Podcast by Mark White
On this Make A Difference Minute, Mrs. Alabama America 2025 Brianna Sistrunk address a challenge every family is facing today: screen time. Phones, tablets, and gaming systems compete for our children's attention every day. While technology has its place, nothing replaces the power of a book to build imagination, focus, and confidence. This segment encourages parents and grandparents to intentionally create space for reading and to raise “Royal Readers” who learn to think, dream, and grow beyond a screen. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Brianna Sistrunk of Colbert County, recently crowned Mrs. Alabama America 2025. Brianna is using her platform to promote literacy across our state through Project Crown, which stands for Creating Reading Opportunities to Win Now. As a Literary Ambassador during Read Across America Week, she is visiting elementary schools to encourage students to become “Royal Readers” through imagination, confidence, and positive storytelling. We talk about her journey to the crown, her heart for children, and how schools can get involved. Listen & share.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Dr. James T. McCormick of the American College of Surgeons explains why early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have against colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is being diagnosed more often in adults under 50, and symptoms are frequently overlooked. Dr. McCormick shares why warning signs like rectal bleeding or ongoing changes in bowel habits should never be ignored, regardless of age. When caught early, colorectal cancer is often highly treatable, and in some cases, screening can even prevent cancer before it starts. Early action saves lives. Awareness changes outcomes. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com
On this edition of The Mark White Show, we're focusing on two major health issues affecting millions of Americans: colorectal cancer and major depressive disorder. In our first segment, Dr. James T. McCormick, DO, FACS, of the American College of Surgeons, discusses the rising rates of colorectal cancer in adults under 50. He explains which symptoms should never be ignored, why delays in diagnosis are common among younger patients, and when screening should begin. Early detection can save lives, and this conversation highlights why awareness matters at every age. In our second segment, we turn to mental health. Depression affects an estimated 21 million adults in the United States, and many individuals with Major Depressive Disorder continue to experience symptoms even while in treatment. Dr. Saundra Jain, MA, PsyD, LPC, and mental health advocate Kelly Uchima share insights into the evolving treatment landscape, the importance of integrated care, and how emerging, technology-supported tools are designed to complement traditional approaches. Listen & share. It could save someone's life.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Stacie M. Coote shares how her mother's influence helped shape her passion for education, empowerment, & community growth. From early lessons at home to the professional path she walks today, Stacie reflects on how belief, encouragement, and strong values laid the foundation for the work she now does through SMC Education Services LLC in Huntsville. Sometimes the greatest impact begins with one voice at home saying, “You can.” Listen as Stacie honors that influence and explains why helping others achieve their goals is more than a business., it's personal. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On tonight's edition of The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Stacie M. Coote, Founder and CEO of SMC Education Services, LLC in Huntsville, Alabama. Stacie is building a boutique-style coaching business centered on education, creativity, and intentional community growth. As a small, self-funded entrepreneur, she is helping individuals gain clarity, confidence, and direction in both their personal and professional lives. We talk about what empowerment truly means, why creativity plays a role in achievement, and how individual growth can ripple outward to strengthen families, workplaces, and entire communities. If you have ever felt stuck, uncertain, or ready for your next step, this conversation is for you.
On this MADM, Josey Trawick shares a little bit about himself as he battles chronic myelogenous leukemia, vision loss, Meniere's Disease, and multiple mental health challenges that have left him unable to work. Listen & share. Donate: gofundme.com/support-josey-trawicks-journey-to-stability Sponsor: CoraNation Tailoring & Alterations
On this episode of The Mark White Show, I'm talking with Josey Trawick of Muscle Shoals, former owner of Shoals Game Room, as he shares his battle with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia, vision loss, Meniere's Disease, and multiple mental health challenges that have left him unable to work. Josey has spent his life providing for his family. Now, he is navigating daily chemotherapy, financial uncertainty, and the emotional weight of asking for help while holding onto his faith.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reflecting on the power of community support after speaking to the Athens TOPS group. This segment highlights how encouragement, accountability, and the right environment can make all the difference when facing personal struggles. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that struggle isn't always visible. This segment encourages steady, everyday kindness because we never truly know what someone else may be carrying. Sponsor: Athens Bible School
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm challenging listeners to identify their “time thief," the habits, distractions, or patterns that quietly steal focus and productivity. This segment encourages self-awareness and intentional use of time. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com
On this Make A Difference Minute, Jason Christensen shares how a single moment of conviction turned into action. After seeing someone sleeping outside in the cold Oregon rain, Jason could not shake the question, “Why isn't someone doing something?” Instead of waiting, he became that someone. He talks about researching tiny homes and capsule hotels, making calls to manufacturers, hearing plenty of “no's,” and finally finding a partner willing to help bring the first Sleep Trailer to life. It is a reminder that big solutions often begin with small, persistent steps. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware
On this episode, I'm having a conversation with Jason Christensen, founder of Sleep Trailer, LLC, to talk about an idea that is simple in concept yet powerful in impact. What began as a moment of compassion turned into a mobile shelter solution designed to provide safety, dignity, and a pathway toward stability for individuals experiencing homelessness. Jason shares how the Sleep Trailer works, what he has learned through pilot programs, and why restoring dignity is just as important as providing a bed. This conversation challenges us to think differently about community responsibility and creative problem solving.
