Podcasts about gutsy

Imagine a place that dares to speak truths many are afraid to say. A place that celebrates communities too often forgotten and tells the stories rarely heard.  Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff sits down with Raymond O. Caldwell, Artistic Director, and Johannah Maynard Edwards, Managing Director, of The Fountain Theatre — a nonprofit performing arts organization in Hollywood, California, that has been producing bold, socially conscious theater for 35 years. Raymond and Johannah share how they found each other through what Johannah calls a "cosmic poof," how they're navigating the transition from the theater's founding leadership into a new generation, and why they believe cultural institutions must serve as places to practice humanity in a post-pandemic world. From the Living Ticket model that removes price barriers to community dramaturgy that develops new plays inside faith communities and neighborhoods across Los Angeles, this conversation is a masterclass in mission-driven, human-centered arts leadership. Founded in 1990 by Deborah Culver and Stephen Sachs, The Fountain Theatre was created as a creative home for artists from diverse cultural backgrounds. Its mission is to develop and present bold new plays and unique interpretations of established works that reflect the cultural richness and social issues of contemporary Los Angeles and the nation. The Fountain Theatre has built a reputation over more than three decades for producing thought-provoking performances and supporting voices that may not always be heard on traditional stages. The organization is also known for presenting flamenco performances and running educational outreach programs that connect young people and communities to the arts. Johannah Maynard Edwards, Managing Director Prior to joining The Fountain, Johannah served as Executive Artistic Director of the National Women's Theater Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she produced, directed, and championed hundreds of productions by artists of underrepresented genders. A nationally recognized leader in arts accessibility, Johannah received the Kennedy Center's LEAD Award for Emerging Leaders and is Chief Ambassador for PAAL, the Parent Artist Advocacy League. She is passionate about developing new sociopolitical work and fostering equitable, inclusive spaces for artists and audiences alike. Raymond O. Caldwell, Artistic Director Prior to The Fountain, Raymond was the Artistic Director at Washington DC's Theater Alliance for six seasons, where he directed, developed, and produced socially conscious, thought-provoking programming that transformed the region and had a global impact. Under his leadership, Theater Alliance was chosen to lead an American Arts Envoy with the U.S. Department of State. He devised and directed new work with 23 artists and activists from Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and the United States exploring what inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility mean on the global stage. Raymond was a faculty member and resident director at Harvard University's Department of Theater Arts, holds an MFA in Acting and New Play Development from Ohio State University, and a BFA in Acting from the University of Florida. Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff is the host of Small and Gutsy, a podcast spotlighting nonprofits and social enterprises with budgets under $10 million. Small and Gutsy has been ranked number 8 on Feedspot's Top 30 Social Impact Podcasts and number 3 and number 9 by Million Podcasts for the Top 30 Volunteer Podcasts and Youth Empowerment episodes, respectively. - The founding mission of The Fountain Theatre and its 35-year history of producing socially conscious work - How Raymond and Johannah found each other and transitioned into leadership from the theater's founders - Raymond's personal journey from Germany to the U.S., from actor to artistic director, and the mentor who told him "Don't wait for someone to give you a story — go make your own" - Johannah founded her first nonprofit at age 19 at NYU and her philosophy of not waiting for gatekeepers to open the gate - The creation of "Poetry for the People," a play about poet and activist June Jordan, developed over three years and three iterations with playwright Adrienne Torf - How The Fountain Theatre responds to the cultural moment with every production — from the LA fires to ICE enforcement to the situation in Iran - The pandemic of loneliness and the role of cultural institutions as places to practice humanity - Audience cultivation and the challenge of building new, multigenerational audiences in a distracted digital age - Community dramaturgy — developing new plays inside faith communities and neighborhoods across Los Angeles - The Living Ticket model — transparent pricing that trusts audiences to name what they can pay - The Fountain Voices summer education program connects young people with volunteerism, civic engagement, and playwriting - The expansion into flamenco and classical Indian dance programming - Storytelling as a tool for community building - Emergent strategy and the philosophy of critical connection over critical mass - Moving at the pace of humanity as a leadership philosophy - The reveal that The Fountain Theatre operates with a staff of five HOW TO FIND THE FOUNTAIN THEATRE Website: FountainTheatre.com Follow The Fountain Theatre on social media for upcoming productions, events, and community programming. HOW TO CONNECT WITH SMALL & GUTSY Website: SmallandGutsy.org Email: Laura@SmallandGutsy.org Know a nonprofit or social enterprise doing incredible work? Send them our way.

Jeremy and Joe analyze Jalen Brunson's resilient performance in the Knicks' win before transitioning to the Buffalo Sabres' offseason goalie situation. They weigh the merits of sticking with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen versus pursuing a trade for Connor Hellebuyck. The conversation also explores the criteria for Coach of the Year and MVP awards. 01:04 - Brunson's Gutsy Return 03:42 - Sabres Ticket Sales 04:19 - Sabres Goaltending Debate 09:44 - Awards Criteria Discussion 12:27 - Worst NHL Team Project

L.A./CA primaries. Self-responsibility. Austin Metcalf case. Ruby Bridges & Integration. Making women a false god. Adults living with parents.

Craig Albernaz brought Adley Rutschman off the bench in place of Sam Basallo in the 9th inning last night. Would you have made the same call?

In this vibrant and candid conversation, Liz Theresa welcomes Laura Aura, a powerhouse speaker, coach, and former branding agency owner, to the show. Laura shares her journey from 18 years in the branding world to pivoting into coaching and public speaking—telling the story of how Laura Aura became not just a catchy name, but an embodiment of her authentic and electric self.Laura and Liz dive deep into the emotional side of running and shifting businesses, the power of personal branding (and trademarks!), and the importance of celebrating your whole self—quirks and all. Laura opens up about the challenges and freedom that came with selling her agency and commercial building, experiencing grief, and discovering fulfillment in her new speaking and coaching career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we are joined by James Duke, Joel has called in sick so James is here to step up! We discuss the Jeckyll and Hyde of NMFC's performance, what should we take seriously and what should we move on from?Follow the socials to get your thoughts read out on the podcast!Instagram: @furthernorthpodFacebook: Further North PodcastEmail: furthernorthpod@gmail.comTikTok: @furthernorthpodLeave a 5 star review on Apple or Spotify, you the real MVP! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gutsy Grief: Turning Loss Into Self-Discovery Grief doesn't always look like loss through death. For those who love someone struggling with addiction, grief can show up in quieter, more complicated ways — grieving the person who is still here but not fully present, grieving broken trust, lost time, and the life you thought you would have. In this deeply honest and meaningful conversation, Andrea is joined by John Jeff Hutter, author of Gutsy Grief: Turning Loss Into Self-Discovery. Together, they explore the reality that grief is not linear, not tidy, and not something to “get over.” Instead, grief can be something we learn to walk with — and even something that invites us into deeper self-discovery. John Jeff brings both lived experience and academic insight through his Master's in Happiness Studies, sharing a grounded and compassionate perspective on what it means to navigate loss and rebuild yourself in the aftermath. This episode is especially meaningful for anyone who: Loves someone with an addiction Feels the ongoing grief of “losing” someone who is still alive Is navigating emotional exhaustion, confusion, or heartbreak Is ready to move from survival toward healing and self-reconnection In This Episode, We Explore: Why grief doesn't follow stages, timelines, or predictable patterns The concept of grieving someone who is still alive Letting go of guilt around your grief The emotional toll of repeated losses in addiction How to hold both hope and heartbreak at the same time Reclaiming your identity after losing yourself in someone else's struggle What it means to have agency in the aftermath of loss Turning grief into a path of self-discovery and growth A Message for You If you're listening and feeling the weight of loving someone with an addiction, please know this: Your grief is real. Your experience matters. And you are allowed to take care of yourself, too. Get the Book You can find Gutsy Grief: Turning Loss Into Self-Discovery by John Jeff Hutter wherever books are sold. This is more than a book — it's a companion for anyone learning how to live with loss and still move forward with intention and strength. Stay Connected with Andrea Explore more support, resources, and conversations at: https://linktr.ee/Andreaseydel www.savingyouiskillingme.com

Here's something to celebrate: tonight - and for the next several months, at least - the astounding Amber Gray will be leading “The Time Warp” at Studio 54 in Roundabout Theatre Company's revival of Richard O'Brien's ‘The Rocky Horror Show.' We speak with Gray about her affinity for freaks and weirdos, longtime love of Rocky Horror, how she found her voice in 'Comet,' and what it felt like when the 'Warriors' asked her to come out and play.

