Sammie Smiles

In this episode Sammie talks with Ethan Hill the founder of Ethan's Heart Bags 4 Blessings. Ethan is an amazing kid that helps the homeless in his community and even has his own trailer to bring around to different places to not only distribute items but to teach as well. Sammie and Ethan were both recently featured on Disney Holiday shows and are both Giving Tuesday Spark Leaders. You will find this episode inspiring and full of heart. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out what makes Ethan smile.

It's season 3 of Sammie Smiles podcast and her first guest is Ryan Hickman who was her very first guest on season one! Back for more fun with these 2 friends that care about helping the environment and being goofy too! Sammie and Ryan got to meet in person back in June after being pen pals for over 4 years. They talk about that visit and their tour of Polywood, a company that makes amazing furniture out of recycled #2 plastics! You won't want to miss a minute of these two friends fun chat. One this is for sure, these two are out to change the world and doing a great job of it at such a young age. Find out what Ryan has been up to and what makes both Sammie and Ryan smile. This is a great way to kick off season 3 of Sammie Smiles!

In this episode Sammie wraps up year 2 and season 2 of Sammie Smiles Podcast! This time you asked the questions and Sammie answers! Find out a little more about what motivates Sammie, best advice given on her podcast and oh yes there is a nice rapid-fire section at the end. 83 episodes so far and season 3 will be here before you know it with even more amazing guests full of inspiration and smiles! Thank you for listening/watching. We hope this makes you smile!

In this episode Sammie talks to Dr. Jen Welter. Dr. Jen is best known for being the first female NFL coach, but she is so much more! She is a sports psychologist and a gold medalist, speaker, an author and does countless other amazing things including her Grrridiron Girls football camps. Find out why it is so important to Dr. Jen to set a good example for girls everywhere and the huge impact she has had. Sammie and Dr. Jen got to meet this past summer in person and were both inspired by each other. You will love this talk with two empowering females trying to make this world a better place. Are you ready for some football? And inspiration? And girl power? Look no further! Don't forget to listen until the end for what makes Dr. Jen smile and the fun rapid-fire round.

In this inspiring new episode Sammie talks to Brad Montague. Brad is a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator. He was the creator of Kid President, and his work is designed to connect with the hearts of children young and old. He is currently preparing to hit the road to celebrate the release of THE FANTASTIC BUREAU OF IMAGINATION. Brad and Sammie connected about a year and a half when he awarded her a Neighborhoodie award. Enjoy their conversation full of insight, inspiration, smiles, and laughter. Be a part of a circle spreading kindness in this world. Don't forget to listen until the end for the rapid fire round and what makes Brad smile. This episode will get you creating, imagining, and wanting to make the world a better place for young and old.

In this episode Sammie talks to fellow book lover and podcast host E Train. E Train has been hosting a podcast called E Train Talks where he interviews Middle Grade Authors. Sammie and him have a lot of fun talking all things books, interviews and other things in between! Find out about his service projects and you can't miss the rapid fire round and what makes E Train smile. Get ready to make a trip to an indie bookstore or the library after this because you will want to grab a book for sure.

In this episode Sammie talks to New York Times Bestselling author and podcast host Marissa Meyers. Marissa has written multiple best sellers and Sammie is a huge fan of her writing style. They both have being authors and podcast hosts in common. Find out where Marissa gets her inspiration from and her favorite character. You can't miss the rapid fire round full of fun answers. Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes her smile. This episode is sure to get your week started off right and might just make you want to write!

In this episode on World Juggling Day Sammie talks to Bill Barr. Bill and Sammie met a few years ago at the IJA, International Jugglers Association Convention. Sammie was a guest speaker at the Benefit show and received the first IJA Sammie Vance Youth Achievement award named in her honor. Find out what juggling and service have in common and the impact it has had on Bill and Sammie. Bill is an award-winning juggler with a heart of gold. Don't miss a minute of this fun conversation. Stay tuned until the end for rapid fire and what makes Bill smile.

