Podcast by Mark White
On this Make A Difference Minute, Danah Flanagan shares how her creativity became a source of comfort and balance while working in hospice and palliative care. Through her business, Danah's Custom Creations, she uses art and inspiration to renew her spirit and bring hope to others. Danah reminds us that even in life's most difficult moments, creating something meaningful can heal both the giver and the receiver. Sponsor: J. Calvert Farms
On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm sharing two powerful stories of perseverance and purpose. First, Haley Schrimsher gives us an update on her 9-year-old son Ruger Ennis, who continues his journey in search of a kidney donor. Over 100 people have stepped forward to be tested, and Haley shares how faith and community keep their family going through this difficult wait. In the second segment, Andy Gilman joins me to talk about Indians Retreat Food Court, a family-owned venue that's become a gathering place built on food, faith, and fellowship. Andy shares how this vision came to life and what it means to create a space where people feel connected and cared for.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Stacey Givens shares the heart behind the Make A Way Foundation and what led her to become an advocate for individuals with special needs. Her passion, rooted in love and community, continues to create opportunities for children and families across Athens and Limestone County. Sponsor: CoraNation
On this edition of The Mark White Show, Mark talks with Danah Flanagan, a hospice and palliative care social worker who helps families through some of life's most difficult moments with grace and compassion. Danah also brings her creativity to life through Danah's Custom Creations, LLC, where her motto, “Where vision and creativity come together,” reflects her passion for uplifting others. Hear how Danah's journey of service, faith, and creativity continues to inspire hope and healing in the lives she touches.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that success isn't defined by titles, positions, or wealth, but by the obstacles we've overcome along the way. Drawing from the wisdom of Booker T. Washington, this segment celebrates perseverance, resilience, and the strength it takes to keep going when life gets hard. True success is found in the climb, in the moments of struggle that shape who we become. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
On this episode of The Mark White Show, I am joined by Stacey Givens, co-founder of the Make A Way Foundation, a United Way partner committed to supporting individuals with special needs and their families in Athens and Limestone County. From installing sensory rooms in every local school to launching an indoor adaptive sports program and working with city leaders on an adaptive field, Make A Way is truly changing lives. Stacey also shares about their upcoming patriotic themed Elvis impersonator fundraiser featuring Michael Dean and the Athens High School choir. This is a powerful conversation about inclusion, compassion, and the heart of a community that cares.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that life can feel heavy at times, but we were never meant to face it alone. The people who stand beside us, the ones who listen, encourage, and simply show up, help us carry the weight when life feels too hard to bear. This segment is about the quiet strength found in love, friendship, and presence during life's most difficult moments. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that even the right dream can struggle to grow in the wrong environment. Negativity, doubt, and discouragement can choke the life out of what was once full of potential. This segment encourages listeners to surround themselves with people and places that nurture their purpose, reminding them that the right dream deserves the right soil. Sponsor: J. Calvert Farms
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing an honest reflection on the weight of life's challenges. Some days, strength looks less like confidence and more like simply getting up and trying again. This segment encourages listeners to keep showing up, even when life feels overwhelming, and to remember that better days are ahead. It's a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and, sometimes, helping someone else through theirs is what helps us through our own. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, Danielle Stradling, Greater Huntsville Ambassador for Cake4Kids, shares how the organization began with a simple idea, to make sure every child feels celebrated on their birthday. What started as one woman baking cakes for children in foster care has grown into a nationwide effort connecting volunteer bakers with youth in need of encouragement and joy. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that it is easy to judge someone's decisions without understanding the choices they faced. Every decision has a story behind it, the pressures, limitations, and unseen circumstances that others cannot always see. This segment encourages empathy over judgment and reminds listeners to look deeper, because compassion sees what criticism cannot. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm talking with Danielle Stradling, Greater Huntsville Ambassador for Cake4Kids. Through this volunteer-driven effort, over 80 local bakers across North Alabama are delivering homemade birthday cakes and sweet treats to children in foster care, transitional housing, and difficult circumstances. Danielle shares how a simple act of kindness, a personalized cake made by a stranger, can remind a child that they are loved, valued, and celebrated.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that depression is real and often isolating, but no one should have to face it alone. Feelings of hopelessness can lie to us, convincing us that we have no value, when in truth, we are deeply needed and loved. This segment encourages anyone who is struggling to reach out for help and reminds us all to check in on the people around us, because even the smallest act of care can make a life-changing difference. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, Briana McConnell, president of Foundation 1:17, shares her deeply personal journey through infertility and how it led to the creation of a foundation that offers hope and community for others walking the same road. Through her story, Briana reminds us that even in seasons of loss and uncertainty, compassion can help bring purpose and healing. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt conversation that may be just what someone needs to hear tonight.
