Podcasts about greater flint

Content Warning: This episode discusses topics related to suicide, self-harm, mental health, gun violence, and death, which may be distressing for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. In honor of Mental Health Month, Philanthropy Speaks presents a powerful conversation featuring CFGF President & CEO Dan Kildee, community advocate and nurse Tarnesa Martin ("Nurse T"), and host Moses Bingham, CFGF Director of Strategic Initiatives. Together, they open up about mental health struggles and the far-reaching impact of gun violence in our community. Dan Kildee shares his personal journey with mental health and how the effects of gun violence have shaped his life, offering insight into the resources and strategies that have supported his healing. Nurse T draws on her experience at Hurley Medical Center, highlighting community mental health trends and professional resources available.  Learn more about the Community Foundation of Greater Flint at cfgf.org and Hurley Medical Center at hurleymc.com. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for a list of additional resources.Support the show

In honor of Arab American Heritage Month, this episode of Philanthropy Speaks features a conversation with Lucine Jarrah, Executive Director of the Arab American Heritage Council (AAHC). Host Sue Peters, Vice President of Community Impact at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, dives into the rich culture, stories, and leadership of the Arab American community in Flint and Genesee County. Lucine shares how her Lebanese heritage shapes her identity and fuels her passion for advocacy, civic engagement, and cultural empowerment. Together, they explore AAHC's ongoing programs—from immigration and language services to educational workshops and the powerful Wujud storytelling podcast. They also highlight the significance of the new Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) category in the U.S. Census and what it means for community resources, equity, and visibility. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Greater Flint at cfgf.org and find out more about the Arab American Heritage Council at aahcflint.org.  Support the show

In this special episode of Philanthropy Speaks, we're celebrating National Reading Month by exploring the role reading plays in strengthening our communities. Host Chakara Wheeler, Program Officer at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, is joined by Susana Quintanilla, the founder and director of El Ballet Folklórico Estudiantil (EBFE). Tune in to hear how EBFE is preserving Mexican culture and empowering children through dance, music, and education, all while promoting literacy initiatives. Susana shares the importance of first-language literacy enrichment through cultural arts, highlights EBFE's Bilingual Book Parade series, and offers her top bilingual book recommendations for Reading Month. Discover how reading, culture, and the arts come together to shape brighter futures for our youth. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Greater Flint at cfgf.org and find out more about El Ballet Folklórico Estudiantil at ebfedance.org. Support the show

In this episode of Philanthropy Speaks, we shine a light on the powerful story of the St. John Street neighborhood, a once-thriving Black community in Flint, Michigan through the lens of the documentary St. John Street: Story of a Neighborhood. This film celebrates the vibrant history and enduring spirit of the St. John Street neighborhood, a once-thriving Black community in Flint. The documentary highlights the neighborhood's rich cultural heritage and the resilience of its residents in the face of urban renewal and the construction of a highway that led to their displacement.  Host Dan Kildee, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, is joined by director and editor Justin Brown, producer Rodney Brown, and St. John Street Historical Committee President James Wardlow. Together, they explore the documentary, the remarkable history of the St. John Street neighborhood, and the importance of preserving and sharing these stories.Tune in to learn more about this community, the impact of urban renewal, and how the St. John Street Memorial Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint is working to honor its legacy. Watch the documentary on WKAR-TV, Michigan State University's PBS station, airing Tuesday, February 4, at 6 p.m., and Thursday, February 6, at 10 p.m. Distributions will expand to PBS stations nationwide and will be available on the PBS streaming application. Learn more:Community Foundation of Greater Flint's TRHT work: cfgf.org/trhtSt. John Street Historical Committee: stjohnstreethistoricalcommittee.comiMichigan Productions: imichiganproductions.orgSupport the show

In this episode of Philanthropy Speaks, we're observing the National Day of Racial Healing through a discussion with local racial healing practitioners. Host Sue Peters, Vice President of Community Impact at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, is joined by Elizabeth Jordan, Patrick McNeal, and Regina Laurie. Tune in to discover how these community members conduct racial healing circles and visioning sessions throughout Flint and Genesee County—and the insights, lessons, and perspectives they've gathered along the way.  Learn more about the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation work, at cfgf.org/trht.  To learn about the National Day of Racial Healing, visit dayofracialhealing.org.  Support the show

