Podcasts about Gonzaga University

Hey, friend. Hello, Change Makers. In the words of Dr. Rikesha Fry Brown—Hey, Black girl. We often say it takes a village, but let's be clear—villages don't build themselves. They're shaped, sustained, and often revived by Black mothers who know what it means to care, connect, and carry more than their share. Today's guest, Jetaun Woodley, didn't just recognize the gap—she built something from it. As a veteran communications strategist and Senior Director at Planned Parenthood, Jetaun has spent her career making sure messages that matter reach the right people. But it's her work outside the boardroom that's building legacy: creating H.U. Mommies, a thriving community of over 800 Hamptonian mothers who show up for one another, online and in real life. In this episode, we're unpacking how Black motherhood is often the foundation of community organizing, mutual care, and everyday advocacy. From navigating health care systems and education challenges to disaster relief and doula recommendations, these mothers are doing far more than sharing parenting tips—they're reshaping what support looks like. Jetaun joins Dr. Rikesha Fry Brown and me for a conversation that's both grounding and galvanizing. We talk about the power of peer support, the courage it takes to create a space when one doesn't exist, and what it looks like to protect and evolve a community you've built—especially when the work is personal. If you've ever questioned whether your care counts or whether creating something small could really matter, this conversation is your reminder: it already does. Listen now and be sure to grab the National Black Girl Month™ Toolkit for more ways to connect at nationalblackgirlmonth.com. To our Hampton fam—we see you. And if you're a mama looking for your people, you just might find them in H.U. Mommies. Connect with Jetaun Woodly on Instagram Jetaun Woodly is an award winning public relations and brand communications strategist with 20 years of experience. She has an unwavering passion and focus on working with individuals and companies to translate business goals and objectives into strategic communications plans and deliverables. Jetaun started her career as a public relations coordinator for Novartis Pharmaceuticals' philanthropy and community development division. She spent many years working in healthcare managing public relations for brands ranging from prescription drugs and FDA approvals, to eye care and over-the-counter products before moving to the nonprofit sector. Currently, Jetaun serves as Senior Director of Brand Strategy & Projects at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, a reproductive health care nonprofit organization. Prior to joining PPFA, Jetaun served as Director of Network Marketing & Communications for National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children, a non-profit organization that supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every child who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home, and the opportunity to thrive. Following the birth of her son in 2015, Jetaun started HU Mommies Group - a support group for Hampton University alumnae. The goal of the group is to share advice, empower Black women, and provide a listening ear as Hamptonians embrace and embark on their motherhood journey. With more than 800 members, the group has planned a number of volunteer efforts across the country, vision board meetups, kid-friendly outings, tailgates at homecoming and a host of other activities. For example, when Hurricane Harvey hit Houston in 2017, Jetaun coordinated a group donation to local organizations that support mothers and children. In 2019, the group collectively donated to Hampton University's marching band, and sent care packages to current students. In an effort to provide unique learning experiences for the children of alumnae during the nationwide shelter-in-place (COVID19), Jetaun created virtual learning classes on a variety of subjects. Jetaun was featured on Essence Magazine Online for her work with the group. In 2020, Jetaun was admitted into Hampton University's Forty Under 40 Alumni Recognition Society. Jetaun served as a volunteer for the I Have a Dream Foundation - a mentor program in partnership with Ebenezer Baptist Church and St. Luke's Church in the heart of Atlanta. She is currently a board member of Atlanta Birth Center, a birth center dedicated to empowering families and providing compassionate, individualized birth experiences. A native of New Jersey, Jetaun received a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Hampton University's Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications in 2004. While at Hampton, Jetaun was involved in Student Union Board and served as historian for the National Council of Negro Women. She also holds a Masters in Communication & Leadership from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. Jetaun resides in Metro Atlanta with her husband, Dr. Shaun Woodly (HU '04), and their two children - Brayden and Brooklynn.

Members of touring group Actors from the London Stage, Esmonde Cole and Sadie Pepperrell, join host Henry McNulty in the studio to discuss their upcoming performances of Hamlet at Gonzaga University.

This episode features Graham Moorhead, CEO of Pangean and adjunct professor at Gonzaga University, speaking live about the advancements and impact of AI, particularly in the context of cybersecurity. He explains the concepts of Type 1 and Type 2 AI, human modes of thought by Daniel Kahneman, and the challenges and potentials of AI in terms of safety, social engineering, and future developments.

Welcome back to Higher Density Living! In this captivating fourth (or fifth!) episode, co-host Jason Rigby is joined once again by the brilliant Dr. Eric Cunningham, a Professor of Philosophy at Gonzaga University and an expert in modern Japanese intellectual history, Zen Buddhism, Catholicism, psychedelia, and eschatology. Together, they dive deep into the mysterious world of secret societies through the lens of Rudolf Steiner's profound teachings—a topic that bridges the physical and spiritual realms like never before.   Dr. Cunningham, a former naval officer turned academic, shares his fascinating journey into Steiner's esoteric philosophy, sparked in 1989 by a friend who introduced him to Knowledge of the Higher Worlds and Its Attainment. What followed was a decades-long exploration of Steiner's vast body of work—over 70 books and hundreds of lectures—that seamlessly connects spirituality, history, and human evolution. As a practicing Catholic with a passion for Zen Buddhism and Asian mysticism, Cunningham brings a unique perspective to Steiner's ideas, blending rigorous scholarship with metaphysical insight.   In this episode, we explore Steiner's views on secret societies—described as “lines of connection” between the material and spiritual worlds. From the Rosicrucians' pursuit of conscious immortality to the Illuminati's entanglement with Ahrimanic (materialistic) forces, Cunningham unpacks the distinction between societies seeking esoteric wisdom and those chasing temporal power. Steiner's cosmic framework reveals a timeless struggle between “left-hand” and “right-hand” brotherhoods—rebellious spirits resisting divine evolution versus those embracing self-sacrificial love.   We journey through history, examining how spiritual impulses, not just material causes, shaped events like the Renaissance and Industrial Age. Steiner's radical perspective challenges conventional narratives, suggesting that the modern world's obsession with “fitness over truth” (as echoed by Donald Hoffman) reflects the triumph of Ahrimanic forces. Cunningham also delves into the 19th-century esoteric revival—Freemasonry's expansion, the Golden Dawn, and the OTO—connecting these movements to Steiner's fifth post-Atlantean epoch and the karmic shifts of industrialization.   The conversation takes a dark turn as we confront the Nazis' suppression of esoteric groups like Steiner's Anthroposophical Society, alongside their own occult obsessions (think Thule Society and Maria Orsic). Were these crackdowns a karmic backlash against Ahrimanic tendencies? And how do they tie into modern conspiracies like Operation Paperclip and the rise of technocrats like Wernher von Braun?   Fast forward to 2025: Cunningham speculates on what Steiner would see in today's world—AI, media consolidation, and geopolitical tension. Is artificial intelligence the ultimate Ahrimanic threat, stripping humanity of its capacity for independent thought? Or can we resist by cultivating “enthusiastic attentiveness” and piercing the hidden power structures Steiner warned about?   Plus, get a sneak peek into Cunningham's book, The Luciferic Verses: The Daodejing and the Chinese Roots of Esoteric History (available now on Amazon—link in the show notes!). This groundbreaking work explores Luciferic influences, Chinese mysticism, and even dragons—yes, dragons!—across cultures. Jason also teases an upcoming episode on tarot and Aleister Crowley, inspired by his personal dive into the Waite deck.   Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Secret Societies and Rudolf Steiner 02:34 – Dr. Eric Cunningham's Journey into Steiner's World 05:20 – Defining Secret Societies: Esoteric Wisdom vs. Temporal Power 08:25 – Steiner's Take on Rosicrucians, Illuminati, and Historical Forces 13:00 – Freemasonry's Role in the 19th Century and Beyond 18:05 – The Dark Side: Death, Control, and Ahrimanic Brotherhoods 23:17 – Golden Dawn, OTO, and Aleister Crowley's Hollywood Legacy 28:22 – Nazis, Thule Society, and Steiner's Persecution 35:15 – Modern Elites, AI, and the Ahrimanic Shadow 49:35 – Reincarnation and Secret Societies' Spiritual Manipulation 51:04 – Steiner in 2025: The Greatest Threat to Humanity 56:12 – Closing Thoughts: Get The Luciferic Verses Now!   Support Dr. Cunningham:   Grab his book, The Luciferic Verses: The Daodejing and the Chinese Roots of Esoteric History, on Amazon. It's a must-read for anyone intrigued by Steiner, secret societies, and the cosmic interplay of Luciferic and Ahrimanic forces.   Stay Connected: Subscribe to Higher Density Living for more mind-expanding discussions. Hit subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube!   Join the Higher Density Living community on [Instagram]and [TikTok] for bonus clips.   Check out our previous episodes with Dr. Cunningham on Steiner's threefold society and economics.   Buy the Book on Amazon.

Acclaimed author Ed Humes appears at the Northwest Passages Book Club to talk about his latest work, "Total Garbage", with Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts theater at Gonzaga University on Thursday, April 18, 2024.

John Canzano and Jon Wilner talk about Stanford's decision to fire football coach Troy Taylor. What ultimately caused it? And what happens next? Also, they discuss Gonzaga University's move to the Pac-12 Conference. Subscribe to this podcast and share it. • Read John Canzano's work at www.JohnCanzano.com. • Read Jon Wilner's work at www.Pac12Hotline.com via the Bay Area News Group. Follow on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/JohnCanzanoBFT www.Twitter.com/WilnerHotline

High schoolers from the Inland Northwest celebrate their art submissions inspired by the prompt of "Black Joy" and discuss the significance of their pieces published in the Spokesman-Review with Black Lens Editor Natasha Hill at Gonzaga University.

Director Blake Anthony Edwards and actors Abi Renner and John Murphy joined host Henry McNulty in the studio to discuss Gonzaga University's upcoming production of "Stupid F**king Bird," a "(post-) modern re-telling of Russian playwright Anton Chekhov's 1895 masterpiece 'The Seagull.'"

Traditional Management Models Are Failing (And What Actually Works)What if Gen Z's approach to work isn't just different, but better? Join Kim Bohr and Dr. Meisha Rouser as they challenge "kids these days" stereotypes and explore why traditional management is failing this generation.Discover why questions about pay transparency and work-life boundaries signal evolution, not entitlement. Learn how leaders can adapt by understanding economic realities, setting clear expectations, and transforming feedback approaches.Dr. Rouser shares practical leadership strategies to create meaningful growth opportunities that retain Gen Z talent while building more adaptive, high-performing teams.Tune in every 3rd Thursday, right here on The Empathy Edge for the Courage to Advance episodes! To access the episode transcript, please search for the episode title at www.TheEmpathyEdge.comKey Takeaways:Why the "pay your dues" mentality is driving away top talentHow to transform feedback and development approaches for maximum impactThe importance of clear expectations and boundariesUnderstanding the economic realities shaping Gen Z workplace needsWhy challenging workplace norms isn't entitlement but evolution "This generation isn't just challenging workplace norms - they're showing us a better way forward. When they ask 'why do we work this way?' they're not being difficult, they're pushing us to create workplaces that actually work for everyone." – Dr. Meisha Rouser, PCCAbout Dr. Meisha Rouser, PCCMeisha is a recognized expert in organizational development, leadership, and change management with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in cultural transformation, executive coaching, and building high-performing leadership teams.  As an organizational psychologist, her research on Gen Z in the workplace provides groundbreaking insights for creating productive and meaningful work environments. She skillfully navigates organizational culture to ensure lasting impact and strategic success. Meisha holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University, a Master's in Organizational Development, and an Executive Leadership Certificate from MIT Sloan school of business. She has worked with clients including HP, FujiFilms, Intel, Jackson Laboratories, and the U.S. Navy. About SparkEffectSparkEffect partners with organizations to unlock the full potential of their greatest asset: their people. Through their tailored assessments and expert coaching at every level, SparkEffect helps organizations manage change, sustain growth, and chart a path to a brighter future.Go to sparkeffect.com/edge now and download your complimentary Professional and Organizational Alignment Review today.Connect with Dr. Meisha Rouser: Website: https://meisharouser.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meisharouser/ Connect with Kim Bohr and SparkEffectSparkEffect: sparkeffect.comCourage to Advance recording and resources:sparkeffect.com/courage-to-advance-podcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/sparkeffectLinkedIn for Kim Bohr: linkedin.com/in/kimbohr Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books on empathy: Red-Slice.com/booksLearn more about Maria's work: Red-Slice.comHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Course! Leading with EmpathyLinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceThreads: @redslicemariaWe would love to get your thoughts on the show! Please click https://bit.ly/edge-feedback to take this 5-minute survey, thanks!

We recently heard that a lawmaker in Idaho was attempting to have execution by firing squad reinstated due to the issues with aquiring the chemicals needed to carry out death by lethal injection.In this episode, we hear from a legal scholar from Gonzaga University who gives their opinion about the possiblity of the firing squad coming back to Idaho and what that would look like if it did.(commercial 7:07)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Local professor shares doubts over firing squads in Idaho | krem.com

On this episode of SPEAK! A Dogcast, we talk about how to Keep Training Simple with your dog. We also have a segment on Calm Car Rides with Your Dog and how to overcome anxiety in the car. Then comes The History of Animal Mascots 101 featuring Gonzaga University and the Listener Q&A! You're in for a real treat!

