The Mark White Show

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that no amount of guilt can change the past and no amount of anxiety can change the future. We spend so much time pulled between yesterday's regrets and tomorrow's worries that we miss the strength and peace available to us right now. This segment encourages listeners to release what they can't control and settle into the present moment, where healing, growth, and real life actually happen. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com

On this edition of TMWS show, I'm having a conversation with Alexis Atchley about her 5-year-old daughter, Oaklee Rayne, a heart transplant child now facing new medical challenges. Alexis shares the highs, the setbacks, the emotional weight of the past week, and the strength that keeps their family moving forward. We also highlight the Alabama Storm Troopers Pray It Forward fundraiser and how the community can help make this Christmas special for Oaklee. Please listen & share.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Jared Smith shares what life looks like when both he and his wife, April, are battling colon cancer at the same time. From the fear of two diagnoses under one roof to the daily strength they draw from their faith, their family, and each other, Jared opens up about a journey no couple ever imagines. His message is honest, emotional, and filled with courage, a reminder that even in the toughest seasons, love and hope can still rise. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org

On this episode of The Mark White Show, Jared and April Smith open their hearts about a season of life no family ever expects to face. Both diagnosed with cancer, they found themselves fighting two battles at once while trying to keep faith, family, and everyday life moving forward. In this candid and powerful conversation, Jared and April share the fear, the courage, the prayers, the setbacks, and the surprising moments of goodness that have carried them through. Their story is one of resilience, honesty, and a hope that refuses to quit. Tune in as they remind us that even in the hardest moments, none of us are alone.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Roosevelt Patterson Jr. shares how the nickname “Rosie” began during his time playing for Coach Gene Stallings at Alabama and how that same name became the heart of his work today. Roosevelt explains why he chose to call his youth mentorship effort Rosie's Foundation and how his own struggles inspire him to help young people avoid the pitfalls he once faced. His story shows how a simple nickname grew into a mission of hope and guidance. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com

On this episode, Roosevelt Patterson Jr. shares a journey that spans championships at Vigor High School and the University of Alabama, time in the NFL and CFL, and a life-changing commitment to helping young people avoid the mistakes he once made. Roosevelt opens up about the highs of football, the lessons learned through adversity, and the mission behind Rosie's Foundation. His story is one of redemption, purpose, and using experience to lift others.

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that not everything we pick up in life is ours to carry. Many of us hold on to stress, guilt, and responsibility that was never meant for us. This segment encourages listeners to recognize what they can control, release what they can't, and protect their peace by letting go of burdens that don't belong on their shoulders. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware Greenshardware.net

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that progress comes from focusing on what you can control, not on what others choose not to do. It's easy to get distracted by the lack of effort, support, or responsibility around us, but real growth happens when we stay committed to our own work, our own integrity, and our own consistency. This segment encourages listeners to redirect their attention from frustration to purpose and keep moving forward with clarity and strength. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that just because we can't find something doesn't mean it's gone. Sometimes what we're searching for, clarity, peace, or purpose, hasn't disappeared at all. Maybe we got distracted, maybe we stopped trying as hard, or maybe we've just been looking in the wrong place. This segment encourages listeners to slow down, refocus, and look again, because what feels lost is often still right where it's always been, waiting to be noticed. Sponsor: Thompson Roofing and Construction 256Roofing.com

On tonight's show, Shannon Williams joins me to share her journey as a caregiver for her husband, Don, after his life changing injury. Shannon is still in the early months of this new reality, learning, adjusting, and fighting alongside the man she loves. Her story is emotional, honest, and a reminder of the weight caregivers carry every single day. This conversation lifts up the people who give everything they have so someone they love can keep going. If you know a caregiver, love a caregiver, or are a caregiver, I hope tonight's show encourages your heart.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Texas mom Kaci Alvarado shares how a routine oil change turned into a life-changing moment. While sitting at her friend's Quick Lube in Pampa, she was asked to proofread a letter for a man in desperate need of a kidney. Halfway through reading it, she looked up and said, “I'm O positive. How do I get tested?” That single decision set everything in motion. Six months later, she became his living kidney donor, giving a single father twelve more years with his children. Kaci's story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest differences begin in the most ordinary moments. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com

On this episode of The Mark White Show, Texas living kidney donor Kaci Alvarado shares how an ordinary moment became a life-changing one. After reading a letter while getting her oil changed, Kaci discovered she was a match for a single father in need of a kidney. She said yes, a decision that gave him twelve more years with his family. Kaci talks about the journey from testing to surgery, the special bond that formed afterward, and how life as a donor has opened new doors, including hiking the Grand Canyon and preparing for the Transplant Games of America. Her story is a powerful reminder that one simple act of kindness can change a life forever.