Make A Difference Minute: Don't Forget Where You Came From by Mark White
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing my concern about the growing apathy toward community involvement and reminds listeners that thriving communities are built by people who care. Strength comes from those who show up, lend a hand, and invest their time and attention. This segment encourages listeners to step back into their communities, take ownership of their role, and make a difference where they live. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that the anonymity of the internet can make it easy to forget the humanity of the people we interact with, but every comment, message, and post has the power to either build someone up or break them down. This segment encourages choosing kindness online, remembering that even through a screen, we have the power to make a difference in someone's life. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that hope does not erase life's struggles, but it gives us strength to endure them. Hope is the anchor that steadies us through storms, reminding us that tomorrow can be different and that good is still ahead. This segment encourages listeners to hold on to hope, even in small ways, because hope not only changes how we face our challenges, it inspires others to keep going too. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that life rarely goes as planned, and sometimes we are forced to change direction. Pivoting is not failure, it's wisdom. When we adjust, we open the door to new opportunities we might never have seen otherwise. This segment encourages listeners to see pivots not as the end of a dream, but as the path that may lead directly to it. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, Heather Haden of Honey Bee Speech Therapy in Elkmont shares about the victories she sees with young people in her practice, from first words to meaningful breakthroughs that build confidence and connection. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
On this episode of The Mark White Show, speech-language pathologist Heather Haden shares the story of Honey Bee Speech Therapy in Elkmont, Alabama. From toddlers learning their first words to adults rebuilding speech after illness or injury, Heather explains how communication therapy makes a difference at every stage of life. and why patience, hope, and connection are at the heart of her work.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Eddie Mason of Solid Rock Running Company reflects on why his work is so meaningful, from encouraging everyday walkers and runners to helping foster community connections across North Alabama. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware
On this edition of The Mark White Show, Eddie Mason of Solid Rock Running Company in Florence and Athens shares how his passion for running grew into a business built on community. From helping first-time walkers find the right fit to supporting young athletes and timing races across the Valley, Eddie's story is about more than shoes, it's about encouraging people and strengthening connections in North Alabama.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing a reminder from Dr. Myles Munroe that success is not what you leave for people, but what you leave in people. Possessions and achievements fade, but the values, encouragement, and love you plant in others live on. This segment encourages listeners to invest in people's lives, because the greatest legacy is not material wealth, but the lasting impact we leave in the hearts and minds of those around us. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reflecting on the value of true friendship. Friends may not erase the struggles of life, but they lighten the load, add joy to our celebrations, and comfort us through the challenges. This segment encourages listeners to be thankful for the friends who stand by them and to look for ways to be that kind of friend for others, because friendship is one of life's greatest blessings. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reflecting on what truly matters at the end of our lives. Success, recognition, and possessions may capture our attention now, but they will not define our legacy. What lasts is the kindness we showed, the love we gave, and the difference we made in the lives of others. This segment encourages listeners to live with perspective today, building a meaningful life marked by compassion and service. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that integrity is proven not when everyone is watching, but when no one is. Doing the right thing in small, unseen moments builds trust, earns respect, and creates a foundation that shortcuts and dishonesty can never provide. This segment encourages choosing honesty, keeping promises, and treating others with respect, because who you are matters more than what you achieve. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that accomplishments may open doors, but humility is what keeps them open. Success without humility can lead to pride and distance, but carrying success with gratitude allows it to inspire and serve others. This segment encourages listeners to stay grounded, remember the people who helped them along the way, and use their achievements to make a positive difference beyond themselves. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that tailgating will not get you to your destination any faster. Instead, it creates stress and unnecessary risk. Just like on the road, in life we sometimes push too hard or pressure others to move at our pace, only to make the journey more difficult. This segment encourages patience, reminding us that stepping back and taking a breath helps protect relationships, ease tension, and allow us to enjoy the journey. Sponsor: J. Calvert Farms
In this conversation, Olivia Gibson shares the story behind Olivia's Ohana House, Lauderdale County's first Hawaiian restaurant. From her background and culinary journey to the challenges and hopes of starting a new business, Olivia reflects on how food carries memories, connects cultures, and builds community.
