public concerts annually and organizes chamber music performances at community events, with rehearsals taking place every Sunday. The programs aim to develop character and leadership skills alongside musical abilities, with Conductors assigning students to ensembles based on their skill level.Memphis Youth Symphony Support Opportunities - Jenny discusses ways the community can support the Memphis Youth Symphony Program (MYSP). They highlight upcoming concerts, including the Spring Concert on March 8, 2026, along with the importance of financial contributions and volunteerism. Jenny explains that students of all skill levels, including beginners, can participate as long as they can read music, and she stresses that the program is not just for future professionals but for anyone passionate about playing music. She encourages interested individuals to visit MYSPMusic.org or follow their social media accounts for more information.Visit https://www.myspmusic.org to learn more about Memphis Youth Symphony Program.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Dr. Sarah Breazeale, Executive Director of the American Red Cross – Mid-South Chapter, who highlights how the organization delivers vital services, providing relief and support to those in crisis and helping individuals be prepared to respond in emergencies. Sarah explains how the chapter responds to home fires, provides blood drives, offers training certifications, and supports military families. She highlights the critical need for volunteers and financial support, noting that 90% of their workforce is volunteer-driven. She concludes by promoting the Red Boa Bash fundraising event scheduled for Saturday, March 21st at The Guest House at Graceland, which aims to raise money for home fire relief efforts in the Mid-South region. Sarah notes that the organization responds to approximately 500 residential fires each year, and walks alongside the families for months as they navigate the process of rebuilding their lives. Sarah invites the community to attend the event and join in the celebration with music, fun, and flair, and then look at an upcoming course, blood drive, or volunteer opportunity where you can help make a difference.Visit https://www.redcross.org to learn more about the American Red Cross and visit https://www.redcross.org/local/tennes... to learn more about the Red Boa Bash.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Ethan Pretsch, Founder and President of WatchDog Robotics, which offers autonomous fire suppression systems using industry leading sensors and monitoring software combined with robotic nozzles to detect fires early and rapidly extinguish them. Ethan shares his some of his background and where the idea for the business started after searching for fire suppression systems that could be used in large tent structures that were up for long periods of time. He explains the limitations of traditional sprinkler systems, which have remained unchanged since 1874, and describes their autonomous alternative that uses sensors to detect and extinguish fires within 12 seconds using robotic water cannons. The system can detect fires up to 400 feet away and deliver water to a range of about 200 feet, making it suitable for large industrial spaces, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. Ethan notes that while the technology is evolving, traditional systems still pose risks of extensive water damage and toxic cleanup, and the autonomous solution offers a more efficient and cost-effective alternative.Jeremy and Ethan discuss the global adoption of advanced fire protection technologies, noting that while Europe and Asia have embraced these innovations, the US market is catching up. Ethan highlights the positive reception from fire engineers and code enforcement officials, suggesting that written codes will soon reflect the potential of robotic autonomous firefighting.Ethan highlights the potential markets in Tennessee, including manufacturing, distribution, and forestry products, and mentions his ties to Memphis, where he has an employee and access to a robust industrial base with skilled professionals. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships to leverage shared knowledge and support, which is crucial for driving opportunities.Ethan expresses interest in applying his technology to wildfire defense and improving plant uptime and safety. He shares advice on taking the first step towards achieving goals, emphasizing the importance of action and learning through available resources like CAD design and programming. He highlights the transformative impact of AI and current low barriers to entry, encouraging natural curiosity and willingness to learn. Ethan also provides details on how to connect with WatchDog Robotics, including their website, social media presence, and options for site visits, demonstrations, and risk assessments.Visit https://www.watchdogrobotics.com to learn more about WatchDog Robotics.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Bart Lewis, Founder and Head of Growth Marketing at King Creative Co., who highlights how he and his team help businesses grow by combining strategy, clear messaging, websites and SEO (Search Engine Optimization), and consistent marketing execution to drive specific business outcomes. During the interview, Bart emphasizes the importance of having a documented, measurable strategy with clear tools and tactics. He discusses recent trends in digital marketing, including AI-driven search and the growing importance of trust signals. Bart shares some success stories from clients like Ogden Pools and My Town Roofing, highlighting how clear strategies can lead to significant business growth. With Ogden Pools, for example, King Creative Co. was able to help them reposition and transition out of pool construction and flip that revenue into recurring monthly revenue built around weekly pool maintenance. Ogden Pools was able to make the shift ahead of schedule, and over the last 24 months their revenue has doubled. Bart talks about that process and some of the tactics, and then discusses the value of owned audiences and the need for businesses to focus on clarity in their messaging.Visit https://kingcreative.co to learn more about King Creative Co.