Find Your Spark

In this episode, Jena and Nicole open up about what the SPARK Team has been up to lately. Since the year began, the team has joined Michael Neill's training program, “How to be Really Happy and Love Your Life”. Over the course of these trainings, the team has gained incredible insights, but this episode focuses on one in particular – the insight that what we focus on grows. Listen as Jena describes her personal journey through knee replacement surgery, how her focus got the best of her and then ultimately, how it all worked out.

In this episode, Brooke and Ashley sit down once again to debrief and discuss some of the many incredible insights that have occurred over the last few months. This time, Brooke describes her trip home from Nashville with Ashley, and how running out of pre-saved Netflix episodes on her flight somehow landed her as a guest on an episode of “Connect with Jonathan Mark”. Jonathan is a Celebrity Psychic Medium, widely known for helping law enforcement solve cases. Listen as Brooke and Ashley unpack the weight of the conversation that was had and the healing that followed. If you or someone you love is dealing with thoughts of suicide or a mental health crisis, please reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Listen to the episode of “Connect with Jonathan Mark” referenced in this episode at the link below. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fighting-a-silent-battle-the-aftermath-of/id1760009567?i=1000702638463

In this reflective episode, Brooke and Ashley discuss some behind-the-scenes struggles they were both internally battling but not communicating about. This ongoing internal dialogue led to Brooke stepping up to ask a question during the live recording of Kim Lessing and Kate Arend's podcast “Million Dollar Advice” at SXSW EDU. This podcast details the way that our thoughts can make us jump to conclusions, the helpful insights that come from simply asking, the ability to recognize everyone's unique strengths, and the realization that not everyone is going to mirror the expectations you have for them, but that's okay too. Listen to the episode of “Million Dollar Advice” referenced in this episode at the link below. https://schedule.sxswedu.com/2025/events/PP155925

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Chad speaks about a chaotic grocery store trip that turned into an unexpected lesson in self-awareness, emotional check-ins, and the importance of listening when your SPARK says, "Slow Down!"

In this heartfelt episode, Ashley and Nicole dive into the impactful power of openness. They begin by reading a reflective passage that sets the tone for a rich conversation about how being open has shown up in their own lives—both personally and professionally. Together, they explore how easy it is to fall into knee-jerk thinking like, “I can't do this,” “This is too hard,” or “I don't like this,” and how that thinking can close us off from incredible opportunities. But when we become aware of that resistance, something shifts. Openness creates space for fresh perspectives, new possibilities, and unexpected growth. Tune in to hear real stories, honest reflections, and a reminder that so much more is available to us—when we're simply open.

In this episode, Nicole highlights the importance of self-awareness and being able to recognize her state of mind, during a time where her and her family were personally impacted by the loss of a loved one. She shares the signals she experienced when her state of mind was at an all-time low and how self-awareness opened the door to the solutions she needed. 

April is Second Chance Month, a time to raise awareness of the collateral consequences of incarceration. In this episode, Mari discusses the importance of providing services and opportunities to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, and calls listeners to question the assumptions they make about people, in order to combat recidivism and cultivate more compassion throughout communities.

In this episode, Makayla reflects on the past year at SPARK. With her 1-Year "workiversary" approaching, Makayla discusses how her life looks completely different than it did the year prior and emphasizes how much can change in just a year's time. Listen as Makayla celebrates the opportunities and contentment that her role at SPARK has brought her and then wraps up with a hopeful message about her future.

In this episode, Jena shares some personal insights and experiences that have allowed her to navigate relationships, conflicts and life with greater ease. Understanding separate realities gives us greater understanding and empathy towards others in that it opens our eyes to everyone's individual experiences. Listen as Jena shares stories about hamburgers and soap - two stories that otherwise may have been minuscule moments but rather opened Jena's eyes to greater understanding and compromise.

In this episode, Stephanie reflects on a session she attended at SXSW EDU on humanity and AI. In her mind, there are two major differences between the capacity of human beings and that of AI: 1) original, new thought and 2) the capacity to feel. While AI is extremely useful for everyday life, it is reliant upon information that already exists in the form. Humans, on the other hand, have access to ideas that don't yet exist in the form, making us a conduit for true innovation. We also have a built-in biofeedback mechanism that alerts us to how we are using our minds – our feelings. If robots have you feeling stupid or irrelevant, tune in to hear how your system design is actually quite spectacular.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Chad discusses the subtle yet powerful ways our SPARK communicates with us in everyday situations. From that random urge to call an old friend to picking up on vibes in a room, he explains how our inner compass is constantly working to guide us.

