The Mark White Show

On this Make A Difference Minute, Heather Nawrocki with AARP offers practical encouragement for anyone feeling the sting of loneliness, especially adults over 45. New research shows that nearly 4 in 10 people in midlife are struggling with disconnection, shrinking friendships, and the pressure of juggling work, family, and caregiving. Heather reminds us that loneliness doesn't mean something is wrong with you, it simply means you were made for connection. She shares simple, meaningful steps anyone can take to start rebuilding that connection, both during the holidays and long after they're over. A small reach, a small invitation, a small moment of courage can make a big difference. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com

On this Make A Difference Minute, we are highlighting a woman who has spent her life serving others. Her name is Savannah Butler. She is a wife, a mom to five children, a dedicated friend and coworker, and a United States Marine veteran who has always been the kind of person who steps up when someone needs help. Savannah was first diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma in 2020. She fought through chemo and radiation and returned to caring for her family and serving her community. Recently, new symptoms led to more tests, and she has now been diagnosed with Stage 4 Ewing Sarcoma. This time the cancer is more aggressive, and her treatment will take her to specialists at Vanderbilt and to Houston for a possible clinical trial. Tye Hutt, one of Savannah's closest friends, says Savannah has always been strong for others. Now, she hopes the community will stand strong for her. Donate: gofundme.com/support-savannahs-fight-against-stage-4-sarcoma Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com

On this edition of The Mark White Show, nurse practitioner Tye Hutt joins me to share the story of her friend and coworker, Savannah Butler, a Marine veteran and mother of five who is now facing a recurrence of Ewing Sarcoma. Tye explains Savannah's medical journey, the support her family needs, and how the community can help as she begins treatment and explores a clinical trial. I'll also be talking with country artist Sammy Sadler about his latest music and the path that has shaped his career. Tune in as we highlight a family in need and enjoy a conversation with an artist whose story and voice continue to inspire.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Dr. Sheehan Fisher from Northwestern Medicine shares an important truth many families never hear, about one in ten new fathers experience postpartum depression. The symptoms often look different in men, which means many cases go unnoticed or untreated. Dr. Fisher explains why dads are vulnerable during those early months, how their mental health can affect the whole family, and where fathers can turn for help. He also highlights resources available for new dads who may be struggling in silence. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com

Tonight's show is for the people who feel like they're doing life by themselves, even when they're surrounded by others. If you're a new dad wrestling with emotions you can't explain. If you're in your 40s, 50s, or beyond and wondering when your circle got smaller. If the holidays make the quiet moments feel heavier than normal. You are not alone. We're joined by Dr. Sheehan Fisher from Northwestern Medicine to talk about paternal postpartum depression, a struggle many fathers have but almost no one discusses. And Heather Nawrocki from AARP shares new research about loneliness in adults over 45, why it's hitting so many in midlife, and how to take real steps toward connection again. If you need understanding, encouragement, or just a reminder that someone sees what you're going through, tonight's show is for you.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Makenzie Phipps from this season of The Voice shares the heart behind her new song titled Christmas Snow. Makenzie has connected with listeners through her gentle sound and honest storytelling. In this short segment, she talks about the meaning of the song and what she hopes it brings to those who hear it. Tune in for a beautiful moment of music and message. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware GreensHardware.net

On tonight's edition of The Mark White Show, you will hear from two guests with two very different but meaningful stories. First, you will meet Hayden Stuart from the McCalla, Alabama, community. Hayden has been facing multiple seizures a day, and he opens up about the impact this challenge has had on his life and the support he has received along the way. You will also meet Makenzie Phipps from this season of The Voice. Makenzie shares her journey on the show and the heart behind her song titled Christmas Snow. Both conversations offer honesty, hope, and encouragement. I hope you will listen & share.