In this episode of Philanthropy Speaks, we're highlighting the Sacred Heart Veteran Village—a transitional housing program designed specifically for local veterans. Host Damon Ross, Program Officer at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, is joined by Katie Baxter and Tom Haeussler from Catholic Charities of Shiawassee & Genesee Counties. Tune in to discover how this innovative project will create a community of 24 to 26 small homes, complemented by a Community Veteran Resource Center in Flint, along with other programs provided by Catholic Charities. Learn more about Catholic Charities at catholiccharitiesflint.org, and visit cfgf.org to see how the Community Foundation of Greater Flint is influencing and connecting generosity to Genesee County needs. For good. For ever. For everyone.Support the show

In this special episode of Philanthropy Speaks, we're highlighting Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month. Host Chakara Wheeler, Program Officer at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, is joined by Asa Ascencio Zuccaro. Asa is the Executive Director of Latinx Technology & Community Center, a non-profit organization focused on enhancing the dignity and quality of life for the Flint & Genesee County Latinx community and other cultures.  Tune in to discover how this community-driven organization strengthens cultural pride, provides resources, and offers volunteer and engagement opportunities. Join us as we learn about the importance of supporting Hispanic and Latinx heritage in our community, and how we can all play a part in celebrating these vibrant cultures. Learn more about Latinx Technology & Community Center at latinxflint.org, and visit cfgf.org to see how the Community Foundation of Greater Flint is influencing and connecting generosity to Genesee County needs. For good. For ever. For everyone.Support the show

In this special episode of Philanthropy Speaks, we're highlighting National Literacy Month with an in-depth conversation on the transformative power of literacy in Flint and Genesee County. Host Sue Peters, Vice President of Community Impact at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, is joined by Vincent Slocum, Executive Director of the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network. Together, they explore how raising literacy levels strengthens families, drives community development, and fosters lasting change.Tune in to learn about the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network's innovative two-generational approach to literacy, the challenges they are addressing, and inspiring success stories from the field. Discover how literacy is a key to unlocking economic stability, health, and equity in our region.Learn more about the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network at flintliteracynetwork.org, and visit cfgf.org to see how the Community Foundation of Greater Flint is influencing and connecting generosity to Genesee County needs. For good. For ever. For everyone.Support the show

In this episode of Philanthropy Speaks, Lynn Williams, Director of Equity & Community Engagement of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, sits down with Flint neighborhood advocate Carma Lewis to celebrate Black Philanthropy Month. Carma is a CFGF Board Member, Office Manager for US Representative Dan Kildee, and President of Flint Neighborhoods United. Tune in to discover Lynn and Carma's philanthropic journeys, passion towards Flint and Genesee County, and what inspires them to give back. Learn more about the work of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint at cfgf.org.  Learn more about Flint Neighborhoods United at flintneighborhoodsunited.org. Support the Show.

In this episode of Philanthropy Speaks, Lydia Starrs, Senior Program Officer of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, sits down with Jennifer Silverton and Teresa White, the founders of Xceptional Heroes. These dedicated mothers of young adults with cognitive and intellectual disabilities share their journey of establishing an organization that creates meaningful opportunities throughout Genesee County. Tune in to discover the impactful mission of Xceptional Heroes, the vital resources they provide, and their vision for expanding support and inclusivity in the community.Support the Show.

In this episode of Philanthropy Speaks—Championing Fatherhood, Host Moses Bingham, Director of Strategic Initiatives of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, is joined by Shon Hart and Alan Jordan of InvolvedDad. Explore how Shon Hart founded InvolvedDad, an organization that empowers men to be engaged fathers by providing training, coaching, and peer support in a safe environment. Learn more about the Dialogue Initiative from Alan Jordan, teaching youth about healthy dialogues with their peers, educators, and parents. Listen in to explore fatherhood from the eyes of these Flint fathers and learn more about how InvolvedDad is fostering healthy relationships throughout the community and beyond.   Support the Show.

