Podcast by Mark White
Millions of people check their smartwatch each day for steps or sleep, but what if that same device could quietly help save your life? On tonight's edition of The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Dr. Rajiv Kumar, physician-researcher at Apple and adjunct professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Kumar shares how new Apple Watch technology can help identify early signs of chronic high blood pressure, one of the most common, yet silent, health risks. We'll talk about how this feature works, what it means for everyday people, and why Dr. Kumar is passionate about helping others use technology to live healthier, more informed lives.
On this special edition of The Mark White Show, we celebrate The Caring Link founder Kate O'Neal, recipient of the prestigious Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award from The NASCAR Foundation. Kate shares what this national recognition means to her, the story behind The Caring Link, and how her faith and compassion continue to touch countless lives. It's an inspiring conversation about kindness in action, community connection, and the power of using one's gifts to make a lasting difference.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that every person's experience is unique. When someone is struggling, it's easy to draw from our own story and try to relate, but we can never truly know all the unseen details behind another person's pain. This segment encourages listeners to choose compassion over comparison, to listen more, judge less, and remember that what people need most in their hardest moments is understanding, not opinion. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware Russellville, AL
On this edition of The Mark White Show, we're celebrating a big national win for Lauderdale County and the state of Alabama! The Lauderdale County High School String Band, featuring Conner McMeans, Ty McMeans, and Titus Thornton, under the guidance of sponsor Ivy Harbin, has been named National FFA Talent Champions. Hear their story of hard work, teamwork, and hometown pride as they share what it was like to represent Lauderdale County and bring home the top honor from the FFA National Convention. Listen & share!
On this Make A Difference Minute, Carolyn Wheeler O'Byrne shares the deeply personal reason she founded Daisy's Place, a safe and peaceful retreat for caregivers whose loved ones are hospitalized. What began from her own experiences has grown into a mission to remind caregivers that rest, comfort, and faith matter too. Listen as Carolyn opens her heart about the “why” behind Daisy's Place and how it continues to make a difference for families in need. Sponsor: Thompson Roofing and Construction 256Roofing.com
On tonight's Mark White Show, I'm visiting with Carolyn Wheeler O'Byrne, founder of Daisy's Place and author of The Thriving Caregiver book and journal. Carolyn shares her heart for those who spend their days and nights caring for others, and why rest, faith, and community are essential for every caregiver's wellbeing. It's a heartfelt conversation for anyone walking the caregiving journey or wanting to better support someone who is.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that encouragement costs nothing, but it can change everything for someone who needs it. A few kind words can lift a heavy heart, give hope, and remind someone they're not alone. This segment encourages us to speak life and give encouragement freely, because we never know who needs it most. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that defeat can teach us things victory never will. Losing has a way of humbling us, building resilience, and revealing what we're truly capable of overcoming. This segment encourages listeners to see loss not as failure, but as preparation, a necessary part of growth that shapes character, fuels determination, and gives deeper meaning to success. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that big success is built on small, consistent acts done with care. The little things we do, showing up on time, treating people well, giving our best in small tasks, create the habits that lead to lasting impact. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm talking with Jamie Harding, Communications Director for AARP Alabama, to discuss newly released data revealing that 28% of adults in Alabama provide unpaid care for a loved one. November is National Family Caregivers Month, and this conversation shines a light on the emotional, physical, and financial challenges caregivers face, as well as the growing demand for support as our population ages. Jamie shares insights from AARP's latest caregiving report, the toll that unpaid care takes on families, and how AARP is working to secure policies and resources that ease the burden. Listeners will also learn about free tools and guides available through AARP's Caregiving Resource Center to help those currently caring for loved ones or preparing for that role in the future. This is a heartfelt conversation about love, sacrifice, and the importance of supporting those who support others.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Gina Carithers, President of the Prostate Cancer Foundation, shares insight from a new national survey showing how deeply involved caregivers are in the day-to-day lives of loved ones facing prostate cancer. From attending medical appointments to managing household responsibilities, caregivers often become the steady hands that hold everything together. Gina reminds us that caring for the caregiver is just as important as caring for the patient. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, we're shining a light on the often-overlooked heroes in prostate cancer care, the caregivers. A new national survey reveals that 85% of caregivers attend medical appointments with their loved one and are four times more likely to notice treatment side effects than the patients themselves. Joining me are Dr. Daniel George, Medical Oncologist and Professor at Duke University School of Medicine, and Gina Carithers, President of the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Together, we discuss what this survey uncovers about the day-to-day realities of caregiving, how families can better navigate this journey, and the vital importance of supporting those who give so much of themselves in the process.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that words carry weight, they can build someone up or break them down. Once spoken, they can't be taken back. This segment challenges listeners to use their words carefully and intentionally, knowing that what we say can either heal or harm. Sponsor: J. Calvert Farms