In this episode, I'm joined by Amber Jay (aka The Gutsy CEO) for a bold, honest conversation about ambition, motherhood, and what it really means to trust your gut unapologetically.So many of us have been sold the idea that Motherhood means losing ourselves or needing to shrink down our dreams.But Amber challenges all of that - and then some!!Amber is a brand and business mentor who helps women trust their gut, take bold action, and build businesses that actually mean something.During this conversation Amber shares her journey of building a thriving, heart-led business alongside raising her 2 young daughters (her youngest was 7 months old at the time of recording!)And she has done that NOT by pushing harder or burning out, but by trusting her gut, questioning the narratives she'd been handed, and choosing a different way.This is a conversation about courage, self-trust, and rewriting the rules where we explore...What it really looks like to build a business alongside raising children - not in spite of it…Why “it's not the right time” is often just a story we've been taught to believe…And how learning to trust your gut might be the most powerful thing you ever do.If you've ever felt torn between your ambition and your role as a mother, or questioned whether you're “allowed” to want more…Then this episode is your reminder that YOU DON'T HAVE TO CHOOSE!HAPPY LISTENING - and maybe take this as your nudge to be a little more gutsy!MORE ABOUT AMBER:•Visit Amber's website HERE•Follow Amber on Instagram HEREABOUT YOUR HOST - Tamsin WilliamsonI'm Tamsin - Identity & Life Coach for ambitious women ready to redefine life beyond motherhood.I'm here for the woman who's done letting Motherhood be the whole story, and who is ready to reclaim her “main-character energy” and take up space in her own life again.If you're wondering ‘Is this REALLY as good as it gets?' and you're ready to reclaim ownership of your life and self in your OWN right, then I'm here to help you step into that next evolution YOUR way.Want to explore working with me?Find out about my signature coaching and mentorship programme, The Gateway >> HEREFind out about my 90-minute Springboard Session Experience >> HEREBook a FREE 30-min discovery call with me to explore working together >> HEREDownload my FREE GUIDE - 'Claim Your Comeback' >> HEREWelcome to Do Your Thing - a bold, beautiful celebration of modern Motherhood, on YOUR terms.Hosted by Tamsin Williamson, The Identity & Self-Leadership Coach for Ambitious Women Ready To Redefine Life Beyond Motherhood.Every week, join me for open and unfiltered conversations with awe-inspiring women (who also happen to be mothers) about how they do their thing - in life, work and everything in between.Together, let's throw out the rule book, shed expectations and shine a light on just how varied and vibrant modern motherhood can be. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff sits down with Tarik Kitson, Executive Director and co-founder of Active Plus NYC, to discuss how a chance volunteering opportunity in East Harlem evolved into a transformative nonprofit serving thousands of underserved youth across New York City. Active Plus provides free fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, and leadership programs to children and teens ages 5-18 who lack access to quality physical education and wellness resources. THE ORIGIN STORY Tarik, a former collegiate athlete with a background in health and fitness, started visiting a middle school in East Harlem on Saturday mornings to volunteer with students. What he discovered was shocking: children weren't getting recess, physical education classes had over 50 students, and there were no after-school sports programs. A consistent group of 30 kids showed up every Saturday morning hungry for structured activity and mentorship. When the school invited Tarik and his co-founder back the following fall, they launched after-school programs in football, soccer, basketball, and volleyball. Local news coverage of their work sparked interest from other schools and community organizations, and Active Plus was officially born in 2013. THE GAPS THEY'RE FILLING Active Plus addresses multiple critical needs in underserved communities. In New York City's massive public school system of over one million students, many neighborhoods lack adequate physical education, mentorship, and guidance on health and wellness. Additionally, school curricula often don't include nutrition education, leaving elementary-aged children who buy their own food at delis and corner stores without knowledge of healthy choices. The organization also recognized the need for mindfulness and emotional wellness programming years before the city mandated it in schools. COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMMING MODEL Active Plus operates a multilayered approach that goes far beyond athletics. Their programs include physical fitness activities like basketball, dance, yoga, running, boxing, and calisthenics; mindfulness and emotional wellness through meditation and stress management; nutrition education for kids and families; and leadership and life skills development. They deliver these services directly to students in schools, parks, housing developments, and community centers across all five boroughs, rather than requiring kids to come to a facility. This go-to-the-community model ensures accessibility for the most underserved youth. THE FAMILY FLAVORS PROGRAM Tarik's favorite initiative is Family Flavors, a nutrition and cooking program that engages families together. This program has proven remarkably effective at drawing parents to school events—something traditional parent-teacher conferences often fail to do. When families cook together and learn about nutrition, they take that knowledge home and can replicate it, creating lasting behavioral change across households. RECESS AS AN ENTRY POINT The most requested program by school principals is Active Plus's structured recess programming. In New York City schools with limited outdoor space and over 100 kids at recess, unstructured free play often leads to chaos and injury. By providing trained, structured activities during recess time, Active Plus solves a major operational problem for schools while getting kids moving and building healthy habits. SCALING WITHOUT LOSING QUALITY Tarik emphasizes that the organization's growth from serving 30 kids to nearly 3,000 annually came from deliberately building infrastructure. He highlights the critical mistake many nonprofit founders make: trying to do everything themselves. Active Plus grew when Tarik and his co-Founder focused on building a strong board of directors with specialized committees for programming, marketing, finance, and fundraising. They treat the nonprofit like a business, recognizing that nonprofits generate income through multiple streams—grants, donations, volunteers, and sponsorships. MENTORSHIP ACROSS GENERATIONS A unique strength of Active Plus is how they leverage older youth as mentors. High school students from the neighborhoods where programs operate serve as summer camp instructors, coaches, and role models for younger children. This creates natural peer mentorship, makes younger kids feel safer, and provides meaningful employment and internship opportunities for teens. Several alumni have gone on to successful careers—including one former youth coach who is now a lawyer but still volunteers with the organization. DISRUPTING CYCLES OF CRIME AND GANG INVOLVEMENT Active Plus strategically uses its programs to reclaim community spaces and provide alternatives to gang involvement. When a new basketball court was installed in a housing project but became a site of crime and drug use, Active Plus activated it with structured programming and recruited high school youth from the neighborhood to participate. This created a safe, supervised space for younger children. Their "Heal Our Youth" program combines restorative justice practices with mindfulness and physical activity specifically for high school students ages 15-18, addressing trauma and building resilience. THE PUBLIC HEALTH PERSPECTIVE With a master's degree in public health from Columbia University, Tarik approaches youth wellness holistically. He advocates in Albany and works with government officials to highlight gaps in services and push for policy change. He's been surprised to discover that many elected officials aren't fully aware of conditions in their own districts, underscoring the importance of nonprofits doing advocacy work and holding government accountable. EXPANSION BEYOND NEW YORK Active Plus has recently expanded beyond New York City's five boroughs to Connecticut and Nevada. They partner with the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, providing sports science activations that blend basketball with STEM education. This national expansion demonstrates the scalability of their model and video-based curriculum. WHAT MAKES THEM GUTSY Tarik identifies Active Plus's gutsy nature as their refusal to accept the status quo and their vocal advocacy on behalf of underserved youth. Despite receiving a $1 million Department of Justice grant to research their programs, the grant was cancelled by those who question the organization's approach. Yet Tarik continues to speak up about systemic failures and champion evidence-based solutions. HOW TO GET INVOLVED Active Plus is actively seeking board members to fuel continued growth and expansion. The organization welcomes supporters from anywhere, not just New York City. To learn more or inquire about board opportunities: Social Media: Active Plus NYC Website: www.activeplus-nyc.org Email: TKitson@activeplus-nyc.org KEY TAKEAWAYS The power of organic grassroots organizing when you witness a real need. How proper infrastructure and delegation multiply nonprofit impact. Why mentorship and role modeling are irreplaceable in youth development. How holistic wellness programming addresses not just physical health but mental health, nutrition, and life skills. The critical importance of advocacy in creating systemic change. Why treating nonprofits as businesses—with committees, multiple revenue streams, and strategic planning—enables sustainable growth. Small & Gutsy Mission Small & Gutsy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit podcast spotlighting nonprofits and social enterprises with budgets under $10 million. The show elevates the visibility of small but mighty changemakers doing bold, passionate, and impactful work. Small & Gutsy has been ranked #8 on FeedSpot's Top 30 Social Impact Podcasts and #9 by Million Podcasts for Youth Empowerment episodes. Do you know a nonprofit doing incredible work? If you know of a nonprofit or social enterprise making a real impact, nominate them to be featured on Small & Gutsy. Contact Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff at laura@smallandgutsy.org. Check out other episodes of Small & Gutsy at SmallAndGutsy.org.    

FC Dallas' long winless run in Seattle continued Saturday with a 2-1 loss against the Sounders featuring a heavily rotated Dallas lineup. Sam, Ryan, and Steve break down what felt like progress even in defeat, something happening for the first time since 2024, and who earned themselves a move up the roster ladder with their performances at Lumen Field.This program originally aired on the FC Dallas Radio Network on April 25th, 2026. 

WGR Sabres beat reporter Paul Hamilton recaps Buffalo's win Thursday night in Boston.

Author and presenter Melissa Leong spills her Guts on her life in food; Dr Jen sets us up for a scientifically good day; the team go big on small talk; award-winning writer Melissa Manning takes the leap with her debut novel, Frogsong; and Bron makes an appearance on the apps. With presenters Daniel Burt, Monique Sebire & Bronwyn Kuss.Website: https://www.rrr.org.au/explore/programs/breakfasters/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Breakfasters3RRRFM/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakfasters/

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a textJohnny is back (basically a co-host at this point) for a  recap from the 130th running of the Boston Marathon. We go deep on everything: training, travel chaos, race weekend energy, my live show with Jeff Cunningham, and of course, the races themselves. Johnny took a bold swing on the early downhills and paid for it with a tough second half, while I ran entirely on effort—no watch—and somehow managed to hit every goal, including a Boston Qualifier. It's a long one (2:40—same as Johnny's finish time), a little emotional, and very much a time capsule of a weekend we won't forget.Connect with Johnny:Instagram: @bestjohnnyeverPrevious podcast appearance discussedEP 279: Reflecting on the Season of Deep ConversationsEP: 271: The Marathon Project: PBs, DNFs & Perspective Connect with Carolyn:Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffinYou can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com. 