In this episode, Sammie talks to Samirah Horton, known by many as DJ Annie Red. She is an award-winning DJ and activist from Brooklyn, NY. Samirah uses her music to spread an anti-bullying message. Sammie and Samirah hold in common: both being authors, recent Kid of the Year finalists, and most importantly, seeing a problem and being willing to do something about it. They talk about the importance of being kind and how they can make a difference. Get ready to be inspired and start your week off on the right note.

In this episode Sammie talks to Dr. Mark Daniel, the superintendent of the largest school district in Indiana (Fort Wayne Community Schools) This week marks the end of the school year, but the summer break is only for students. Find out what a superintendent does and why Dr. Daniel loves his role. Sammie and Dr. Daniel talk school, little known parts of the job and of course what makes him smile. Sammie is glad to be a part of FWCS and ready to be an 8th grader in the fall! Don't miss this “schools out” episode!

In this episode Sammie interviews Adina Lichtman, founder of Knock Knock Give a Sock. Adina started her nonprofit to help humanize homelessness one sock at a time by turning transactions into interactions. Find out what inspired her and how the pandemic changed how she did things. Adina is also and author. You will enjoy this conversation between to powerhouse ladies out to change the world for good. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out what makes Adina smile.

You are in for a treat! Sammie interviews the Peabody and Emmy award winning journalist Vladimir Duthiers. Vlad is a CBS News correspondent in New York that has an incredible way of interacting with people all over the world. This episode covers so much and is jam packed full of topics from flying with the blue angels to interviewing Lin Manuel Miranda. Toss in a whole section on Reading Rainbow and their mutual love of books with a fun sprinkling of rapid-fire round that goes both ways. You will not only learn a lot about Vlad and his passion for talking with people and sharing stories but also about how he deals with reporting the hard topics. See if you are surprised by Sammie's favorite animal. This interview will have you smiling from start to finish. Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes Vlad smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to 8 year old Lennon Epand who is the front woman and co writer of the band Homescool. This interview will get you Rockin' for sure! Find out how Lennon first got involved in music and what it's like working with her dad and good friends. With a new song release called "The Drums" Lennon was joined with friends that have rock stars for parents. You will learn what former podcast guest Lennon and Sammie are both friends with. Don't forget to listen until the end for the rapid fire round and to find out what makes Lennon smile. I promise you this episode will put a song in your heart.

In this episode Sammie talks to Indiana's Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch. Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch is the President of the Senate, overseas multiple boards and is the founder of the Brilliant Firefly Award. Find out about the Lt. Governors responsibilities and the pros and cons of the job. What is it like to use the gavel and get order? Learn about Sammie's recent trip to the Statehouse and what the Brilliant Firefly Award is. Being a government leader is so much more than most people know and I can guarantee you will leave inspired and ready to accomplish something after listening. Don't forget to tune in until the end for the fun rapid fire round and to find out what makes Lt. Governor Crouch smile. This episode is not to be missed!

In this episode Sammie interviews Hana Mangat, the founder of Sikh Kid 2 Kid and an intern at Channel Kindness. Channel Kindness is a part of Lady Gaga's Born this Way Foundation. Sammie was recently asked to write an article about kindness for their blog and that is how this interview came to be. Hana and Sammie talk all things kindness and how important mental health is. Find out about Lady Gaga's book that Hana was a part of. Learn about how a little kindness goes a long way. You won't want to miss this inspiring episode as these two girls speak from the heart. Don't forget to tune in until the end to find out what makes Hana smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to Jeff Wall, founder of Golden Age Karate. Jeff goes to different senior citizen facilities and teaches them karate and shows kindness. Sammie and him recently worked on a small project together and because what he does is so inspiring it was a no brainer to ask him to be a guest on Sammie Smiles. Find out what motivates Jeff and how he overcame obstacles to continuing his mission while so many places were shut down during the pandemic. This is a kickin' good episode that will inspire you to want to get out and help the elderly or anyone for that matter. Don't forget to stay tuned until the end for the rapid-fire round and what makes Jeff smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to Stacy Bauer. Stacy is an author, teacher, and founder of Hop off the Press. They talk writing books, making a difference and kids changing the world. Sammie is featured in Stacy's new book series Young Changemakers. You will no doubt leave inspired after listening to these two talks and don't forget to check out book 5 in the Young Changemakers series. You will see a familiar girl on a buddy bench on the cover!