*In this episode of the Lead Your Life Podcast, I'm joined by two special guests, Megan and LJ, both of whom recently completed a certificate course in servant leadership at Gonzaga University.* We had a fascinating conversation about what servant leadership is and how it can be applied in both our personal and professional lives.  We talked about the importance of internalizing the principles of servant leadership, such as *empathy, compassion, and healing.*  We also discussed the *courage* it takes to be a servant leader, as it requires us to step into the scary and have tough conversations.  And finally, we explored how servant leadership can be a *disruptive force for good in the world.* I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! If you're interested in learning more about servant leadership, I encourage you to check out the resources mentioned in the show notes. And be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss future episodes! *More About LJ & Megan:* LJ is a passionate advocate for social justice and community empowerment. LJ brings a wealth of experience in leadership, mentorship, and reentry services to his role as Fleet Manager at Homeboy Industries. His dedication to serving marginalized communities shines through his work, where he empowers formerly incarcerated and gang-involved individuals to transform their lives. LJ's commitment to servant leadership, honed through his certification from Gonzaga University, guides his efforts to uplift and empower those around him. *Connect with LJ on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ljglenn1/ As the Manager of the Event Service Team at Gonzaga University, Megan is a skilled leader with a passion for higher education. Her experience in managing and inspiring teams, coupled with her Master's Degree in Higher Education Administration, makes her a valuable asset to the university. Megan's dedication to fostering a collaborative work environment and driving positive outcomes is evident in everything she does. * Connect with Megan on LinkedIN * https://www.linkedin.com/in/mphawley/   *Join the BuildHER Community* https://www.facebook.com/groups/921909039447541  *Watch & Listen to Full Episodes: *YouTube:* https://bit.ly/leadyourlifepodcastyoutube  *Apple:* https://bit.ly/leadyourlifepodcastapple *Spotify:* https://bit.ly/leadyourlifepodcastspotify ❤️ *Follow me on IG:* https://instagram.com/the_lituplife

In this episode of the Journey of My Mother's Son podcast, I talk with Joe Engler. Joe played for our organization back in 2003.  He was on our Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League (ACBL) team between his sophomore and junior seasons at Minot State University in North Dakota.  I refer to him as one of my old players, but he never actually played a game for me, he just played in our organization.  He was one of the players who I really connected with while he was with us. Joe and I talk about the life lessons that the game of baseball taught him and how he is using them today in both his work and personal life.  Joe is now an Associate Professor and Director of School Psychology at Gonzaga University. Dr. Engler received his BA in psychology at Minot State University in Minot, ND and his Ph.D. in school psychology at The University of South Dakota in Vermillion, SD. Dr. Engler began his professional career as a school psychologist in Tooele, UT and remains active in the profession through advocacy and leadership at the local, state, and national level. Dr. Engler holds the Nationally Certified School Psychologist credential through the National Association of School Psychologists and is a diplomate in school neuropsychology through the American Board of School Neuropsychology. His research interests include preschool assessment, critical evaluation of psychometric tests, and parental involvement. Joe recently co-authored his second book titled, “Essentials of Addressing Infants, Toddlers, and Pre-schoolers.”  It will be released in early April of 2025. We wrap the conversation up by talking about Joe's recent love for playing music.  He, his wife, and a group of friends recently started the cover band, Close Enough, in which Joe plays lead guitar. Joe was also inducted into the Minot State University Hall of Fame in September of 2024. If you're ever in the Spokane area and want to see the band play somewhere, check them out on social media on either Instagram or Facebook.

"We think we're so different across our communities. We may come from a different country. We might work in different jobs. We might work the land, or work in tech, but we're not all that different —we're human,” says Brian Muegge of the divisions so prevalent in society today.  “There really needs to be a better way to connect across the urban-rural continuum. I hope it's through  food. and I hope it can be around natural resource conservation." Ikigai is a Japanese word that means "a reason for being". It's a concept that refers to something that gives a person a sense of purpose and joy.  Brian Muegge has found his ikigai. A 31 year old with a deep passion for the environment,  he has found his purpose in working to steward the planet we are lucky to call home.  Growing up in a tech focused community in northern California, Brian always felt like a fish out of water.  Instead of following in the path of his father who was a semiconductor engineer, he found himself drawn to the natural world.  A fan of Steve Irwin and others, he had his share of pets. "My mother was not particularly good at saying no," he says with a smile. But it was when he accepted a gift of two, fertilized emu eggs and an incubator from a relative that he would test his mother's resolve.A biology major at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, Brian studied the habitat of the yellow-bellied marmot, a research project that earned him the moniker "Marmot Man". He  now works with an organization called Salmon Safe, a non-profit organization in the Pacific Northwest that works with West Coast farmers, developers, and other environmentally innovative landowners to reduce watershed impacts. As you listen to this episode, consider:How much do you know about the environment in which you live? Where does your water come from? What birds build their nests in the trees? If you live in a city, what is the impact of city life on the natural world?Take a field trip to a local park or natural setting. Use your senses. Spend some time observing the environment. Read up on the environmental issues facing your community. Consider getting involved in a river clean up or collecting signatures for a local environmental effort.You can learn more about Salmon Safe here.Do you know someone who has a story to tell? Someone who is giving back to their community? Working to make our world a better place? Send an email to suzanne@suzannemaggio.com. Nominate them for a future episode of From Sparks to Light.To learn more about Robert Maggio, the composer of "Where Love is Love," our theme music, please check out his website.To learn more about Suzanne, visit her website. To learn more about the inspiration for this podcast, please check out Suzanne's memoir, Estrellas - Moments of Illumination Along El Camino de SantiagoFollow Suzanne on Social Media Instagram @suzannemaggio_author Facebook @ Suzanne Maggio author Threads @suzannemaggio_author

Dr. Graham Taylor is a clinical psychologist, Chief Learning Officer at Triad, and founder of The Taylor Study Method, one of the Triad family's EPPP preparation programs. He has over 25 years of experience working in both hospital and private practice settings working with individuals, couples, and families. Graham resides in Honolulu, Hawaii where he maintains a private practice.Dr. Lawrie Ignacio is a licensed clinical psychologist and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree (B.A.) in English Literature from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. She received her Master's degree (M.A.) in Philosophy from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. In 2004, she earned her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University, Hawaii. Dr. Ignacio teaches courses as an Adjunct Professor at Hawai'i School of Professional Psychology at Chaminade University in Honolulu and the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco. Dr. Ignacio resides in Honolulu where she maintains a private practice. Her professional interests and activities include adult psychodynamic and existential psychotherapy, trauma, clinical personality assessment, and the teaching of psychology.In This Episodewww.SelfMeaningBasedTherapy.com---If you'd like to support The Trauma Therapist Podcast and the work I do you can do that here with a monthly donation of $5, $7, or $10: Donate to The Trauma Therapist Podcast.Click here to join my email list and receive podcast updates and other news.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-trauma-therapist--5739761/support.

Caring for Boomer Generation: Building Upon History To Plan The FutureAs the baby boomer generation ages, America's current long-term service and support system (LTSS) faces mounting pressure. With the volume of seniors requiring care increasing, it's becoming clear that our existing infrastructure has opportunities to build person-centered systems to meet the needs and desires of this growing population. In this episode, we dive into how we can learn from our past to understand the critical need for expanding Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), allowing more seniors to age in place while ensuring institutional services remain available for those who need them most. Join us as we explore what this shift means for families, healthcare providers, and policymakers and how it could reshape the future of aging in America.Objectives: Discuss societal history impacting the evolution of caring for the aging population. Describe characteristics of populations impacting the care of the aging population.Explain future considerations in the care of the aging population. Guests: Ashley l Ebert, MSN, ARNP, FNP-CWith over a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner, Ashley has spent 8 years mastering acute care across diverse settings and just over 2 years specializing in geriatric care.  In both roles, she has led initiatives to enhance quality care, advocated for better access to healthcare, and focused on the unique needs of rural communities.  Her passion lies in people leadership and fostering the growth and development of clinicians to ensure long-term success in the field of healthcare.She is honored to have been selected as her company's Senior Living representative for a national Townhall, sitting alongside senior leaders, bringing collaboration and a focus on improved care transitions to the forefront.  Additionally, Ashley was selected as a co-chair for a company-wide NP group, which boasts a vibrant community of nearly 5000 members, where she helps create a space for connection, professional growth, and networking.Casey Fowler, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C, GS-C, FAANPCasey Fowler is a family nurse practitioner sub-specialized in geriatrics. He has been working with older adults in institutional and community-based settings for more than fifteen years. The last eight years, he has been leading other nursing professionals caring for this population, and he has been advancing his knowledge in leadership. Casey earned his Doctor of Nursing Practice from Gonzaga University in 2015, studying the use of nonpharmacologic interventions for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia using the middle-range nursing theory of Person-Centred Care as described by McCormack and McCance. Casey has gone on to apply these principles to his leadership style, in what he calls person-centered leadership. Casey has been a speaker at many local, regional, and national events on a variety of topics, and this year, he was inducted into the Fellows of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners for his work building the first postgraduate fellowship for nurse practitioners to gain specialty training in geriatrics and complex adults as well as his work developing other leaders in his field. Casey's current focus is on leveraging our nation's resources to best care for our aging population in a way that meets the needs of both rural and urban populations.References: Administration for Community Living. (2-24, February 27). Retrieved from Administration for Community Living: https://acl.gov/news-and-events/announcements/acls-dcw-strategies-center-launches-multi-pronged-effort-strengthenAlzheimer's Association. (2011). Generation Alzheimer's: The Defining Disease of the Baby Boomers. Retrieved from Alzheimer's Association

We recently heard that a lawmaker in Idaho was attempting to have execution by firing squad reinstated due to the issues with aquiring the chemicals needed to carry out death by lethal injection.In this episode, we hear from a legal scholar from Gonzaga University who gives their opinion about the possiblity of the firing squad coming back to Idaho and what that would look like if it did.(commercial 7:07)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Local professor shares doubts over firing squads in Idaho | krem.com

a preview of the Quiero Flamenco program at Gonzaga University

What vision do you have for the year ahead? The outcomes of our actions as humans, leaders, teams and cultures are directly tied to the clarity of what gets our eyes. Podcast Summary: Season 9, Episode 1 – "What Vision Do You See Ahead?" Kick off 2025 with a powerful dose of inspiration and clarity in this season premiere of The Thermostat Podcast with Jason V Barger. In this episode, Jason shares actionable insights and compelling stories that challenge business leaders to reimagine their vision for the year ahead. From the transformative power of focus in leadership to real-world examples like Gonzaga University's meteoric rise and Florida DOT's ambitious "Target Zero" initiative, Jason reveals how bold vision and intentional culture can drive lasting success. Whether you're navigating corporate challenges, leading a team, or setting personal goals, this episode will empower you to embrace 2025 with purpose and strategy. Discover how to align your goals, passion, and service to create joy, connection, and impact in your work and life. Don't just react to the year—be the thermostat that sets the temperature for your culture. Tune in and dare to begin again. Notable Themes: Corporate culture, leadership strategies, team development, goal setting, intentional growth. Questions to Consider: What vision do you see for your life and work in 2025? How will you lead your team to new heights this year? Subscribe now and join the conversation that's shaping the future of leadership and culture! Please rate and review the podcast to help amplify these messages to others! For full show notes visit https://jasonvbarger.com/podcast/what-vision-do-you-see-ahead/ Jason Barger is a husband, father, speaker, and author who is passionate about business leadership and corporate culture. He believes that corporate culture is the "thermostat" of an organization, and that it can be used to drive performance, innovation, and engagement. The show features interviews with business leaders from a variety of industries, as well as solo episodes where Barger shares his own insights and advice. Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonVBarger Make Your 2025 Effective!  Book Jason with your team at https://www.jasonvbarger.com Like or Follow Jason