On this Make A Difference Minute, we hear from Olivia Gibson of Olivia's Ohana House in Lauderdale County. Olivia says her love for food and cooking can be traced back to time spent with her father in the kitchen. His influence shaped her passion and inspired her to carry those traditions forward. Now, through her restaurant, Olivia honors her father's legacy while introducing her community to the flavors and culture of Hawaii. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
On this episode of The Mark White Show, we shine a spotlight on prostate cancer, the second most common cancer among men. Dr. Benjamin Lowentritt, Director of Prostate Cancer Services at United Urology Group and a nationally recognized leader in advanced treatments, explains the importance of early detection, current treatment options, and promising new research. Prostate cancer survivor Bob Lane then shares his personal journey and how he now encourages other men through the SHARE Network. Together, they bring both the medical expertise and human perspective needed to inspire awareness, action, and hope for men and their families.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that while everyone carries wounds from pain, loss, or disappointment, those wounds do not have to define us. If we let them, they can become our greatest teachers, shaping us with compassion, resilience, and strength. This segment encourages turning pain into perspective and scars into lessons, choosing to let wounds make us wiser instead of bitter. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm joined by Bob Lane, a prostate cancer survivor and patient advocate. When Bob was diagnosed, he faced the fear and uncertainty that so many men feel, but he chose to take action with the support of his doctors, family, and community. Today, he shares his story through the SHARE Network to encourage other men not to ignore their health. Bob's message is clear: get checked, listen to your body, and don't wait until it's too late. His journey shows that early detection and treatment can make all the difference, and that no one has to face prostate cancer alone. Sponsor: Thompson Roofing & Construction 256roofing.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm joined by Dr. Benjamin Lowentritt, Director of Prostate Cancer Services at United Urology Group and a nationally recognized leader in prostate cancer treatment. Dr. Lowentritt reminds us that prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men, with more than 300,000 diagnoses each year. He says early detection through screenings like the PSA test is critical because catching prostate cancer early can mean more treatment options and better outcomes. Dr. Lowentritt also shares that new advances in therapies are helping men live longer and healthier lives. His message is simple: men, talk to your doctor, know your risk, and don't put off screening, it could save your life. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reflecting on my own childhood experience with bullying and how silence from others often deepens the pain. We are all implicated when we allow others to be mistreated, but we also have the power to be part of the solution. This segment encourages listeners to step in, speak up, and stand beside those who are hurting, because courage in the face of mistreatment can change a life. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware Russellville, AL
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing a reminder that big breakthroughs are built on small, steady steps. Success is rarely the result of a single moment, but of the quiet consistency that compounds over time. This segment encourages listeners to keep showing up, even when progress feels slow or unnoticed, because consistency turns effort into impact and ordinary days into extraordinary outcomes. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, we're focusing on two community partners making a difference in Limestone County. First, Vickie Leasher with Crisis Services of North Alabama shares about a new project to collect items for victims of domestic violence and how we can all help provide support in times of crisis. Then, Emmett Moore, Executive Director of the Athens-Limestone County Family Resource Center, highlights their upcoming open house and the expanded programs designed to strengthen families across our community.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Rocket City Adapted Athletics founder Chase Woods shares how his own journey shaped the vision behind RCAA and his hopes for the young people who are discovering confidence, community, and purpose through adapted sports. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