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Dr. Brittany Kasprack, Owner of Mid South Chiropractic and The Bagel Nook, who discusses her journey into chiropractic care and the impact of her businesses on the community. She shares her personal experience with chiropractic treatment after a horse riding accident and emphasizes the importance of preventive healthcare. Dr. Brittany explains the science and art of chiropractic care, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment plans. She also discusses the convenience of having multiple chiropractic locations and the importance of consistent care. The conversation then shifts to The Bagel Nook, where Dr. Brittany describes the unique experience of offering authentic New York-style bagels and over 30 cream cheese flavors. She emphasizes the catering aspect of the business and the opportunity to bring a new food culture to the Memphis area. She also touches on the economic impact of her businesses, including job creation and workforce development. The episode concluded with information on how to learn more and connect with Mid South Chiropractic and The Bagel Nook.Visit https://www.midsouthchiropractic.com to learn more about Mid South Chiropractic and visit https://www.thebagelnook.com to learn more about The Bagel Nook.SummaryChiropractic Care and Preventive Healthcare - Dr. Brittany Kasprack, Owner of Mid South Chiropractic and The Bagel Nook, shares her journey into chiropractic care, which began after a horse-riding accident led her to experience the benefits firsthand. She emphasizes the importance of preventive healthcare and mobility, stating that chiropractic care is an underutilized aspect of healthcare that focuses on maintaining spinal function and overall well-being. Dr. Brittany highlights the balance between science and art in chiropractic practice, using x-rays and other diagnostic tools to develop personalized treatment plans. She also discusses the convenience of having multiple clinic locations and the importance of consistent care, explaining the initial process of assessment and treatment planning for new patients.Wellness Through Group Exercise Motivation - Jeremy and Dr. Brittany discuss the importance of group exercise for motivation and prevention, with Dr. Brittany sharing her experience of seeing patients achieve wellness through active processes. They also talk about the fulfillment Brittany finds in the impact of Mid South Chiropractic, particularly through their wellness wall where patients celebrate their pain-free achievements.The Bagel Nook's Catering Success - Brittany discussed her successful bagel business, The Bagel Nook, which offers fresh, boiled and baked bagels with over 30 seasonal cream cheese flavors and 45 types of bagels daily. She highlights the unique New York/New Jersey-style bagels and the business's expansion into catering for breakfast and lunch meetings. The catering service is designed to appeal to a wide audience with a variety of bagel and cream cheese combinations, presented in visually appealing platters.Mid South Chiropractic and The Bagel Nook - Dr. Brittany discussed the collaboration between Mid South Chiropractic and The Bagel Nook, highlighting their community-focused approach. She explains how the partnership brings unique offerings to the community, such as screenings and assessments, while also providing employment opportunities and valuable experiences for team members. Dr. Brittany emphasizes the economic impact of her businesses, noting their commitment to hiring and training local staff. She encourages listeners to visit their locations in Olive Branch, Hernando, Clarksdale, and Southaven to experience their services firsthand.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Rick Short, Board President of Box 55 Association, a nonprofit organization formed in 1952 with the mission "to serve Nashville Heroes with on scene hydration, nutrition, and body temperature regulation." During the interview, Rick explains the history of the association, which was established by Nashville Fire Department Chief John Ragsdale and Mayor Ben West. The organization has been serving the community since its inception and continues to support firefighters and first responders.First Responder Support Services - Rick explains that the organization supports first responders, particularly firefighters, by providing essential services mandated by federal law to reduce health risks associated with their work. They operate in Davidson County, serving 39 fire stations with two custom response vehicles, making around 400 responses annually. The vehicles are equipped with hydration supplies and warming beverages to help firefighters recover from stressful situations.Environmental Control and Emergency Services - Rick explained their environmental control equipment, including misting fans and heaters for extreme weather conditions in Tennessee. He describes their emergency response services, which include supporting various first responders like the Metro Nashville Police Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol, with approximately 400 responses in 2025.Volunteer-Powered - Box 55 Association has approximately 40 volunteer members who are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies via text, paging, and two-way radios on fire department frequencies. The first-line vehicle is staffed around