This week on the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Mari discusses the importance of recognizing the important role we each play in the lives of others and how to cultivate positive relationships with the individuals we work with.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Makayla sits down to reflect on what she's learned so far during her time at SPARK. Through this intimate discussion, Makayla shares her understanding of thought through personal experiences and a story that puts into perspective how one thought can shift your entire experience.

In this episode, the entire SPARK team sits down together to reflect on 2024 and uncover what they are hopeful for in 2025. The rarity in which the team gets to be together in person is not lost on us during this episode as the laughs exchanged and genuine happiness in experiencing togetherness blossoms through the reflective conversation had. 2024 brought many highs and many lows while truly proving to all of us at SPARK that the universe has a plan that's greater than our own. We're optimistic for 2025 to bring with it exactly what we need as a team and what we need for The SPARK Initiative as a whole.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Jena reflects on her less-than-ideal start to 2025. Through her reflection, she shares a story about her son who recently tried out for the track team and despite making the team, had a lot of insecure thinking about his first meet. As the episode unfolds, Jena gives some advice to her son that she later discovers she can apply to her own mindset. At the conclusion of the episode, Jena poses the question, “Have you ever missed out on an opportunity or an experience because you let your thinking get in the way?” Looking at life from a perspective of opportunity rather than worry opens new doors and presents experiences you may have missed out on otherwise.

In this episode, Stephanie has the pleasure of speaking with our long-term partner in Norway, Elin Henriksen. Elin is a 4th grade teacher, coach, Certified SPARK Facilitator, and all around wonderful human being. In this conversation, she reflects upon a recent insight into trusting our inner wisdom, our SPARK. Through a range of metaphors including surfing, ski-lifts, and Indiana Jones, Elin's presence and storytelling provide Stephanie with the perfect reminder that such trust is not misplaced. Tune in to explore how you can rely more upon your own SPARK.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Chad speaks about the fascinating concept of quantum leaping and how it connects to your intuition—also known as your SPARK. Learn how trusting your gut feeling can lead to bold changes and big opportunities in your life. If you've ever felt stuck or unsure of your next move, this episode will inspire you to take that leap and trust your inner guide.

In this week's episode of the Find Your SPARK podcast, Mari discusses her experience working with at-risk and institutionalized young people, including the need for positive and consistent relationships, the joy and importance of serving this population, and a special thank you the Foundation of Caring for selecting The SPARK Initiative as a grant recipient to serve juveniles in our local detention facilities throughout 2025.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Nicole reflects on her return to the middle school classrooms this year and discusses the importance of providing students at this age with a program like SPARK. She shares personal stories from her own classes, highlighting the impact it has on her students. Nicole also explains why she believes having access to such a program during her own middle school years would have been life changing.

This episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast falls on Giving Tuesday - A day that follows the Thanksgiving holiday and the madness of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with the focus of giving. In this episode, Ashley highlights the level of appreciation organizations like ours have for the donations we receive. As a non-profit, we rely on these donations to continue implementing the programs that have changed the lives of so many. We truly believe that everyone has a SPARK inside of them and want nothing more than to spread this message. In order to do this, we are humbly asking for your help this Giving Tuesday. To learn more about The Spark Initiative, visit: https://www.thesparkinitiative.com/ To make a donation, visit: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1435804

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Makayla is joined by special guest, Gabriella Reece. In the spirit of Thanksgiving and the season of thankfulness, Makayla and Gabriella discuss all of the things they are thankful for within their own lives. The pair also dive into the tendency we have to spiral into a state of mind where thankfulness seems out of reach. Listen as their conversation unfolds into a beautiful realization that even the worst of times often hold something to be grateful for – even if we don't see it right away. Happy Thanksgiving!