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff sits down with Masha Merkulova, founder of CLUB Z, a national organization dedicated to educating and empowering Jewish teens to become articulate, knowledgeable leaders and advocates for themselves, Israel, and the Jewish people. Masha shares her remarkable personal journey from discovering her Jewish identity at age 16 in the Soviet Union to founding an organization that now serves over 200 students across the San Francisco Bay area, Boston, the tri-state area, and beyond.   Who Is CLUB Z? CLUB Z is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a network of educated, articulate Jewish teen activists with a commitment to Zionism. CLUB Z's mission is to raise modern-day Zionists who are knowledgeable leaders, equipped to advocate for themselves, Israel, and the Jewish people while addressing issues of bigotry and antisemitism head-on. The organization operates two primary programs. Basic Training is an entry-level monthly session covering foundational knowledge: Jewish peoplehood, Jewish indigeneity, Jewish rights, and Jewish power. There are zero prerequisites—students simply need to show up once a month and learn. These sessions are separated by age group, with eighth and ninth graders together, and tenth through twelfth graders together, allowing for appropriate peer bonding and connection across different schools in the area. For students ready to go deeper, CLUB Z offers Sacred, a formalized two-year advanced program that combines rigorous academic study with practical leadership development. Participants meet every other week for three-hour sessions where they build on foundational knowledge while developing debate skills, presentation abilities, public speaking confidence, and personal writing proficiency. The curriculum covers Jewish history, Israel history, and professional development—skills that have largely disappeared from traditional schools but remain essential for navigating the world. Masha's Origin Story Masha Merkulova's journey to founding CLUB Z began in the Soviet Union, where Jewish identity wasn't something you could openly celebrate. Born to a Jewish mother and Russian father, Masha discovered she was Jewish at age 16 when a passport office bureaucrat casually informed her that despite her Russian nationality on every school roster, her mother's name—Riva, daughter of Levi—made her Jewish. The revelation was stunning but detached. She knew it as a nationality, nothing more, with no concept that Jewish people faced discrimination or persecution. When she encountered antisemitism, she simply gave it back. It ended there. Everyone moved on. What Masha inherited instead was her Soviet upbringing's deep commitment to justice and her mother's quiet, unwavering knowledge of who she was. When the Soviet Union began to crumble, she explored Christianity out of curiosity rather than conviction, but that exploration revealed how disconnected she was from any spiritual identity. It wasn't until Masha moved to America and her son began attending a Jewish day school that she started genuinely learning what it meant to be Jewish. Then came 2005. While living in California, Masha began watching YouTube videos of Israel's Gaza disengagement—something that would forever change her trajectory. She watched Jews in blue hats dragging out Jews in orange hats or regular clothes. Both were crying. And Masha recognized something that stopped her cold: "What I am watching is a pogrom." Her Soviet identity, trained to recognize injustice and respond, clicked into place. She dove into education—every event, every book, everything she could access about Israel and Jewish history. And once you learn the story of Israel and how miraculous it is, Masha explains, you can't look back. For her, Zionism wasn't a slogan or a political buzzword. It was a movement of justice, a response to centuries of exclusion and persecution, a restoration of balance. Something happened to the Jewish people 2,000 years ago, and they never gave up. They never agreed to disappear. And now, with the restoration of Israel, the justice had been restored. Why CLUB Z Exists Years of volunteering in the San Francisco Bay Area, funding pro-Israel events on college campuses, gave Masha a front-row seat to a troubling pattern. She kept encountering bright Jewish students—kids who had attended Jewish high schools, gone to Israel, been part of youth groups and summer camps, received extensive Jewish education. And yet they didn't know basic facts. They couldn't explain the difference between the Independence War and the Six-Day War. They didn't understand what Zionism actually was. They had no foundational history. At the same time, Masha was watching something worse: these same educated Jewish students were being turned into anti-Israel advocates. Their reasoning was heartbreaking in its simplicity: "I didn't know Palestinians were suffering. I didn't know there were all these people." They had been given no context, no counter-narrative, no inoculation against the compelling stories being told to them on campus. Masha realized the solution wasn't to react after the damage was done. Prevention was cheaper and more effective. Why weren't we telling young Jews what the other side was saying? Why weren't we preparing them with information, context, and historical understanding? Why weren't we teaching them about the Palestinian narrative itself so they could understand what others believed and why? She began looking around the Jewish community in San Francisco for an organization doing this work. Federation. JCC. Hebrew schools. Nobody was having these conversations. The status quo was simply accepting that Hebrew schools would hire whoever was willing to take the job for minimum pay—no standards, no accountability, no meaningful education. Masha decided she couldn't accept that anymore. From Three Boys to 200 Students It started with her son bringing three of his friends together. Three boys. Masha began teaching them using a curriculum called "Israel and Jewish Identity" that she'd come into possession of—a framework that literally connected Jewish identity, Jewish peoplehood, and Zionism as three interconnected pillars. This became the foundation of everything CLUB Z would build. Word of mouth spread. Kids wanted more. They asked to meet bi-weekly instead of monthly. Then more frequently. Masha worked with a local JCC that had a beautiful Teen Center with no programming, and they welcomed CLUB Z to use the space. What started as an informal gathering evolved into something more intentional and structured. Today, CLUB Z operates across multiple cities with approximately 200 students currently enrolled (numbers fluctuate—last year they served over 400). The organization has grown because it fills a void that no other institution is addressing: the need for comprehensive, honest Jewish education that equips teens not just with information, but with confidence, community, and the tools to stand tall in their identity. What Makes It Gutsy CLUB Z is gutsy because it goes against the grain of everything in the current Jewish institutional landscape. Its very existence is a reminder that what we have right now doesn't work. By design, the organization is pushing back against systems that have failed to prepare Jewish youth, against narratives that have been allowed to go unchallenged, against the idea that teens should shrink from their identity instead of claiming it with pride. But CLUB Z is also gutsy in how it trusts young people. The organization believes that teens can handle complexity, nuance, and difficult conversations. They can learn about Palestinian narratives while maintaining their own. They can understand historical grievances and moral arguments. They can debate respectfully without compromising their beliefs. They can recognize propaganda without becoming cynical. And they can do all of this while maintaining their humanity and sense of humor. Perhaps most gutsy of all is CLUB Z's commitment to showing up for students when it matters most. When a student calls with a problem at school, CLUB Z doesn't just offer advice—they strategize with parents, connect families to legal resources if needed, and stay involved through resolution. When alumni face antisemitism on college campuses, CLUB Z is there. When a resolution against Israel comes up for a student government vote, CLUB Z has trained students to be in those spaces ahead of time, ready to speak up. The organization has built a safety net, and students know it exists. Teaching in a World of Misinformation One of CLUB Z's most critical functions is teaching students to recognize and counter propaganda. In a world saturated with misinformation, deepfakes, and algorithmically-driven content, young people need media literacy skills that go far beyond any single issue. CLUB Z teaches students to ask: Who are the reliable sources? How do you fact-check? What makes something intellectually dishonest? For example, when a student encounters an AP exam question asking them to calculate how Israeli bombing has affected global warming in Gaza, they need more than outrage. They need to articulate exactly why that framing is intellectually dishonest, why it's propaganda, and what the actual facts are. They need to respond professionally and factually, not emotionally. The organization partners with CAMERA (Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis) and maintains connections to sources in Israel and international media. In sessions, educators help students evaluate what's real and what's not. Students can post questions in private groups and get immediate feedback from educators and peers. And every single session opens with "what's happening in the news," allowing older students to help younger ones develop critical thinking skills in real time. The Power of Intentional Community One of the biggest surprises Masha has encountered is how little it takes to help a young person rise up—but how essential it is that the support be intentional. CLUB Z isn't just "come learn, go do." It's a community that says: we have your back. If you call us, we will be there to catch you. This matters immensely during the vulnerable teenage years. When a student faces an incident at school, they often call CLUB Z educators before they call their parents. Educators then work with families to make a plan before escalating to the school or other authorities. For college-aged alumni, the support continues. Students know they can reach out to their regional educator when they need guidance, when they face antisemitism, or when they need to make a strategic move. Masha is clear about why this matters: if you know you're going to stick your neck out, you don't want to be left hanging by a thread. Young people need to know that taking a risk doesn't mean being abandoned. Building Trust Through Transparency CLUB Z has also discovered the power of keeping parents informed and engaged. After each session, parents receive a detailed email summarizing everything discussed, including links to all videos shown and a series of 3-5 discussion questions designed to spark conversation at home. This seemingly simple practice has profound effects. Parents aren't left wondering what their teens are learning. They can have informed conversations at the dinner table. They understand the context and nuance their teens are being taught. If a teen comes home with questions or concerns, parents are equipped to respond thoughtfully. And if parents need support, they know they can call an educator to discuss how to handle a situation together. Dr. Laura notes during the episode that this creates a beautiful feedback loop: teens can go home knowing their parents understand what they're learning. They don't have to fear that their parent will overreact or dismiss their concerns. And that open communication, that sense of being supported at home and in the organization, fundamentally changes how young people navigate their identity and advocacy. Looking Forward When asked what's at the top of her wish list for CLUB Z, Masha doesn't say funding (though like all nonprofits, they need resources). She says people. She needs educators who are articulate, educated, and willing to invest their souls into these teens. It's not a typical teaching job. It requires presence, commitment, and a genuine belief in the work. She also wants the broader Jewish community—the legacy organizations, the philanthropists, the adult leaders—to wield their power on behalf of the next generation. Instead of allowing others to define Jewish terms and Jewish identity, instead of remaining silent while narratives go unchallenged, Masha wants to see adults step up and protect the space for young Jews to claim their identity with pride. But perhaps the most poignant wish Masha articulates is simpler: she wants American Jews to understand that no matter how assimilated or hidden you are, eventually somebody will ask you questions about who you are. You might as well know the answers. You might as well be grounded in your identity, connected to your people, and equipped with the knowledge and confidence to stand tall. How to Connect Website: clubz.org Instagram: @zionismforteens Email:masha@clubz.org YouTube Channel: CLUB Z has extensive educational content available on their YouTube channel Partner Organizations: - CAMERA (Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis): camera.org Small & Gutsy Mission Small & Gutsy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit podcast spotlighting nonprofits and social enterprises with budgets under $10 million. The show elevates the visibility of small but mighty changemakers doing bold, passionate, and impactful work. Small & Gutsy has been ranked #8 on FeedSpot's Top 30 Social Impact Podcasts and #9 by Million Podcasts for Youth Empowerment episodes. Do you know a nonprofit doing incredible work? If you know of a nonprofit or social enterprise making real impact, nominate them to be featured on Small & Gutsy. Contact Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff at laura@smallandgutsy.org. Check out other episodes of Small & Gutsy at SmallAndGutsy.org.