Join us in this episode of Philanthropy Speaks as we dive into entrepreneurship, social enterprise, and the evolving food scene in Flint, Michigan. Host Damon Ross, Program Officer at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, engages in a captivating dialogue with Tony Vu, the pioneering force behind Flint Social Club. Explore Tony's remarkable journey, from the legacy of his Vietnamese heritage to his pivotal role in nurturing culinary innovation and community empowerment in Flint.Support the Show.

Description: In this episode of Philanthropy Speaks, join us as we delve into the inspiring stories and impactful initiatives of the women from the Flint Area Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. This episode's host Lottie Ferguson, Vice President of Development and Donor Services has a meaningful conversation with her Links sisters Lennetta Coney and Wanda Harden. Discover their motivations, challenges, and successes in giving back to the community through their partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. From the establishment of the Flint Kids Matter Fund to empowering the next generation of female philanthropists, their journey exemplifies the transformative power of philanthropy in Flint and Genesee County, Michigan. Support the show

Brett Hunkins, CFO for the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and Board member for FOAG joins the podcast this week to discuss the impacts of the finance and operations division at at community foundations.  Mentions Include:Brett HunkinsCommunity Foundation of Greater FlintFinance,  Administration and Operations Group (FOAG)Books, Podcast and Music recommendationsThe Fly on the Wall podcastMichael Connolly mysteries Events/Learning OpportunitiesList of All upcoming conferencesMusicThanks to Andy Eppler for our intro MusicThanks to David Cutter Music for "Float Away

Studies prove that success creates success. And nothing exemplifies this than the remarkable come-back story of downtown Flint, Michigan. Greg Fiedler shares the incredible journey from renovating one burned out building to revitalizing the entire downtown Flint Area.Links:Greater Flint Arts Council WebsiteDowntown Flint Festival and Activities Website

I admit every time I hear about Flint, the news is never good. But it's easy to have bad news overshadow all of the great things that are happening in this city. What started as a project to save one building turned into a massive rebuilding effort to revitalize downtown Flint and turn it into a art and cultural center. Greg Fiedler, CEO of the Great Flint Arts Council shares with us what this incredible journey looked like and how the Council is helping many artists through Genesee County to be able to launch their artistic careers.Links Mentioned In the ShowGreater Flint Arts Council WebsiteGFAC Facebook PageWFAH 102.1 FM WebpageFlint Jazz Festival

Mr. Norm Bryant will weave you through the true African American history of Flint Michigan throughout many decades. The founder of the "Greater Flint Afro-American Hall of Fame".  This interview is epic! Mr. Bryant does not hold back he gives you history on our great city like know other. Sit down with your pen and pad because you will definitely be using your Google after this interview. 

Stephanie K and Jay welcome Monica Holmes to the studio.  Monica Holmes is the Safe Places Director for the YMCA of Greater Flint.  Safe Places is a FREE community-based summer and after-school program for all youth grades K-12th. It is offered by the YMCA of Greater Flint at churches and community centers across the city of Flint. Although the program is free, prior registration is required before students can start the session.  For more information visit https://flintymca.com/ 

Welcome to the podcast! In this debut episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, Chair of the Board of Trustees for the American Medical Association. Dr. Mukkamala is a board-certified otolaryngologist in private practice in Flint, MI. He is currently President of the Michigan State Medical Society, past President of the Genesee County Medical Society, former Chair of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, and current board member of the Foundation for Flint. While a wide range of public health issues are important to Dr. Mukkamala, no issue strikes closer to home than his own city of Flint's nationally publicized struggles with high levels of lead leaching into the drinking water. With colleagues and community members, Dr. Mukkamala has been at the forefront of bringing mindfulness to Flint's educational, business, healthcare, and government sectors to help strengthen resilience in this community. In this episode, we speak about Bobby's journey of growing up in Flint and returning to his hometown, why and how mindfulness was introduced to Flint, the mental health benefits of mindfulness, how mindfulness is being implemented in Flint schools, working with resistance and skepticism around mindfulness practice, the parallels between mindfulness and vaccines from a public health perspective, training Flint law enforcement and first responders in mindfulness and stress-management, the friction between mindfulness and religious/personal ideologies, starting a mindfulness initiative in one's own community or business, practicing mindfulness during the Flint water crisis and COVID pandemic, Bobby's story of pretending to be Deepak Chopra when Deepak visited Flint, and more. Plus: Bobby's tips for where to eat in Flint's burgeoning neighborhoods. If you find this content valuable, consider supporting the podcast for as little as $1/month. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow and run ad-free: https://anchor.fm/matthewgoodmanphd/support Matthew S. Goodman, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY32423) and Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and the Behavioral Sciences in the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. He is also a writer and filmmaker. His work can be found here: http://matthewgoodmanphd.com Watch The Middle Way podcast interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmga5Z4JdHziQjtCdnVhYuw --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/matthewgoodmanphd/support

