Podcast by Mark White

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm discussing “Don't Judge the Day Too Early.” I came across a short video today featuring Dick Van Dyke, and a line he said stopped me. “You should never judge a day by its weather.” That one line got me thinking about how quickly we can decide a day is ruined before it even has a chance to unfold. Today, I'm sharing a reminder that difficult beginnings don't always lead to difficult endings and why some of life's best moments come after rough starts. You may want to give the day a little more time. This MADM is brought to you by Premier Structures, Inc., proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm focusing on “What Really Matters.” We live in a world that constantly tells us to chase more success, more possessions, more recognition, more things. Tomorrow, I'm sharing a reminder that life isn't measured by what you own. It's measured by relationships, kindness, memories, & the impact we have on the people around us. The things that matter most are the things money cannot buy. This MADM is brought to you by J. Calvert Farms, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I have Melissa Matheson, Director and Co-Founder of Kids For Life, sharing about the realities many children face when entering foster care and the support needed for both children and foster families. Melissa explains that many children enter care because of circumstances involving neglect, abuse, or addiction in the home, often arriving with very few belongings and carrying burdens most people never see. Kids For Life is working to support not only children, but entire foster families, recognizing that helping families succeed creates a stronger foundation for children during difficult transitions. This MADM is brought to you by Bama Estate Planning by Attorney Harlan D. Mitchell, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight, I'm joined by Melissa Mathieson, director and co-founder of Kids for Life. Children entering foster care often face uncertainty and difficult transitions. Many arrive with very little and are stepping into situations that can feel overwhelming. Melissa will share how Kids for Life is working to support children and foster families across Northwest Alabama by helping provide practical resources and reminders that these children are seen, valued, and cared for. We'll talk about the heart behind the organization, the needs many families face that people may never realize, and the ways communities can come together to make a difference. Sometimes helping a child does not require becoming a foster parent. Sometimes it simply starts with choosing to care and finding a way to help. Listen in as we spotlight a mission built around hope, support, and helping children know they matter. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing about the “The Power of Encouragement” Life can get heavy. People carry stress, worry, family struggles, health concerns, & burdens that are often hidden behind a smile. Today, I'm sharing a reminder that sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference, a kind word, a thoughtful message, or a simple moment of encouragement. You may never know what someone else is carrying, but you might have the ability to help lighten the load. This MADM is brought to you by Athens Bible School, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with Dr. W. Craig Noblett, President of the American Association of Endodontists, about the connection between oral health and overall health. Dental problems aren't always just about teeth. Infections and untreated issues can affect daily life and, in some cases, become serious health concerns. Dr. Noblett shares warning signs people should pay attention to, including sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, pain while biting, and discomfort that could signal a bigger issue developing. Sometimes taking care of a small problem early can prevent a much bigger one later. This MADM is brought to you by Bankston Motor Homes, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight, on The Mark White Show, I'll be joined by Arryana Chestnut, founder and executive director of So Fresh & So Clean Haircuts 4 Youth. What started as a vision to provide free haircuts has grown into something much bigger. Through school tours, mentorship, encouragement, and community partnerships, Arryana and her team are helping cultivate distinguished young men one haircut at a time. From Fairfield to Brighton, Bush Hills and beyond, their mission is reaching students with more than a fresh look. They're helping build confidence, create connections, and remind young people that someone sees them, values them, and believes in them. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, Shannon and Randy Pike share the difficult health journey that has changed the course of their lives over the last 24 years. What began with an unexplained heart attack at just 27 years old led to a devastating stroke, years of unanswered questions, and the discovery of multiple rare autoimmune conditions. Through hospital stays, setbacks, uncertainty, and ongoing challenges, Randy and Shannon have continued to lean on faith, family, and perseverance. Their story is a reminder that many people are carrying battles others never see and that support from a community can make a difference during life's hardest seasons. This MADM is brought to you by Singing River Dentistry, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight, on The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Randy and Shannon Pike as they share an incredible journey of perseverance through unimaginable health challenges. Randy is battling three very rare autoimmune diseases including Protein S Deficiency, two forms of Lupus, and Hypogammaglobulinemia. Their journey has included hospital stays, rehabilitation, uncertainty, and difficult days that tested their family in ways they never expected. Throughout it all, Shannon has shared updates, encouragement, and inspiration while standing beside Randy through every step of the fight. This conversation is about more than diagnoses and medical terms. It's about faith, family, resilience, and what happens when people refuse to quit during life's hardest seasons. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with Principal Scott Jones of Allen Thornton Career Tech Center in Lauderdale County, Alabama about the future of today's students and why he's optimistic about the next generation. While some people criticize young people, Mr. Jones sees something different. He sees innovation, teamwork, work ethic, and students developing skills that will serve them well for years to come. From learning trades to earning opportunities with unions and career pathways before graduation, students are gaining real-world experience and helping build the workforce of tomorrow. This MADM is brought to you by Premier Structures, Inc., proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'll be joined first by Principal Scott Jones with Allen Thornton Career Tech to talk about the impact of career and technical education, the recent Lauderdale County CTE Banquet, and the exciting work ahead as they prepare to move into their new building. In the second segment, I'll be joined by Dr. W. Craig Noblett, President of the American Association of Endodontists, during Save Your Tooth Month to talk about why saving natural teeth matters, what many Americans misunderstand about tooth loss, and how endodontists help patients protect their oral and overall health. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, former Athens, Alabama Police Chief Wayne Harper reflects on the lasting impact of officers who gave their lives in the line of duty and why their sacrifice must never be forgotten. Speaking during National Police Week, Chief Harper shares the pain of personally knowing the officers and families affected, while also remembering the overwhelming support shown by the community and law enforcement agencies across the Southeast during those difficult times. This conversation is a reminder that behind every name on a memorial wall is a family, a community, and a legacy of service. This MADM is brought to you by J. Calvert Farms, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, we're highlighting how local people in Russellville, Alabama are coming together to help revive community theatre at the historic Historic Roxy Theatre through the upcoming production of Murder in the Magnolias. More than just a play, this effort is about neighbors volunteering their time, building friendships, stepping outside their comfort zones, and creating something positive for families to enjoy together. It's a reminder that strong communities are built when people choose to participate, encourage one another, and support local efforts that bring people together. This MADM is brought to you by Bama Estate Planning by Attorney Harlan D. Mitchell, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On tonight's show, we're coming to your from Green's Dependable Hardware in Russellville, Alabama, as John Duncan of Haleyville joins me to share the incredible story of receiving the gift of life through the late Jolene Sims' kidney donation. It's a powerful reminder of how one selfless decision can impact so many lives. You'll also hear from Matt & Laura McDuffa along with Doug Green as they talk about an upcoming community play at the The Historic Roxy Theatre in Russellville and what it means for the local community. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, kidney recipient John Duncan from Haleyville, Alabama shares the incredible story of how one shared Facebook post led to a life-saving kidney transplant. After John's story spread across social media, a woman whose mother had suffered a massive stroke reached out with a selfless offer that would ultimately change his life forever. Because her mother was an organ donor, John received a perfect match. This powerful conversation is a reminder that even in moments of great loss, the decision to become an organ donor can create hope and life for someone else. This MADM is brought to you by Green's Dependable Hardware, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, we share an important update about 4-year-old Miyanna Edmiston and her urgent need for a kidney transplant. As her kidney function continues to decline, her family is searching for a living donor in hopes of finding a match before dialysis becomes necessary. This segment highlights the medical, emotional, and financial challenges they are facing, while also reminding listeners how one person's willingness to step forward could change a child's life forever. This MADM is brought to you by Bankston Motor Homes, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with retiring band director Landon Manning about 25 years of service to Vincent Middle High School and the impact he hoped to leave behind. While there were performances, competitions, and accomplishments along the way, Landon says what mattered most was making sure students knew someone cared about them beyond the classroom or the stage. This segment is a reminder that some of the greatest educators do far more than teach a subject. They help shape lives. This MADM is brought to you by J. Calvert Farms, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight on The Mark White Show, I'm honored to welcome my friend, Landon Manning, for a very special conversation as he reflects on 25 years of service to Vincent Middle High School and Shelby County Schools. This is a conversation about legacy, mentorship, relationships, lessons learned, and the lasting impact educators have on the lives of students and communities. Landon shares about the people who shaped him, the moments that stayed with him, what students taught him along the way, and what he hopes future generations carry forward long after the music stops playing. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with John Voigt, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, about the growing issue of workplace violence facing nurses and frontline healthcare workers. From verbal threats to physical assaults, many healthcare professionals are dealing with situations that go far beyond the medical challenges of the job. This segment shines a light on the importance of protecting those who dedicate their lives to caring for others and recognizing the pressures they face every day. This MADM is brought to you by Hydration Lounge, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight's edition of The Mark White Show focuses on an issue affecting healthcare workers across America: workplace violence in hospitals and healthcare settings. As someone who has served on the Athens-Limestone Hospital Patient & Family Advisory Council (PFAC) since 2023, this conversation hits especially close to home for me. It's interesting timing that tomorrow's PFAC meeting will include discussion surrounding workplace violence, while tonight's show addresses the growing concerns nurses and healthcare workers are facing every day. With this also being National Nurses Week, the conversation feels even more important. Joining me tonight are John Voight, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, and Mike Shore, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Enterprise at Axon. We'll discuss the realities healthcare workers are facing, how workplace violence impacts staffing and patient care, and what steps can help create safer environments for the people serving on the front lines of healthcare. Healthcare workers show up for people during some of the hardest moments of life. They deserve support, protection, and appreciation for the work they do every single day. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing Jewell Brown's journey and her need for a kidney donor. After facing kidney challenges since childhood and receiving a transplant from her mom that has lasted 20 years, Jewel is now in renal failure and searching for a living donor. This segment highlights both the reality that transplants are not always permanent and the opportunity for someone to make a life-changing difference. To learn more about becoming a living donor for Jewel, you can follow Be Jewell's Lifeline and/or contact Lara Reed with the transplant team at the University of Cincinnati Health at 513-584-8313. This MADM is brought to you by Premier Structures, Inc., proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with 17-year-old driver Connor Shelton of Connor Shelton Racing from Tanner, Alabama, about what it takes to compete in racing at a high level. While talent matters, Connor shares that one of the biggest challenges is funding and having the support to stay in the race. His story highlights the importance of family, perseverance, and looking up to those who built their path from the ground up. It's a reminder that success isn't always handed to you. Sometimes it's built, one opportunity at a time. This MADM is brought to you by Bama Estate Planning by Attorney Harlan Mitchell, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight on The Mark White Show, I'll be joined by 17-year-old Connor Shelton out of Tanner, Alabama, along with his mom, Amy Gatlin. Connor is chasing a dream at full speed, competing in pro late model stock car racing against some of the best drivers in the country at Montgomery Motor Speedway. What started as a love for racing at 14 has turned into a serious pursuit, built on hard work, long hours, and a commitment to getting better every time he hits the track. Behind that journey is a strong support system who has been right there with him every step of the way. This is not just about racing. It's about family, discipline, and what it takes to chase something bigger than yourself. Join us as we talk about Connor's path, the challenges he faces, and where he hopes to go from here. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with Morgan Vance of the Pat Summitt Foundation about Coach Pat Summitt's response to her Alzheimer's diagnosis. Instead of stepping back, she stepped forward, using her platform to bring awareness to a disease that often leaves families feeling isolated. This segment highlights her courage to face it publicly and her commitment to making a difference for future generations. This MADM is brought to you by Athens Bible School, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this episode of The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Morgan Vance with the Pat Summitt Foundation as we talk about continuing the legacy of Pat Summitt. After her diagnosis with early-onset Alzheimer's disease, Coach Summitt made the decision to turn her fight into a mission that would help others. Today, that mission lives on through the Foundation's work in supporting families, raising awareness, and advancing research. Morgan shares how that legacy is still making an impact, what families are facing when it comes to Alzheimer's, and how each of us can be part of the solution. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, retired U.S. Marshal Jerry Peters shares the mission behind Operation Life Support, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals and families impacted by traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress. Drawing from decades of crisis intervention work and his own experience as a TBI survivor, Jerry is working to connect people with the support and resources they need to move forward. This MADM is brought to you by Bankston Motor Homes, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm joined by my friend Marvin Leathers to talk about the 7th Annual Rebel Jam happening May 16th in Winfield, Alabama. This year's event is centered around 4-year-old Kam Bryant, a young boy who survived a drowning accident and now requires around-the-clock care at home. Marvin shares Kam's story, the daily reality his parents Kevin and Kasey face, and how the community is stepping up to help with medical equipment, travel, and ongoing care needs. Rebel Jam is more than a music festival. It's a way for people to come together and support a family walking through something most of us can't imagine. If you can't attend, you can still support through Venmo @RebelJam. This Make A Difference Minute is brought to you by Hydration Lounge, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm talking with Marvin Leathers of Above The Garage Studio. We're talking about the heart behind the 7th Annual Rebel Jam Music Festival in Winfield, Alabama. What started as a passion for music has grown into a powerful community event focused on helping families in need. This year, Rebel Jam is rallying around 4-year-old Kam Bryant and his family as they continue their journey after a life-altering accident. Marvin shares how Rebel Jam came to be, what attendees can expect, and how this event is making a real difference through music, generosity, and community support. Be there on May 16th! Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I share a moment with Deanna Tidwell, Director of Victim Services for Lauderdale County District Attorney's Office, as we honored those lost to violent crimes and supported the families left behind. This segment highlights the emotional toll these tragedies take and the importance of treating every victim as a person, not a number. It's also a call for more people to step forward, get involved, and support organizations like VOCAL that walk alongside victims and their families every day. This MADM is brought to you by Bama Estate Planning by Attorney Harlan D. Mitchell, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with 14-year-old singer-songwriter Michael Schott from Stella, North Carolina about handling doubt and criticism. As his music connects with audiences in powerful ways, Michael shares how he stays focused on what matters most, the real impact his songs have on people, rather than the negativity that can come with visibility. This message is a reminder to stay grounded in your purpose and not let outside noise distract you from what you're called to do. This MADM is brought to you by Premier Structures, Inc., proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this episode of The Mark White Show, I'm talking with 14-year-old musician Michael Schott from Stella, North Carolina. At a young age, Michael is putting himself out there, sharing his music, and learning what it takes to grow in a space that can be both encouraging and challenging. He talks about where his passion comes from, the influences shaping his sound, and what it means to keep going when you're still finding your way. This is a conversation about courage, growth, and choosing to pursue what you love. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with Karen Belcher of the Adoption and Foster Care Clinic about the growing need for support within the foster care system. With over 6,000 children currently in foster care in Alabama and not enough caregivers or resources to meet the demand, this segment highlights the importance of community awareness, prevention, and individuals stepping forward to help. This message reminds us that real change begins when people choose to get involved and make a difference in the lives of children and families. This MADM is brought to you by Green's Dependable Hardware, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight on The Mark White Show, I'll be talking with Karen Belcher, Co-Founder and Director of Clinical Operations for The Adoption and Foster Care Clinic in Birmingham. Karen is a registered nurse and TBRI practitioner who has spent more than two decades working with children and families navigating adoption, foster care, and kinship care. What started at UAB Children's Hospital has grown into a standalone nonprofit focused on meeting the real, often unseen needs of these families through medical care, mental health support, and guidance for caregivers. We're going to take a closer look at what these children and families are truly facing, the misconceptions that often surround their journeys, and why understanding and support from the community matters more than most people realize. Join me for a conversation that brings insight, compassion, and a better understanding of how we can all be part of the support system. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with Marci Prescott of the Alabama Kidney Foundation about how it all began. What started with one patient considering stopping dialysis due to financial burden led William Rowe to take action. His response created a mission that continues today, providing financial assistance, education, and support to kidney patients across Alabama. This story is a reminder that one moment, one decision to help, can grow into something that impacts countless lives. This MADM is brought to you by Singing River Dentistry, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On tonight's show, I'm joined by Marcie Prescott with the Alabama Kidney Foundation to talk about the impact kidney disease is having on families across our state and how our communities can step in to help. As we move through the month of April, attention is already turning toward the Birmingham Kidney Walk coming up on May 9th at Spain Park High School. Teams are forming, fundraising is underway, and this is a great time to get involved. Marcie shares how the Alabama Kidney Foundation supports patients through financial assistance, education, and critical resources, along with the real challenges many families are facing every day. We also talk about how you can take part in the Birmingham Kidney Walk, whether by forming a team, making a donation, volunteering, or simply showing up to support those who need it most. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this edition of the MADM, we share the story of a family who made a life-changing decision, to open their home to four foster children. Jocelyn Turner joins me to talk about her co-worker and friend, Abby, the kind of person she is, and why this moment deserves our attention and support. Taking in four children at once comes with emotional, physical, and financial challenges. This conversation focuses on the heart behind that decision and how a community can come alongside a family doing something selfless. If you've ever wondered what it looks like to show up for others in a real way, this is that story. This story is made possible by our community partner, Athens Bible School, proudly supporting the people and stories that make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing Jewell Brown's journey and her need for a kidney donor. After facing kidney challenges since childhood and receiving a transplant from her mom that has lasted 20 years, Jewel is now in renal failure and searching for a living donor. This segment highlights both the reality that transplants are not always permanent and the opportunity for someone to make a life-changing difference. To learn more about becoming a living donor for Jewel, you can follow Be Jewell's Lifeline and/or contact Lara Reed with the transplant team at the University of Cincinnati Health at 513-584-8313. This MADM will be brought to you by, Bankston Motor Homes, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing a simple moment that turned into a meaningful lesson. While working on a small project with April, I was reminded how much you can learn when you build something together. From communication to patience to handling frustration, those everyday moments reveal how we work as a team. This message highlights how the process often matters more than the project itself. This MADM is brought to you by Hydration Lounge, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, Crystal Strickland shares some of her journey after receiving a rare cancer diagnosis of EHE. From reading the results in her portal to learning that even her oncologist had limited knowledge of the disease, Crystal was faced with uncertainty from the very beginning. Her story highlights the importance of support, self-advocacy, and finding trusted resources when answers aren't easy to come by. This MADM is brought to you by Thompson Roofing and Construction, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Crystal Lineberger Strickland, a dedicated educator, dyslexia advocate, and difference maker who has spent her life helping others overcome obstacles. Now, Crystal is facing a battle of her own as she fights a rare form of liver cancer known as epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) while awaiting a transplant. Crystal shares her journey, the impact she has made on countless lives, and the strength she draws from her faith and community during this difficult season. This is a story about resilience, purpose, and the power of people coming together when it matters most. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with Kate O'Neal of The Caring Link about their New Beginnings School Readiness Program. This initiative provides students with new clothes, shoes, school supplies, hygiene kits, and access to essential services so they can walk into the classroom confident and prepared. As families face rising costs and more students experience displacement, programs like New Beginnings are helping meet real needs and giving kids a strong start to the school year. This MADM is brought to you by Singing River Dentistry, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight, on The Mark White Show, I'm joined by Clarissa and Lillian Glanton, the mother and sister of Webb Glanton, whose life was tragically lost to a fentanyl-laced pill. In the midst of their grief, they've chosen to speak out, share Webb's story, and create the Webb Glanton Foundation to help raise awareness and protect others from the dangers of fentanyl. I also talk with Kate O'Neal of The Caring Link about their upcoming “Link Up” event, a community fundraiser supporting their New Beginnings school readiness program. This effort helps provide local students with clothing, shoes, school supplies, and more, giving them the confidence and tools they need to start the school year strong. I hope you will listen & share. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I talk with Kody Norris of The Kody Norris Show as he reflects on a 20-year journey in country and bluegrass music. From a young boy playing in the mountains of East Tennessee to sharing the stage with legends like Ralph Stanley, Kody shares how passion, persistence, and the right people helped turn a dream into a reality. This message is a reminder that the path may change, but staying committed to what you love can lead you exactly where you're meant to be. This MADM is brought to you by J. Calvert Farms, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight on The Mark White Show, we're celebrating America's 250th anniversary with award-winning artist Kody Norris of The Kody Norris Show, as he shares the story behind his latest music and upcoming album honoring our nation's history. On Cora's Corner, we also highlight Tara Ross' new children's book, We Created a Country: The Story of Our Constitution, helping young readers understand the foundation of the United States in a meaningful way. It's a night focused on music, history, and the story of America. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I share a personal message about letting go of the negative labels and beliefs I once carried. This segment encourages listeners to release what was never theirs, reclaim their identity, and step into purpose without being defined by past words or experiences. This MADM is brought to you by Green's Dependable Hardware, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing a simple but powerful reminder. Being seen matters. You might be surrounded by people and still feel alone, and the same is true for someone you pass every day. A genuine check-in, a kind word, or simply noticing someone can change more than you realize. Join me for this message about connection, awareness, and how small moments can make a big difference. This MADM is brought to you by Athens Bible School, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm sharing the story of Rory Amos, a husband, a father, and a hardworking man who is in need of a kidney donor. Rory addresses one of the biggest concerns people have about donation, the cost, and explains how his insurance covers it. He also shares how even if you're not a direct match, you can still help through paired donation programs that connect donors and recipients. This is an opportunity to make a real difference, not only for Rory, but for many others in need. To learn more or consider becoming a donor, visit nkr.org/TFG957. This MADM is brought to you by Bankston Motor Homes, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm joined by my friend Marvin Leathers to talk about the 7th Annual Rebel Jam happening May 16th in Winfield, Alabama. This year's event is centered around 4-year-old Kam Bryant, a young boy who survived a drowning accident and now requires around-the-clock care at home. Marvin shares Kam's story, the daily reality his parents Kevin and Kasey face, and how the community is stepping up to help with medical equipment, travel, and ongoing care needs. Rebel Jam is more than a music festival. It's a way for people to come together and support a family walking through something most of us can't imagine. If you can't attend, you can still support through Venmo @RebelJam. This Make A Difference Minute is brought to you by Hydration Lounge, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this edition of The Mark White Show, I'm talking with Marvin Leathers of Above The Garage Studio. We're talking about the heart behind the 7th Annual Rebel Jam Music Festival in Winfield, Alabama. What started as a passion for music has grown into a powerful community event focused on helping families in need. This year, Rebel Jam is rallying around 4-year-old Kam Bryant and his family as they continue their journey after a life-altering accident. Marvin shares how Rebel Jam came to be, what attendees can expect, and how this event is making a real difference through music, generosity, and community support. Be there on May 16th! Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On this Make A Difference Minute, I'm joined by JoHelene Patrick, Director of Corporate and Community Partnerships with the Alabama Kidney Foundation. JoHelene takes us back to her teenage years when she faced kidney disease and shares what many people don't always see. It wasn't just her battle. It affected her entire family. The stress, the financial strain, the quiet sacrifices made along the way. Today, she's using that experience to help others and to remind us of something critical. The two leading causes of kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. Those are things many people are living with every day without realizing the long-term impact. This is a reminder to pay attention, ask questions, and take steps now that could change your future. This Make A Difference Minute is brought to you by Premier Structures, Inc., proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

On tonight's show, I'm joined by JoHelene Patrick, Director of Corporate & Community Partnerships for the Alabama Kidney Foundation, to talk about the life-changing work being done for kidney patients and their families across our state. With Kidney Walk events happening in Huntsville this Saturday and Florence on the 25th, there are real opportunities for our communities to step in, show support, and make a difference. JoHelene shares her heart behind the mission, what patients are facing every day, and how the Alabama Kidney Foundation provides critical financial assistance, education, and hope. We also talk about the importance of organ donation, how even small acts of support can have a lasting impact, and why community involvement is so important right now. If you've ever wondered how you can help save a life or support someone in need, this is a conversation you need to hear. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️