the clock, and additional members respond in their personal vehicles to assist at the scene. Incidents can last anywhere from 30 minutes to multiple days, with an average duration of about two hours, though the longest response was 14.5 days during the Christmas Day bombing in December 2020.Support Strategies - Rick explains that he and his team receive constant positive feedback from first responders and community agencies. He emphasizes the importance of their work in supporting first responders during emergencies, including reducing physiological and psychological stress. Rick also describes their partnership with the National Fire Department EMS team, who provide medical support on scene. Jeremy asks how the community can support their efforts, and Rick suggests volunteerism and financial donations as ways for people to get involved.Volunteer Requirements and Financial Independence - Rick explains that volunteers for their organization just need to be physically capable and available to respond to calls, with training provided internally. He emphasizes that while a driver's license is required, no specialized license is needed, and senior volunteers are available to mentor others. Rick also discusses their financial independence as a 501c3, noting they rely on donations from various sources including unions and individuals, with significant expenses for maintaining two trucks and feeding crews during long operations.Community Support for First Responders - Rick discusses the challenges faced by first responders in the community, highlighting the breadth of incidents and the heroism displayed by firefighters, police officers, and EMS personnel. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the difficult situations they face and the need for community support to help them perform their duties effectively. Rick also stresses that while donations and support are crucial, they ultimately benefit the individuals on the front lines who risk their lives to save others. Rick encourages viewers and listeners to visit their website, Box55.org, to learn more about their work and get involved through volunteering or donating.Visit https://box55.org to learn more and to get involved with Box 55 Association.https://www.facebook.com/box55association/?ref=br_rs

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Neki Catron, Corporate Global Community Engagement, Inclusion and Diversity leader with Sylvamo and Chair of the Corporate Social Purpose Network with Volunteer Tennessee, who highlights Sylvamo's global operations and its commitment to corporate social responsibility, then spotlights the Corporate Social Purpose Network's role in coordinating private sector engagement across Tennessee.During the interview, Neki highlights Sylvamo and discusses her background and role at the global company. Known as the "World's Paper Company," Sylvamo is based in Memphis, Tennessee with operations across the United States, Brazil, and Europe. She then highlights the importance of the Corporate Social Purpose Network with Volunteer Tennessee for coordinating private sector engagement and addressing local and statewide needs, mentioning collaborations and partnerships with other organizations in the network like Bridgestone, Dollar General, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee. She emphasizes the network's role in facilitating learning, coordination, and alignment among diverse organizations to address community needs effectively.The Corporate Social Purpose Network, led by Volunteer Tennessee, was established in 2024 to connect corporate leaders in CSR and sustainability across Tennessee. The network aims to drive positive transformation by convening companies to share resources, information, and best practices in areas like peer-to-peer sharing, community engagement, philanthropy, volunteerism, and sustainability. Jeremy highlights the potential for companies to strategically engage their employees in community service, noting the significant impact of mobilizing large workforces compared to individual volunteer recruitment.Neki discusses the Corporate Social Purpose Network's activities in Tennessee, highlighting their work since 2025 in listening to CSR professionals and hosting events across the state. She explains their upcoming events in 2026, including Purpose Exchange programs and the 2026 Tennessee Conference on Volunteerism and Service-Learning on March 9. Neki emphasizes that businesses can join the network for free, with opportunities for sponsorship at events, and encourages leaders to participate in their mission to strengthen community engagement and collaboration across Tennessee.Visit www.VolunteerTennessee.net or https://www.tn.gov/volunteer-tennesse... to learn more about the Corporate Social Purpose Network with Volunteer Tennessee. Visit https://www.sylvamo.com/us/en/ to learn more about Sylvamo.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Amy Cotta, Founder and Executive Director of Memories of Honor, a nonprofit organization honoring fallen service members and their families through living memorials and various programs that provide meaningful experiences for the bereaved and opportunities for communities to pay their respects and learn from stories of courage, service, and sacrifice. During the interview, Cotta discusses the organization's 10-year history and its mission to ensure fallen service members and their families are remembered beyond Memorial Day. She highlights programs such as MD365, Music Remembers, Boots of Honor, and collaborations with Vanderbilt University and Gibson Gives. Cotta shares the impact of these initiatives on families and the community, emphasizing the importance of remembering fallen service members. She also outlines upcoming events, including a Salute to Service 5K, an Honor the Fallen 