Stephanie K and Jay sit down with Elizabeth Marasco of Kudo's Magazine.  Caregiving can be overwhelming and filled with unknown obstacles, even for the pros.  Elizabeth and Kudo's Magazine provides a great resource for you and caregivers throughout the Greater Flint area.  For more information visit www.facebook.com/kudosmagazine 

Gerald Haan and his daughter Katie join us for a wide ranging conversation about Michigan Lumber old and new. Gerald also shares his views about Flint and its future as well as his interest in building affordable new single family housing in the downtown area. Just beyond the heart of the downtown area, a family-owned business has been working from its original location since its founders came to the Greater Flint are in 1916. Most observers would assume that any business starting about that time would be tied to the booming automobile factories, but this operation contributed not only to the building of Flint's auto manufacturing prominence but to the overall growth of this area as well. Holding the distinction of being the oldest lumber yard in Genesee County, Michigan Lumber Company is continuing to operate under the philosophies established by their forefathers to give their established customers the finest quality lumber products with an underscore of premier service by an exceptionally experienced staff. Situated at 1919 Clifford Street near the intersection of Saginaw and 12th St., this full-line lumber supply house is currently in the working hands of third and fourth generation family members. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/radiofreeflint/message

Local news anchor Joel Feick stepped down from local television news after 35 years. He left familiar seat as "The People's News Anchor". Joel shares stories about his life as a reporter. In this podcast, Joel shares his memories of the characters whom he covered as a journalist. He also shares memories of colleagues and other reporters in the Mid-Michigan area. He worked 27 years for ABC-12 and then 8 years at NBC25/FOX66 where concluded his career in broadcasting. In November 2020, Joel was elected to the Grand Blanc Township Board of Trustees. He is now working for Disability Network of Greater Flint where he is following his passion to help others. In 2005, he won an Emmy Award for Best Consumer News. He won the Emmy for a series of reports on how to insulate a home. Joel has also won UPI and AP Awards along with the National Golden AMI Award. He's enjoyed hundreds of interviews: from President George H.W. Bush to Ernie Harwell. But the ones that brought him the most joy were ones that involved average people in unique situations. Joel was an instructor of Radio Broadcasting at Mott Community College. He's on the board of the Children's Wish Fund of Flint and the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/radiofreeflint/message

This week Stephanie and Jay meet up with Bernie Romain and Brian Cain from the Miracle League of Greater Flint.  The Miracle League of Greater Flint (MLGF) is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to creating opportunities for physical activity for children of all abilities.  The MLGF welcomes all interested individuals to get involved with making this baseball field a reality. If you are interested in helping to raise funds or to volunteer, please contact MLGF at miracleleagueflint@gmail.com  ​

Isaiah Oliver is the President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. In this conversation, Chanda and Isaiah discover that they share similar paths to their roles in philanthropy. They discuss the support systems that help them lead, the national and local issues affecting the work, and how philanthropy needs to evolve to stay relevant and effective.