The Stanley Cup Playoffs are underway for the Colorado Avalanche as they take a 1-0 series lead in their first round series over the Los Angeles Kings, but they had to earn this one with a gutsy 2-1 win. What can the Avalanche do in Game 2 to grab a hold on this series and defend their home ice? Can we expect more goals later in the series? Send questions to the mailbag here: https://forms.gle/7ytuJfsiTr1x3VDt6 Keep up with everything on the site at HockeyMountainHigh.com Follow the show: @HockeyMTNPod Follow Griffin: @GRYoungs Follow Christian: @Christian_Bolle Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff interviews Josh Thye, Executive Director of The Academy, about the transformational power of competitive drum and bugle corps for youth ages 15-21. The conversation explores the intense 11-hour daily rehearsals during the summer tour, the behind-the-scenes logistics, and powerful alumni stories that demonstrate how this experience shapes lives far beyond performance. What Is The Academy? The Academy is a world-class nonprofit organization offering a competitive drum and bugle corps with brass sections, drum line, front ensemble, and color guard. Most participants join in middle school, though color guard members often start in high school or later. The summer experience involves 11 hours of daily rehearsal plus travel across the country—from North Carolina to California. Every minute is accounted for as participants not only perform but also handle logistics, load trucks, prepare meals, and manage all behind-the-scenes operations. What Makes It Gutsy The organization is "all guts." Whether performing in a parking lot or an NFL stadium, the group demonstrates true grit. Participants endure physical exhaustion, work through breaking points, and learn that they're capable of far more than they imagined. Many don't make it through, and the organization compassionately counsels them, but those who finish carry the experience for life. The mentors are often alumni who returned to give back because people invested in them. How to Connect Website: Arizonaacademy.org Small & Gutsy Mission Small & Gutsy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit podcast spotlighting nonprofits and social enterprises with budgets under $10 million. The show elevates the visibility of small but mighty changemakers doing bold, passionate, and impactful work. Small & Gutsy has been ranked #8 on FeedSpot's Top 30 Social Impact Podcasts and #9 by Million Podcasts for Youth Empowerment episodes. Do you know a non-profit doing incredible work? If you know of a nonprofit or social enterprise making a real impact, nominate them to be featured on Small & Gutsy. Contact Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff at laura@smallandgutsy.org. Check out other episodes of Small & Gutsy at SmallAndGutsy.org.    

Carlecia Bell, Executive Director of Phenomenal She shares the inspiring story of how Phenomenal She was born from a simple birthday club among friends and has grown into a transformative mentorship program serving young women of color ages 12–24 in the Federal Way and Des Moines areas of Washington state. Learn how Phenomenal She is, interrupting the school-to-prison pipeline through mentorship, life skills training, academic support, and mental health counseling. Key Topics Covered: **The Origin Story** - How Phenomenal She started as an informal "birthday club" among women celebrating each other - The inspiration from Maya Angelou's "Phenomenal Woman" - Building the organization with multiple co-founders who remain engaged on the board **Program Structure & Offerings** - Age range: 12–24, with programming focused on middle and high school girls - Multiple entry points: clubs (art, dance, STEM, cosmetology, entrepreneurship) that don't require prior commitment - Core mentee programming includes: - "Being a Better Me" group sessions with a licensed therapist (addressing self-esteem, confidence, and generational trauma) - STEM engagement and academic assistance with tutoring - Life skills and development curriculum (vision boards, financial literacy, banking basics, sisterhood, health and wellness) - Summer STEAM program: 6-week intensive with coding, aviation, dance, art, culinary arts, and farm-to-table experiences; $1,000 stipend upon completion - Outdoor adventure club (monthly) in partnership with Game of Life Mentoring and YETI **Recruitment & Access** - Referrals from probation counselors (diversion programs), school resource officers, parents, and community events - Visible community presence through tabling at school lunches and dance team performances - Free programming with food and transportation provided for Federal Way mentees - No barriers to entry—girls can join clubs before committing to full mentorship **Mentor Matching & Mentee Journey** - Intentional matching process using surveys from youth and parents/guardians - Initial meeting with mentor, parent/guardian, and youth to establish boundaries - Long-term relationships: mentors stay engaged with girls through high school and often into adulthood - Alumni return as instructors, dance coaches, and leadership volunteers **Cultural Competence & Safe Space** - Deliberate curation of instructors who are culturally relevant and can relate to girls' lived experiences - Parents are not permitted in programming—creating a dedicated youth-only space - Response to the lack of representation in schools and the misunderstanding of young women of color - Emphasis on trust-building with both youth and families **Leadership Pipeline** - Alumni brought back as instructors and art coaches - Internship opportunities (paid when funding allows) - Volunteer opportunities at six community outreach events annually **Board & Organizational Strength** - Diverse board makeup: licensed therapist, attorney, accountant/bookkeeper, entrepreneurs - Every board member also runs their own business, modeling entrepreneurship for girls - Entrepreneurship club reflects this value **Expansion & Vision** - Dream project: a dedicated clubhouse similar to the Boys and Girls Club or YMCA - Desire to expand to other locations (co-founders from Louisiana, Philadelphia, and other states report demand from their home communities) - Digital campaign: "Fuel Her Fire, Fund Her Future" focused on investing in young women with passion and potential **Current Initiatives** - Partnership with King County's Best Starts for Kids grant - Expanding into Highline School District (Des Moines, Washington) - Three times per week engagement with young women in programming - Focus on interrupting the school-to-prison pipeline --- Notable Quotes: *"They're brilliant. And sometimes just the lack of resources holds them back. And so we're able to be that connecting piece."* —Carlecia Bell *"The ability to be ourselves unapologetically and then also letting our girls know to do the same in spaces that they occupy. So not being afraid to have a voice regardless of what people think."* —Carlecia Bell *"In order to be a mentor and an effective one, one must care. You must care."* —Maya Angelou (quoted by Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff) Resources & Links: **Phenomenal She** - Website: www.phenomenalshe.org - Instagram: @phenomenal_she_ - Facebook: @PHENOMENALSHEISALWAYS - Digital Campaign: "Fuel Her Fire, Fund Her Future" **Small & Gutsy Podcast** - Website: SmallandGutsy.org - Rankings: #8 on FeedSpot's Top 30 Social Impact Podcasts; #3 and #9 by Million Podcasts for Top 30 Volunteer Podcasts and Youth Empowerment episodes - Contact: laura@smallandgutsy.org About the Host & Guest: **Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff** is the founder and host of Small & Gutsy, a podcast spotlighting nonprofits and social enterprises with budgets under $10 million. She is passionate about elevating the visibility of small but mighty changemakers. **Carlecia Bell** is a native of Monroe, Louisiana, and a financial and relationship management expert with 13+ years of leadership experience at a Fortune 500 financial services company. She is inspired by her husband, Winston Bell, who has dedicated 25 years to community service. Carlecia co-founded Phenomenal She to address the lack of mentoring programs available to young women of color in the Federal Way area.    

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AP correspondent Julie Walker reports a US reporter who was kidnapped in Baghdad was known for pursuing gutsy, low-budget assignments.

00:00 - Sixers beat Hornets 00:53 - Inspiring effort from the Sixers 03:47 - How many threes did LaMelo shoot? 04:20 - Maxey back EARLY from injury 05:48 - Measuring stick game 08:18 - The brilliance of VJ Edgecombe 12:58 - Playoffs or Play-In? 15:22 - Is there time for Nick Nurse to experiment? 18:51 - Is Maxey poised to be a 16-Game player? 