What happens when one person takes the challenges life has handed them and turns them into opportunities for others? That is the story of Chase Woods, founder of Rocket City Adapted Athletics. From his own journey with muscular dystrophy to creating a place where athletes with disabilities can discover confidence, independence, and community, Chase's mission is nothing short of life-changing. In this conversation, we explore the heart behind RCAA, the stories of athletes who are redefining what is possible, and how the upcoming 3rd Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser is helping to fuel that vision. This is an interview that will remind you of the power of resilience, the importance of belonging, and the impact of stepping up for others.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Dr. Amit Mehta, hematologist and medical oncologist at Premier Hematology & Oncology in Cary, North Carolina, shares what to look for when it comes to immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), a rare blood disorder that can cause serious bruising and bleeding. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com
On tonight's show, we recognize National Immune Thrombocytopenia Awareness Month with Dr. Amit Mehta, hematologist and medical oncologist at Premier Hematology & Oncology in Cary, North Carolina. Dr. Mehta will share what immune thrombocytopenia is, how it impacts patients and families, and details about a new FDA approved treatment now available for adults living with this rare blood disorder.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reflecting on the tragedies of violence we continue to see, from the deaths of leaders and loved ones to school shootings that devastate communities. Drawing from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s reminder that darkness cannot drive out darkness and hatred cannot drive out hatred, this segment emphasizes that violence never brings justice, it only leaves pain and loss. Listeners are encouraged to be people of peace, to confront wrongs with courage but without cruelty, and to choose love, kindness, and compassion as the true path forward. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware
On this Make A Difference Minute, James Mooney shares about the importance of community support in helping Village of Promise break the cycle of poverty through education and family empowerment. Sponsor: J. Calvert Farms
On tonight's edition of The Mark White Show, Edward Jones financial advisor Julia Bartak joins me to discuss a new survey that reveals only two out of five Americans feel confident about their education savings. We'll cover what families can do to prepare, how 529 plans really work, and practical steps to take this school year to feel more secure about future education costs.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Roger A. Krone shares how Scouting impacted his own life and how it continues to shape his role today as President and CEO of Scouting America. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Roger A. Krone, President and CEO of Scouting America and an Eagle Scout, to talk about how Cub Scouts complements the classroom by preparing kids for challenges in every part of life. I'll also visit with James Mooney, Director of Village of Promise, as he shares how this local organization is working to break the cycle of poverty through education, empowerment, and family support.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that compassion is more than just feeling sorry for someone. It is stepping into their shoes, letting their hurt matter, and being moved to act with kindness. This segment encourages choosing understanding over judgment and leaning in instead of turning away, because compassion not only changes others, it can also change us. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that even the smallest act of kindness can create a ripple effect far beyond what we see. A smile, a kind word, or a simple gesture may seem small in the moment, but its impact can carry on to touch lives we will never meet. This segment encourages listeners to choose kindness on purpose, trusting that their actions can reach farther than they ever imagined. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing my personal journey of turning a challenge into an opportunity. After multiple surgeries on his left ankle, the same leg that once caused pain became the leg that carried him to success as a high school kicker, eventually earning a walk-on spot at Alabama. That journey even opened the door to radio after organizing an alumni football game in 2015. This segment is a reminder that sometimes what looks like a setback can hold the seed of our greatest strength and purpose. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware Russellville, AL
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm encouraging listeners not to give up when the road feels long or the progress seems slow. Perseverance is not about never getting tired or discouraged, but about choosing to take one more step even when it is hard. This segment reminds us that setbacks are not signs to stop but opportunities to prove our strength and keep pressing forward, because breakthroughs often come right after the point where most people quit. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBible.com
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