Isaiah Oliver, CEO , Community Foundation of Greater Flint presents: A Candid COVID Conversation with Black Men Featuring: Dr. Leon McDougle, President, National Medical Association Christopher Burtley, Esq./ Attorney, Foley & Lardner LLP Adrian Walker, Director of Government Affairs & Community Relations, Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce

Many are now asking: what will it take to bring the country together? The Civil Society Fellowship - a partnership of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the Aspen Institute - answers that question by engaging the next generation of community and civic leaders, activists, and problem-solvers across these divisions to build deeper relationships with one another and tackle pressing issues head-on. In this special two-part episode of the Value of Leadership, we talk to two of those Fellows - Jenifer Sarver, Founder of Sarver Strategies in Austin, Texas, and Isaiah Oliver, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint in Michigan. These are two leaders are engaged in very different work. They come from very different parts of the country and hold very different identities. Yet, they've built a relationship of respect and understanding. We caught up with Jenifer and Isaiah after their week-long virtual retreat - called an UnSeminar - with their Civil Society Fellowship class, named “Mission: Redemption”,  and a digital town hall where they engaged with community leaders from across the United States. During the UnSeminar, the Fellows reflected on readings and speeches from leaders of past and present like Martin Luther King Jr. and President Dwight Eisenhower. The experience prompted them to further explore their personal roles in creating a more civil society today. In part two of this conversation, where we talk about how exercising grace and leveraging one's individual power - at any level - can aid in reconciliation to create a better country for all Americans. Jenifer and Isaiah also reflect on what values all Americans still share. Before you jump in, be sure to listen to part one,  listen in on part one to hear how these two leaders came to find friendship and respect for one another and gain insight into how you might do the same with people in your community.--To learn more about the Aspen Global Leadership Network and the work of our Fellows, visit agln.aspeninstitute.org. And explore more episodes of the Value of Leadership here.

Many are now asking: what will it take to bring the country together? The Civil Society Fellowship - a partnership of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the Aspen Institute - answers that question by engaging the next generation of community and civic leaders, activists, and problem-solvers across these divisions to build deeper relationships with one another and tackle pressing issues head-on. In this special two-part episode of the Value of Leadership, we talk to two of those Fellows - Jenifer Sarver, Founder of Sarver Strategies in Austin, Texas, and Isaiah Oliver, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint in Michigan. These are two leaders are engaged in very different work. They come from very different parts of the country and hold very different identities. Yet, they've built a relationship of respect and understanding. We caught up with Jenifer and Isaiah after their week-long virtual retreat - called an UnSeminar - with their Civil Society Fellowship class, named “Mission: Redemption”,  and a digital town hall where they engaged with community leaders from across the United States. During the UnSeminar, the Fellows reflected on readings and speeches from leaders of past and present like Martin Luther King Jr. and President Dwight Eisenhower. The experience prompted them to further explore their personal roles in creating a more civil society today. In part one of this conversation, Jenifer and Isaiah reflect on discovering their commonalities and how lessons from their experience could be a model for how other Americans can find common truth. Could the key be to infuse wonder when we enter into these deeply divided spaces? Go deeper into this conversation with part two, where we talk about how exercising grace and leveraging one's individual power - at any level - can aid in reconciliation to create a better country for all Americans. Jenifer and Isaiah also reflect on what values all Americans still share. --To learn more about the Aspen Global Leadership Network and the work of our Fellows, visit agln.aspeninstitute.org. And explore more episodes of the Value of Leadership here.

We are fortunate to have the CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Flint, Tauzzari Robinson, join us in The Fishbowl. Tauzzari shares with us not only his passion for the work the Boys and Girls Club does, but he gives us some real perspective on how the Boys and Girls Club supports the Flint Community through their work. You won't want to miss this podcast!

Guest Joel Shankster joins us to talk about the Greater Flint running, cycling, and triathlon community, and what it's like to complete a 100 mile race.