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, listen as Ashley is joined by special guests, the Rebels for Peace. Rebels for Peace is a youth-led initiative committed to improving mental health, uncovering resilience, and providing credible and sustainable Social Emotional Learning skills to the next generation. The Rebels made a trip from Chicago to Florida following the postponement of the National Wellbeing & Resilience Conference. During their time in Tampa Bay, the Rebels were able to equip themselves with new tools and insights through 3-days of training with Ashley and the SPARK team. Listen to hear their reflections from their week in Florida experiencing their SPARK. To learn more about Rebels for Peace, visit: https://www.rebelsforpeace.org/

Join host Brooke Wheeldon-Reece and guest Lynne Robertson in this special episode of the Find Your Spark podcast as they reflect on the unexpected challenges brought by Hurricane Milton. In a year marked by unprecedented planning, the SPARK team faced the heart-wrenching decision to postpone their biggest events in a decade. In this episode, Brooke and Lynne share valuable lessons learned from navigating the storm, highlighting resilience, adaptability, and the power of accepting “what is”. They discuss the importance of prioritizing safety, reimagining event strategies, and finding hope in uncertain times. Tune in and discover how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth!

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Jena shares a simple yet transformative insight about creativity that has led her to uncover her creative potential. Creativity is often an attribute that many people feel they lack; however, what if creativity is so much simpler than some artistic ability? Listen as Jena explains how everyone has the potential to be creative. Then revel in the understanding that nourishing your creative thoughts is what allows them to come to life.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Stephanie shares a simple yet profound insight she had while on a walk yesterday. She was pondering how she could support more parents deal with stress, given the Surgeon General's advisory that found that 48% of parents report that most days their stress is completely overwhelming. While in a state of relaxed curiosity about this, she had an interaction with a stranger that gave her the answer. Tune in to hear the story and perhaps start to see more opportunities in your own life to change the world.

​​​​​In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Makayla references a famous quote by Erin Hanson that reads, "What if I fall? Oh but darling, what if you fly?" In this self-reflective episode, Makayla details personal narratives that illustrate the ways in which this quote has helped her state of mind. Listen as Makayla details a more optimistic approach to life, and the unhelpfulness of pessimistic thought.

During this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, the entire SPARK team sits in to celebrate 200 episodes.   Veering off our typical style of podcast, Makayla hosts an interview-style session with the Spark team. Throughout the episode, team members reflect on the changes they've observed since their beginning at SPARK, key takeaways from our teachings, and what they hope to see SPARK become over the next 200 episodes. Listen to this hopeful and reflective episode of the Find Your Spark Podcast to learn just how far we've come, and that we aren't stopping anytime soon. 

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Chad speaks about the importance of embracing your true self and breaking free from societal expectations. He delves into how often we feel pressured to conform to the standards and norms set by others, losing sight of who we truly are in the process. Through candid conversations and personal reflections, Chad encourages listeners to discover his unique strengths, passions, and values, and to live authentically in a world that often pushes for conformity. Tune in to be inspired to reclaim your individuality and ignite the SPARK that makes you, *you*.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Brooke and Ashley discuss the relationship between the unknown and the faith that it all works out. This topic has been a recurring one both at the office and in Brooke's day-to-day life. Listen as the two discuss the possibilities that open up by simply relying on your SPARK to calm your anxiety and reinforce the belief that it truly all works out. At SPARK, we're committed to a faith over fear mentality, and even when things get tough, we come back to "what if it all works out?" For tickets to the National Wellbeing & Resilience Conference, visit https://www.wellbeingandresiliencealliance.com/

In this episode, Stephanie tells the story of a recent conversation she had with her 10-year old son. After excitedly sharing that she'd be teaching SPARK to 8th graders at the local middle school in DC, he emphatically proclaimed she was “going to get cooked.” Tune in to hear her thoughts on this ominous prediction.

During this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Makayla is joined by a very special guest, her mom. Makayla and Jocelyn had the privilege of teaching together during Makayla's time in the classroom. Listen as they reflect on that special time in both of their lives. The pair also speak to the role of educators, how teaching has changed, and the importance of programs like SPARK in every classroom. This episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast premiers on National Support Public Education Day. To every educator, you deserve all the support in the world.