Welcome to another episode of the PCS to Corporate America Podcast. This is a special episode for me. I recently completed my MA in Organizational Leadership at Gonzaga University. I significantly changed as a leader and person as a result of this program. The Leadership and Hardiness class co-taught by Dr. Adrian Popa and Kelsey Solberg, which I took this past summer, particularly impacted me. Dr. Popa and Kelsey graciously allowed me to interview them for this podcast. In a world of constant change and challenges, resilience, and hardiness are critical qualities for leaders navigating transitions. Dr. Popa, Kelsey, and I dive deep into these themes.   This episode is packed with insights for those transitioning from military service to civilian careers or simply seeking greater purpose in their work. Below are key highlights from this enlightening conversation.   Exploring the Foundations of Resilience Dr. Popa opens the podcast with a personal reflection on his childhood in Eastern Europe under a communist government. He shares how witnessing resilience in his family and community shaped his understanding of hardiness. Dr. Popa explains that hardiness is more than mere toughness; it involves the ability to adapt, grow, and find meaning despite life's challenges. Kelsey adds her perspective on resilience, which was shaped by her journey from student to leadership educator. Through her work at Gonzaga University and co-teaching the Leadership and Hardiness course, Kelsey emphasizes curiosity and connection as pathways to resilience. She discusses the transformative power of engaging with the world and fostering growth, even in the face of obstacles. Finding Meaning in Transitions One of the podcast's most poignant moments came when I posed a common question faced by transitioning military leaders: “How do I find meaning in a career after leaving the service?” Dr. Popa and Kelsey reference Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning in their responses. Dr. Popa explains that meaning is not found but created, often in the context of challenges. He emphasizes the importance of embracing agency and choice, even in moments of uncertainty. Kelsey adds that individuals coming from the military may already possess a unique ability to transcend themselves for a greater cause—an invaluable asset in any new role. Practical Tools for Resilience and Growth Together, we address the framework commitment, control, and challenge as a way to build hardiness. We encourage listeners to identify what they're committed to, recognize their capacity to influence outcomes and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Dr. Popa reinforces this by sharing how these principles are operationalized during the mountain leadership immersions. To learn more about commitment, control, and challenge, I encourage you to read Hardiness: Making Stress Work for You to Achieve Your Life Goals by Steven Stein and Paul Bartone. Conclusion: Thriving Beyond the Uniform This episode offers a roadmap for finding purpose and cultivating resilience in any stage of life. Dr. Popa and Kelsey remind us that the search for meaning is dynamic, evolving with each phase of our journey. Whether you're transitioning careers, climbing mountains, or simply navigating life's complexities, their insights provide guidance and inspiration. Tune in to the full episode to explore how resilience and hardiness can help you thrive, no matter the challenge ahead. Thank you for listening, and I hope you enjoy the podcast! To stay connected, we encourage you to check out our website and YouTube Channel and follow us on LinkedIn. If you want to learn more about your transition options, please get in touch with us. You can also check out our Transition Guide on “3 Game-Changing Strategies for JMOs Making the Jump to Business” for additional transition tips. To stay connected, I recommend subscribing to our YouTube Channel and foll...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comThis episode of Faithful Politics features Robert Callahan II, a Texas attorney, writer, and advocate, discussing his book, Fire in the Hole: Embracing Our Righteous Anger with White Christianity and Reclaiming Our Wholeness. The conversation explores the intersection of race, faith, and politics, focusing on the challenges faced by marginalized groups within white Christian spaces. Callahan shares how personal experiences, including the racial and political turmoil of 2020 and his struggles with spiritual abuse, inspired his writing. He highlights the role of righteous anger as a tool for transformation and discusses the systemic racism and prejudice often embedded in church culture. Alongside hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram, Callahan dives into theological perspectives on reconciliation, activism, and maintaining faith amid injustice. This thought-provoking dialogue examines how Christians can embrace love, justice, and inclusion while addressing deep-seated cultural and institutional issues.Learn more about our Guest: https://www.robertgcallahan.comGuest Bio:Robert is an accomplished attorney and author, dedicated to fighting for justice in his practice at Callahan & King, PLLC in Waco, Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Gonzaga University and a Juris Doctorate at Baylor University School of Law where he teaches a course entitled Integrating Faith and Legal Practice. In 2020, Robert was named Lawyer of the Year by the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers' Association. As a writer, Robert has an undeniable talent for blending humor and insight as he tackles the issues of law, race, and religion. Robert and his wife celebrate an interracial marriage which has gifted them with three beautiful children, two demanding dogs, and a mountain of student loan debt. Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

We recently heard that a lawmaker in Idaho was attempting to have execution by firing squad reinstated due to the issues with aquiring the chemicals needed to carry out death by lethal injection.In this episode, we hear from a legal scholar from Gonzaga University who gives their opinion about the possiblity of the firing squad coming back to Idaho and what that would look like if it did.(commercial 7:07)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Local professor shares doubts over firing squads in Idaho | krem.com

Sean is a brand owner/operator & has a specialty in building teams & processes efficiently. Originally from Seattle, he spent 5 years living in China living (breathing) product development & supply chain, and now is based out of San Diego, CA.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:45] Intro[01:17] Chasing opportunities abroad after graduating[02:30] Navigating the challenges of crowdfunding campaigns[03:27] Diagnosing messaging from top campaigns[04:32] Leveraging early opportunities in crowdfunding[05:12] Owning the responsibility for product-market fit[06:11] Prioritizing proven experience over potential[07:35] Valuing brand reputation over chasing trends[09:25] Tinkering with Shopify from the very beginning[10:36] Expanding product lines with complementary items[11:15] Episode sponsors: StoreTester and Intelligems[14:29] Understanding the challenges of apparel & soft goods[15:47] Establishing your product's value before launching[16:20] Embracing the long route to perfecting new products[17:03] Recognizing different customer behaviors across products[18:01] Surveying customers to guide product expansion[19:04] Realizing that customer bases differ by product[20:00] Figuring out if new products fit your brand[20:53] Managing the shift from top-line to profit focus[22:51] Restructuring for lean growth and profitability[24:28] Operational strength through offshore hires[26:31] Rethinking outsourcing for quality and value[28:06] Value through global workforce opportunities[29:34] Exploring Vincero and Tidal's offeringsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeTimeless pieces, modern style, premium performance vincerocollective.com/Follow Sean Agatep linkedin.com/in/sagatep/Founder-led headhunting and staffing solutions hiretidal.com/Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

In this conversation, Mary-Kate Morse discusses the significance of theological education and its role in preparing leaders for church and ministry. She emphasizes the importance of finding one's calling, the holiness associated with it, and the challenges faced by churches in post-Christian environments. Morris shares her experiences in church planting and the necessity of mentorship and grit in leadership. She advocates for a deep formation in Christ for ministry leaders and the need for tailored leadership training that adapts to unique contexts.======Key pointsTheological education is crucial for effective church leadership.Finding one's calling involves understanding who you are called to love.Good seminary education prepares leaders for long-term ministry.The church has lost the sense of the holiness of calling.Creating something from scratch shapes leadership skills.Building relationships in post-Christian cities takes time and patience.Grit is essential for leaders to navigate challenges.Mentorship is vital for developing the next generation of leaders.Leadership training should be context-specific and adaptable.Investing time in young leaders fosters resilience and commitment.======ABOUT OUR GUEST:MaryKate Morse was the former Executive Dean of Portland Seminary at George Fox University in Portland, Oregon, and a professor of leadership and spiritual formation. Currently, she is the Lead Mentor in the Doctor of Ministry program in Leadership & Spiritual Formation.Raised in the Air Force, MaryKate lived in various US states and overseas. She completed her BS in Secondary Education and English Literature at Longwood University in Virginia. With her husband, Randy, and small children, she lived in the Andes Mountains of Bolivia and Peru´ doing ministry and social projects partnering with the Aymará Indians.Upon return she did a Masters in Biblical Studies and a Master of Divinity at Western Evangelical Seminary (now Portland Seminary). She began teaching, studied spiritual formation and spiritual direction, and was certified as a spiritual director and recorded as a pastor with the Evangelical Friends.MaryKate completed her doctorate at Gonzaga University where she studied the characteristics of renewal leadership as modeled by Jesus. She continues to explore how the intersection of spiritual formation and effective leadership result in the transformation of individuals and communities especially for evangelists and front-line leaders in diverse cultural environments.Upon completion of her doctorate she planted two churches and served in various administrative positions at the university including Seminary Associate Dean, Director of Hybrid programs, and University Director of Strategic Planning. She is a spiritual director and leadership mentor and coach, conference and retreat speaker, and author including Making Room for Leadership: Power, Space, and Influence, A Guidebook to Prayer: 24 Ways to Walk with God, and Lifelong Leadership: Woven Together through Mentoring Communities. She is passionate about companioning and resourcing people on the front lines of ministry.MaryKate is married to Randy and has three adult children, six grandchildren, and a little Aussie, Tess. She enjoys being with family, hiking, reading, and exploring new places.

In July of this year, I climbed Mount Adams in southern Washington, just across the Columbia River from Hood River, OR. I did this climb as a part of my Leadership and Hardiness class at Gonzaga University for a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership. I complete my degree four days after this podcast publishes! I learned much from my classmates, Team Denali, whom I prepared and climbed with, and my instructors. While climbing posed a significant physical challenge, I discovered the most profound life and leadership lessons during this climb. My colleague Brock Dudley interviewed me to draw out those lessons and share them in this podcast. We cover the following lessons: Beyond Goal Setting: The Value of Presence We often get caught up in pursuing goals, striving to reach the next milestone or achievement. I struggle with this tendency, prioritizing tasks and objectives over personal connections. However, my experience at Mount Adams and my studies in Organizational Leadership at Gonzaga University revealed a critical shift in my leadership approach. I learned the importance of being present in the moment and with the people before me rather than constantly looking toward the next goal. I learned to listen to others, find ways to transcend myself, and serve others, and results will take care of themselves as a byproduct of doing the right things. I learned that when we slow down, truly engage with others, and appreciate the journey, we find meaning and purpose. The Mountain as Metaphor: Resilience, Hardiness, and Support My experience climbing Mount Adams provided a powerful metaphor for life's challenges. Just as navigating difficult terrain requires strength and perseverance, we also need resilience and hardiness to overcome obstacles and setbacks in our personal and professional lives. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, and hardiness is the capacity to handle the stress those setbacks create. The hardier we are, the more resilient we become. I reference the book Hardiness: Making Stress Work for You to Achieve Your Life Goals by Steven Stein and Paul Bartone to learn more about the three characteristics of hardiness: challenge, commitment, and control. Thinking about these attitudes in the context of climbing a mountain is helpful. There's the challenge of the climb itself, the commitment required to prepare, serve the other team members, and attempt the climb, and the need to maintain some sense of control over the situation despite unpredictable circumstances. These same principles apply to navigating the challenges of life. The Crucial Role of Relationships in Building Resilience While individual strength is important, I learned we don't achieve anything worthwhile alone. Relationships are critical to building hardiness and resilience. Giving and receiving love and support from others creates a solid foundation for thriving, especially when facing adversity. During the climb, I observed several examples of his fellow climbers/classmates serving one another: carrying each other's packs, sharing gear, tending to injuries, and simply offering a listening ear and a warm meal at the end of a long day. These acts of kindness demonstrate that love isn't always about “butterflies and roses” but about speaking the truth, offering support, and showing care even when difficult. The Joy of Connection and Continuous Growth One of my most poignant experiences on the climb involved connecting with a fellow climber/student, Kamryn. While taking a break during our ascent, we shared a conversation that transcended our age difference and formed a bond that encouraged us through the rest of the climb. This experience taught me that the journey is more important than the destination. Summiting Mount Adams wasn't the highlight of the experience. The most significant were the shared struggles, moments of connection, and acts of love and support along the way.

Erich Bolz is deeply versed in the field-tested Powerless to Powerful transformation frameworks developed by Gonzaga University professors Chuck Salina and Suzann Girtz which, when implemented with fidelity, are proven to increase student achievement and staff satisfaction. Utilizing cognitive coaching approaches, Erich helps school leaders and central office administrators (including Special Education directors) make sense of their day-to-day challenges while fostering transformational breakthroughs in both their work and personal lives. Today on the show Erich and Jeff have a conversation about effective educational transformation. They also emphasize the importance of servant leadership and mission clarity in creating a positive school culture. The conversation also touches on leadership coaching, data-driven decision-making, and strategies for narrowing the achievement gap. They conclude by discussing the challenges of recruiting and retaining teachers in the current educational landscape. Connect with Erich, his work and podcast: https://bolzleadership.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/outliers-in-education-from-cee/id1577590456    

We recently heard that a lawmaker in Idaho was attempting to have execution by firing squad reinstated due to the issues with aquiring the chemicals needed to carry out death by lethal injection.In this episode, we hear from a legal scholar from Gonzaga University who gives their opinion about the possiblity of the firing squad coming back to Idaho and what that would look like if it did.(commercial 7:07)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Local professor shares doubts over firing squads in Idaho | krem.com

We recently heard that a lawmaker in Idaho was attempting to have execution by firing squad reinstated due to the issues with aquiring the chemicals needed to carry out death by lethal injection.In this episode, we hear from a legal scholar from Gonzaga University who gives their opinion about the possiblity of the firing squad coming back to Idaho and what that would look like if it did.(commercial 7:07)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Local professor shares doubts over firing squads in Idaho | krem.com

In this episode of "The What's Next Podcast," we sit down with Pete Giacalone, a San Diego native and co-owner of ENG Properties, a family-run property management and real estate sales company he operates alongside his sister. Pete shares his journey in the fast-paced real estate world, balancing his career with being a devoted husband and father to two wonderful kids.A proud graduate of Gonzaga University (go Bulldogs!), Pete talks about his love for Gonzaga basketball and his hopes for a long-awaited National Championship win. Growing up in San Diego, Pete's early days were spent surfing and serving as a lifeguard—a role that shaped his ability to stay calm, resourceful, and effective in high-pressure situations.If you've ever thought about diving into property management, Pete offers invaluable advice, insider tips, and a fresh perspective on what it takes to succeed in the industry.Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with personal stories, professional insights, and a glimpse into the life of a true San Diego local.