In this episode Sammie talks to Rebecca Louie, Executive Director of The Bee Conservancy. You will learn about bees and appreciate them in a whole new light after listening to this conversation. Find out why bees are so important in our every day life and what we can do to help make sure they are protected. You will also hear about fun ways to teach others about bees through comics or building habitats. You will BEEEE amazed and ready to buzz about what you learn. Huge thank you to Buddy Fruits for introducing us to this amazing nonprofit dedicated to protecting bees and safeguarding the environment. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out more about Rebecca, her role and what makes her smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to Amy Guglielmo, the Creative Director for the new Reading Rainbow LIVE. Amy is also an author, illustrator, artist and teacher. You will love their colorful conversation on writing books, the importance of art and inspiring others. Find out about the new Reading Rainbow LIVE and how Sammie will be a part of the first event. It will feature her book and her project. Amy is so creative on so many levels and this talk will keep you captivated until the end. Don't miss the rapid fire round and what makes Amy smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to Benjamin Wong, founder of Kid CEO and podcast host. Benjamin is passionate about connecting with other kid entrepreneurs. He is also involved in explaining NFT's and Crypto. Sammie and Benjamin talk about the importance of finding something you are passionate about and excelling at it and helping others. Both are drawn to inspiring people and wanting to tell their stories. Stay tuned until the end for the fun rapid-fire round and to find out what makes Benjamin smile. You are never too young to make a difference.

In this episode Sammie talks to Vicki Bachmann, VP of Business Partnerships for MATTER. MATTER is a global nonprofit on a mission to help people launch projects that improve communities. Find out how MATTER came to be and how they believe and show that everyone matters! You will enjoy this conversation about the importance of helping others in our communities and beyond. We are thankful to Buddy Fruits for introducing Sammie to this great and inspiring organization.

In this episode Sammie talks to Ekansh Tambe, founder of Beyond Borders. Ekansh wanted to know what happens across the border and instead of wondering took the initiative to take his camera and travel the world to find out firsthand about it. Find out what motivates him. Be inspired to not just wonder but do. You will love the conversation about how anyone can make a difference. Sammie and Ekansh recently met in person through both being honorees of the Power of Children Award. We hope you listen until the end to find out more about Ekansh and perhaps be inspired to look at something through a different lens.

In this episode Sammie talks with Victoria Ren, founder of STEM & Buds. Sammie and Victoria met recently through the Power of Children's Award at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Find out why STEM is so important for kids to be involved in and why Victoria is passionate about it. Learn what STEM program Sammie was involved in a few years ago and much more. You will enjoy this conversation between two girls that want to make a difference in ways that matter to them and the people around them. Victoria is someone with a good head on her shoulders that we have no doubt will continue to do great things. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out what makes Victoria smile.

In this artistic episode Sammie interviews Arsh Pal. Arsh is a young artist on a mission to help others through his artwork. Find out about his drive. Also learn about what he is doing to help senior citizens through his passion. Sammie and Arsh connect and have a lot of fun doing it. Get ready to be inspired and probably want to take up some sort of art project after this. Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes Arsh smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to Rodney Smith Jr, founder of Raising Men and Women Lawn Care Service. Rodney encourages kids to take a challenge of mowing 50 yards free for elderly, veterans, and single parents. Rodney also just wrapped up a 50-state holiday tour visiting kids with illnesses and bringing them gifts and good cheer with fellow humanitarian Yuri Williams. Find out how Sammie first came in contact with Rodney and about their recent meeting in person. This episode will fill you with hope and probably make you want to go out and shovel a driveway or mow a lawn for someone that needs it. Don't forget to listen until the end for the fun rapid-fire round and to find out what makes Rodney smile.