What does it really take to make a gutsy move? In this episode of Women Leaders on the Move, Natalie Benamou sits down with LauraAura to talk about listening to your body, paying attention to the quiet signs, and giving yourself permission to know what you want. Laura shares her journey from selling the branding agency she built over 16 years to stepping fully into speaking, coaching, and hosting her own podcast. Together, Natalie and Laura explore what it means to slow down, trust yourself, move through doubt, and take the small steps that lead to big change. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that clarity often comes when we make space to hear ourselves again.Special thanks to Adrienne Lawrence for the introduction to LauraAura!About our Guest:LauraAura is a dynamic Keynote Speaker, Personal Growth Coach, and host of The Gutsy Podcast, a Top 100 show helping people own their desires and take gutsy action. With over 18 years as a business owner and a decade of speaking experience, she's helped countless individuals and teams break through hesitation and move boldly toward what they truly want.Through high-energy, activating speeches, LauraAura teaches audiences how to cut through mind junk, gain clarity, and take action—without overthinking or overcomplicating their next steps.LauraAura on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/thatlauraaurahttps://lauraaura.com/https://tiktok.com/@thatlauraaurahttps://www.instagram.com/thatlauraaura/Keep shining your light bright. The world needs you.HerCsuite® is a leadership network where women build what's next. Our members land board roles, grow businesses, lead the AI conversation, and live their best portfolio career with our programs. Join us at HerCsuite.com, or connect with host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Wednesday by recapping the Maple Leafs' win over the Bruins. They discuss Easton Cowan stepping up for John Tavares, his potential as a culture setter, and what the performance means for the team's future. They also examine Craig Berube's impact, revisit the Fraser Minten for Brandon Carlo trade, and debate whether goaltending should be the Leafs' top priority next season. After the break, they shift to Tiger Woods' return to the TGL and discuss his chances at the Masters. The boys also preview the Raptors' matchup against the Clippers, before wrapping up with a discussion on the NBA's 65-game rule for awards, load management, and whether the league can truly address tanking. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

James Graham, Josh Reynolds and Charlie White are in to review the third round of footy and look at the comments Matty Johns made on his show about the Broncos. We touch on the bludger of a game between the Cows and the Titans, which saw 21 errors, discuss the missing X-factor from the Dragons’ lineup and which players could fill that void in the league. The Tigers are without their two star halves for their big clash in Auckland this weekend, and Bennett wasn’t happy even after the Bunnies’ hard-fought win in Gosford. Plus, we look at Tanah Boyd and the Warriors’ exceptional start to 2026, what happened with the Sharks on Saturday, and finish with our segments: ‘I’ve Seen Enough’, ‘Put a Line Through It’ and ‘Cool Your Jets’. Check out Triple M NRL's Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Graham, Josh Reynolds and Charlie White are in to review the third round of footy and look at the comments Matty Johns made on his show about the Broncos. We touch on the bludger of a game between the Cows and the Titans, which saw 21 errors, discuss the missing X-factor from the Dragons’ lineup and which players could fill that void in the league. The Tigers are without their two star halves for their big clash in Auckland this weekend, and Bennett wasn’t happy even after the Bunnies’ hard-fought win in Gosford. Plus, we look at Tanah Boyd and the Warriors’ exceptional start to 2026, what happened with the Sharks on Saturday, and finish with our segments: ‘I’ve Seen Enough’, ‘Put a Line Through It’ and ‘Cool Your Jets’. Check out Triple M NRL's Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Bruntz and Brian Christopherson of Husker247 break down the day that was for Nebraska basketball, which knocked off Vanderbilt 74-72 in Oklahoma City to advance to the program's first-ever Sweet 16. Who stood out in Saturday's win, what did players have to say after the game? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How much is enough? Our culture constantly tells us we need just a little more. More success, more security, more stuff. But in Proverbs 30, a little known sage named Agur prays a surprising prayer: “Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me.” It is a prayer that confronts our restless hearts and invites us to trust God for what we truly need. Listen in as we explore the wisdom Proverbs offers about money, generosity, and one of the most gutsy prayers we can pray.

The Brisbane Broncos are finally on the board in 2026! After a slow start, the reigning premiers outmuscled the Melbourne Storm to secure their first win. Broncos captain Patrick Carrigan opens up about their ability to silence outside noise, the huge impact of Michael Maguire and the trademark cheek of Reece Walsh. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff sits down with Shilpa Alva, Founder of Surge for Water, to discuss how a childhood moment of witnessing inequality in Mumbai sparked a lifelong mission to bring clean water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health solutions to underserved communities worldwide. Shilpa shares her journey from the corporate world to founding an organization that operates on a revolutionary model: women-led, community-owned development that breaks the cycle of poverty. Through candid conversation, she reveals how listening to communities—truly listening—transforms the effectiveness of international aid work. KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED The Power of Childhood Witnessing How Shilpa's observations as a seven-year-old in Mumbai planted the seeds for her life's work The difference between recognizing privilege and understanding injustice From Corporate to Calling Shilpa's journey climbing the corporate ladder while feeling unfulfilled How she heard her inner voice calling her back to purpose Why she took six years to transition from corporate work to full-time nonprofit leadership The Education-Water Connection Why 120 of 150 students didn't show up to school in rural India How water scarcity directly impacts educational access The health consequences of unsafe water on children's ability to learn Learning From Mentorship in Haiti The transformative lessons from living with a local partner organization leader The cautionary tale of millions spent on beautiful houses with no infrastructure How "staying with locals, listening, and learning" became the foundation of Surge's model Surge for Water's Women-Led, Community-Owned Model What makes Surge different from traditional international aid organizations The three core values: Equity, Respect, and Stewardship Why community ownership isn't just ethical—it's essential for sustainability Water Plus: A Comprehensive Approach Water access goes beyond wells—it includes sanitation and hygiene How Surge teaches communities to make their own soap, creating women-run enterprises The critical role of menstrual health education in girls' empowerment and school attendance Geographic Strategy and Intentional Depth Why Surge reduced from 12 countries to 3 (Uganda, Haiti, Indonesia) Working in remote, rural areas where other NGOs don't operate Building partnerships with local government and community-based organizations Cultural Humility and Gender Dynamics Navigating patriarchal societies without imposing Western values How Shilpa meets women in kitchens and under mango trees—safe spaces for real conversation Respecting cultural context while amplifying women's voices The difference between cultural respect and tolerance for harm Partnership Over Colonialism Why Surge works through local partners, not directly with governments How trust-building with community leaders comes before government engagement The importance of pilots and data alongside relationship-building Recent Evolution and Future Vision The exciting new model of supporting smaller women-led organizations to scale How Surge is thinking about creating a "feeder system" of partners The expansion happening in Uganda this week ABOUT SURGE FOR WATER Surge for Water is a movement led by women and owned by communities. The organization delivers safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health solutions through an investment in women-led, community-owned models that create lasting change and break the cycle of poverty. Currently operating in Uganda, Haiti, and Indonesia, Surge works in remote, rural communities—often described as "forgotten lands"—where other international NGOs don't operate. Their comprehensive Water Plus approach addresses not just water access but the interconnected challenges of sanitation, hygiene education, and menstrual health. Surge for Water is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit registered in the United States with headquarters in Chicago and a branch in Dubai. ABOUT SHILPA ALVA Shilpa Alva is the Founder and Executive Director of Surge for Water. Her passion for global equity and community empowerment began at age seven during a visit to Mumbai, India. After earning her degree and working in the corporate sector, she felt called to dedicate her life to international development work. Shilpa's approach is rooted in cultural humility, genuine partnership, and a deep belief that communities hold the solutions to their own challenges. She has lived and worked extensively in Haiti, Uganda, and Indonesia, learning firsthand the importance of staying with locals, listening, and building trust-based partnerships. RESOURCES & LINKS Visit Surge for Water: www.surgeforwater.org Follow Surge for Water on Social Media: @SurgeForWater (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X) Connect with Shilpa Alva on LinkedIn: Search "Shilpa Alva" WHAT MAKES SURGE GUTSY? According to Shilpa, Surge is gutsy because: They dare to dream and follow through, refusing to take shortcuts that compromise their values and model They're willing to acknowledge when they're not doing things correctly and commit to fixing and improving They operate with a decolonizing lens, centering community wisdom and leadership They stay true to their mission even when it's harder, more stressful, and more expensive than easier alternatives SMALL & GUTSY MISSION Small & Gutsy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit podcast spotlighting nonprofits and social enterprises with budgets under $10 million. The show elevates the visibility of small but mighty changemakers doing bold, passionate, and impactful work. Small & Gutsy has been ranked #8 on FeedSpot's Top 30 Social Impact Podcasts and #9 by Million Podcasts for Youth Empowerment episodes. DO YOU KNOW A NONPROFIT DOING INCREDIBLE WORK? If you know of a nonprofit or social enterprise making real impact, nominate them to be featured on Small & Gutsy. Contact Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff at laura@smallandgutsy.org. Check out other episodes of Small & Gutsy at SmallAndGutsy.org.    