Harrison Riley is the founder of GBV, a company dedicated to making real estate investment accessible to everyone. He personally owns 16 small multifamily properties in Pittsburgh, PA, and is a Limited Partner in seven syndications. With a passion for helping others build wealth through real estate, Harrison launched GBV to turn this vision into reality. Before entering real estate, he played a key role in building tech companies and consulting for some of the world's largest organizations. A proud Gonzaga University graduate, Harrison lives in Alameda, CA with his wife.

Dangerous Anarchist Strikers (Brill, 2023) explores the ideas of three largely forgotten radical women who participated in labor union strikes in Argentina and Uruguay, Canada, and the United States: Virginia Bolten (c.1876-1960), one of the most militant anarchists of southern South America; Helen Armstrong (1875-1947), a major leader of the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, whose involvement in that important event in Canadian history was, for a long time, obscured by accounts that emphasized the accomplishments of men; and Elizabeth Gurley Flynn (1890-1964), the Wobbly leader who directed many industrial strikes throughout the United States, and was one of the founders of the American Civil Liberties Union, who eventually became the leader of the Communist Party, USA. It also examines the contributions of two similarly neglected anarchist men who participated in labor union strikes and industrial action in New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Argentina, and Japan. Tom Barker (1887-1970) was an anarchist who eventually became a socialist who worked to promote labor unionism on four continents and who tried to create a global One Big Union for sailors. Kōtoku, Shūsui (1871-1911) was a liberal who became a socialist and finally an anarchist. An opponent of governmental imperialism and ecological mismanagement, he studied and translated the works of Western thinkers and sought to apply what he learned from other cultures to the development of Japan. Steve J. Shone is Lecturer in Political Science at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. He received his Ph.D. (1992) in political science from the University of California-Riverside. He has taught at Winona State University, Gonzaga University, and the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. He is the author of Lysander Spooner: American Anarchist(Lexington Books, 2010), American Anarchism (Brill, 2013), Women of Liberty (Brill, 2019), and Rose Summerfield: Australian Radical (Lexington Books, 2022). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Dangerous Anarchist Strikers (Brill, 2023) explores the ideas of three largely forgotten radical women who participated in labor union strikes in Argentina and Uruguay, Canada, and the United States: Virginia Bolten (c.1876-1960), one of the most militant anarchists of southern South America; Helen Armstrong (1875-1947), a major leader of the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, whose involvement in that important event in Canadian history was, for a long time, obscured by accounts that emphasized the accomplishments of men; and Elizabeth Gurley Flynn (1890-1964), the Wobbly leader who directed many industrial strikes throughout the United States, and was one of the founders of the American Civil Liberties Union, who eventually became the leader of the Communist Party, USA. It also examines the contributions of two similarly neglected anarchist men who participated in labor union strikes and industrial action in New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Argentina, and Japan. Tom Barker (1887-1970) was an anarchist who eventually became a socialist who worked to promote labor unionism on four continents and who tried to create a global One Big Union for sailors. Kōtoku, Shūsui (1871-1911) was a liberal who became a socialist and finally an anarchist. An opponent of governmental imperialism and ecological mismanagement, he studied and translated the works of Western thinkers and sought to apply what he learned from other cultures to the development of Japan. Steve J. Shone is Lecturer in Political Science at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. He received his Ph.D. (1992) in political science from the University of California-Riverside. He has taught at Winona State University, Gonzaga University, and the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. He is the author of Lysander Spooner: American Anarchist(Lexington Books, 2010), American Anarchism (Brill, 2013), Women of Liberty (Brill, 2019), and Rose Summerfield: Australian Radical (Lexington Books, 2022). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Dangerous Anarchist Strikers (Brill, 2023) explores the ideas of three largely forgotten radical women who participated in labor union strikes in Argentina and Uruguay, Canada, and the United States: Virginia Bolten (c.1876-1960), one of the most militant anarchists of southern South America; Helen Armstrong (1875-1947), a major leader of the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, whose involvement in that important event in Canadian history was, for a long time, obscured by accounts that emphasized the accomplishments of men; and Elizabeth Gurley Flynn (1890-1964), the Wobbly leader who directed many industrial strikes throughout the United States, and was one of the founders of the American Civil Liberties Union, who eventually became the leader of the Communist Party, USA. It also examines the contributions of two similarly neglected anarchist men who participated in labor union strikes and industrial action in New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Argentina, and Japan. Tom Barker (1887-1970) was an anarchist who eventually became a socialist who worked to promote labor unionism on four continents and who tried to create a global One Big Union for sailors. Kōtoku, Shūsui (1871-1911) was a liberal who became a socialist and finally an anarchist. An opponent of governmental imperialism and ecological mismanagement, he studied and translated the works of Western thinkers and sought to apply what he learned from other cultures to the development of Japan. Steve J. Shone is Lecturer in Political Science at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. He received his Ph.D. (1992) in political science from the University of California-Riverside. He has taught at Winona State University, Gonzaga University, and the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. He is the author of Lysander Spooner: American Anarchist(Lexington Books, 2010), American Anarchism (Brill, 2013), Women of Liberty (Brill, 2019), and Rose Summerfield: Australian Radical (Lexington Books, 2022). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/critical-theory

Dangerous Anarchist Strikers (Brill, 2023) explores the ideas of three largely forgotten radical women who participated in labor union strikes in Argentina and Uruguay, Canada, and the United States: Virginia Bolten (c.1876-1960), one of the most militant anarchists of southern South America; Helen Armstrong (1875-1947), a major leader of the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, whose involvement in that important event in Canadian history was, for a long time, obscured by accounts that emphasized the accomplishments of men; and Elizabeth Gurley Flynn (1890-1964), the Wobbly leader who directed many industrial strikes throughout the United States, and was one of the founders of the American Civil Liberties Union, who eventually became the leader of the Communist Party, USA. It also examines the contributions of two similarly neglected anarchist men who participated in labor union strikes and industrial action in New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Argentina, and Japan. Tom Barker (1887-1970) was an anarchist who eventually became a socialist who worked to promote labor unionism on four continents and who tried to create a global One Big Union for sailors. Kōtoku, Shūsui (1871-1911) was a liberal who became a socialist and finally an anarchist. An opponent of governmental imperialism and ecological mismanagement, he studied and translated the works of Western thinkers and sought to apply what he learned from other cultures to the development of Japan. Steve J. Shone is Lecturer in Political Science at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. He received his Ph.D. (1992) in political science from the University of California-Riverside. He has taught at Winona State University, Gonzaga University, and the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. He is the author of Lysander Spooner: American Anarchist(Lexington Books, 2010), American Anarchism (Brill, 2013), Women of Liberty (Brill, 2019), and Rose Summerfield: Australian Radical (Lexington Books, 2022). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

Dangerous Anarchist Strikers (Brill, 2023) explores the ideas of three largely forgotten radical women who participated in labor union strikes in Argentina and Uruguay, Canada, and the United States: Virginia Bolten (c.1876-1960), one of the most militant anarchists of southern South America; Helen Armstrong (1875-1947), a major leader of the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, whose involvement in that important event in Canadian history was, for a long time, obscured by accounts that emphasized the accomplishments of men; and Elizabeth Gurley Flynn (1890-1964), the Wobbly leader who directed many industrial strikes throughout the United States, and was one of the founders of the American Civil Liberties Union, who eventually became the leader of the Communist Party, USA. It also examines the contributions of two similarly neglected anarchist men who participated in labor union strikes and industrial action in New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Argentina, and Japan. Tom Barker (1887-1970) was an anarchist who eventually became a socialist who worked to promote labor unionism on four continents and who tried to create a global One Big Union for sailors. Kōtoku, Shūsui (1871-1911) was a liberal who became a socialist and finally an anarchist. An opponent of governmental imperialism and ecological mismanagement, he studied and translated the works of Western thinkers and sought to apply what he learned from other cultures to the development of Japan. Steve J. Shone is Lecturer in Political Science at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. He received his Ph.D. (1992) in political science from the University of California-Riverside. He has taught at Winona State University, Gonzaga University, and the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. He is the author of Lysander Spooner: American Anarchist(Lexington Books, 2010), American Anarchism (Brill, 2013), Women of Liberty (Brill, 2019), and Rose Summerfield: Australian Radical (Lexington Books, 2022). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joshua Schultz entered the AEC world with visions of becoming an architect, but he has found his fit in academia after nearly a decade at Gonzaga University.

We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth Abbruzza, the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center, to the podcast. With a deep focus on relational trauma and betrayal, Elizabeth shares her expertise and details about the impactful Resilience Through Betrayal (RTB) intensives offered at her center. About Elizabeth Abbruzza: Elizabeth holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Gonzaga University and specializes in addressing relational trauma, sex addiction, and problematic sexual behaviors. As a primary therapist for the Resilience Through Betrayal intensives, she empowers individuals to navigate healing after betrayal, offering therapeutic expertise and compassionate care.Key Highlights:Origins of RTB Intensive: Elizabeth explains how the Resilience Through Betrayal program was developed to provide a focused and immersive approach for individuals dealing with betrayal trauma.Daily Structure: Learn what a typical day at RTB intensives entails, including how sessions are structured to balance therapeutic work with emotional well-being.Immediate Client Needs: Discover the importance of creating safety and validation for participants at the beginning of the intensive.Desired Outcomes: Elizabeth outlines the program's goals, which include fostering resilience, self-compassion, and emotional healing.Preventing Overload: Insights are shared on how participants are supported to avoid feeling overwhelmed while engaging in deep therapeutic work.Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT): In the final section, Elizabeth introduces Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), a promising method that fosters healing by addressing deep emotional wounds. This engaging conversation offers hope and new possibilities for recovery.Connect with Us:Elizabeth Abbruzza: Bellevue Trauma Recovery CenterWatermark CoachHealing with the HowiesFollow us on Instagram: @WatermarkCoachingThank you for listening! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help others find the help and support they deserve.

Access to mental health care is critical to the welfare of human beings. So, what does it take to create resilient individuals and communities? Dr. Trina Clayeux joins the podcast to discuss her unique approach to improving mental health and emotional wellbeing – one hour at a time… Dr. Clayeux is the CEO of Give an Hour, a national organization committed to the transformation of mental health services. She has decades of executive experience spanning key roles in social impact organizations, higher education, and military support systems.  Dr. Clayeux holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University and a Master of Public Administration from Portland State University, along with numerous certifications that highlight her commitment to innovation and service. Her work has earned recognition from national organizations, including the National Association of Development Boards, and she has received the Sailing Award for Leadership Excellence. Hit play to explore: An overview of the “Give an Hour” concept. How to reframe the negative stigmas associated with mental health. The reason barriers exist for individuals seeking support.  Why accessible and personalized mental health services are so important.  You can follow along with Dr. Clayeux's important work with Give an Hour here! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

10/28/24 - Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J., Ph.D. is the President of the Magis Center of Reason and Faith and the Spitzer Center. He was the President of Gonzaga University from 1998 to 2009. He is the author of many books, including Healing the Culture, Finding True Happiness, Five Pillars of the Spiritual Life, The Light Shines On in the Darkness, The Soul's Upward Yearning, and God So Loved the World. Christ, Science, and Reason comprehensively presents the scientific evidence in support of Jesus, the Eucharist, and Mary. Father Robert Spitzer, S.J., closely examines the scientific evidence for The Passion and Resurrection of Jesus from the Shroud of Turin, the Real Presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist from three recent scientifically investigated Eucharistic miracles, and the supernatural dimensions of the apparitions of Mary manifest in the Tilma of Guadalupe, the Miracle of the Sun at Fatima, and many healing miracles connected with the Grotto of Lourdes. The book makes clear that the Catholic Church is not anti-science, but quite the opposite—it is one of the most scientifically aware religious denominations in the world. It will also be clear that science is not anti-God, anti-Christ, or anti-religious. On the contrary, its tools and methods give considerable credible evidence for all of them. Get the book at https://ignatius.com/christ-science-and-reason-csrp/