On this Make A Difference Minute, 21-year-old Hayden Stuart of McCalla, Alabama, opens up about the daily impact of his severe seizures and the concerns he faces as he looks toward the future. Hayden shares how unpredictable each day can be and what it means to have people praying for him and offering support. His strength and honesty remind us why lifting one another up truly matters. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org

On this episode of The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Icing Smiles founder Tracy Quisenberry and volunteer Sugar Angel Connie Ash. Icing Smiles is a nationwide nonprofit that provides custom celebration cakes to families with a child facing a critical medical illness. These cakes offer comfort, joy, and a moment of normalcy during some of the toughest days a family will ever face. Tracy shares how the organization began in 2010, why this mission matters, and how it has grown into a network of more than fourteen thousand volunteer bakers serving families across all fifty states. Connie shares her own story, including the moment she overcame self doubt, applied to become a Sugar Angel, and began creating cakes that now lift the hearts of medical families in need. This is a conversation about kindness, courage, and the power of small acts that make a big difference.

On this Make A Difference Minute, volunteer baker Connie Ash shares how she once doubted she had what it takes to serve as a Sugar Angel for Icing Smiles. She wondered if her skills were good enough and if she could truly make a difference for a family facing the critical illness of a child. But she took a chance, submitted her application, and was accepted without hesitation. Today, Connie creates cakes that bring joy, comfort, and moments of normalcy to families who need it most. Her story is a reminder that sometimes saying yes, even when we are unsure, leads to something beautiful. Sponsor: CoraNation Tailoring & Alterations

Tonight on The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Nicky Wilson and her daughter, Girl Scout Abby Wilson. Abby recently completed a remarkable Silver Award project that brought the Madison City community together in a big way. What began as a simple request for neighbors to save their plastic lids grew into a collection of 650 pounds of recyclable material. Thanks to the generosity of local families and fire stations who served as drop off points, those lids were transformed into two buddy benches and two toddler picnic tables. Nicky and Abby will share how the project came together, why it mattered, and how other civic groups can do something similar. It's a great example of leadership, service, and the power of community support.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Girl Scout Abby Wilson shares how quickly her community responded when she asked for help collecting plastic lids for her Silver Award project. In just a short time, neighbors and local fire stations stepped up, helping her gather an incredible 650 pounds of recyclable material that became buddy benches and toddler picnic tables. Abby also offers the message she hopes others will take from her project, that even small acts, when supported by many people, can create something meaningful and lasting. It's a reminder of what can happen when a community chooses to work together. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com

On this MADM, Ian Flanigan shares about his version of Elvis' Blue Christmas and how the loss of his mom impacted his decision to record it. Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry SingingRiverDentistry.com

On this Make A Difference Minute, Cary Grant shares about the serious health challenges he is facing as he waits for a heart and double-lung transplant at the Mayo Clinic. His wife, Karen, opens up about the support, faith, and strength carrying their family through this difficult season. Sponsor: Hydration Lounge HydrationL.com

On this edition of The Mark White Show, Cary and Karen Grant share a story of resilience and unwavering faith. Cary, who has devoted his career to helping others, is now fighting for his life as he awaits a heart and lung transplant. From Huntsville to Jacksonville, the Grant family has been walking a difficult road, but their strength and hope remain unshaken. Their message is one of courage, community, and trusting the process even when the outcome is unknown. Listen & share.

On this MADM, Billie Jo Jones shares the why behind recording I'll Be Home for Christmas. Listen & share. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware GreensHardware.net

On this edition of TMWS, I have two music guests joining me. First, I have Billie Jo Jones to share about her rendition of I'll Be Home for Christmas followed by Ian Flanigan his version of Elvis's Blue Christmas.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Rebecca “Becky” Jones shares the kind of person her son Kyle was. Even while facing mental health challenges, Kyle was known for his kindness, his humor, and the way he cared for the people around him. Becky reflects on his joyful spirit, the moments that made him unforgettable, and the legacy he leaves through the Kyle Jones Foundation. Her message reminds us that those who struggle are often carrying a depth we cannot see, and that showing compassion, support, and understanding can make a lasting difference in the lives of others. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com