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that you were never meant to stay in places that only tolerate you. Life is too short to keep proving your worth to people who can't see it. This segment encourages listeners to surround themselves with people and environments that recognize their value, bring out their best, and help them grow. True peace and purpose are found where you're celebrated, not where you're merely accepted. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com

Air Force veteran Chris Ferrell and former University of Alabama football players Desmond Holoman, David “Hoss” Johnson, and Darryl Fuhrman joined me for tonight's episode of The Mark White Show. We're shining a light on the Lettermen of the U.S.A Autographs for Heroes event, held yesterday on Veterans Day, as part of the Semper Fi Community Task Force (SFCTF)'s three days of veteran recognition. These men are continuing to serve long after their time in uniform and on the field, honoring heroes, connecting communities, and reminding us what gratitude in action looks like.

On this Make A Difference Minute, the V.P. of LinkedIn, Greg Willis, is sharing a powerful reminder for business owners and community supporters alike. According to new LinkedIn data, nearly 8 in 10 small business owners say their best brand moments come from real conversations that build engagement. In a time when costs are rising and competition is high, authenticity and connection still matter most. Supporting local businesses, listening to customers, and building trust can make all the difference, not just in business, but in community. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com

On this episode of The Mark White Show, we're focusing on the heartbeat of our communities, small businesses. As inflation continues to challenge owners and entrepreneurs across the country, many are finding creative ways to adapt and grow. LinkedIn Vice President Greg Willis joins me to share the latest data on small business confidence, how technology and community connections are helping owners stay competitive, and why authentic storytelling continues to be one of the most powerful tools for growth. Whether you're running a local shop, launching a startup, or simply cheering for small businesses in your town, this conversation will remind you that resilience, creativity, and connection are still the keys to success.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Chris “Festus” Loyd shares the heart behind Festus's Bluegrass in the Ridge and the incredible lineup bringing America's music back home. From legends like Ralph Stanley II and Carson Peters to rising stars Ty and Conner McMeans, this festival is more than a weekend of performances, it's a gathering of memories, family, and faith that keeps bluegrass alive for the next generation. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware GreensHardware.net

Before there were big stages and bright lights, there were front porches, fiddles, and families gathered close. That's where American music was born. On this edition of TMWS, we're getting back to our bluegrass roots with Festus's Bluegrass in the Ridge, a celebration of the sound that built small towns and still brings folks together. We'll talk with Chris “Festus” Loyd, the man behind the festival, and hear about this year's incredible lineup featuring Ralph Stanley II, Carson Peters & Iron Mountain, Cotton Pickin Kids, and Ty & Conner McMeans, fresh off their National FFA Talent Championship win. Pull up a chair and let's remember what makes this music, and this country, special.

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that sometimes you can give everything you have, work as hard as you can, and still not get the outcome you hoped for. But that doesn't mean your effort was wasted. Every bit of energy, focus, and perseverance builds strength and wisdom. This segment encourages listeners to see effort not just as a means to success, but as a form of growth, because what we learn through the process matters just as much as the result. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that greatness doesn't happen all at once, it's built through small, consistent acts done with care. Inspired by Vincent Van Gogh's words, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together,” this segment encourages listeners to value each day's effort. Every action, every word, every bit of kindness adds up to something meaningful and lasting. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com

On this Make A Difference Minute, Dr. Michael Gabriel, National Medical Director for Carelon Palliative Care, reminds us that caregivers need care too. With nearly 59 million Americans serving as unpaid caregivers, burnout is real, but support is available. Dr. Gabriel shares how families can recognize the warning signs, set healthy boundaries, and access the help they deserve. This message is a gentle reminder that caring for yourself is one of the best ways to keep caring for those you love. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com

Behind every patient is someone quietly holding things together, a spouse, a parent, a friend, a child. They manage appointments, offer comfort, and often sacrifice their own wellbeing in the process. November is National Family Caregivers Month and Dr. Michael Gabriel, National Medical Director for Carelon Palliative Care, joins me to talk about the signs of caregiver burnout, how to find support, and how palliative care can bring peace and partnership to families. This one's for those who give so much and rarely ask for anything in return.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Wendy S. King shares how faith, community, and compassion are coming together in Cherokee, Alabama, to create the state's first nonprofit resource and decompression center. Through Community Unity 360, good hearted citizens, veterans, and local businesses are joining forces to build a place for healing and real connection. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com

On tonight's show, I'm joined by Wendy S. King of CU360 in Colbert County, Alabama. Wendy is leading a first in our state with a nonprofit resource and decompression center for veterans and the community. An effort built by local difference makers with more than $120,000 in donated goods and services. Hear the vision. Hear the need. Hear how you can help.

On this Make A Difference Minute, we're focusing on The Story You Tell Yourself. The words you repeat in your mind have power. They can hold you back or move you toward something better. When you start replacing doubt with purpose and failure with learning, you begin to live from a different chapter, one that's written with hope, strength, and belief. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com

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