In this episode of the Find your SPARK podcast, hosts Ashley and Jena dive deep into one of SPARK's core beliefs: "Possibilities are Infinite." Together, they explore the powerful impact of embracing limitless potential in both their professional and personal lives. Ashley and Jena share candid stories of times when their own thinking hindered their creativity, as well as moments when being open to new possibilities led to incredible outcomes. Their insightful discussion reveals the transformative power of shifting perspectives and breaking free from self-imposed limitations. Additionally, Ashley and Jena share about the upcoming National Wellbeing and Resilience Conference. They discuss the planning process and how it has reinforced their belief in infinite possibilities, highlighting the event's potential to inspire and empower attendees. Tune in for a heartfelt and motivating conversation that will challenge you to embrace the endless opportunities around you! Note: If you would like to learn more about our upcoming conference, and purchase a ticket at our early rate ending August 1st, visit our conference website: https://www.wellbeingandresiliencealliance.com/

During this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Brooke and Makayla Wheeldon sit down in the infamous Caesars Palace in Las Vegas to discuss an insight that Makayla recently shared with the SPARK team. Makayla, someone who has struggled with OCD for most of her life, shares how a lesson from the SPARK curriculum changed her approach to one of her toughest battles. Brooke, who is also Makayla's aunt, shares a unique perspective having watched Makayla grow up. The pair discuss the profound impact that such a simple understanding can have on anyone unbeknownst to them at the time. To learn more about SPARK Curriculum, visit our website: https://sparkcurriculum.org/

This week on the #FindYourSPARK Podcast, inspired by a Jim Carey video and Independence Day, Ashley, Jena, and Stephanie reflect upon the concept of freedom. Recognizing their privilege in enjoying many social and physical freedoms, this conversation focuses on perhaps the most valuable freedom a person can have – freedom of mind. Freedom of mind is recognizing the fundamental truth that no one can make you think or feel anything, and you do not have to engage with unhelpful thoughts that enter your mind. In an analogy perhaps taken too far, they talk about how freedom of mind is like shopping on Amazon. We have an endless amount of product (thoughts) to choose from with the capacity to keep scrolling, save for later, or add to cart and purchase. Just like we wouldn't spend our money on things we don't like, why would we spend our energy on thoughts we don't like? Tune in to explore the freedom of your own mind.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Chad speaks about the importance of understanding the power of "no" and how to navigate its power in our everyday lives.  Chad also discusses impactful steps to self-discovery and self-care. Join us as we do a deep dive into the ways "no" can help us with self-discovery and empower us to the best of our abilities.

In this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Nicole Wilson and Brandon Evans discuss the importance of men's mental health and why mentoring young men at an early age is crucial. Brandon speaks on his experiences of societal pressures and what he does differently with the young men he mentors to give them a safe space and educate them on their emotional intelligence. He also shares some helpful ways he takes care of his own wellbeing and how that first always starts within. 

This week on the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Makayla and Chad choose to highlight that June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month. Men's Mental Health is a topic that is not typically in the spotlight; however, at SPARK we believe that everyone's mental health is equally important. Join Makayla and Chad as they share stories regarding the stigma surrounding men's mental health in their own lives. As they shed light on the topic, they help to combat the stigma and open doors to important conversations.

In this episode, Stephanie, Brooke and Ashley formally announce that The Spark Initiative is hosting the inaugural National Wellbeing & Resilience Conference. The trio speak to the importance of restoring hope, resilience, and mental & physical wellbeing within some of the most taxing professions. The National Wellbeing & Resilience Conference presents the unique opportunity to create a ripple effect of hope within the communities and populations that need it the most. Visit https://www.wellbeingandresiliencealliance.com/ to learn more about the National Wellbeing & Resilience Conference

This week on the Find Your Spark podcast, Jena, Mari and Nicole reflect on the past Mental Health Awareness month by highlighting the SPARK inside all athletes. Together, they share some of the benefits and struggles competing in sports may have on wellbeing as well as some of the stigma surrounding athletes. Jena, Mari and Nicole all share their unique experiences around this topic while shining light on the importance of looking beyond the label of being an athlete.