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that sometimes strength shows up in what you don't say or do. It's easy to react in the moment, to respond with frustration or anger, but restraint shows wisdom and maturity. Choosing calm over conflict doesn't make you weak, it makes you strong enough to protect your peace. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners just how powerful a short video can be. Every day, social media clips are designed to stir emotion, anger, fear, or hate, because outrage spreads fast. But not everything that grabs our attention deserves our trust. This segment encourages listeners to pause before reacting or sharing, and to think about whether what we see online is building understanding or feeding division. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that lessons aren't learned by waiting until everything feels perfect, they're learned by trying. Growth comes through effort, mistakes, and persistence, not through standing still. This segment encourages listeners to take the next step, to keep showing up, and to remember that progress is built one attempt at a time. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that success is built on balance, the humility to keep preparing and the confidence to keep performing. Inspired by Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson's mantra, this segment highlights the power of hard work and mindset. When we prepare like we've never won, we stay hungry and grounded. When we perform like we've never lost, we step forward with confidence and belief. Together, that combination leads to excellence in sports, in work, and in life. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware Russellville, AL
When Bethany Agee saw a social media post from a New Hampshire mother searching for a kidney donor for her 17-year-old daughter, she didn't hesitate. She filled out the form and soon learned she was a perfect match. In this inspiring episode, Bethany shares her powerful journey as a living kidney donor, from the emotional decision to say yes, to her surgery and recovery in Boston, to the special bond now shared with the young woman whose life she helped save. This story is a beautiful reminder that kindness knows no distance, and that one selfless act can change the world for someone else.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Foley, Alabama, native Bethany Agee shares her journey of becoming a living kidney donor for a 17-year-old in New Hampshire. After seeing a Facebook post from the girl's mother, Bethany felt called to act, a decision that would change both of their lives forever. Hear Bethany talk about the surgery, recovery, and the powerful bond that now connects two families hundreds of miles apart. Her story is a reminder that one act of kindness can make all the difference. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, transplant recipient Jayden Green joins me to share how the story of Kimber Mills, an 18-year-old whose final act of love gave others a second chance at life, has deeply inspired him. Although Jayden wasn't one of Kimber's recipients, her generosity reminded him of the life-changing gift he once received, a gift that allows him to live, dream, and make a difference every day. Through his story, Jayden hopes to honor Kimber's legacy and encourage others to consider organ donation. It's a heartfelt conversation about gratitude, faith, and the incredible impact one decision can have on countless lives.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that strength doesn't come from what's easy. It comes from the moments that test us, the times we thought we couldn't make it through but did anyway. Each challenge we've faced and overcome has built a quiet strength within us. This segment encourages listeners to recognize how far they've come and to keep moving forward, even when life feels heavy, because that's where true strength is born. Sponsor: J. Calvert Farms
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that in moments of tragedy, empathy must come before exposure. In the rush to be first or to get the scoop, we can forget that behind every headline is a family walking through pain most of us can't imagine. This segment calls for compassion and respect over curiosity, reminding us that being human will always matter more than being first. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, Todd Wilson with T and A Automotive shares about the Lifted Spirits Garage Christmas Car Giveaway, an effort that helps provide reliable transportation for people who put others first. This year, the Joel R. Anderson Family Foundation is matching every dollar donated up to $10,000, doubling the impact for families across Northwest Alabama. Todd explains how this community-driven effort continues to change lives and how you can take part in lifting spirits this Christmas season. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware Russellville, Al
On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Todd Wilson with T and A Automotive to talk about the Lifted Spirits Garage Christmas Car Giveaway, an annual effort that blesses someone in need of dependable transportation. This year, the project grows even bigger through “The Double,” a dollar-for-dollar match from the Joel R. Anderson Family Foundation that could provide up to $20,000 in support for giveaway cars and free repairs. Todd shares the heart behind the mission, the lives it's impacted, and how you can help keep the wheels of hope turning this Christmas.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that while we often doubt ourselves, someone else is quietly inspired by our strength. The way you keep showing up, pushing through challenges, and doing your best, even when it doesn't feel like enough, is making a difference. This segment encourages listeners to see their quiet perseverance as something powerful, and to keep going, because their consistency might be giving someone else the courage to do the same. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, Hailey Ward from Killen, Alabama, shares about her son Chandler, a ten-year-old sports lover with a heart full of determination. Diagnosed with Noonan Syndrome at age three, Chandler has faced every challenge with courage and positivity. As he prepares for major surgery on both legs, Hailey hopes to lift his spirits with encouragement from the community and some of his favorite athletes. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, Hailey Ward from Killen, Alabama, joins me to share the inspiring story of her son, Chandler. At just ten years old, Chandler has faced challenges with incredible strength after being diagnosed with Noonan Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects growth and development. Now preparing for major surgery on both legs, Chandler continues to dream big, with hopes of becoming a coach like his hero, Nick Saban. Hailey shares about her son's determination, their family's faith, and how the community can lift Chandler up with encouragement during his recovery.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Ruger's mom, Haley Schrimsher, shares how nine-year-old Ruger Ennis continues to live each day with strength while waiting for a kidney transplant. Despite the challenges and delays, their family holds on to hope and gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community. Sponsor: Thompson Roofing & Construction 256Roofing.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm on location at Athens Bible School in Athens, Alabama, visiting with President Billy Bradford as he shares about the upcoming Fore the Students Golf Tournament happening October 27 at Canebrake Golf Club. Billy talks about the purpose behind this longtime event, how it supports ABS students and teachers, and the ways this Christ-centered school continues to grow in both academics and extracurricular programs. Listeners will also hear about community involvement, new opportunities for students, and how events like this help Athens Bible School fulfill its mission of faith, family, and education. Learn more or register for the tournament at AthensBibleSchool.org.
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
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