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Dr. Laura Scherck Wittkoff welcomes Ann Medlock and John Graham, the founders and leaders of the Giraffe Heroes Project—an organization that has spent over 40 years celebrating ordinary people who "stick their necks out" for the common good. From their serendipitous Superman movie meet-cute to building a global movement around courage, compassion, and community, Ann and John share how storytelling became their most powerful tool for inspiring action and creating change. Key Topics Discussed The Power of Storytelling Over Preaching - John's evolution: realizing that 10,000 years of human history—from Neanderthals to troubadours—proves that **stories inspire action** in ways speeches cannot - How storytelling bypasses the mind's objections and goes straight to the heart - The role of narrative in communicating core values and inspiring heroism Redefining Courage - Courage isn't gender-specific—it's something we all possess - Ann's bold stance: firing an advisor who claimed courage was a "man's issue" - John's journey: recognizing that emotional and spiritual courage are as powerful as physical bravery - Why physical courage (climbing mountains, dodging bullets) was easier than the emotional courage required for real change The Giraffe Heroes Project: Mission & Impact - Founded in 1981 by Ann Medlock as an antidote to violence and trivia in media - Nearly 2,000 giraffes honored across 30+ fields and 16+ countries - Seven overseas affiliates extending impact globally - Civil disobedience (à la Gandhi and MLK) is celebrated; actions must benefit significant numbers of people Collaboration Over Competition - The Giraffe Heroes school program is built on collaboration, not competition - Free, digital-accessible curriculum for teachers worldwide - The program transforms classrooms: creating "communities of learners" instead of isolated, competing students - The powerful bicycle story: a student's classmates cheer when he masters riding a two-wheel bike—something that wouldn't have happened before the program Education & Youth Empowerment - Over 2,000 classroom downloads; approximately 375,000 children reached through print materials - Materials available free at Giraffe.org/teachers (email sign-up only) - The US Navy uses the program in overseas schools - Cartoon characters "Stanley" (Stand Tall) and "Beatrice" (Be Tall)—giraffe twins—tell stories to 3-year-olds about bravery and caring - Grandpa and Grandma tell different versions to reach multiple learning styles - Teachers report that kids shift from isolated to connected when exposed to the program The Ripple Effect of Recognition - Many heroes don't see themselves as heroic and are reluctant to share their stories - Telling giraffe stories inspires not just the public, but the giraffes themselves - Real example: a small-town barber doing community work thinks no one is watching—until the story is told and volunteers and support arrive - Some giraffes report they considered quitting but were re-energized by hearing their own story shared Overcoming Barriers - **Funding:** The biggest ongoing challenge. Some funders prefer direct interventions (saving redwoods, backing candidates) over storytelling - Early federal grants supported classroom curriculum development (over $1M across 10 years) - Money and mindset: convincing people that purpose-driven storytelling is as important as tactical giving - The "lightweight" perception: early critics dismissed storytelling as trivial until results were undeniable The Love Story Within the Hero Story - Ann and John met at a writer's group in New York, 1981-1982 - Ann invited John to see the original Superman movie (somewhat reluctantly) - Their three-day courtship led to a 44+ year partnership - John initially thought the giraffe concept was "lightweight" but came to see Ann as a "troubadour for our times" - Wedding entry music: Superman theme - John writes the bylaws; Ann does the creative, bold work—"it works out well" Aging, Purpose, and Public Health - Doing good has measurable health benefits, especially for aging populations - Purpose-driven service is a form of preventive medicine - Ann is 92 years old and "not quitting"; John is 83 and still creating TikToks and short-form videos - Stories of older heroes: a woman in her 80s smuggling pharmaceuticals to Central American revolutionaries, organizing environmentalists and tribes in the Pacific Northwest - The Swiss watch metaphor: a life without purpose is like a watch with no hands—what's the point? Adapting & Staying Relevant - Evolution from LPs (33s) shipped to radio stations → print materials → digital access - Now on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, and other social platforms - Constantly reinventing tactics and strategies while staying true to the 1981 mission - Not falling behind culturally is essential to remaining impactful The Dream: "Giraffe" as a Verb - Ann's top wish: for "giraffe" to become a verb—"Let's giraffe this!" - Similar to how "Google" and "Kleenex" became verbs - A measure of cultural penetration and lasting impact Global Scale, Tiny Budget - Working on less than $100K annually - "Tiny but mighty" organization with genuinely global impact - Known from North America to Singapore - Seven overseas affiliates amplifying reach Inspiration from Other Heroes - Ann draws inspiration from Nelson Mandela's autobiographies and insightful life stories - John's personal mantra: Robert Frost's "Two roads diverged in a yellow wood / I took the one less traveled by / And that's all the difference" - Ann's personal song: "Whatever Lola Wants" from Damn Yankees—she's created something from nothing and keeps iterating **Website:** Giraffe.org - **Teacher Materials:** Giraffe.org/teachers (free, digital, email sign-up) - **Contact:** Laura at Small and Gutsy (laura@smallandgutsy.org) - **Social Media:** Giraffe Heroes on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts **Ann Medlock** is a freelance editor, publicist, and writer who founded the Giraffe Heroes Project in 1981. She was named an Education Innovator by the National Education Association and received the Caring Institute's Caring Award. At 92 years old, she continues to lead the organization and develop new materials. **John Graham** is the Executive Director of Giraffe Heroes. A former US Foreign Service officer, he has worked on peace initiatives across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. He has climbed Denali's north wall, hitchhiked around the world, and worked as a war correspondent. He and Ann have been partners for 44 years.

City had to dig deep but they picked up a huge win in Leeds Saturday evening. Join Amos, Joe, and Louis as they look back on the affair. Make sure to leave a rating and a review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this show!You can keep up to date with all of the latest City Ramble action by following our social media pages. Follow us:Discord ➡️ https://discord.gg/AC5BgJtdX (Twitter) ➡️ https://x.com/thecityrambleInstagram ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/cityramble/?hl=enTikTok ➡️ https://www.tiktok.com/@thecityrambleWebsite ➡️ https://www.thecityramble.co.uk/Watch

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne teams up with Jacqui Bryan to discuss the intricate gut-brain axis, particularly its significance for cancer patients and its treatments. They explore how treatments can disrupt gut health and affect brain function, offering insights into empowering oneself through understanding this vital connection. Jacqui elaborates on the gut-brain axis as a complex communication network linking the digestive and central nervous systems, emphasizing its impact on digestion, immunity, mood, and stress.Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, functional medicine expert, and whole health educator with over 22 years of cancer survivorship. As a health coach and registered nurse, Jacqui brings a wealth of experience guiding individuals toward optimal health, focusing on diet and lifestyle principles to support healing and well-being.2025 People's Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series FinalistRanked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025. Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 140 countries across 7 continents and features over 400 original daily episodes hosted by Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg. To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:https://www.comedycures.org/ To write to Saranne or a guest:https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8 To record a message to Saranne or a guest:https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:https://www.comedycures.org/ Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review. Have a blessed day! Saranne  

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are back with a new episode of State of the Union! The pair discuss both Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi finding the back of the net this weekend for Monaco and PSV, Tyler Adams making his long-awaited return for Bournemouth, and the struggles continuing for Juventus and AC Milan. They then come back stateside where MLS began its 31st season with a bang, a huge meeting between LAFC and Inter Miami at the LA Coliseum in front over 75K fans that the Black and Gold ran away with 3-0. Michael Bradley's tenure as NYRB manager got off to a strong start, while Matt Turner's New England Revolution career started with a 4-1 loss to Nashville. In #AskAlexi, the question is posed whether or not the USA will produce multiple world class soccer players and in One for the Road, Alexi wonders what US Soccer can learn from the gold medal winning US hockey teams. Intro (0:00)U.S. Abroad: Balogun & Pepi score, Adams is BACK (4:05)MLS Recap: Michael Bradley wins debut, Javier Aguirre slights MLS, Messi is mad (15:08)#AskAlexi: When will U.S. Men's soccer producer worldwide stars? (32:07)One For The Road: U.S. Hockey is Golden: What can USMNT learn? (39:48) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this honest and heartfelt Q&A, Gari and Carla answer your real-life faith questions - from staying anchored when life feels overwhelming to discerning when God is calling you into something new. Plus, we announce an exciting new transition for Gutsy Faith that you won't want to miss!SUBSCRIBE, RATE, & REVIEW the podcast to stay up to date with the latest episodes. Visit gutsyfaith.com or FOLLOW US @gutsyfaith on all social media platforms to stay connected. We're cheering you wildly!

In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff welcomes Antonis Politis and Panos Kokmotos, two young Greek entrepreneurs who co-founded Givelink, a donation platform transforming how people give to nonprofits. GiveLink connects donors directly to nonprofits' real needs through in-kind giving, creating transparency, measurable impact, and genuine engagement every step of the way. KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED The Origin Story: How a Controversial Article Sparked an Idea Antonis shares how a Greek nonprofit's Christmas message telling people to "stop giving items" prompted him to reimagine philanthropy. Rather than dismissing the request, he saw a logistics problem waiting to be solved—what if nonprofits listed their actual needs and donors could order products online? From University to Startup: Building Givelink in Greece Starting as a university student with no business experience, Antonis entered a social entrepreneurship competition and realized he could combine profit with purpose. Despite initial struggles, the concept resonated with people who preferred in-kind giving over monetary donations due to trust concerns. The Café Meeting That Changed Everything Panos Kokmotos overheard Antonis's passionate conversation about Givelink's vision in a café and was immediately drawn to the mission. A few days later, they met for coffee, and Panos recognized how his skills and experience could fill critical gaps in the team. He joined the founding team, bringing operational expertise and entrepreneurial background. Building Trust in a Low-Trust Giving Culture Greece presented both a challenge and an opportunity. With only 10% of the population donating money to nonprofits, Givelink had to rebuild trust in philanthropy. This difficult market became a proving ground that made the team stronger and forced them to deeply understand donor psychology and nonprofit needs. The Data-Driven Insight: 60% More Giving One of Givelink's most significant findings: donors using the platform give 60% more throughout the year compared to before. Even in economically struggling Greece, transparency and tangible impact motivate people to give more frequently and more generously. The Problem with Seasonal Giving Antonis and Panos explain why giving peaks at Christmas and Thanksgiving—people lack confidence that their money is used wisely. Givelink solves this by making giving year-round, transparent, and emotionally rewarding through visible impact. How the Platform Works: Four Simple Steps Nonprofits set up real-time product wish lists of items essential to their operations. Donors browse the lists or use Smart Pick, which converts a dollar amount into the products needed most. At checkout, donors see the exact impact story—how many people they're helping and how their lives will change. After delivery, donors receive photo proof and ongoing impact updates. The "Smart Pick" Feature and Personalized Impact Panos demonstrates how donors can either manually select products or use Smart Pick to automate the process. When buying hygiene kits for a nonprofit helping children in Oakland, donors can see exactly how many children they'll impact and what difference those products will make—creating an emotional connection and retention. A Real Crisis: The Wildfire Response When wildfires devastated their Greek city in August, Givelink mobilized immediately. Two nonprofits supporting firefighters and victims added urgent needs to the platform. The response was staggering: over $30,000 in donations and 40,000 products in a single day. The team stopped all other work, gathered supplies in supermarkets, and personally delivered items to firefighters—experiencing firsthand the power of their mission. Scaling from Greece to the United States After proving the model in Greece, Givelink launched a pilot in the Bay Area (Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco, Palo Alto) and is now expanding across California with plans to cover Los Angeles, smaller cities, and rural areas that often lack philanthropic funding. Legal considerations around tax deductibility vary by state, but the model is ready to scale nationally. Nonprofit Needs: From Food to Furniture In Greece, food dominates nonprofit wishlists, along with cleaning and hygiene products. In the U.S., a standout example is BOSS, a nonprofit helping people transition from homelessness and incarceration back into society. They needed bedsheets, pillows, and furniture—small items that are expensive and transformative when someone is rebuilding their life. Supplier Partnerships: Wholesale to Retail Givelink partners with wholesale suppliers like Group Sales and Dollar Days (30+ years in the nonprofit space), as well as Amazon for retail options. This tiered approach ensures nonprofits get the best prices and donors have flexibility in what they can give. The Role of AI in Storytelling Givelink is launching AI-generated impact stories based on nonprofit data, descriptions, websites, blogs, images, and videos. This allows donors to see personalized stories at checkout—how their specific donation will change lives. The long-term vision is to integrate real stories directly from nonprofit beneficiaries. RESOURCES & LINKS Givelink Website: givelink.app Small & Gutsy Podcast: SmallandGutsy.org Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff's Podcast: Small & Gutsy (ranked #8 on Feedspot's Top 30 Social Impact Podcasts and #9 by Million Podcast for youth empowerment episodes)