On this Make A Difference Minute, City of Florence Council President Kaytrina Simmons shares about the 4th Annual Shoals Scale Back happening Saturday, February 21st, from 1p to 4:30p at Harvest Mitchell Gym in Florence, Alabama. This community event is focused on health, wellness, and taking practical steps toward a healthier lifestyle. From local vendors to valuable resources, Shoals Scale Back is all about loving your city and loving yourself. Learn how you can attend, get involved, or support the mission of positive, healthy living in the Shoals. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com
On this episode of The Mark White Show, Council President Kaytrina Simmons joins me to talk about the 4th Annual Shoals Scale Back happening Saturday, February 21st, from 1p to 4:30p at Harvest Mitchell Gym in Florence, Alabama. This community event is focused on health, wellness, and practical steps toward a healthier lifestyle. From local vendors to valuable resources and door prizes, Shoals Scale Back is all about loving your city and loving yourself. Listen to learn how you can attend, participate as a vendor, and take one small step toward better health. Please share.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Coleman Drew talks about the timeline surrounding his upcoming transplant. Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just two years old, Coleman has spent his life managing daily treatments and health challenges. Now, as transplant becomes the next step in his journey, he shares what the process looks like, what happens next, and how he and his family are preparing. This is a powerful glimpse into the reality behind the word “transplant.” If you would like to support Coleman and his family with transplant-related expenses, visit: cota.org/cotaforcolemansfight Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com
On this episode of The Mark White Show, I sit down with Coleman Drew, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just two years old. For most of his life, Coleman has faced daily treatments, hospital stays, and the quiet strength required to manage a chronic illness. Now, transplant has entered the conversation, and his family has partnered with COTA, the Children's Organ Transplant Association, to help with transplant-related expenses. This is not just a story about illness. It's a story about perseverance, faith, family, & the power of community support. Join us as Coleman shares what it has been like to grow up with CF, what this season looks like, & how you can stand with him in the fight. Learn how to support Coleman at: https://cota.org/cotaforcolemansfight/
On this Make A Difference Minute, we highlight the journey of Coleman Drew, a 27-year-old from Grady, Alabama, who is awaiting a second double lung transplant. Through the support of the Children's Organ Transplant Association (COTA) and a compassionate community, efforts are underway to raise funds for his transplant-related expenses. Learn more: cota.org/cotaforcolemansfight Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc.