Armando Contreras is the National president and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy Inc. The organization has 55 affiliates, 53 of which are here in the United States and two are in Canada. Armando grew up in East Los Angeles and then attended college at the University of Southern California where he obtained a degree in Business Administration. Later he secured a Master's degree in Divinity from the University of San Francisco.   Armando has worked both in the for profit world as well as for and with several nonprofit organizations. He tells us about all his life adventures including being a cancer survivor now for ten years.   Mr. Contreras and I have a great discussion about his vision for UCP which this year is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Along the way, UCP expanded services beyond just working with persons with Cerebral Palsy. As he explains, the same kinds of services required by people with CP also apply to persons with Downs and Autism.   I hope what Armando discusses with me inspires you as much as it did me. Please let me know what you think.     About the Guest:   Armando A. Contreras is the President and CEO of the Washington, D.C. and Vienna, Virginia-based United Cerebral Palsy Inc., one of the nation's leading health associations providing vital services and advocating for the inclusion of people living with neurodevelopmental disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome via its 55 affiliates (53 in the U.S. and two in Canada).   A native of Los Angeles, Armando's professional career includes having served as CEO of UCP of Central Arizona, President and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC), Director of the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, and Executive Director of the Council on Small Business under former Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano.   He was featured in Activator Magazine's March 2021 issue (“A Servant Leader's Faithful Journey”). In November 2016, Arizona Business Magazine recognized him as a top CEO in the nonprofit health sector. In 2015, Armando was named one of the most Influential Minority Business Leaders in Arizona. He was also the featured CEO in the December 2013 issue of Arizona Business Magazine, and the Phoenix Business Journal awarded him a Champions in Diversity award in 2012. Armando was a special guest on The Hill newspaper's virtual Disability Summit, featuring policymakers, business and nonprofit leaders discussing ways to increase employment across the disability community.   Armando attended the Harvard School of Business Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program. In May 2001, he was honored to meet with President George W. Bush to discuss faith-based and community initiatives during a White House gathering on the topic.   Today, Armando serves on the Board of SourceAmerica. He is a former member of the Bishop's Finance Committee of the Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, and he recently completed a term serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Kino Border Initiative, a binational organization that promotes U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policies that affirm the dignity of the human person.   Armando earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Southern California and a master's degree in theology from the University of San Francisco. He also received certificates from the Indiana University School of Philanthropy and Harvard University.   He and his wife, Norma Contreras, live in Phoenix, where they are active in the community, particularly contributing their time and talents to faith-based social justice issues. The couple has three adult children and a grandson with another grandson on the way.       About the Host:   Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog.   Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards.   https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/   accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/   https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/       Thanks for listening!   Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!   Subscribe to the podcast   If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset .   Leave us an Apple Podcasts review   Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.       Transcription Notes:   Michael Hingson ** 00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson ** 01:21 Welcome to another edition of unstoppable mindset where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet, and I won't go through all that again, it's inclusion because that means we include disabilities. Diversity typically doesn't, but the unexpected is what we get to deal with a lot as well. It's all fun, and we're glad that you're able to be here with us, wherever you happen to be. Our guest today is Armando Contreras, who is the president of United Cerebral Palsy, Inc, and I'm really anxious to hear more about that keeps keeps him, and I think a lot of us busy, and there's a lot of good stories and very relevant things to talk about regarding that. So let's get to it, Armando, I want to thank you and really appreciate you being here. Michael,   Armando Contreras ** 02:06 it's such a pleasure, and really it's an honor that I can be here on your show. So thank you for the kind invitation. Well, you   Michael Hingson ** 02:15 are. You're certainly most welcome, and Armando is one of those people who came to us again because of Sheldon Lewis here at accessibe, and he's he's keeping us busy, which is a good thing, and he's probably working on getting Armando to use accessibe, unless you already are with UCP. I haven't checked the website lately. Well, we   Armando Contreras ** 02:33 have. So we've already put in that, I believe, a plugin, and some of our affiliates are actually using accessibe as well,   Michael Hingson ** 02:43 which is cool, and it does a lot to help, which is, of course, what it's all about. Because accessibe, using AI, is able to do a lot of the work with the AI widget, not all, but a lot that needs to be done. So it's really great that you guys are using it, and I appreciate that and thank you for it, or on behalf of all of us at accessibe, yeah,   Armando Contreras ** 03:04 you're welcome. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 03:06 why don't we start as I love to do at the beginning? Why don't tell us a little bit about kind of the early Armando growing up and all that sort of stuff? Yes, so might as well,   Armando Contreras ** 03:18 yeah, the early Armando, growing up, was in East Los Angeles, in East LA so my father had a disability for most of his life. He had a he was in a car accident, and the doctors had said he would never work again. And right about that time when he had that car accident. I was born. I was the first, the oldest of three and my brother Louis and my sister Elizabeth. So life really changed for him, because he was middle class entrepreneur in Mexico, while he was American citizen. Then when he married my mom, then they moved over to Los Angeles, and eventually East Los Angeles, and that's where I grew up. I grew up pretty much in, you can say, in poverty. And while we were in a neighborhood called in Barrio, it's just a neighborhood of of, really, for the most part, a lot of good people. Our neighbors were fantastic, and we knew each other. So that was kind of like the beginning of many years of really, you know, experiencing disabilities with my dad and seeing what he had gone through. And it was a it was a tough, really. It was a tough. It was tough growing up, let me put it to you that way, for for many reasons. So then later, I got involved with the Catholic Church, Saint Lucy. Catholic Church in Los Angeles or a small town called City terrace, and that kind of that really changed a lot for me, as far as getting involved with community issues, getting involved in helping people, getting involved in connecting with the kind of the local issues that were happening in the city of Los Angeles, because those priests, those Catholic priests, were very involved in that, in ministries, and they went outside of the ministries to help community members, regardless if they were Catholic or not, what. And prior to that, I got involved as a musician. So I was a trumpet player, and I played trumpet at St Lucy's church for about 23 years. But then that that did something, something of sort of a miracle for me, because when I applied after going to a junior college in Los Angeles College, and then I applied to a dream university, USC, so the University of Southern California, and I think one of the big reasons that I got in was because of my community involvement, so that that led to a full scholarship, and that was quite the blessing for me, because there was no way that that we can afford me going to a private university. So, you know, that's kind of like, in the nutshell, my my upbringing, otherwise I would be here three days, you know,   Michael Hingson ** 06:30 yeah, what year? What years were you at USC,   Armando Contreras ** 06:34 I was there. I was there in 8085 through 87 ish, around that time? Yeah, around that that time? Yeah, I graduated in 87   Michael Hingson ** 06:46 that's that's much beyond my favorite USC football game, which was, how was it? I think Notre Dame was leading SC 24 to nothing at the end of the first half. You know, the game, I can tell by the end, it was 55 to 24 USC, which is the way it should be.   Armando Contreras ** 07:07 You know, SC had his great moments, and sc has had their challenging moments. Has Yeah. So, you know, last year, it could have been a better year for us. But, you know, we look to the future. And like I always say, don't fight on. So fight on   Michael Hingson ** 07:23 is right. My wife did her graduate work at SC I've never been to a football game there or anywhere, and one of these days, I'd love to go, but she just passed away in November of 2022 we were married for 40 years, but I've already been an SC fan before I married her, and one of my favorite SC stories is that the day we got married, we arrived at the church, and it was supposed to be a wedding that would pack the church. A lot of people wanted to come and see us get together, but the wedding was supposed to start at four o'clock, and like the church was less than half full on about 412 suddenly the doors opened, and this whole crowd came in, and the wedding went forward, only about 15 minutes late. Later, we tried to find out what it was that kept people away for so long. And what we heard was everyone was in their cars waiting for the end of the USC Notre Dame game. And since SC one, it was that God clearly was on our side.   Armando Contreras ** 08:25 I love that. Yeah, it's a great story. And my my sister, condolences for loss.   Michael Hingson ** 08:31 Well, thank you. You know she her body was just slowing down. She was in a wheelchair her whole life, and just in 2022, things were kind of catching up. And as I say, the spirit tends to move ahead of the body sometimes, and that's what happened. But she's watching somewhere, and if I misbehave, I'll hear about it. I'm not at all worried I'm going to try to be a good kid. But that's great that she did go to USC, and you said something else. I think that's really interesting to me, and that is that where you grew up, people were very nice and very friendly. And I think that is so often true, and a lot of times people stray into some of these areas and they think it's going to be horrible, and they they look for the worst, and they find it because they're not looking for the best. They're not looking to try to find friendly people and and it's so unfortunate that too many, too many times, we don't really look for the best in people. And unfortunately, then it comes out.   Armando Contreras ** 09:34 Well, you know, I I could only say great things about East LA and the barrio that I, that I grew up in, were there elements in there? Of course, sure you were, we were about a block away from from the gang activity, and you just had a choice, right? And thanks to my parents that were super strict, they didn't, they didn't allow me to make those kind of choices when I was younger. You know. To join the gangs, but that element was in front of you, you know, and some of them, some of the folks I still know today, some of them that were in gangs and stuff, now they've settled down. They have families, but I just have to say that there was a sense of community there where I grew up, even, even, or despite the elements that were around us. So yes, do I hear the negativity when they somebody mentions East Los Angeles? Yes, but I could, I have to say that even though we grew up in poverty and even though there was a lot of challenges for us as a family, I I really cherish the neighbors that were there. When I remember that the kind of those gatherings, we had nothing. So there was no we played, you know, with just a regular basketball or something. There was no communication via a cell phone or anything like that. Yeah. So, you know, I have only good things to say. And part of my upbringing there today, I realized that wow, I was I was working on a strategic plan without even knowing what a strategic plan was back in the day. Yeah.   Michael Hingson ** 11:17 Do you think that today it's harder, or there's more of that kind of activity, or is it just that people are now having their attention drawn more to it, and again, still, I think all too often deal with it in such a negative way. But do you think it's worse than it was?   Armando Contreras ** 11:36 I mean, if we're talking about, if we're talking about gang activity. I mean that still, I think, is just as prominent that today, unfortunately, than what it was this as it was back. You know, when I grew up in the night, in the 60s, I believe that leaders, community leaders, our representatives, really have to invest into communities, invest in education, invest in in jobs, right? Because people, naturally, some of them, will start looking for a way of making a living, and they may choose a different route. In addition to that, gangs and they become a family. So, you know, parents do need to, you know, also be aware of what their kids are doing, and support them and and nurture them and show them love, right? And because, if you really get to the bottom of it, and you start speaking to a gang member, she or he, there's underlining problems, and maybe comes from family. You know, there could be so many things that are happening, but I truly have a vision that that someday there's going to be more funds invested into communities like East Los Angeles, because a lot of great people come out of there, and I'm not talking about myself, but there's just a lot of good people, good hearted people, that really like to help their neighbor and others. When   Michael Hingson ** 13:10 I was selling in New York, when still living in California, and would go back and spend days at a time, I stayed at a particular hotel in midtown Manhattan, Near Time Square, and if I went out at night, every so often, somebody would come up and he would say, I'm one of the guardian angels. You're familiar with them? Yes. And he said, I'm with guardian angels. I want to walk with you. And I said, you know, you don't need to. And he said, I want to. And I didn't mind, but what I always felt and and experienced was if I treated people right, if I treated people like people, if I was I was treated like someone, and I didn't really need to fear any of the other kinds of things. Now, I'm sure there were crazies around, but in general, I really do think that if we would be a little bit more open to just accepting and not fear so much those things that we don't understand, or those kinds of communities that we're not as knowledgeable about, and I'm not so much thinking of the gangs, but just all the other communities, like East LA and watts and so on, we would be a whole lot better off, and we would learn to get along with people better.   Armando Contreras ** 14:31 I totally agree with that. I think it's building relationships, right, and getting to help and getting to know, you know, folks from different ethnicities, people with different abilities, right? It all comes together. Here is that, knowing them, respecting them, listening for understanding, and then building a friendship, right? And collaborating together. Um. For the betterment of humanity. That's what I believe, where it's at, and everybody has an opportunity to do that.   Michael Hingson ** 15:08 Yeah, and I just think that we, we, we somehow also need to get the politics out of providing the funds. And I don't know, it's just people have locked themselves into some very hard political decisions sometimes that that don't help the process at all.   Armando Contreras ** 15:26 Yeah? Michael, so yes, yes. Part of it is yes, taking out the politics, but the other part of it is bringing in the politics right? Is letting our our representatives, our public officials, and on the local level, on the municipality level, state level, on the federal level, to bring them in and know what the issues are, because we're all part of the fabric of society. Yeah, all somehow we do give, and we do contribute, and I don't, I don't care what ethnicity, what religion you are, if you if you have a disability, if you don't have a disability, we're all part of the society, and I believe that our representatives really need to know that and how we contribute in a very big way.   Michael Hingson ** 16:16 I think the biggest part is they need to be open to listening to hear that some do, some don't. And I am a firm believer in the fact that over time, all the issues that we need to deal with will get dealt with.   Armando Contreras ** 16:30 I believe so too, and I think those that those that don't listen to communities, for whatever reason it is that eventually somebody in their family or them may end up in that situation themselves, and then, you know, they'll begin to have that lived experience. But while they've had a chance to make a difference, and if they ignore it, then there was a window of opportunity for them to do something.   Michael Hingson ** 17:01 Yeah, well, and, and if they choose to ignore that again, I believe that things will will happen to deal with that, whatever it is, and hopefully it it doesn't a negative, horrible thing that has to happen to make them realize it. But I think in some cases, that has been what has occurred. But I have a lot of faith in the human race. Yes, so do I. Well, so you, what was your degree in from USC?   Armando Contreras ** 17:29 It was in business administration.   Michael Hingson ** 17:32 Ah. And did you go to any football games?   Armando Contreras ** 17:35 I did, yeah, good   Michael Hingson ** 17:36 for you. My wife did too. Yeah.   Armando Contreras ** 17:38 And, and most recently, most recently, I've gone to the last two USC UCLA games. So last year, it was great. It was fantastic. We were at the Rose Bowl at, you know, in UCLA territory this year, not so good. We were so good, not so good. We were at home at the Coliseum. And, you know, it didn't, it didn't work at a while, but it was a fun game. I   Michael Hingson ** 18:04 don't know, what do you think of the coach?   Armando Contreras ** 18:07 Um, I think that he's good, and I think that he will continue to be successful this year, this next year. I think it will be better this year. Yeah, I think so. And they got this young, this young man that showed up at the at the bowl game. I'm trying to remember Miller. I think it was Miller, and it was his name, and he showed up. He was a he, he did a fantastic job. And I do see a great future for him at USC and perhaps in in the in the NFL.   Michael Hingson ** 18:40 Well, it'll be fun. I know they got a new defensive coordinator and that they needed, so we'll, we'll see how it goes. But we won't bore everyone with football and our likes, but it's nevertheless, it's part of the world. So there you go, but then you went on to the University of San Francisco, right?   Armando Contreras ** 19:01 I did. So that was a few years later, and I graduated, I believe, in 2004 and I it was, it was something that drew me, and it was an opportunity for me to get a degree in Theology at a Jesuit university. So at that time, I was working for a faith based Catholic organization, a national organization called the National Catholic council for Hispanic ministry. And what we looked at overall in the United States were the issues of upper mobility for Hispanic Catholics for immigrants, or for our sisters and brothers that are immigrants, the issues that are happening with Hispanic families, education was a huge thing. You know, how do we how do we move, you know, our children that from, you know, grammar school to. Catholic high schools and perhaps Catholic universities were, yeah, unfortunate. Unfortunately, I have to say, is that there's not a whole lot of access, and we're the backbone of the Catholic Church, right? Because it's so expensive. So those were the things that that we were part of, and one of the opportunities that came about was attending the University of San Francisco and and I received, you know, I earned a degree in theology, master's degree, yes,   Michael Hingson ** 20:32 well, let's go back a little bit. So you graduated from SC then what did you do?   Armando Contreras ** 20:37 Well, then I had several jobs after that. I worked for a nonprofit in Los Angeles that helped people get jobs. And then after that, I believe, I went into a construction company as a contract administrator. I was here for maybe a year and a half or so, and then I went on for whatever reason I was interested in real estate. So then I worked for a corporation that did mortgage loans. And in that I met a gentleman who had his own real estate company, and then we decided to start our own real estate company. So I did that for about seven, seven years, and then I I got hired to work with this nonprofit, the National Catholic council that I just mentioned a little bit ago. I was there for about 10 and a half years. So I had I had a chance to travel around the nation and to meet with Hispanic Catholic leaders, lay leaders. I got to meet with religious orders of men and women from Jesuits, Franciscans, many other different orders. So it was, it was really a insightful time for me in those 10 and a half years about our church. And then after that, we moved from Los Angeles to Phoenix. And shortly after that, I got hired. Let's see here. I'm trying to remember the I got hired by governor Janet Napolitano, but I was her small business advocate, and in about 11 months, I moved into being a deputy director of a one of her departments, the Arizona register of contractors, and soon after that, I was on her cabinet. So I was honored to serve under Janet Napolitano when she moved to Washington, DC, because President Barack Obama appointed her as Secretary of Homeland Security. Then I moved on to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, here Arizona, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. And then about a year later, then that's where I had folks come to me and said, there's an organization here that is the United Cerebral Palsy association of central Arizona. And I said, Well, I'm going to maybe put the word out and see who might be interested in that position, which was a CEO position. And then they said, No, we're looking for somebody like you. So to make a long story short, I got hired. And that was really a beginning of of a lot of things. I got hired not because I had the clinical background, or the researcher background, or that I had been involved with disabilities. I got hired so then I can take take that organization to another level, where they wanted to increase the revenues, they wanted to increase their brand awareness. They wanted to make sure that we had stronger collaborations in the community in Arizona, in in Phoenix, and that's why I got hired, to make sure that we enhance that to benefit the children and adults that we were serving.   Michael Hingson ** 24:05 Well. So what do you think about the differences since you've been in a position to have done both working in the for profit corporate kind of world, as opposed to working in the the nonprofit sector? That's,   Armando Contreras ** 24:21 that's Michael. That's a really interesting question, because there are similarities,   Michael Hingson ** 24:27 I know, and I've done the same thing. I've worked for both as well. Well,   Armando Contreras ** 24:31 look, you know, I'm working for a nonprofit, and those that are going to be listening to this, that are CEOs are working in development for both for profits and nonprofits. There's not a whole there's not a big difference there. Because we strive to be sustainable, like a for profit. We strive to look at years to come, because we want to be around and help people in the next 1015, 75, Years which we we're celebrating this year, our 75th anniversary. So part of our responsibility as a leader, as a president and CEO, is really looking beyond the years that you're going to be there. You can, you can serve for one year, 10 years, 20 years, 30 years. But really the i i truly believe that the test is, once you leave, will that organization continue to survive because of what you put together? So to answer your question, a lot of similarities between a for profit and a non profit. However, at the end of the day, the mission for us is to not make a profit, but to be sustainable so we can continue our life saving work   Michael Hingson ** 25:49 and for not, not for profits. Nonprofits generally tend to work more in an arena where they're trying to make a social difference. And although they're they're still selling products. The products are different. They're oftentimes less tangible, although a lot of the services that that they provide, like UCB, UCP provides and so on, end up being very tangible, but still there's there's an intangibility, but still, I agree with you that the reality is that they're very similar. Development is extremely similar to what a for profit company does. And in reality, when you're in development, you're in sales, and when you're in sales, you're in development, it's just that people have come up with two words for the same thing, but they're so similar in what you ultimately are trying to get from them, and ultimately, how you present to people who you want to be your customers or your donors, is so much the same as well.   Armando Contreras ** 27:00 Yeah, I agree with you, Michael, so in development, because I also have a background in fundraising, it's aligning with the folks that have the same vision and that would want to contribute for an impact that's happening in society. So with United Cerebral Palsy and our affiliates are providing direct services to children and adults with cerebral palsy and many other conditions. So there are people that are very, very generous, but I have to say that in the world of philanthropy now, donors are becoming a lot more informed, and they want to make sure that the dollar that they're going to donate, that it's going to go a long way. Yeah, so obviously they're looking at at administrative costs versus your program program costs, right? And that's a good thing. I encourage the philanthropic community to do that, to do their research and to pick those nonprofits in the United States or maybe around the world that are really making a huge impact. Michael, we we serve 100 and approximately 155,000 children and adults on an annual basis, and this is our affiliates that are working day in and day out to provide those services, vital services, life saving services, and services that maybe other organizations don't or people don't want to do. So those are the things that that people that are going to invest their return is really what's happening in the lives of 1000s and hundreds of 1000s of people. Many,   Michael Hingson ** 28:45 many years ago, I remember watching a little bit of a telethon. It was actually on Channel 13 out here, kcop, and it was back in what had to be the early to mid 80s, I think, and it was a telethon put on by the Society for the Prevention of blindness, which I don't even know whether they're around anymore, but at the end of the telethon, they had raised, I think, like $200,000 it was a local, Just independent television station doing it. But what we learned was that 95% of the cost of the telethon went to pay for it, and that the organization only ended up with about 5% of that $200,000 which is, of course, a real problem.   