Natalie Pruett is an urban economist and strategist. She has ten years of experience blending statistical analysis, institutional insights, and community input to improve the impact and transparency of governments and nonprofits. Natalie’s work centers on urban development, urban resilience, vacant property adaptation, public land management, land banking, and real estate valuation and taxation. She works with an array of government and nonprofit institutions that have included the City of Flint, the Genesee County Land Bank Authority, the Center for Community Progress, the Center for Local Government Finance and Policy at Michigan State University, and the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. Natalie has led the development and implementation of bold plans and programs. In 2013, she was commissioned by the City of Flint to author a five-year blight elimination plan. Much of Natalie’s work is devoted to creating data-driven planning products that prioritize transparency and improving quality of life. She led the development of the Flint Property Portal, an online platform for property information-sharing, which was awarded the international Engaged Cities Award by Cities of Service in 2019. She has authored several policy reports and academic papers, including publications on tax foreclosure, municipal fiscal health monitoring, and community-based greening. Her planning, policy, and research is grounded by extensive experience working with grassroots organizations and community-based groups. Natalie holds a MSc from the London School of Economics and Political Science as well as a BS in Economics and a BA in Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy from the James Madison College at Michigan State University. She is currently completing a PhD in urban economics at the London School of Economics and Political science where her research centers on urban housing and resilience. She is a proud native of Flint, Michigan.

Natalie Pruett is an urban economist and strategist. She has ten years of experience blending statistical analysis, institutional insights, and community input to improve the impact and transparency of governments and nonprofits. Natalie’s work centers on urban development, urban resilience, vacant property adaptation, public land management, land banking, and real estate valuation and taxation. She works with an array of government and nonprofit institutions that have included the City of Flint, the Genesee County Land Bank Authority, the Center for Community Progress, the Center for Local Government Finance and Policy at Michigan State University, and the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. Natalie has led the development and implementation of bold plans and programs. In 2013, she was commissioned by the City of Flint to author a five-year blight elimination plan. Much of Natalie’s work is devoted to creating data-driven planning products that prioritize transparency and improving quality of life. She led the development of the Flint Property Portal, an online platform for property information-sharing, which was awarded the international Engaged Cities Award by Cities of Service in 2019. She has authored several policy reports and academic papers, including publications on tax foreclosure, municipal fiscal health monitoring, and community-based greening. Her planning, policy, and research is grounded by extensive experience working with grassroots organizations and community-based groups. Natalie holds a MSc from the London School of Economics and Political Science as well as a BS in Economics and a BA in Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy from the James Madison College at Michigan State University. She is currently completing a PhD in urban economics at the London School of Economics and Political science where her research centers on urban housing and resilience. She is a proud native of Flint, Michigan.

Natalie Pruett is an urban economist and strategist. She has ten years of experience blending statistical analysis, institutional insights, and community input to improve the impact and transparency of governments and nonprofits. Natalie’s work centers on urban development, urban resilience, vacant property adaptation, public land management, land banking, and real estate valuation and taxation. She works with an array of government and nonprofit institutions that have included the City of Flint, the Genesee County Land Bank Authority, the Center for Community Progress, the Center for Local Government Finance and Policy at Michigan State University, and the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. Natalie has led the development and implementation of bold plans and programs. In 2013, she was commissioned by the City of Flint to author a five-year blight elimination plan. Much of Natalie’s work is devoted to creating data-driven planning products that prioritize transparency and improving quality of life. She led the development of the Flint Property Portal, an online platform for property information-sharing, which was awarded the international Engaged Cities Award by Cities of Service in 2019. She has authored several policy reports and academic papers, including publications on tax foreclosure, municipal fiscal health monitoring, and community-based greening. Her planning, policy, and research is grounded by extensive experience working with grassroots organizations and community-based groups. Natalie holds a MSc from the London School of Economics and Political Science as well as a BS in Economics and a BA in Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy from the James Madison College at Michigan State University. She is currently completing a PhD in urban economics at the London School of Economics and Political science where her research centers on urban housing and resilience. She is a proud native of Flint, Michigan.