Tonight on The Mark White Show, you'll hear the story of Austin Terling. Austin would be 13 years old this year. Instead, his life on earth ended at just 9 years old in July of 2022 after a long and exhausting fight with a rare neurodegenerative brain disease caused by a mutation in the UBA5 gene. For four years, his parents, Anthony and Lindsey Terling, searched for answers. They walked through uncertainty, heartbreak, and a diagnosis that came with more questions than solutions. Out of that journey, the Austin 1st Foundation was born. What began as a family's fight for their son has become a mission to help other families facing rare disease, to raise awareness, and to fund research and resources so no one has to walk this road alone. Tonight, Anthony Terling shares Austin's story, honors Lindsey's role as a mother and advocate, and explains how Austin's legacy continues through the work of the Austin 1st Foundation and their annual Aces Fore Austin charity golf tournament. This is a story about love, loss, and choosing purpose in the middle of pain. Austin's legacy is still changing lives.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that one of the most meaningful things we can do is let people know they are not alone. Many carry silent burdens and feel unseen, even while surrounded by others. This segment encourages presence, compassion, and small acts of connection that can make a lasting difference. Sponsor: CoraNation Tailoring & Alterations
On this episode of The Mark White Show, April Black shares the story behind the Love Love Love 5K, a memorial run honoring the life and legacy of Teri Ingrey while raising awareness about melanoma. April reflects on who Teri was, the meaning behind the phrase “Love, love, love,” and how that message is now bringing people together to support families facing loss and serious illness. This conversation highlights the power of community, remembrance, and choosing love even in the hardest seasons. Listeners will also learn how the race began, why melanoma awareness matters, and how events like this help turn grief into purpose and action that supports others. This is a story about legacy, faith, community, and the simple but powerful choice to lead with love.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that confidence and success rarely start with having everything figured out. This segment encourages people to take steps forward even when they feel unsure, knowing that experience is often the best teacher. Sponsor: Athens Bible School
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that life is fragile and time is never guaranteed. This segment encourages people to focus on what truly matters, loving their people well, showing kindness, and understanding that legacy is built through everyday moments, not just major milestones. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing part of Jennifer Hope George's conversation about how 2-year-old Isabelle Grace “Izzy” Juarez's family learned of her B Cell Hodgkin Lymphoma diagnosis and how quickly life changed. Izzy is currently receiving treatment at Children's in Birmingham as her family begins this unexpected journey. This minute is a reminder of how quickly life can shift and how powerful community support can be during the hardest moments. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing a personal reflection on the life of April Smith, a wife, mom, and friend who left a lasting impact on those who knew her. This segment reminds listeners to love their people well, show up for the people who matter, and never take time together for granted. Sponsor: Athens Bible School
On this episode of The Mark White Show, April Black shares the story behind the Love Love Love 5K, a memorial run honoring the life and legacy of Teri Ingrey while raising awareness about melanoma. April reflects on who Teri was, the meaning behind the phrase “Love, love, love,” and how that message is now bringing people together to support families facing loss and serious illness. This conversation highlights the power of community, remembrance, and choosing love even in the hardest seasons. Listeners will also learn how the race began, why melanoma awareness matters, and how events like this help turn grief into purpose and action that supports others. This is a story about legacy, faith, community, and the simple but powerful choice to lead with love.
On this Make A Difference Minute, April Black shares the heart behind the Love Love Love 5K and the legacy of Teri Ingrey. What started as a phrase Teri lived by, love, love, love, has now become a mission that is bringing a community together to remember, to support, and to raise awareness about melanoma. April talks about who Teri was, why this race matters, and how love can still move forward even after loss. This is about honoring those we have lost, standing with those still fighting, & reminding families they're never alone. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️ Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc.
On this episode of The Mark White Show, Mia Syn, Registered Dietitian and Founder of Nutrition By Mia, shares practical, realistic steps families can take to support heart health. From smart snack swaps to simple meal upgrades, Mia breaks down how small changes like incorporating nuts, fresh ingredients, and balanced portions can make a meaningful difference over time. Heart health does not have to be overwhelming. It starts with everyday decisions made in your own kitchen. Listen & share.
On this edition of The Mark White Show, Chambers Ricketts shares the story of his 4-year-old son, Ethan, who was born with Polymicrogyria (PMG), a brain malformation that brings developmental delays, seizures, and requires total daily care. Chambers offers a father's perspective on diagnosis, responsibility, and the quiet strength required to support a child with complex medical needs while leading and loving his family well. He shares the daily realities many people never see, the victories that mean everything, and how faith and purpose continue to guide their journey. This conversation continues the Ricketts family story with honesty, heart, and a reminder that behind every child facing medical challenges is a family showing up with unwavering love and determination. Listen & share.