In the first episode of 2022 Sammie interviews her youngest guest to date, Kollin Matthews. Kollin is a 5 year old that embodies what Sammie often says that you don't have to be an adult to make a difference, you can be a kid too. Sammie and Kollin have been involved in a few of the same kindness projects over the past year. Find out what they have been up to and about Kollin's latest initiative and what he accomplished in just a few short days. Get ready to smile a lot and laugh plenty as these two have a blast chatting. Sammie is so happy to be the first one to interview Kollin but we are sure she won't be the last. Don't forget to listen until the end for the rapid fire round and to find out what makes Kollin smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to Ashley Nevison just in time for Giving Tuesday 2021. Ashley not only volunteers to helps those in need but also has a podcast, is an author and both Sammie and she are Giving Tuesday Sparks leaders. Though states and years a part Ashley and Sammie have a lot in common and both loves to spread kindness. They both started their initiatives at age 8. Find out about Ashley's Giving Tuesday plans and how you can be involved. Also find out why Sammie loves team work so much. Make sure and listen until the end to find out what makes Ashley smile. After this episode I am betting you will be inspired to spread some kindness of your own.

In this fantastic new episode of Sammie Smiles, Sammie interviews the talented Will Poulter. Will is a well-known advocate for anti-bullying and his work with The Diana Award. He is an accomplished actor best known for his roles in The Maze Runner, We are the Millers and The Chronicles of Narnia. He was recently cast as Adam Warlock in the new Guardians of the Galaxy 3 movie. You will enjoy this genuine conversation between Will and Sammie about helping others, being kind, life in the limelight and the importance of having a support system. There are lots of smiles and laughter as well as a lot of heart and inspiration. You won't want to miss a second of this wonderful interview. And make sure and stay tuned until the end for the fun rapid fire round and what makes Will smile.

In this energy filled episode Sammie talks to 8 year old Leo Abelo Perry. Leo is a kid with many talents from dancing to acting to having his own podcast. Sammie and Leo talk about his Dance for Justice initiative, his new podcast "The Activators" (which Sammie just recorded for) and him being cast in the new Cheaper by the Dozen remake. Get ready to smile because this episode is sure to get you on your feet and ready for a new week.

In this episode Sammie talks to Asha Curran, CEO and co-founder of the Global Movement Giving Tuesday. Sammie has been a Giving Tuesday leader for the past two and a half years and has learned so much about giving in the process. Find out how Giving Tuesday started, how far its spread, and different creative ways you can be involved whether you have money or not. All you need is some kindness and at times creativity. Also find out about Sammie's big Giving Tuesday plans to write notes and spread smiles and you can too! This episode has lots of smiles and inspiration to start your day, week and month off right.

In the first episode of season 2, Sammie interviews Shan Dunwoody, an accomplished artist, designer, director and creative. Shawn has dabbled in many different forms of art. He travels the world doing amazing murals. One of those murals is in Sammie's hometown and happens to be in the background of her author photo. Find out about their chance meeting and some fun back stories about Shawn's inspiring work. This episode will have you smiling from start to finish and will make you want to create some art by the end. Don't forget to listen at the end for the rapid fire round and what makes Shawn smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to Lucy, the founder of Lucy's Love Blankets. Lucy has been sewing blankets for those that need it most. Find out about her mission and how she started. Sammie and Lucy were both recently part of America Strong series on ABC. They are also Giving Tuesday Sparks leaders. Find out their upcoming plans that involve kindness. These girls are great examples that age doesn't matter when you want to make a difference. Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes Lucy smile. This is the episode that wraps up year one for Sammie Smiles podcast! Much more to come in season 2.

In this Day of the Girl episode, Sammie talks with Juliette Blake, co-founder and CEO of Miss O and Friends. Miss O and Friends is a safe community for girls to connect. It is a tween and teen social networking site by girls for girls. Sammie has been involved as an ambassador for a few years and has loved meeting and getting in touch with girls with similar interests and also encouraging those that need it. Find out why Juliette started Miss O and the importance of having a safe and fun environment. Stay tuned until the end for the fun rapid fire round and what makes Juliette Smile.

In this episode Sammie talks with Dr. Chris Yandle. Known by many for his daily lunch notes to his kids he has been a guest on the Today show and recently Kelly Clarkson Show. Sammie and Chris both share the love of writing letters and cheering people up. This is a great 50th episode. Don't miss the rapid fire round and what makes Chris smile.