Natalie Pruett is an urban economist and strategist. She has ten years of experience blending statistical analysis, institutional insights, and community input to improve the impact and transparency of governments and nonprofits. Natalie’s work centers on urban development, urban resilience, vacant property adaptation, public land management, land banking, and real estate valuation and taxation. She works with an array of government and nonprofit institutions that have included the City of Flint, the Genesee County Land Bank Authority, the Center for Community Progress, the Center for Local Government Finance and Policy at Michigan State University, and the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. Natalie has led the development and implementation of bold plans and programs. In 2013, she was commissioned by the City of Flint to author a five-year blight elimination plan. Much of Natalie’s work is devoted to creating data-driven planning products that prioritize transparency and improving quality of life. She led the development of the Flint Property Portal, an online platform for property information-sharing, which was awarded the international Engaged Cities Award by Cities of Service in 2019. She has authored several policy reports and academic papers, including publications on tax foreclosure, municipal fiscal health monitoring, and community-based greening. Her planning, policy, and research is grounded by extensive experience working with grassroots organizations and community-based groups. Natalie holds a MSc from the London School of Economics and Political Science as well as a BS in Economics and a BA in Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy from the James Madison College at Michigan State University. She is currently completing a PhD in urban economics at the London School of Economics and Political science where her research centers on urban housing and resilience. She is a proud native of Flint, Michigan.

This episode we talk about how our fathers impacted and influenced us as we grew into the women that we are. We also had to pleasure of talking with Isaiah Oliver, President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. Not only is he a phenomenal leader himself, but he talks about the women that shaped him into the man and leader he is today. Isaiah imparts his wisdom & lessons learned that he would share with his 3 daughters. He says what he would TELL HER.

With Covid19 lockdown, some families experiencing a break down in the natural grief process families go through; including not being able to be with loved ones when they die and not being able to host a funeral. This makes it even more challenging for many. Grief comes in many forms. Amy Krug is the Director of Ele's Place of Greater Flint and Genesee County, shares insight to help families during this journey.See comments for a link to the full interview.

Isaiah Oliver is president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, on the Board of Trustees for Central Michigan University and on this episode, Eric Hultgren talks to Isaiah about the art of building community, the luck formula, and work-life balance. We hope you enjoy this second episode as we continue our celebration of Black History Month. 

Isaiah Oliver, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, leads an organization focused on engaging people in philanthropy in Flint and Genesee County, Michigan. In this episode he speaks with Brandon Carr of the Baltimore Ravens and Troy Forte, Executive Director of the Carr Cares Foundation. A graduate of Carman-Ainsworth High School and a product of Flint, MI, Brandon Carr always knew he wanted to give back. Together with Troy, they share their passion and commitment for Flint and how they use their platform to support education, entrepreneurship and cancer care. If you want to learn more about the Carr Cares Foundation and support the great work they are doing, visit www.CarrCares.org. For more information about the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and support the work happening in Flint & Genesee County visit www.cfgf.org.Support the show (https://cfgf.org/cfgf/DonorsAdvisors/Donors/GivingOpportunities/tabid/728/Default.aspx)

Isaiah Oliver, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, leads an organization focused on engaging people in philanthropy in Flint and Genesee County, Michigan. In this podcast he speaks with Dr. Gale Christopher, racial healer, holistic doctor, and architect of the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) initiative taking place in Flint and 13 other communities across the United States. TRHT is a comprehensive, national and community-based process launched by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Dr. Christopher describes “the why” behind TRHT and what communities can do to address the contemporary effects of racism.If you’d like to learn more about the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation initiative, visit their website here: https://www.wkkf.org/what-we-do/racial-equity/truth-racial-healing-transformation. If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Gail Christopher, you can visit her website at http://drgailcchristopher.comTo support the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation Fund of the CFGF, give at www.cfgf.org.Support the show (https://cfgf.org/cfgf/DonorsAdvisors/Donors/GivingOpportunities/tabid/728/Default.aspx)

For the newest Denver Nuggets Daily Podcast, T.J. McBride had a special guest. Denver Nuggets backup point guard Monte Morris joined the show to talk about his hometown of Flint, Michigan and the water crisis that his old neighborhood is currently enduring. Throughout the podcast, Morris discussed the water crisis, how he has been able to assist his community (so far), how the water crisis is hurting children more than anyone else, and how nothing has been done to solve the issue even after nearly five years of unusable and undrinkable water. If you are looking for a way to donate, support, or help fund people who are trying to make a difference in Flint as the community suffers through this water crisis, here are a few ways to do so: Reach out to the Flint Water Fund to donate money to supply residents with clean bottled water. The Convoy of Hope is another charitable organization that takes donations that they then use to supply the city of Flint with clean water. As Morris said in the interview, it is children who are usually most affected by the water crisis in Flint. You can donate to Save the Children or the Community Foundation of a Greater Flint which are organizations that specifically look to help educate and help kids in the area.