During Heart Health Month, many families are looking for simple, realistic ways to take better care of their hearts without feeling overwhelmed. On this MADM, Mia Syn, Registered Dietitian and Founder of Nutrition By Mia, shares practical nutrition insights that make heart healthy living feel doable in everyday life. Mia explains why nuts are often recommended as part of a heart healthy diet, what makes macadamia nuts unique nutritionally, and how small, consistent food choices can support healthier cholesterol levels over time. She also shares easy recipe ideas and simple ways families can incorporate heart supportive foods into meals and snacks without completely changing their routines. This conversation focuses on realistic, sustainable steps toward better heart health for busy families who want to make positive changes one step at a time. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry
On this Make A Difference Minute, Chambers Ricketts shares a father's perspective after bringing his son, Ethan, home following his diagnosis of Polymicrogyria (PMG). Sponsor: CoraNation Tailoring & Alterations
On this edition of The Mark White Show, as part of my two-part series, Melissa Ricketts shares the story of her 4-year-old son, Ethan, who was born with Polymicrogyria (PMG), a brain malformation that brings developmental delays, seizures, and requires total daily care. Melissa opens up about the emotional journey of diagnosis, the daily realities of navigating therapies and specialized care, and the role faith and family play in sustaining them through the hardest days. She also shares how Ethan's journey helped inspire the opening of a specialized pediatric center in Madison and why access to specialized pediatric therapy is so critical for families across North Alabama. This is a story of resilience, advocacy, and unconditional love, and a reminder of the power of community support when families face life changing challenges. Listen & share.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Melissa Ricketts shares what the first weeks and months were like after bringing her son Ethan home following his diagnosis of Polymicrogyria (PMG). She talks about the emotions, the unknowns, and the learning curve that comes with suddenly becoming not just a parent, but also an advocate, caregiver, and medical support system for your child. Melissa shares how faith, family, and determination helped carry them through some of the most overwhelming moments of their lives. Sponsor: Athens Bible School
On this Make A Difference Minute, Aimee Wimmer, Vice President of the Limestone County Beekeeper Club, shares why bees are essential to our food supply, agriculture, and the health of our environment. Learn how local education, responsible beekeeping, and community involvement help protect bee populations and why this work matters to every family, not just farmers and beekeepers. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing part of Jennifer Hope George's conversation about how 2-year-old Isabelle Grace “Izzy” Juarez's family learned of her B Cell Hodgkin Lymphoma diagnosis and how quickly life changed. Izzy is currently receiving treatment at Children's in Birmingham as her family begins this unexpected journey. This minute is a reminder of how quickly life can shift and how powerful community support can be during the hardest moments. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge
On this episode of The Mark White Show, we start with Jennifer Hope George, who shares the story of 2-year-old Isabelle Grace “Izzy” Juarez and her recent diagnosis of B Cell Hodgkin Lymphoma. Jennifer talks about how quickly life changed for this family, what Izzy's fight looks like right now at Children's in Birmingham, and how the community is already stepping up through early plans for a benefit car show and other support efforts. You will also hear how you can help encourage Izzy and her family during these early and critical days of treatment. In the second segment, we shift to something rooted in local education, sustainability, and community involvement as Aimee Wimmer, Vice President of the Limestone County Beekeeper Club, joins the show. Aimee shares the importance of bees in our ecosystem, how local beekeepers are helping protect pollinators, and how people in our community can learn more about beekeeping and get involved. Listen & share.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that life is not always fair, but we still have the power to choose how we respond. This segment encourages listeners to focus on using what they have to do good, help others, and live with purpose, regardless of recognition or reward. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry
On tonight's edition of The Mark White Show, the first segment focuses on protecting people from a growing threat that is impacting families across the country. My guest is Amy Nofziger, Senior Director of Victim Support with the AARP Fraud Watch Network. Amy has spent more than two decades helping protect consumers and supporting victims of fraud. We talk about how romance scams really work, why so many victims never report what happened, and what practical steps you can take to protect yourself and the people you care about. In the second segment, I will be talking with Billy Ray Wilson from Pink Heals Eastern Alabama, a volunteer group that shows up for families when life gets heavy. Pink Heals is known for supporting people facing cancer and other major medical challenges, especially when children and families are involved. This conversation is about community, compassion, and what it means to show up when it matters most. Listen & share.
On this Make A Difference Minute, B.R. Wilson shares how a deeply personal experience and a calling on his heart led him to help build Pink Heals Eastern Alabama. What started with seeing cancer impact people close to him turned into a mission to show up for families facing some of life's hardest battles. B.R. talks about the moment he knew he was being called to do something more and how Pink Heals has become more than an organization. It has become a ministry of presence, support, and love for families, especially those with children facing cancer and life threatening illnesses. This segment is a reminder that sometimes making a difference starts with simply saying yes to the moment you feel called to serve. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc.