Armando Contreras ** 29:39 It is so like I mentioned before, is that today you're having more informed donors, right, that are looking at that ratio, right? Yeah, how much of their dollar is going to go to actual services, right? Versus cost for putting on a. For putting like you mentioned, a telethon today, there's not a whole lot of telethons going on. Have a million channels, but back in the day, I remember the channels 13, 574, and maybe 11 nine. Yeah, 11 nine. So there was a few more today. What do you have? 234, 100, and then more and all of that. There's other ways that I certainly believe that that can be as impactful and less expensive than the telethons. But sure, you bring up a really good point, is that if you're going to, if you're a donor, if you're a philanthropist, if you really want to have your money change people's lives, they have to do some homework. Yeah, they have to look at that nonprofit and to make sure that 90% of your dollars not going into it, and 90% is not going into it, administrative expenses. It   Michael Hingson ** 30:55 may well be that that 90% works or maybe a little bit less. You're spending a little bit more money on administration, if you can justify it, to say, but look out of that we are able to reach more people and thus get more money. But I do think it's, it's a it's a tight rope.   Armando Contreras ** 31:20 Yeah, I definitely agree with that, that you have to be strategic when you're out fundraising and your your case statement really has to be where it's so compelling that and then showing the data and and and bringing children and adults to tell their story, right of how their lives have been changed. Those are the storytelling is really part, one part, or a major part, of development and fundraising.   Michael Hingson ** 31:56 Well, tell us a little bit about UCP, the history and so on, if you would to inform more people about it.   Armando Contreras ** 32:02 Well, one, you know, I'm, I'm so excited to share with everybody that we're celebrating our 75th anniversary, right? Uh, 75 years of providing vital services, right? 75 years of having our direct service professionals, the folks that are working at home, under the home community based services. We have we have pre Ks, the different therapies that are out there. We have group homes, we have transportation, we have employment. There's so many things that we're bringing to the community. But it started in 1949 right? It started with concerned citizens and concerned parents, that they felt that in that time, which was a totally different world for people with disabilities, that they felt that something more had to happen, that no more can society or the doctors or people in authority can say, would your kids have to go to an institution no matter if they had Down syndrome? Well, maybe autism wasn't. Were so prevalent back then, maybe not as prevalent, but cerebral palsy, spinal bifid, all of that that their kids suddenly were taken away from their home.   Michael Hingson ** 33:22 Well, my parents were told by our doctors that they should send me to a home when it was discovered I was blind, and my parents rejected that, which was very fortunate, but   Armando Contreras ** 33:32 yeah, and good for your parents. And that's how it started, right? I think, I think a lot of nonprofits started in that way, but back in 1949 that's when a group of parents got together and said, we have to do something more right. Then today, we've evolved where we're in the disability world, there's greater access than there was before, there's more inclusion than there was before, right? We're trying at least that used because UCP national and our affiliates, we're trying to help people be more independent, if it's through legislation, research, therapies, everything that we're trying to do. And we're very we're very centric to those issues that are out there, and we're trying to make a huge difference. So what I'm looking at is, I'm looking at another 75 years and that United Cerebral Palsy. One we're trying to in here. Four goals. One is brand awareness. Also let folks know about our 75th year anniversary. But one of the bigger things Michael that is the challenge for us is that United Cerebral Palsy serves children and adults with cerebral palsy and other conditions, so we're trying to bring that message out. And figuring out, how can we let the community know that if your child has Down syndrome autism, that we are there providing vital services for for them as well. The next goal is development, or what we just spoke about, connecting with the philanthropic community, because we, while a lot of our affiliates rely on government funding and reimbursement, I believe that there's another level that we have to engage with, and that's the philanthropic community right. There are millions and millions of dollars. Michael, I go to this to a an event called the heckling event in Orlando, I've been going there for now five years, and those professionals that are working with Planned Giving, some of them will come to me and say that their clients don't know where to give their money to. That's why we're present there, and that's why other profits are there too, as well. Is that we need to educate the community that that you can actually invest in something that's going to bring back this return of investment, but more of a humanity return, and something that's going to be great for society. The other goal that we have is advocacy. So we're known throughout the federal government, the Biden administration, as well as the Trump administration community, communicated with us, especially during COVID So we had communications with the White House. We still do. We're engaged at the Congress and Senate level with various representatives and senators to make sure that they create legislation that's going to be beneficial for our for the for the disability community, and that we don't ever go back to the institutions that that would be their only option. Unfortunately, Michael, today, there's still institutions that exist, not as many as before, but there's still institution the last goal we have is to grow our footprint, not only nationally, but but internationally. So we're having discussions locally, in places that were not present, to grow our footprint, to see how we can collaborate. We're also having, I'm having conversations with people on the global level, like the International cerebral palsy society, like aacpdm, the Academy for cerebral palsy. I've been invited twice, once, well, I got invited last year to the International Congress on cerebral palsy in Mexico City, I got invited again. I was their president, and I gave a speech. And I got invited again this year, in March, I'll be in medida Yucatan at an international congress again, and that brings a lot of awareness for us, brand awareness, and the main thing is really collaboration. So I kind of touched upon some of the some of the goals, Michael, and some of the things that important things and vital things that our affiliates are doing. So if there's, if there's something else that you want me to elaborate, I'd be glad, more than glad to do. So how are   Michael Hingson ** 38:19 you working toward creating more and better brand awareness to the general population?   Armando Contreras ** 38:27 Well, one of the things that we're doing, given that we have this window of opportunity that we're celebrating our 75th year, and that begins in that started in February, and we'll go all the way through January 31 is that one, we have a lot of partners out there that are doing things like you're doing access to be right, that invited me on this program. And that's one of the beautiful things that in social media, it's not it's not very expensive for us to be out there. So we're using the media vehicles such as LinkedIn, Facebook and the others that are out there. And we're also using YouTube to spread the message out there. So we're we're also sharing the stories of our affiliates and their accomplishments and the people that are being served, the parents and their children, so they can share those great stories that sometimes are miracle stories because of the people that are serving them and providing quality services, care and love. So that's one vehicle. The other one is that I I was on 26 I traveled to 26 locations last year, so I'm also providing that message out there. And then within our affiliate network, they're also doing marketing, and they're doing. Brand awareness as well. So it's a whole it's really this whole core nation that we want, not only the nation, no, but globally. Let the people know who is you at UCP and United Cerebral Palsy,   Michael Hingson ** 40:16 what caused UCP to add in as part of the services that are provided, services for people with downs and autism, as opposed to just UCP   Armando Contreras ** 40:32 or UCP. Yeah, so if I go back to when I was at the local United Cerebral Palsy the UC central Arizona. It just happened to be that the programs, the same programs that were provided for children and adults with cerebral palsy, also were beneficial to other conditions. I'm not a researcher, but when there's a breakthrough in cerebral palsy or in autism or in a different condition, they try to see if that same breakthrough will help people with different conditions. What we do know is that the therapies that are being offered to children and adults with cerebral palsy, those same types of therapies are also impactful to other conditions. So what was happening is that, then parents started to to, I guess, the word went out, and what we have across the board in the United States is that we have a high percentage of non cerebral palsy clients, or we'll call them family members, that are are getting services because that's much needed. One Michael is like respite, like respite care. You know any, any family can use that rest, that respite care, no matter what the condition is. So if you're offering that, then you can offer it to the disability community, a broad range of of people that have various conditions,   Michael Hingson ** 42:13 which makes perfect sense, because a lot of the care that needs to be provided is very similar. Well, or is the same? Yes, well, you know, you, I understand, had a an involvement with cancer, and you survived that. How has that affected you and in your attitude? Because, clearly, you're a very sensitive person and very much involved in community and family and helping people. But what, what was the whole situation with you in cancer?   Armando Contreras ** 42:42 You know, I think it's that. I think that's, it's the experience that all people go through when they first hear that you have cancer, right? First thought is, are you going to survive? You know, the first, first thing that comes to you is that it's, it's terminal, right? You're not going to get through it. You know this when you hear news like that, and you know, maybe it's the same as parents hearing that their child has cerebral palsy or disability, you know, you just, you just, it's a scary moment. It's a scary time. So what? Yeah, it was a difficult time for me and for my family, especially, I think my family knowing that I had transitional carcinoma, high grade, and it was a it was a tumor in my bladder that was nine and a half centimeters. I haven't really talked about it a lot, but it's been 10 years. So February, when I had seen that as a suggestion, like you want to talk about that, my first thought was, No, I think I'm going to skip it. But a few seconds later, I said, maybe it's time for me to share with the community, because it's been 10 years since I was diagnosed so and I'll try to make this short, I got diagnosed huge tumor. They had asked me if I wanted that tumor to be taken out, otherwise I could die. And I said, of course. So they took out the tumor. I had a brilliant surgeon that did that. And then after that, they basically said to me that if I don't, if I don't do radical surgery, taking out my bladder, taking out some lymph nodes, my prostate, that I wouldn't live very long, that I had really, like a 35% chance or less to live. So I had said that I wanted to put a pause on this rush, and that perhaps there's an option out there, perhaps there was another way, because I knew that billions of dollars have been raised for cancer. And maybe because this is a whole new journey for me, that the cure was somewhere out there. Well, after going to five different doctors for second opinions, they all said the same to me, that I only had one choice, and that choice radical surgery. And even after that, even after that, I was still I was confused, I was scared, but I was still. There was a pause that I felt that maybe there was something out there. So thanks to my sister, she really saved my life. She connected me with the scientists that she was researching, and that scientist said, you know, I only, I've only done lab studies on this particular oil called frankincense oil. I haven't done any clinical studies, and today, Michael, there's still no clinical studies on frankincense oil. So I started doing that three months after they they took the tumor out. I had 20 more tumors come back in my bladder. But they were small. They were lesions. So I just asked them to scrape, scrape them. The doctors were furious with me. I get it. I mean, that was, that was a protocol. I totally get it, you know. But something, people say that I had a lot of courage. I'm not sure if it was, like just something, it could have been something was telling you. I mean, I definitely there was a lot of prayer during that time. Yeah, a lot of prayer happening at that time. I just couldn't see myself dying, and I didn't want that to happen. So just to kind of, like, kind of close on this is that when those 20 tumors came back, they scraped them. They were supposed to be a lot more coming back, or it was going to invade my body. Three months later, I had nothing, absolutely nothing. Three months after that, I had six lesions come back, and that was March of 2015, so it's been nine years since the last reoccurrence. It's been 10 years since I was diagnosed, and I get checked very often. Once a year in the beginning, I would go in and get checked every three months. So it's been quite the miracle. But I have to say, this is that one I changed. I had changed my diet at the time for about four and a half years, I was strictly doing a lot of juicing, no sugar, a lot of prayer, a lot of family love, a lot of support. I did the frankincense oil. So I think in a comprehensive way, that helped me, and that gave me another option. And I'm very grateful for that, and I'm very grateful that every day I wake up and I say to God, thank you for sparing me. But on the advocacy side, Michael, I just didn't leave it there. I've had conversations with with the with the University of Arizona, with the Arizona State University, with Cancer Centers of America, with St Joseph's Hospital, with my alma mater, USC, and the last conversation I had was with Georgetown University, and these were top CEOs. And I was sharing my documentation, because I have it all there. But sadly, I have to say that they're not interested. They're not interested in a cure, and I'll continue to pursue it when the opportunity continues on, but it's only my story, and I didn't want to leave it where. Well, Lord, thank you so much. You know it never came back, so thank you. No, I have a responsibility to figure out some ways, somehow, that my my story, can turn into a clinical study, and that someday, and maybe not in my my time, that there's going to be an option for millions of people that will contract cancers. So that's my story in a nutshell. Thank you for asking.   Michael Hingson ** 49:04 So what did the frankincense oil actually do? I assume that you feel it was a very significant part of your ability to deal with it.   Armando Contreras ** 49:12 Yeah, it's a good question, because medically, I can't tell you, because we haven't done right? Yeah, we haven't done clinical studies. And I've been, I've been asking these universities and these hospitals and these cancer firms, you know that are out there, and said, Why don't we do the clinical studies so you can so you can see exactly what it did. I can't tell you that what it did. The only thing I can tell you is that is that as they, as they as they took samples of the cancerous tumors. So you had the big tumor, and then the 20 small tumors, and then you had the six lesions that, according to the scientists, dr, dr Lynn, HK Lynn, what he did see is that the cancer cells were becoming less aggressive. And at the end, some of the cancer cells actually turn into good cells. Now, you know, people can believe that or not. I'm I'm okay with that. Sure, only thing I'm saying, Michael is that there should be, there should be clinical studies on this, because I believe it would save hundreds of 1000s of lives. What was it? We don't know. Was it the combination? Is it the combination of me juicing on a daily basis for four and a half years? Was it that, as a Catholic, you know, I was going through all the different sacraments, prayers and healing masses? So I believe there was a holistic healing process. And then my family that was supporting me during a very difficult time,   Michael Hingson ** 50:49 sounds to me like it's time to write a book.   Armando Contreras ** 50:54 I've I've been asked many times, and I think when I think, when, when I feel that, that when I'm ready for that, that, yeah, that's that will happen.   Michael Hingson ** 51:03 Yes, you've got to, you've got to feel ready and feel that it's the right time. But that might be one way to bring visibility to it. Yes, well, you know, you you value family a lot. I understand that there are music connections in your family, has music always been a part of your life or   Armando Contreras ** 51:24 or, yeah, I think I think so. I think that. Well, I know so, because when I was the trumpet player, young trumpet player at St Lucy's Catholic Church, a few years later, my lovely wife, Norma, joined the choir. I didn't know she was married, but she joined the choir. And you know, we have this thing that she doesn't agree with me, but I say, hey, when I when I met you, when I seen you, was love at first sight. And and I said, but not for you. It took a while. And she says, no, no, but so So music, I was playing trumpet, normal was singing. And then later we got married, and then we had our first child. Was Andrea, Andrea Michelle, our daughter, our beautiful daughter, who's with child today, her and her husband, Fabian. So she knew that in our home there was a lot of music happening, and if it was church or at home. And then our second child, Armando, Michael, he started catching on a little bit, but we started to notice that he started to sing and sing right in tune. And then we said, hey, maybe there's something here. So his first recital in Los Angeles, he's saying pop by the Sailor Man and over the rainbow. And he did pretty good. So later he joined as a as a young child, you know, five years old, he joined the choir at St Lucy's. And then we moved. We moved from, we moved from Los Angeles over to Phoenix, Arizona, which was a great blessing being here. And we then were exploring how we can continue to support his talent. And he joined the Grammy Award winning Phoenix boys choir, and that's where he began to sing. Got to meet some wonderful people. They had wonderful directors there, and had a great experience. That experience led him to fall in love with the classics. Oh, there he began to be part of some of the local, local opera performances. So to make a long story short, Norma, my wife and I supported him. He went to the Cleveland Institute of Music, from there in vocals, and then from there, he went to the University of Missouri in Kansas City for his masters. And today he's a professional opera singer. He's a baritone. So it's it's been amazing. All our kids are amazing. I also have to mention that our youngest Andrew, Matthew. He went to Gonzaga University and then graduated from Lewis and Clark in clinical psychology. He's worked with a lot of kids with disabilities. He's a drummer and he's a guitar player. So yes, music is a big part of our family.   Michael Hingson ** 54:28 Well, it is getting to be that time of the year that Gonzaga will become visible again as we get back down to march madness. I actually, I actually had the pleasure of going up there once to speak and and I hadn't really known a lot about Gonzaga at the time, and they were the ones who told me, however, one always said, Where is Gonzaga? You know what? What kind of a place is it? And so I've kept up with it ever since, but it is kind of funny that their basketball team is good. Yeah.   Armando Contreras ** 54:59 Yeah, it's a, it's a beautiful place. It's a great Jesuit university. We, I, you know, he had a great experience. This is Andrew. He had a great experience out there. So, yes, I totally agree. Yeah, we had a chance to go out to Bob, trying to remember the city here. Spokane, yeah, yeah, yeah. Spokane, various times with him,   Michael Hingson ** 55:25 that's pretty cool. Well, so is he professionally doing music now? No, so,   Armando Contreras ** 55:30 So Andrew, our youngest, he's professionally now a clinical psychologist. Ah, yeah, now and now. Armando, Michael, he is a professional opera singer, right? And that's what he does. So, you know, his, his, one of his dreams, is going to be singing at the Metropolitan Ooh, we do see that perhaps happening within a year or two, because they he'll be, right? He'll be auditioning for that, probably very soon, and he's very young. He's just 34 years old.   Michael Hingson ** 56:03 So that'd be super What would you like people to know about the disability community in general, when we think about disabilities, you know, when there's so many prejudices, what would you like people to know and in terms of disabilities and how to maybe change attitudes, yeah,   Armando Contreras ** 56:23 well, they're definitely part of the fabric of society, and we, nobody, not me, or anybody else in in any organization, can speak for them. We need to allow for them and give them that opportunity and space to voice their concerns, to voice whatever joy they have, to voice things that we need to hear in our community. We have to provide while we're here in the United States, and there's been laws that have been enacted, enacted that laws now have to be updated. We have antiquated laws that do not even pay people with disabilities even minimum wage, right? So, so that we really have to be conscious of a community that is part of our society. We need to engage. Furthermore, we have to collaborate. We need them as public, public officials. They need to run for office, right? Some of them do. They have to be part of the decision making, decisions that are being made from all levels of government, all levels of corporation, all levels of nonprofits. And that's the way, that's the way I really see it. Is that, and we also have to have breakthroughs in research, right? What are some of the things that that we can do so we can those lives can be more that they would have more of a more access, right? That even if you go to certain states in the United States that I've been, there's not even accessibility for wheelchairs. And just speak about the airlines, right? How, how and why are people thinking in those corporations that a person that has a disability can easily go into their bathrooms. There's no way, right flying, especially if it's a long flight. So no, there's, there's been some great things Michael that have, that have evolved and happened through a collaboration of a lot of advocates, and a lot of them are self advocates, but we still have a long way to go.   Michael Hingson ** 59:08 Yeah, and I think that's absolutely true. So what is UCP Inc doing to celebrate its 75th anniversary? What kinds of plans do you have and where do you go from here?   Armando Contreras ** 59:19 Well, we do have a an annual conference coming up in Orlando, and this year in April. So that's a good thing for us, you know. But the bigger thing for us is to celebrate is really bringing that education, bringing that awareness of what we're doing, not only in here in the United States, but we also have affiliates in Canada. So as we celebrate, part of our celebration is educating the society about exactly what we do and please, you know, knock on our door for for help. So that's that's really part of it. The other part of it is acknowledge. Gene, the folks that started UCP back in 1949 right? Like the, like the golden sins, and also the housemans and many others that that have helped us get through the 75 years.   Michael Hingson ** 1:00:18 Yeah, well, it's, a great milestone to be able to celebrate 75 years, and I am sure that you, with your background, is very concerned about making sure that there is great sustainability for the future, which is really important and cool that you're thinking about that, because it's something that always needs to be with us in whatever we're doing. That's a good thing. Any kind of last thoughts that you have that you want to convey to people who are listening or watching us.   Armando Contreras ** 1:00:51 Yes, one is first, I want to share my gratitude for inviting me, Michael. And then second, please reach out to us the disability community. Please find us@ucp.org we may be in your backyard. If there are organizations out there that want to become an affiliate of United Cerebral Palsy, please reach out to us as well. We are here. We want to continue to be here for the next 75 years, so that our community can be part and be an inclusive part of our society. That we can bring that help, bring that independence, but we can continue to see those miracles, that children that we're told, and families that were told that they would never walk. I've seen them walk, and were physicians that said to a mom and dad that their child would never move or never speak, and I've seen them hug their parents and tell them that they love them, right? And we want to continue to make those miracles happen through therapies, through early detection, through early intervention, all these forms of of of a reach that we have through United Cerebral Palsy in the United States and Canada and and watched for us in the near future as we begin to go global, and that's really a vision that that I have. But and also, again, is that it's important to know that we know that I know that, Michael, you know that is that everybody is a fabric at society, some way, somehow, no matter their abilities. And that's really important, important message for people to know.   Michael Hingson ** 1:02:43 I agree. Well, I want to thank you for being here with us and conveying all this information, and I hope people will take it to heart and that they'll support UCP and and reach out and learn more about the organization and that you are doing, and will continue to do a lot to just help people in general, with disabilities, which is cool. I appreciate that, and I want to thank Go ahead. No, no.   Armando Contreras ** 1:03:10 I just wanted to thank and I also want to thank accessibe, right? That's how we got here. So I really thank them for what they're doing and providing. I love their model that they have. They have a for profit, a for profit model. However, the services that they, that they provide for nonprofits, are free, and that's that's amazing. So we're really happy with the services, the access services for websites, the accessibility that they're providing for people in the disability community to have that access. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 1:03:48 thank you, and we're excited about the time ahead and and I think that's that's a good thing, and we'll all work to make it happen. Well, I want to thank everyone who was listening and watching today. We really appreciate it. I hope that you'll give us a five star rating wherever you're observing our podcast. We value that. Love it. If you'd reach out to me, give me your thoughts, your opinions and Armando for you and for all of our guests, our listeners and so on today, if you know of anyone else who ought to be a guest on unstoppable mindset, please let us know. Provide introductions. We're always looking for guests. You can reach out to me directly at Michael H, i@accessibe.com that's m, I, C, H, A, E, L, H, I at accessibe, A, C, C, E, S, S, I, B, e.com, or go to our podcast page, www dot Michael hinkson.com/podcast, and Michael Hinkson is spelled M, I C, H, A, E, L, H, I N, G, S o, n.com/podcast, so we really do value all the thoughts and and information and suggestions that people provide. Yeah, as I think I've mentioned to many of you before, I also do travel and speak, especially after September 11, 2001 if anyone needs a speaker, please reach out. You can get me easiest at speaker at Michael hingson.com but however you do it, you've got all sorts of ways to reach out to me. Love to hear from you. And you know, once again, Armando, I want to thank you very much for being here, and thank you for all of your time today.   Armando Contreras ** 1:05:24 Michael, thank you many blessings to you and your family, and many blessings to everybody out there who is going to listen to this podcast interview.   Michael Hingson ** 1:05:39 You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com . AccessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for Listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.