In this episode Sammie talks with Yuri Williams, founder of A Future Super Hero and Friends and co-host of Thank Good It's Friday podcast. Yuri's mission is to help those in need. His vision: To improve the quality of life and restoring the dignity of those we serve by meeting their needs and restoring their hope through the demonstration of love. Yuri has helped so many and many times wearing a superhero costume. Find out more about Yuri, what motivates him and how both Sammie and him have spread kindness in 50 states in their different initiatives. Put your cape on and get ready to fly on this inspiring episode full of the power of kindness and as always, lots of smiles.

In this episode Sammie talks to Chelsea Phaire, founder of Chelsea's Charity. If you like art and giving and inspiration, then this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Sammie and Chelsea have been connected for a few years through Giving Tuesday Sparks and they talk about the importance of teamwork and giving to others. Find out why Chelsea decided to start her charity and why art supplies to so important to get out to people. Please listen until the end to find out what makes Chelsea Smile.

In this episode Sammie talks with Braden Baker, who brings inspiration and hearing aid awareness around the country and world. He has been on the Ellen Show, part of the Marvel Hero Project and H&M Role Models. Find out why his mission is so important to him and how many he has been able to impact. Sammie and Braden discuss why it is so important to not just talk the talk but walk the walk. Get ready to be inspired and smile on this great episode. Don't forget to listen until the end for the rapid fire round and to find out what makes Braden smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to Kate Gilman Williams. Kate is the founder of Kids Can Save Animals. She is an author, just released a song, started a new venture with Microsoft and returned from an amazing trip to Africa. Find out about Kate's passion for wildlife and what she is doing to help endangered animals. Sammie and Kate both feel that their voice can make a difference for good in this world and work at inspiring others. You will love these girls talking about what is really important. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out what makes Kate smile.

Just in time for the start of football season Sammie interviews one of the greatest football players of all time, Rod Woodson. Rod still holds some records in the NFL from his 17 seasons playing. He was a first round draft pick in 1987 and inducted into the NFL Football Hall of Fame in 2009. He is using his time lately as a commentator for games and inspiring kids through his football camps. Though Sammie doesn't know a ton about football she finds common ground with Rod in many different ways. One of them being they are from the same hometown. You will have to listen to find out the rest. Find out about Rod's newest camp and outreach H.O.P.E. through football and why it is important to give back. This episode is full of heart, lots of football, inspiration and of course smiles! Don't miss the rapid fire round and stay tuned until the end to find out what makes Rod Woodson smile.

In this special book episode Sammie talks to some very important people that helped make her book possible. With the release of her debut book “Inspire the World: A Kid's Journey to Making a Difference” happening this week she introduces you to 4 key people in her publishing journey. She talks with her publisher Callie Metler, literary agent Victoria Selvaggio, designer Nicolle Ginter and Illustrator Talitha Shipman. Find out how Sammie's book evolved from a picture book written at age 9 to book full of pictures, cartoons, facts and information. You won't want to miss this episode full of teamwork and smiles. And please order a copy of Sammie's book available now. Order links on her website: www.sammiesbuddybenchproject.com Get ready to be inspired! And Smile!

In this episode Sammie talks to Khloe Thompson, an international philanthropist and founder of Khloe Kares. Sammie and Khloe have been connected for the past few years through Giving Tuesday and Giving Tuesday Sparks. They both love to give and spread kindness. Find out why Khloe started Khloe Kares and what other projects she has been working on. Don't forget to listen until the end for the fun rapid fire round and to find out what makes Khloe smile.

In this royal episode of Sammie Smiles! Sammie interviews Tessy Ojo CBE who is the CEO of The Diana Award. Sammie was honored to be a 2020 Diana Award recipient. You will love hearing these two talk about the inspiring work that kids are doing around the world. Find out about the many great programs the Diana Award has from anti bullying to mentorship. Tessy is an inspirational and creative leader, which makes her the perfect guest for Sammie Smiles. Learn about Tessy and her important role in the only charity that bears the name of Diana, Princess of Wales. She believes that Young People Can Change the World! Don't forget to listen until the end to find out what makes Tessy smile.