Pastor Tony Umber

One year after the Flint water crisis, we look at how philanthropy responded, how it can better serve its communities, and what it needs to know about Flint in the decades ahead. Isaiah Oliver of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint joins us.

The Contamination of Flint's Water, the Plight of Undocumented Immigrants and Emergency Financial Managers in Michigan.Discussion with San Juana "Juani" Olivares on the water supply in Flint, Michigan, which had its water contaminated by lead, bacteria and carcinogenic disinfection byproducts with a focus on the particular effects on the non-English speaking Hispanic-Latino community and undocumented immigrants, who were and still are the worst affected. Juani is the first President of the Genesee County Hispanic Latino Collaborative which serves the immigrant Hispanic-Latino communities of Flint and surrounding Genesee County. She is also the President of the Hispanic Technology and Community Center of Greater Flint, a committee member for Small Neighborhood Grants at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and a board member of Michigan Alianza Latina para Mejoramiento y Avance (MiALMA). POST SCRIPT: While this interview concerns Flint, Michigan, many municipalities in the United States expose the population to harmful concentrations of lead through contaminated drinking water, paint and soil and require major infrustructure improvements to alleviate this crisis. For More Info:https://www.crowdrise.com/watercrisisinflinthttp://www.gchlc.org/http://flintwaterstudy.orghttps://www.c-span.org/video/?404078-1/hearing-contaminated-drinking-water-flint-michiganhttp://www.ecowatch.com/these-33-cities-cheated-on-lead-contamination-tests-similar-to-flint-m-1891160461.htmlhttps://www.edf.org/health/lead-pipes-threat-kids-across-americahttp://www.oregonlive.com/education/index.ssf/2016/06/dozens_of_portland_schools_had.htmlhttp://www.motherjones.com/environment/2016/02/flint-lead-poisoning-america-toxic-crisishttps://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/2631/texthttps://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/114/s2588/summaryhttp://www.un.org/waterforlifedecade/human_right_to_water.shtml

Disclosure: this is not one of our "normal" episodes, but we couldn't possibly be happier...or more proud...of how it all came together and turned out.  The Flint Water Crisis is something that we've all heard about on the news, or read about online, or caught conversations about it at the office...but there's a lot we don't know.  A LOT.  Your most important takeaway?  Get yourself to www.FlintKids.org and donate. More than anything else, last night really hammered home for us exactly how insidious and widespread this problem is.  And how long the problem was silently ignored and brushed under who knows how many rugs and buried in an unknown number of inboxes.  Not to mention the ripple effect that nobody's talking about yet, or how far-reaching these issues are going to remain in people's lives... Our first segment was business as usual...news, events and information that caught our eyes over the past week, but then we dove right into the Flint situation. In fact, things went a little differently than normal tonight.  Instead of our normal four segments, we let the middle two run long and so we've got a three segment show for you to listen to, and it's jammed full of information. But again, your most important takeaway is to get yourself over to http://www.FlintKids.org and donate. A huge thank you to Russ Dotson for helping us pull this episode together, as well as to our other in-studio guests: Kathi Horton, President of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint; Dr Martin Kaufman from the University of Michigan; and lifelong Flint resident Rob Kanous. One more time - http://www.FlintKids.org.  Get there. [soundcloud url="https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/246242361" params="color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false" width="100%" height="166" iframe="true" /] IT in the D On the web: http://www.ITinTheD.com On Meetup: http://www.meetup.com/ITintheD/ On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/IT-in-D-91763 On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ITintheD On Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ITintheD Podcast Detroit is at: On the web: http://www.podcastdetroit.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PodcastDetroit On Twitter: https://twitter.com/PodcastDetroit On Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/podcastdetroit