On tonight's edition of The Mark White Show, the first segment focuses on protecting people from a growing threat that is impacting families across the country. My guest is Amy Nofziger, Senior Director of Victim Support with the AARP Fraud Watch Network. Amy has spent more than two decades helping protect consumers and supporting victims of fraud. We talk about how romance scams really work, why so many victims never report what happened, and what practical steps you can take to protect yourself and the people you care about. In the second segment, I will be talking with Billy Ray Wilson from Pink Heals Eastern Alabama, a volunteer group that shows up for families when life gets heavy. Pink Heals is known for supporting people facing cancer and other major medical challenges, especially when children and families are involved. This conversation is about community, compassion, and what it means to show up when it matters most. Listen & share.
On this Make A Difference Minute, Oxford Police Officer Jaclyn Willis shares her personal experience walking beside her husband, Adam, as he battles an aggressive form of brain cancer. Jaclyn shares about supporting the person she loves through one of life's most difficult battles. Her story is one of love, resilience, and the quiet strength caregivers show every single day. Sponsor: Thompson Roofing and Construction
Oxford Police Officer Jaclyn Willis and her husband Adam are walking through an incredibly difficult season after Adam was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer in 2024. After more than a year of treatment and some stability, Adam began showing stroke-like symptoms in December 2025. Doctors discovered tumor growth and additional masses. Adam is now undergoing infusions and radiation as part of his current treatment plan to slow the progression of the tumors. This is a journey no family should have to face alone. The Alabama Police Benevolent Association and the Police Benevolent Foundation are working to support Adam and Jaclyn during this fight, with 100% of funds going directly to help them. If you feel led to support Adam and Jaclyn, you can learn more and donate here: https://pbfi.networkforgood.com/projects/294875-adam-willis-recovery-fund
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reflecting on the Buddy Bench dedication at East Lawrence Elementary School in honor of Chris Hill, Jr., Ashanti Hill, and Shawntay Hill. This segment focuses on legacy, community support, and how small acts of kindness can carry meaning for generations of students. Sponsor: CoraNation Tailoring & Alterations
Tonight, I'm having a conversation with Anderson Youth League organizer Misty Reeves about the growth of AYL and the mission behind it. What started as a youth basketball league has become a place where kids ages 4 to 17 can learn teamwork, build confidence, and feel supported by their community. Hear how Anderson Youth League continues to impact families and why providing a place for kids to belong makes all the difference.
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing three powerful life questions from Coach Holtz centered on trust, love, and commitment. This segment encourages listeners to measure success by character, consistency, and how they treat others, rather than by recognition or achievement alone. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org
On this Make A Difference Minute, Mark shares how Anderson Youth League, led by organizer Misty Reeves, is creating a place where kids can learn, grow, and belong, and how showing up for young people can change an entire community. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes
On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that stories are not just headlines or content. They are real people and real lives that deserve care, respect, and trust. This segment reflects on choosing humanity over noise and valuing community over clicks. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge
On tonight's show, I'm having an important conversation with Jason Smith, a Marine veteran who now serves as Director of Veterans Programming at Florida Springs Wellness and Recovery Center. As a former law enforcement officer, this conversation hits close to home for me. We'll talk about the Military, Veterans, and First Responders Suicide Prevention Summit coming to Enterprise, Alabama, on March 13th, and why caring for those who protect us has to go beyond words. This is about real people, real tools, and real support for those who serve and those who stand beside them. Listen & share.
Today on the Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing a message about living with an outward focus. This segment challenges listeners to look beyond their own stress and busyness and consider how simple acts of service, encouragement, and awareness can bring meaning and make a real difference in someone else's life. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry
On this Make A Difference Minute, Marine veteran Jason Smith shares a powerful message for military members, veterans, and first responders who are struggling in silence. Jason reminds listeners that strength is not found in carrying burdens alone, but in having the courage to reach out. He also shares details about the upcoming Military, Veterans, and First Responders Suicide Prevention Summit in Enterprise, Alabama, focused on real tools, real conversations, and real support. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com
On tonight's show, I'm having an important conversation with Jason Smith, a Marine veteran who now serves as Director of Veterans Programming at Florida Springs Wellness and Recovery Center. As a former law enforcement officer, this conversation hits close to home for me. We'll talk about the Military, Veterans, and First Responders Suicide Prevention Summit coming to Enterprise, Alabama, on March 13th, and why caring for those who protect us has to go beyond words. This is about real people, real tools, and real support for those who serve and those who stand beside them. Listen & share.
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