In this episode Sammie talks to the GEM Sisters! Giselle, Evangeline & Mercedes are the GEM Sisters. They are real life sisters and Influencers that have a hugely successful Social media platform. Their Youtube channel has over a million subscribers with fresh fun videos weekly aimed at making others laugh. They are full of DIY, challenges and pranks. They have recently joined pocket.watch and The BIG Green campaign to bring awareness to climate change and how to live a more sustainable life. Sammie finds things in common with each sister that will draw you in from the first minute. You will love this conversation full of laughter, fun and of course smiles! Find out what sister Sammie relates to the most and who is the most dramatic. Don't forget to stay tuned until the end for the rapid fire round and to find out what makes these GEMs smile. Huge thank you to Miss O and Friends for making this episode possible.

In this inspiring episode Sammie interviews singer/songwriter Addison Agen. Both Fort Wayne girls making a difference in this world. Sammie talks to Addison about her tour and new album along with how long she has been singing and what it was like to be on The Voice at age 16. This episode is full of music, smiles and will probably make you want to pick up a guitar and write your own song. Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes Addison smile.

This Sammie Smiles episode is a home run full of smiles, inspiration, baseball and buddy benches! Sammie interviews Mike Nutter, the president of Fort Wayne's TinCaps baseball team. Find out how they first met and how Mike and his organization have helped Sammie on her buddy bench mission since day 1. The TinCaps helping Sammie collect caps has turned into a friendship and support in so many ways! She even got to include them in her upcoming book and will do a book signing at the stadium. Mike Nutter is one of the greatest guys you'll ever meet and you won't want to miss a minute of this interview! Hats off to Sammie for coming up with some great questions and her popular rapid fire round is not to be missed! Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes Mike smile.

In this episode Sammie interviews Jordan Phillips, the founder of Cozys for the Cure. Find out why Jordan is sewing to help raise money for breast cancer research and what makes her smile. You will also find out the first thing that Sammie ever sewed and what Jordan and Sammie have in common. This episode is sew much fun.

In this episode Sammie talks to Cash Daniels also known as the Conservation Kid and co founder of The Clean Up Kids. This episode is full of smiles and ways that you can care for the environment around you. Both Sammie and Cash were recent winners of the Top National Youth Volunteers from Prudential Spirit of Community Awards and love cheering each other on with their individual projects. Get ready to smile and be inspired to do something good for the planet.

In this special episode Sammie presents the IJA Sammie Vance Youth Civic Achievement Award to David Pavlove Cunsolo. David has been juggling for years and donating time to not only teach but juggle for those that need some cheering up. Find out how he got creative during covid and what motivates him to keep working on his skill. Sammie met David two years ago at an International Juggling Convention and it is an honor to be able to have him on her podcast and to present him with the award along with other important members of the juggling community making an appearance. One of the nicest groups of people you will ever meet. Stay tuned until the end to find out if Sammie can juggle and what makes David smile. Happy Juggling Day!

In this episode Sammie talks to Darryl Hardy, founder of The Gemini Foundation. Darryl is a former professional basketball player who has played around the world and experienced a lot. Find out what impacted him to start The Gemini Foundation and start bringing playgrounds to areas that need it most. Sammie and Darryl talk about why it is important to "do" instead of just "say". Both are go getters and changemakers. This episode has it all from basketball to playgrounds to shoes! You will leave with a smile and inspired to do something to help others guaranteed.

In this episode Sammie interviews Anna Du, a kid inventor and expert on Microplastics. She is an author and winner of many scientific awards. Sammie and Anna have fun talking about science and about them meeting on Operation Awesome and how they are "soul sisters". You won't want to miss a second of this great episode full of great inspiration and of course lots of smiles!

In this episode Sammie talks to 14 year old Ella Casano, inventor of the Medi Teddy. Find out why Ella decided to create the Medi Teddy and how it brings joy to so many kids in hospitals around the country. Ella and Sammie talk about their appearance on the show Operation Awesome and Ella gives some great advice on how to start your own project. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out what makes Ella Smile.