5K, and the Boots of Honor Memorial, inviting community involvement through volunteering and financial contributions.SummaryAmy Cotta discusses the 10th anniversary of the nonprofit organization, Memories of Honor, which is based in Franklin, Tennessee, and has a national reach. She explains their mission to honor, remember, and recognize fallen service members and their families beyond just one day a year. Amy highlights the gap in support for surviving families of fallen service members, noting that while there are organizations providing housing and education, there is a need for ongoing recognition and support beyond immediate post-loss assistance.Amy discusses the organization's mission to support surviving families and connect them with veterans and the community through various programs. She highlights MD365, which stands for Memorial Day 365 days a year, and mentions upcoming events for community engagement. She mentions a collaboration with Charlie Daniels in 2019 for the Music Remembers project, which provided family members with private meet and greets. Recently, Memories of Honor partnered with Gibson Gives to gift families with laser-engraved Epiphone guitars, serving as heirloom items with detailed information about the fallen service members.Amy discusses a program providing guitar lessons and highlights a successful initiative launched in February that pairs combat veterans with surviving families to create songs. She mentions the song "I'm Good," which tells the story of a fallen service member, their father, and the combat veteran, and notes its recent inclusion in an international Veteran Film Festival in Sydney, Australia.Amy discusses the upcoming installation of the Boots of Honor Memorial in Franklin, Tennessee, in May. The memorial, which has been in existence since 2012, will feature 7,470 individual combat boots representing fallen service members, each with a hard card containing the service member's photo and information. The memorial will be accessible to the public in a covered open-air area at Bicentennial Park, allowing for easy access for families, children, and individuals with disabilities.Amy discusses the importance of acknowledging fallen service members and their families. She shares an example of how Vanderbilt University honors fallen service members by wearing their names on jerseys during games. Amy emphasizes how meaningful it is for families to know that their loved one's name is being remembered, as it helps prevent them from feeling forgotten and alone. She shares stories about Gold Star families, who have lost loved ones in military service, highlighting how some soldiers remain unrecognized despite living near military bases. She describes how a woman's husband was finally acknowledged, and mentioned a similar experience from the Vietnam era where a brother broke down in tears at his brother's memorial sign during the Honor the Fallen 5K race.Amy expresses her hope that people who experience "Boots of Honor" will take away a meaningful message, particularly for military families. She emphasizes that freedom comes at a cost and that the pain of war continues for veterans and their families. Amy emphasizes the importance of remembering the families of fallen soldiers beyond Memorial Day and encourages attendees to reflect on the significance of the holiday. She urges people to avoid saying "Happy Memorial Day" and instead focus on gratitude and remembrance.Amy discusses upcoming events to support the community, including a Salute to Service 5K on April 11th with Vanderbilt University, the 11th annual Honor the Fallen 5K on May 2nd at the Grove Club, and the Boots of Honor Memorial project in June. She emphasizes the need for volunteers and financial contributions to make these events successful.Visit https://memoriesofhonor.com to learn more about Memories of Honor.Get Involved

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Tracy Burgess, Executive Director of Dorothy Day House, and Lea Carr, President Elect with the Rotary Club of Memphis, who each highlight their respective organizations and then discuss the upcoming Café du Memphis event on April 25, 2026. Tracy Burgess shares some of Dorothy Day House's 20-year history of providing housing and support to families transitioning out of homelessness, while Lea Carr, details the Rotary Club of Memphis' long-standing support of Dorothy Day House and various other community service initiatives. The Café du Memphis event, scheduled for April 25th at St. Michael's Church, will offer both dine-in and drive-thru options featuring Cajun cuisine, including Shrimp N Grits, Beignets, and coffee, with proceeds supporting Dorothy Day House. The discussion highlights the collaborative efforts between the Rotary Club of Memphis and Dorothy Day House, emphasizing the importance of community support and volunteerism through various engagement opportunities throughout the year.SummaryDorothy Day House 20th Anniversary - Tracy discusses the 20th anniversary of Dorothy Day House, which provides housing and support to families transitioning from homelessness to stability. The organization, supported by the Rotary Club of Memphis for 15 years, has expanded from one home in 2006 to three homes and an office by 2021. Tracy explains their unique model of keeping families together, serving various family structures, and providing support to help residents achieve long-term stability. She shares a success story of a mother with four children who is about to move out, having achieved employment, transportation, and housing stability, as well as completing her bachelor's degree.Rotary Club's Community Support Initiatives - The Rotary Club of Memphis, led by Lea as President-Elect, has been supporting the community since 1914, with Café du Memphis being one of their signature projects and events. Lea explained that the club's mission is to provide community support through volunteering, networking, and various projects throughout the year.Rotary Club's Mobile Food Pantry - The Rotary Club of Memphis meets weekly for lunch on Tuesdays at the Pink Palace and hosts a monthly happy hour for members who cannot attend lunch. Lea highlights their mobile food pantry initiative, which partners with St. Patrick's Church to provide groceries to up to 500 families weekly, a project that began during the pandemic and continues to address ongoing food insecurity.Cafe du Memphis Food Event - The Rotary Club of Memphis is hosting Café du Memphis on April 25th at St. Michael's Church, featuring a large, family-friendly food event offering shrimp and grits, beignets, and coffee. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes a drive-thru option for those with busy schedules, along with live music and a late Mardi Gras celebration atmosphere. Lea explains that attendees can also support the Rotary Club Foundation and Dorothy Day House through donations if they prefer not to purchase food.Café du Memphis Success - Tracy highlights the success of Café du Memphis in engaging the community and its hundreds of participants. She emphasizes the importance of personal connections and gratitude expressed to attendees, which strengthens community relationships and raises awareness for Dorothy Day House. Tracy also explains the process of advance orders and sponsorships, encouraging community support and financial contributions from local businesses to further the event's success.Community Engagement at Dorothy Day House - Tracy discusses the importance of inviting community members to experience Dorothy Day House firsthand, emphasizing that seeing the facilities, meeting the families, and understanding the mission creates a stronger connection and commitment supporting the organization. She highlights the goal of creating meaningful engagement for volunteers, noting there are various opportunities to get involved.Dorothy Day House Support Initiatives - Tracy discusses various ways to support Dorothy Day House, including Monday night meals, the 20th anniversary celebration, and a panel discussion on March 19th about the intersection of civil rights and Catholic worker movements. Tracy provides details on volunteer opportunities and mentioned the website dorthydaymemphis.org for more information. Lea shared the website for the Rotary Club of Memphis, memphisrotary.org, and both Tracy and Lea invite viewers to attend the upcoming Café du Memphis on April 25th at St. Michael's Church.Visit www.cafedumemphis.org to learn more and get involved with Café du Memphis.Visit https://www.dorothydaymemphis.org to learn more about Dorothy Day House.Visit https://www.memphisrotary.org to learn more about the Rotary Club of Memphis.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Michael Dermer, CEO of The Lonely Entrepreneur, who highlights his new book, "Entrepreneur Survival Guide: Will You Survive in an AI World?" During the interview, Michael shares his entrepreneurial journey and the development of The Lonely Entrepreneur platform, which provides a wide range of learning modules, support, and mentorship for entrepreneurs. Michael's new book outlines six key "weapons" and thirty tactics for entrepreneurs to succeed in an AI-driven world, emphasizing the importance of unique market positioning, brand building, and operational excellence. Michael explains that the book aims to help entrepreneurs adapt to technological changes by focusing on what truly matters, and it is available in multiple formats with a free PDF system overview available online at https://lonelyentrepreneur.com/esg/.SummaryEntrepreneurship, Loneliness, and AI Challenges - Michael shares his entrepreneurial journey, including founding the first company to provide financial rewards for healthy behavior, and later establishing The Lonely Entrepreneur to support other entrepreneurs. He highlights the importance of addressing the loneliness often experienced by entrepreneurs and discussed the development of their learning community platform, mentoring, and consulting services. Michael also emphasizes the need to navigate the challenges posed by AI, which led to the creation of the Entrepreneur Survival Guide.AI-Driven Entrepreneurship Survival Strategies - Michael discusses his new book, "Entrepreneur Survival Guide: Will You Survive in an AI World?", which focuses on strategies for entrepreneurs to succeed in an AI-driven world. He outlines six "weapons" and talks about the thirty tactics that entrepreneurs can use, including finding a unique playground, building brand chemistry, maintaining operational obsession, developing organizational resilience, stretching personal limits, and effectively applying AI. Michael emphasizes that these strategies are crucial for entrepreneurs, whether they are existing business owners or individuals forced into entrepreneurship due to AI-related job losses. He provides examples like Hamilton and Harley-Davidson to illustrate the importance of defining a unique market position and building human connections in a digital age.Entrepreneur AI Adaptation Guide - Michael aims to help entrepreneurs adapt to the changing landscape by focusing on what truly matters and embracing new technologies. He emphasizes that AI is transforming industries, making it crucial for entrepreneurs to innovate and adapt rather than relying on traditional tactics. The book is available in multiple formats, including print, digital, and audio, and a free PDF system overview can be downloaded from https://lonelyentrepreneur.com/esg/.Visit https://lonelyentrepreneur.com/esg/ to learn more about Michael Dermer and his new book, "Entrepreneur Survival Guide: Will You Survive in an AI World?"