In today's podcast, we connect with Dr. Trina Clayeux, a visionary leader with deep workforce development and mental health expertise. As the CEO of Give an Hour, she draws from decades of executive experience to enhance access to critical mental health services. Her career spans key roles in social impact organizations, higher education, and military support systems – including Chief Operations Officer and director-level positions…  Dr. Clayeux holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University and a Master of Public Administration from Portland State University, along with numerous certifications that highlight her commitment to innovation and service. Her work has earned recognition from national organizations, including the National Association of Development Boards, and she has received the Sailing Award for Leadership Excellence. Give an Hour is a national organization committed to the transformation of mental health by building strong and healthy individuals and communities. Using an innovative approach, they continue to be at the forefront of customized mental health care.  Hit play to explore: The importance of providing mental health support that is accessible and personalized. What the “Give an Hour” concept is, and how it has improved the lives of others.  Why there's a negative stigma associated with mental health, and how to combat it. The biggest barriers that people face when seeking help. You can follow along with Dr. Clayeux's important work with Give an Hour here! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9

John Canzano and Jon Wilner talk about the Pac-12's addition of Gonzaga University. What does it mean? What happens next? Plus, the biggest games of the week and the Mountain West's addition of UTEP. Subscribe to this podcast and share it. • Read John Canzano's work at www.JohnCanzano.com. • Read Jon Wilner's work at www.Pac12Hotline.com via the Bay Area News Group. • Watch the video version of this podcast at www.youtube.com/@CanzanoWilner Follow on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/JohnCanzanoBFT www.Twitter.com/WilnerHotline