On this edition of TMWS, Rebecca “Becky” Jones shares the story of her son Kyle and the mission behind the Kyle Jones Foundation. After experiencing unimaginable loss, Becky chose to honor Kyle's life by helping others through support, awareness, and compassion. This conversation shines a light on mental health, the power of community, and the healing that can come from turning pain into purpose. Listen & share.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Coach Blaine Woody shares a heartfelt reminder for anyone carrying silent struggles. Through the “I Matter” Project of Chattooga County, he encourages young people, and adults, to speak up, reach out, and let someone walk with them through the hard places. His message is simple but powerful: you are not a burden, your voice matters, and your story is worth sharing. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBibleSchool.org

Today on The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Coach Blaine Woody to talk about a grassroots effort born from heartbreak, The “I Matter” Project of Chattooga County. After two suicides have shaken the community in Northwest Georgia, Blaine and co-founder Michael Farmer stepped forward with a mission to remind every young person that they are valued, seen, and never alone. In this conversation, Blaine shares how the initiative began, what they hope to build, and how the community can help create a safe, supportive place for local kids through mentorship, counseling, activities, and connection. This is an honest, compassionate discussion about loss, hope, and taking action before another life is gone. Listen & share.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Andrew Harbin with Pork Belly BBQ shares why giving back is at the center of everything they do. From school fundraisers to helping individuals to supporting Angel Tree families, Andrew and his team believe in showing love through good food, open arms, and a judgment free atmosphere. During a recent food giveaway in Rogersville, they prepared enough for about five hundred plates because they wanted everyone to know they were welcome. Andrew says good food and laughter bring people together, and at Pork Belly Barbecue, no matter who you are or where you come from, you will be accepted, embraced, and treated like family. Sponsor: Thompson Roofing and Construction 256Roofing.com

On this episode of TMWS, I have two guests who are both from the West Limestone area in Limestone County, Alabama. My first guest is Alex White as she shares about her daughter's fight with hydrocephalus. This is a recent diagnosis, and the family is in the early stages of navigating this battle. After that, we'll be talking to Andrew Harbin in Rogersville, Alabama, as he shares about his family business, Pork Belly BBQ, and their effort to support the community through small business ownership. Listen & share.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Alex White explains how a routine appointment turned into a frightening diagnosis for her daughter Holly. With hydrocephalus and a tumor or cyst creating pressure around her brain, Holly now faces specialized care and upcoming decisions. Alex invites the community to rally around their family with prayers and support. Sponsor: Bankston Motor Homes BankstonMotorHomes.com

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm reminding listeners that the people we criticize are human long before they are athletes, performers, or professionals. Everyone makes mistakes, and most of the time, the person who fell short is already carrying the weight of it. This segment encourages compassion over blame, patience over public shaming, and understanding over harsh judgment. The way we respond to someone's worst moment can either lift them up or leave a lasting wound. Sponsor: CoraNation Tailoring & Alterations

On this MADM, Retired Sgt. Jay "Packy" Dempsey shares about the founding of his program The Fastest 4 Seconds. Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc. PremierStructures.com

Retired Sgt Jay “Packy” Dempsey joins me to talk about his survival during a four second shooting, the creation of his Fastest 4 Seconds training, and the long road through PTSD and addiction that tested every part of his life. This is a conversation about readiness, healing, and finding purpose after trauma.

On this MADM, Trey Calloway shares the story behind his new Christmas single, Christmas With You. Sponsor: Green's Dependable Hardware GreensHardware.net

On tonight's show, we celebrate the upcoming Christmas season with country music legend T. G. Sheppard and singer songwriter Kelly Lang as they share their holiday music and the heart behind their latest album and Christmas single Tender Tennessee Christmas. We also welcome rising artist Trey Calloway to talk about his new Christmas single Christmas With You and the journey that brought him to where he is today. Listen & share.

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.