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Dwayne Spencer, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis, who discusses the organization's mission and efforts to build more prosperous and vibrant communities by making sure everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home. Dwayne explains that Memphis Habitat has built nearly 650 homes since 1983 and completed over 1,800 repairs for older adults, generating a local economic impact of approximately $400 million. He details Memphis Habitat's model of providing zero-interest mortgages to qualifying, low-income families after a 13-15 week financial literacy program. He highlights the community benefits of Memphis Habitat's work, including transforming vacant properties and creating stable, affordable housing. He also describes the organization's ReStore, which sells donated goods to support Memphis Habitat's mission. The interview concludes with Dwayne discussing their Framing the Future Campaign, Memphis Habitat's strategic plan to increase home builds and repairs over the next five years, and their CEO Build initiative, which invites local business leaders to participate in builds and raise funds for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis.SummaryHabitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis' Community Impact - Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis, founded in 1983, has built nearly 650 homes and completed over 1,800 repairs for older adults since 2014, generating a local economic impact of over $400 million. The organization provides qualifying families with zero-interest mortgages and offers financial literacy training and credit repair services over 13-15 weeks. Dwayne explains that their builds involve partnerships with families, corporations, and faith-based organizations, where volunteers help with non-code inspected tasks like installing doors, windows, and flooring, contributing to community building and safety by transforming vacant and abandoned properties into affordable homes.Habitat's Rising Costs and Solutions - Dwayne explains that Habitat for Humanity's house-building costs have risen to around $200,000, though they often sell homes for less due to low appraisals based on comps of nearby blighted and neglected homes. He notes that they have found relief through GAAP funding from THDA to address these valuation challenges. Jeremy observes that while the initial investments might seem risky due to low appraisals, the long-term community transformation benefits both the individual families and the broader neighborhood as more new homes are built or improved and comps then rise.Aging in Place Initiative - Dwayne discusses the Aging in Place program, which began as a response to the 2008 recession when they shifted from building new homes to repairing existing ones. Dwayne explains that they identified a need to help older adults maintain their homes, leading to a $3.9 million grant from the Plough Foundation to repair approximately 240 homes annually, focusing on accessibility and mobility issues. The program provides essential repairs like installing grab bars and replacing roofs, which are crucial for older adults living on limited incomes.Memphis Habitat's Strategic Home Building Goals - Dwayne discusses Habitat for Humanity's ReStore, which sells gently used and new items to support affordable homeownership and repairs for older adults. He outlines their Framing the Future Campaign, a strategic plan to increase the number of new homes built to 30 per year and repairs to 250 annually, requiring a $62 million fundraising campaign. Dwayne mentions they have raised $56-57 million so far and introduced CEO Build, a program featured recently at a cityCURRENT signature speaker series event.CEO Build Initiative for Habitat - Dwayne discusses the CEO Build initiative, inviting top executives from local businesses to participate in Habitat for Humanity builds in October. He explains that the program raises money while allowing CEOs to demonstrate community involvement and support economic development in Memphis. Dwayne also highlights other ways the community can get involved, including donations, volunteering at the Restore, and participating in builds from March to June and after Labor Day. He emphasizes that Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis provides zero-interest mortgages to low- to moderate-income families, and encourages individuals to visit Memphishabitat.com for more information on how to support the organization.Visit https://www.memphishabitat.com to learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Brink Fidler, Founder and President of Defend Systems, who discusses his background in law enforcement and highlights his company's work in active violence mitigation training and security consulting. Based in Middle Tennessee, Defend Systems is a life safety and security consulting firm specializing in active shooter response training and physical security consulting. During the interview, Brink shares insights from his two decades in narcotics work and explains how his experience informs Defend Systems' approach to enhancing security and safety in schools, corporations, churches, and other organizations. He outlines the company's services, including training based on the DEFEND acronym (Deter, Evade, Fortify, Evaluate, Notify, Defend), and emphasized the importance of educating people on safety measures. Brink also highlights his work with the Tennessee General Assembly to pass school safety legislation and shares practical tips for individuals to enhance their safety, such as identifying multiple exit routes. The conversation concludes with information on how to learn more about Defend Systems' services and connect with Brink through various platforms, including their website, https://www.defendsystems.com.