In this episode, Ashley introduces a new team member, Marketing and Events Coordinator, Makayla Wheeldon.  Makayla, a former elementary school teacher, is now learning and embracing the beautiful insight that every human has a Spark inside of them that can't be broken. Join Ashley and Makayla as they shine light on Mental Health Awareness Month, specifically teacher mental health. In a profession that burnout is experienced often, and teachers are exiting the classroom in large numbers, Makayla speaks to the factors that contribute to that while reflecting on resources that she wished she had during her time in the classroom. For those struggling, your mental health matters. It's helpful to know that as real as your thoughts may seem, they too shall pass.  Click here to learn more about the National Wellbeing & Resilience Alliance Conference: https://www.wellbeingandresiliencealliance.com/

This week on the Find Your Spark podcast, Brooke is joined by colleague turned personal mentor and coach Monica Corota. Monica Carota is a top-tier coach who's redefining how we understand and embody high-performance. Her work uses precision and depth to polish away any barriers to the remarkable power that already lies at the core of who you are. She believes that peak performance is the result of bringing the fullest expression of your incredible humanity online and making an impact from your inner genius. Listen as Brooke and Monica share a little bit about their recent work together. Monica can be found at: monicacarota.com

Your hosts, Brooke and Ashley, work with youth in rehabilitation centers, jails, trafficking survivor safe houses, and other alternative settings with one objective - to teach an understanding of how the mind works so they can tap into their potential and thrive. This episode will explore how a simple understanding of how the mind works leads to young people becoming more resilient and less reactive - even amid the most trigger-worthy circumstances.

This week on the Find Your SPARK podcast, Brooke shares a story about how she recently navigated an argument between her parents who have been married for over 60 years. To her it was both entertaining and insightful to see two people, who have so much love for each other, get lost in the details of their own crazy state of minds and lose sight of things most obvious to those around them. Listen as Brooke shares how it was both eye opening and relieving to witness that even her parents, who have a love that has stood the test of time, could get lost and find their way back to the heart of the matter within minutes.

The SPARK Initiative recently participated in Week of Caring, a week-long collaboration by United Way Suncoast and partner organizations to enhance our community through volunteer efforts while learning about other like-minded organizations in our area. Nicole, Jena, Chad, and Mari discuss the importance of volunteerism and the amazing opportunities offered at MacDonald Training Center in Tampa.

In this episode of #FindYourSpark podcast, Stephanie and Denzel discuss "Learn Fresh" and the active learning Denzel promotes by using sports as a method of teaching math. As a former educator himself, Denzel speaks passionately about a child's innate ability to learn, but believes that learning comes easier when it involves things that they love. Stephanie and Denzel discuss the #SPARK inside of every learner, and the mutual belief that learning comes from within. Please visit https://learnfresh.org/ for more information.

In this episode of the Find your Spark podcast, Nicole and Ashley share their personal stories of recent stress and the implications they have recently experienced in their work and their home life. Listen as they highlight how a simple conversation helped provide a key to unlocking the chaos in their mind and allowed them to step outside of the "stress storm."

In this episode, Nicole and Mari discuss one of SPARKs values, “we're all in this together” and what that means to them. Listen as they share how this has impacted them and how it can relate to others in the world. 

In this episode, Stephanie has the pleasure of interviewing Elexa Reece, a 16-year-old, who has been described as ‘wise beyond her years.' Elexa talks about the importance of having a mentor and some of the key insights she's had about herself and the human experience. She shares about learning to embrace her humanness, developing a true connection with herself, and not focusing on things beyond her control, like other people's opinions. Tune in for these and other inspiring words from Elexa! Please also share with any and all teenagers in your life who might benefit from her wisdom.

In this episode, Chad talks about the importance of access and how there is beauty in how we choose to navigate it throughout our experiences. Join us as we discover how impactful life can get when we choose ourselves, minds, souls, and energy based on the access we decide to give or not to give!

In this episode, Brooke and Ashley discuss what it means to truly “be you”. They recently listened to a podcast from Michael Neill, and gained some insight around what they see to be true about their “true” selves. Listen as they share stories of when they have gotten caught up and tried to be the version of themselves they "think" they should be, and other times when they just are being, without trying.The podcast episode Brooke and Ashley referred to in this episode can be found here: Caffeine for the Soul with Michael Neill: The Instant Consciousness Elevator on Apple Podcasts

In this episode, Ashley and Stephanie explore a value at the core of our organization – our belief that no one is broken. While labels such as “broken” can be well-intentioned to describe the hurt, pain, and suffering that someone is enduring, we believe that at our core, humans are still whole. There is an untouchable, unbreakable essence to us – our SPARK. We discuss how we've seen this to be true working with vulnerable populations over the last 10 years, including a recent training in Little Rock, with an organization that works with people experiencing homelessness. Tune in for a very hopeful message that we have come to rely upon ourselves during those times when we feel broken.