In this episode, we talk with Gonzaga University student Will McNaughton about the application process, student life, and, of course, the basketball team; we revisit a previous conversation with chemist Callie Sendek; and we learn all about being an iceberg mover.

Join us today in this conversation with Jeanne Andrus, who has a deep passion for women navigating perimenopause and menopause, as we discuss why it is so important for women to understand about cortisol, how the quality or lack thereof of our sleep is a huge indicator of the health of our hormones, some of the symptoms we may experience as our body is changing, and so much more.  Jeanne, The Menopause Guru has been coaching, writing, and speaking about menopause for over a decade. She's the author of the internationally Best-Selling "I Just Want to Be Me Again!" and the host of the podcast "Menopause Matters." Her approach to resolving menopause symptoms is wildly esoteric, rooted in her own blend of coaching known as Menopause Mastery Coaching, bolstered by hypnotherapy, Reiki, yogic breathwork, and a love for science and anthropology.  If you would like to connect or work with Jeanne you can visit her website https://menopause.guru/ and also check out her podcast, Menopause Matters. You can find Jeanne's book on Menopause Books HERE and also on Amazon.  Are you interested in attending our heart-led and transformative Cast Your Vision, women's retreat this October or joining the 2025 Mastermind? I invite you to book a complimentary 30 minute call with me HERE so we can connect and talk about what you want for your life and business. Do you find yourself unsure or stuck? Connect with Debbie at www.thelituplife.com and schedule a 30 minute clarity call. She can help you become crystal clear about what you do want in your life and help provide tools so you can show up as your best self.  Debbie helps entrepreneurs make a lot of money, doing what they love without sacrificing what's important to them, so they can live the life they desire. She is passionate about helping other entrepreneurs lead their businesses instead of the business running their lives, so they can have their hopes, wishes and dreams come true. She also is an adjunct professor at Gonzaga University.  

Renee Kindler is a Family Nurse Practitioner helping busy women to boost their energy, sleep better, and think more clearly by balancing their nutrients and hormones so they can show up in their life everyday exactly how they want! She is the founder of Aonani Functional Medicine. She earned her MSN from Gonzaga University and is passionate about sharing the tremendous impact of identifying what is disrupting your sleep, making you tired, and stealing your focus. Key Topics: - What cortisol is and why you need it - When cortisol starts working against you - Symptoms of low cortisol and how to test - The cortisol-blood sugar connection - The difference between cortisol and cortisone - Why sleep is so important for managing cortisol - Reasons you're waking up in the middle of the night - The best way to prep for good sleep - How melatonin plays a role in cortisol balance Get Renee's free tips for better sleep handout at https://www.reneekindler.com/sleep Thanks to our sponsors: Factor: Head to Factormeals.com/spark50 and use code spark50 to get 50% off your first box plus 20% off your next month. Seed: Go to seed.com/spark and use code 25spark to get 25% off your first month of Seed's DS-01 Synbiotic.

Renee Kindler is a Family Nurse Practitioner helping busy women to boost their energy, sleep better, and think more clearly by balancing their nutrients and hormones so they can show up in their life everyday exactly how they want! She is the founder of Aonani Functional Medicine. She earned her MSN from Gonzaga University and is passionate about sharing the tremendous impact of identifying what is disrupting your sleep, making you tired, and stealing your focus. Key Topics: - What cortisol is and why you need it - When cortisol starts working against you - Symptoms of low cortisol and how to test - The cortisol-blood sugar connection - The difference between cortisol and cortisone - Why sleep is so important for managing cortisol - Reasons you're waking up in the middle of the night - The best way to prep for good sleep - How melatonin plays a role in cortisol balance Get Renee's free tips for better sleep handout at https://www.reneekindler.com/sleep Thanks to our sponsors: Factor: Head to Factormeals.com/spark50 and use code spark50 to get 50% off your first box plus 20% off your next month. Seed: Go to seed.com/spark and use code 25spark to get 25% off your first month of Seed's DS-01 Synbiotic.

I'm joined by Sarah Bartel, PhD, a moral theologian and Catholic sex and marriage coach, to dive deep into some challenging and enlightening topics about sex and marriage. Sarah and her husband, Nathan, have served thousands of Catholic couples through their CanaFeast online ministry, offering courses like the Abundant Marriage course and the Little Way of Marriage Workshop. In today's episode, we explore Sarah's newest program, My Delight, a course specifically designed to help Catholic married women break free from shame and isolation to develop holy, healthy intimacy with their husbands.We cover a lot in this conversation, including the extremes in thinking about sex, contrasting porn culture with purity culture, and the often misunderstood Catholic teachings on sex. Sarah gives valuable insight into how we can move away from both a 'sex life' mindset and puritanical responses, and instead integrate physical, emotional, and spiritual intimacy as a whole. We also tackle the sometimes awkward but important conversation about addressing spiritual and physical needs in marriage, and why taking time for emotional connection and communication is essential. Whether you're looking for guidance in your own marriage or just wanting to better understand the Church's teachings on sex and intimacy, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice. Don't miss it! GUEST BIO: Dr. Sarah Bartel, PhD, is a Catholic moral theologian and marriage coach who, along with her husband Nathan, runs CanaFeast, an online ministry that has helped thousands of Catholic couples. Based near Seattle, WA, Sarah earned her BA and MA from Gonzaga University and completed her PhD in moral theology from the Catholic University of America. She is the creator of the My Delight course, designed to help Catholic women develop holy, healthy intimacy in marriage. A mother of five, Sarah loves hiking, reading Jane Austen, and feeding her kids salmon. SHOWNOTES: My Delight *FREE* 9 Skills for Holy and Healthy Intimacy: ⁠https://bridgetbusacker.krtra.com/t/LlaWjdw2Gva4⁠ My Delight Waitlist: ⁠https://bridgetbusacker.krtra.com/t/5bd1YpqSHNXc⁠ Cana Feast: https://www.canafeast.com/ MY LINKS: SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: ⁠https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC⁠ 20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: ⁠https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893⁠ 20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: ⁠http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc ⁠10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: ⁠http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility ⁠3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: ⁠hallow.com/managingyourfertility ⁠10% OFF YOUR ORDER AT EMBER CO: ⁠https://www.theember.co/?ref=910⁠ 10% OFF YOUR ORDER AT BE A HEART: ⁠beaheart.com/managingyourfertility ⁠15% OFF YOUR ORDER AT ABUNDANTLY YOURS: ⁠abundantlyyours.org/bridget⁠ 10% OFF YOUR MENTIONABLES ORDER: ⁠https://www.shopmentionables.com/?snowball=FERTILITY10&utm_source=snowball&utm_medium=affiliate-program&utm_campaign=FERTILITY10⁠ DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links, I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

Michael has ran for Gonzaga University in Spokane Washington. Right now, his situation is a bit complicated, living in Salt Lake, but Michael is nonetheless making a huge mark in the sport, with personal bests of 8:14 in the 3000 meters and 14:36 in the 5000 meters. Before Gonzaga, he had a remarkable high school career, including a 12th place finish at the Eastbay National Cross Country Championships and, 2nd at the Brooks PR 3200. Michael also holds a special passion for mountain running, having competed for Team USA in the Mountain Running World Championships twice, in Thailand and Australia. But today is about much more than the times. Michael and I delve into many of the deeper lessons and aspects of life that running is very much connected to: the importance of embracing both good and bad days, how spirituality, his connection with God, and running interconnect for him. Michael also touches on his goals and the broader role of running in life. Whether you are in middle school, high school, college, or a recreational runner, this episode is for you. So many valuable insights. This episode is pure gold and I know that you will enjoy it just as much as I did. Please consider leaving a follow and a five-star review! I hope you all enjoy this episode of The Sunday Shakeout!

Dr. Addy Wissel, award-winning educator, associate professor and director of school counseling at Gonzaga University, and an accomplished speaker joins me on this episode. Topics we cover include Addy's backstory, the impact of burnout, the signs to look out for, strategies for preventing burnout, reclaiming joy, and more. Get connected with Addy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/addy-wissel-7b1194a0/ Leave a 5-star review with a comment on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-minds-coffee-chat/id1539014324  Subscribe to my Business Builder Newsletter: https://bit.ly/32y0YxJ  Want to learn how you can work with me to gain more clarity, build a rock-solid foundation for your business, and achieve the results and success you deserve? Visit http://jayscherrbusinessconsulting.com/ and schedule a 1:1 discovery coaching call. Enjoy, thanks for listening, and please share with a friend!