Sound is a wild animal. It wants to get loose. To rumble your neighbor. To call the cops.Wilson's here to fix that. He's a professional soundproofing designer and musician based in Nashville, Tennessee and founder of Soundproof Your Studio, where he helps musicians, producers, and content creators design and build professional-grade studios from the ground up.He comes from the artist world, so he knows the challenge of practice (especially drums) and recording. My favorite part? He actually balances all of this between real world constraints. There's no such thing as a perfect studio, everything is a tradeoff, but at the end of the day, you have a studio!For 30% off your first year of DistroKid to share your music with the world click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DistroKid.com/vip/lovemusicmore⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

EverWalk is the brainchild of Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll, created to help all of us live longer, better, and healthier lives. Their mission and vision are to build community by walking side by side, leaving differences behind, and discovering the freedom that comes from striding together, instead of sitting hunched over a screen. EverWalk invites you to make the commitment to become your best self. Step outside. Look up at the magnificent sky, the strength of the trees, the beauty of the world around you, feel the rhythm of your own footsteps, and feel YOUR movement under YOUR own power, then you remember what's possible  - you feel stronger, lighter, and more alive. And in that moment — with every step forward — you're one step closer to becoming the person you've always imagined yourself to be. These two amazing women literally walk the talk. Over the years, EverWalk has grown from a spark of an idea into a national movement, founded in 2016. They've hosted four seven-day, 135-mile Epic EverWalks, countless First Saturday EverWalks in Los Angeles, and community Service Walks in Key West with Habitat for Humanity. They've also led two EverWalk Journeys, and in 2024 and 2025, EverWalk partnered with a number of charities — including Walk with a Doc, the Plastic Pollution Coalition, Second Cut, and the Emergency Relief Fund of Humane World for Animals, combining the power of walking with the purpose of giving back. Every event is built on one idea: When we walk together, we leave our differences behind — and move toward something bigger than ourselves. EverWalk gathers the most cutting-edge articles about the benefits of walking. Scroll through their library to find out everything you want to know about why WALKING IS THE ANSWER. Website: www.everwalk.com For more podcast episodes: www.smallandgutsy.org    

In this episode of The End in Mind, I'm joined by LauraAura — keynote speaker, personal growth coach, and host of The Gutsy Podcast. LauraAura shares what really happens when women outgrow the businesses and lives they once worked so hard to build, and why hesitation is often a sign that something more aligned is calling.We talk about why clarity doesn't come from overplanning, how perfectionism and fear keep women stuck, and what it actually takes to trust yourself enough to move forward. LauraAura opens up about selling her branding agency after 16 years, listening to her body's signals, and rebuilding a career rooted in purpose, freedom, and courage.This conversation is for anyone who feels restless, uninspired, or quietly called toward something bigger — but isn't sure how to take the next step without burning everything down.Connect with LauraAura:- Website: https://lauraaura.com/- Podcast: https://www.thegutsypodcast.com/*Loved this episode?*Share it with a friend who's ready to stop settling, leave a review, or DM me on Instagram (@meraki_media_management) to let me know what resonated most. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff reflects on the power of Indigo Arts Alliance's approach to artist development. She emphasizes that the organization understands a fundamental truth: the creative mind is a creative mind. By setting the right place, environment, and tone, Indigo Arts Alliance enables artists to engage with each other, explore materials, work through processes, and grow together. She notes that this kind of mentorship and ongoing relationship-building is rare, even in other industries. Through their residency programs and network-building efforts, Indigo Arts Alliance is creating a model that fosters long-term connections and collective growth among artists of color. The magic of Indigo Arts Alliance isn't just in the individual artist residencies—it's in the relationships. Jordia Benjamin shares how alumni from 2019 to present continue to collaborate, exchange ideas, and lean on each other's expertise. The result is a vibrant, ever-expanding network of artists of color supporting one another's creative journeys. At Indigo Arts Alliance, the connections matter just as much as the creation. Executive Director Jordia Benjamin describes how the organization builds long-lasting relationships and conversations among artists in their cohorts. From mentorships to collaborative projects, the artists in their residency programs continue supporting each other year after year, creating a vibrant, branching network that keeps growing and evolving. Check out their website: www.indigoartsalliance.me Watch the entire episode on the Small & Gutsy YouTube Channel or listen at SmallAndGusty.org    

Jenna Lee Dillon spent her growing up years in Southwest Colorado - in the small town of Mancos - on the way from Durango to Mesa Verde National Park. Her father was in the real estate business - some construction but especially buy, fix, and flip - a decade before it was cool.  After high school, she wanted someplace bigger and warmer, which landed her at Arizona State University.  Just out of school, Jenna Lee landed a job in marketing - a remote job for a California agency - and she soon evidenced her gutsy personality by starting her own freelance agency on the side, and exploring the most interesting places to live.  With stops in Austin, Chicago, Portland, Dublin and Fort Collins before finding her current home in Arvada, Jenna Lee lived the digital nomad lifestyle a decade before it was cool!  She's a 6X Founder, and is turning one of her ventures - Screen Freed Revolution - into a non-profit in 2026.In this conversation we explore financial best practices and emotions, the urge to start new things and to run Spartan Races, and discuss why Jenna Lee and her family should move back up to Fort Collins.  There's lots of smart business content, many fun and inspiring stories, and plenty of laughs, so please join me in enjoying my conversation with Jenna Lee Dillon.The LoCo Experience Podcast is sponsored by: Purpose Driven Wealth Thrivent: Learn more

Michelle Etchebarren shares an inspiring journey from struggling single mother of four to founder of Attorneys in Motion, a groundbreaking legal tech company that transformed how law firms handle court appearances. But her story doesn't end there. At the ten-year mark of her company's success, Michelle founded the Attorneys in Motion Foundation—a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and empowering women-owned law firms and businesses. The episode opens with a striking reality: women make up just 39.51% of the 1.3 million lawyers in the US, and only 27% of women who graduate from law school go on to own their own law firm or become partners. The gender pay gap persists at every income level. Michelle speaks candidly about being the only female founder in her specific business space and how the legal industry remains firmly male-dominated. Michelle's origin story is one of resilience. Starting as a single mother with no resources, poor credit, and limited financial literacy, she worked in a law firm during the 2008 mortgage crisis. There, she inspired a young attorney fresh out of law school to start her own bankruptcy law firm focused on helping people recover from financial hardship rather than making false promises. Together, they built that firm from nothing—using creative, low-cost marketing strategies like county fairs and phone book ads—before Michelle eventually pivoted to build something for herself and her children. The breakthrough came when Michelle recognized a problem in the legal services industry: court appearance attorneys were still using outdated technology like faxes. Inspired by the Uber model, she envisioned an app-based solution where attorneys could instantly request coverage for court appearances. It took about a year to develop with web developers, but Attorneys in Motion became the first company to use technology in this way, eventually growing into a nationwide business generating millions in revenue. The COVID-19 pandemic hit hard. When courts shut down completely, the business lost millions of dollars. But this crisis forced Michelle into deep personal development work. She realized that while she had achieved financial success, she wasn't fulfilled. Her original "why"—providing for her four children—had evolved, and she needed a new, more powerful purpose. This realization, combined with her study of Napoleon Hill's "Think and Grow Rich," Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning," and Tony Robbins' Business Mastery program, led her to a transformative insight: "The secret to living is giving. When you're working for a higher purpose outside of yourself, you're living purposefully." At the ten-year mark of her company, Michelle reflected on her journey and the isolation she had experienced. She didn't have mentors or even know what mentorship was. She remembered times she "cried herself to sleep" wondering if she would end up homeless. She didn't want other women to experience that same struggle alone. This became the genesis of the Attorneys in Motion Foundation, with a mission to help women succeed at a level above her own. The foundation addresses a critical gap in legal education: law schools teach lawyers how to practice law, but they don't teach business acumen. When attorneys are overwhelmed by business management—accounting, marketing, systems, delegation—they can't focus on quality legal work. They fall into scarcity mindset and cut corners, which is detrimental to clients and their own integrity. Michelle emphasizes that while psychology and business mechanics are both important, success is 80% psychology and 20% mechanics. The foundation's unique approach pairs financial grants with mandatory twelve-month coaching programs. Money alone doesn't create sustainable success; women need strategic guidance, accountability, systems, and connections to resources. The foundation conducts a two-month trial period to assess commitment, requires weekly coaching check-ins, and connects recipients with pro-bono services from sponsors. The goal is to set women up for real, lasting success. Michelle also addresses the internalized biases that even women carry about other women. She admits to her own automatic biases—like assuming a sports car driver is male—and recognizes that these thought patterns have been "bred into us" since childhood. Changing this narrative requires conscious effort and intentional retraining of our first instincts. On practical matters, Michelle shares advice for entrepreneurs on a budget: build community relationships instead of spending on expensive Google ads, find your niche and become the "go-to" expert for a specific community, and think creatively about marketing. She emphasizes the importance of self-grace, especially for working mothers, and the need for financial literacy when starting a business. The foundation is still in its infancy, currently working with a few grant recipients, but Michelle's vision is to help fifty women per year as funding grows. She reminds listeners that many successful businesses start small and gutsy, but if they continue to work on growth, they naturally evolve and expand. To learn more or apply for support, visit AttorneysInMotionFoundation.org. The application process includes filling out a form, participating in an interview, and entering a two-month trial period to ensure both the foundation and applicant are committed to success. Also, visit SmallandGutsy.org to hear episodes with other great non-profits!                            

Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff welcomes Dr. Leah Hanes, CEO of Two-Bit Circus Foundation, to discuss how hands-on, experiential learning is transforming education for students across Los Angeles and beyond. After 13 years leading the organization, Dr. Hanes shares her personal journey from a student labeled a "slow learner" due to undiagnosed dyslexia to becoming a passionate advocate for reimagining how we teach creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. The conversation explores the Foundation's innovative programs—STEAM Labs, Makerspaces, STEAM Carnivals, and immersive learning experiences—all designed to make education engaging and accessible regardless of economic background. A core theme throughout the episode is the failure of traditional, lecture-based education to engage modern learners. Dr. Hanes emphasizes that students retain only 10% of what they read after two weeks, while learning skyrockets when knowledge is applied to real projects. She advocates for "doing, not sitting"—flipping classrooms to spend 40 minutes making and 10 minutes talking, rather than the reverse. The episode also tackles timely issues like AI in education (which Dr. Hanes sees as an assistive technology when used ethically), the $25 billion annual cost of standardized testing with minimal educational value, and the power of collaborative group work to build empathy and real-world readiness. Dr. Hanes shares compelling stories, including a young artist who discovered she could become an engineer through a STEAM project and went on to UC Berkeley on a full scholarship—the first in her family to attend university. She also discusses the Foundation's "Trash for Teaching" initiative, which has diverted over 900 tons of manufacturers' clean waste from landfills, giving schools free creative materials while providing companies tax benefits. The Foundation recently opened a 13,000 sq. ft. warehouse and is planning to expand its teacher training programs, partner with local universities, and scale the Trash for Teaching model globally. Key Takeaways * Education should prioritize doing over sitting. Hands-on, project-based learning dramatically improves retention and student engagement. * Collaboration builds empathy and strength. Group work mirrors real-world environments and allows students to discover their unique strengths. * Creative materials (not kits) foster invention.  Open-ended "trash" encourages students to become designers and engineers, not 'instruction-followers'. * Teachers need to experience joyful learning themselves. Professional development that models creativity and fun transforms how teachers approach their classrooms. * Scaling innovation requires partnership. Two-Bit Circus Foundation's umbrella model brings together complementary nonprofits to reach more students sustainably. --- Resources & Links Small & Gutsy Podcast https://www.smallandgutsy.org Two-Bit Circus Foundation https://twobitcircus.org

It felt like Bournemouth were BACK on Tuesday night with an improved performance against an under-par Chelsea. After Cherries' dismal showing at Brentford, fans were concerned about a potentially difficult fixture against Chelsea... However, with two more injuries coming to the fore by the way of Cook and Christie - players rallied and delivered another siege mentality performance, especially defensively - securing a huge point at Stamford Bridge, a result which led to the sacking of manager Enzo Maresca. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you're enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of The Sick Podcast, Pierre McGuire joins Matt Ohayon to discuss the Montreal Canadiens OT win over the Florida Panthers, the Atlantic Division, Samuel Montembeault's first game back with the Canadiens and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even when the Avalanche don't play their best, they just find a way to lose, winning their first shootout of the season as they comeback from three separate deficits in their first game back from Christmas break against Vegas. If the Avs can't even lose to other good teams when they're not even fully into the game, can anyone reasonably be expected to stop them? Send questions to the mailbag here: https://forms.gle/7ytuJfsiTr1x3VDt6 Keep up with everything on the site at HockeyMountainHigh.com Follow the show: @HockeyMTNPod Follow Griffin: @GRYoungs Follow Christian: @Christian_Bolle Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One of the biggest travesties in our country is the number of unhoused individuals and families. Home Again LA is changing the narrative around homelessness by recognizing it as a situational crisis, not a personal failure. Through innovative partnerships with faith-based organizations, corporations, and community agencies, HALA has helped over 600 families transition from homelessness to permanent, stable housing while building resilience and hope. Albert Hernandez, CEO of Home Again LA, shares his personal journey from a family on the brink of homelessness to leading one of the most impactful nonprofits serving unhoused families in Los Angeles County. Albert's Personal Story One of 11 siblings raised in Koreatown, Los Angeles Father passed away when Albert was 14; mother worked two jobs to support the family Started working at Boys and Girls Club at age 14 with a 4.0 GPA Every paycheck went to help his mother with rent, food, and family necessities Worked in the nonprofit sector for 20+ years before joining Home Again LA as CEO in July 2015 The Homelessness Crisis Most Angelenos are one paycheck away from homelessness Post-pandemic cost of living increases: Food costs have doubled 1-bedroom rent: $1,800 → $2,400–$2,500/month Families have deep roots in Los Angeles County and often cannot simply "move elsewhere" The unhoused community is vastly misunderstood Home Again LA's Core Programs 1. Emergency Shelter (Core Program) 90-day program for families with children experiencing homelessness Operates like a "boot camp"—fast-paced, goal-oriented Average turnaround: 54 days to permanent housing Congregations provide overnight housing (6 PM–7 AM) Day center offers showers, laundry, job training, case management, Wi-Fi Key requirement: Children must be enrolled in school and attending regularly Serves families fleeing domestic violence and those experiencing job loss/income disruption 2. Rapid Rehousing Program 6-month program (launched 2017) Our organization pays a portion of the security deposit and rent Month 1: 90% of rent Month 2: 80% of rent Gradually decreases so family takes over 100% by end of program Results: 471 families served; all but 2 successfully took over their leases 12-month follow-up support to ensure housing stability 3. Eviction Prevention Program Started during the pandemic Provides financial assistance for families with rental arrears Includes employment support and financial stability planning Impact (2020–2021): Leveraged over $2 million in federal, state, and county funding Continues today as cost-of-living crisis persists 4. Financial Education/Outreach Program Classes on credit vs. debit, building emergency savings, understanding interest rates Partnership with Operation Hope for homeownership certification classes Success story: 3 families who were living in their cars are now homeowners 5. After-School Care Partnership Partnership with local Boys and Girls Club Scholarships for all families' children Allows parents to work full 8-hour shifts (pickup as late as 5–7 PM) Critical for parental employment stability THE FAITH-BASED PARTNERSHIP MODEL Origins: Founded in 2008 by faith-based community members who recognized the fastest-growing unhoused population was families with children No dedicated shelter facility — congregations provide evening beds (6 PM–7 AM) Parishioner involvement: Provide meals, homework tutoring, mock interviews, emotional support Corporate partnerships: Walt Disney Company, Logix Federal Credit Union, National Charity League (mothers & daughters volunteer group) Not a faith-based organization — rather, a secular nonprofit that works alongside faith communities Impact: 90% of graduating families report that "being treated like any other community member" was the most impactful part of the program AHA MOMENTS The Estrada Family Story Single mother and teenage son fleeing domestic violence Mother had zero credit history — no credit card, apartment, or vehicle in her name She was "invisible" to the housing system Required 116 days in shelter (vs. typical 90 days) Successfully housed; son is now in college and volunteers for program participants Lesson: No credit history is worse than bad credit; flexibility and advocacy are essential BEST PRACTICES HIGHLIGHTED Quality over Quantity: Focus on compassionate, individualized care rather than serving maximum numbers Treat the nonprofit like a business: Sustainable fundraising, financial reserves, and operational planning are non-negotiable Collaboration is essential: Leverage partnerships with Boys and Girls Club, financial institutions, corporations, and faith organizations It takes a village: No single entity can solve homelessness; success requires community infrastructure Flexibility within structure: Accountability (school attendance, job seeking) balanced with compassion for unique circumstances 12-month follow-up: Maintain relationships post-housing to ensure long-term stability Treat people with dignity: Break bread together; ask "How can we help?" not "How did you fail?" ORGANIZATIONAL CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS Challenge: Landlord hesitancy to rent to formerly unhoused families Solution: Education, advocacy letters, and relationship-building. Today, landlords proactively call HALA when units become available. Challenge: After-school childcare prevents parents from working full shifts Solution: Partnership with Boys and Girls Club providing scholarships for all families' children. Challenge: Pandemic-era income loss and rental arrears Solution: Eviction Prevention Program leveraging $2M+ in government grants (2020–2021). HOW TO GET INVOLVED Website: HomeAgainLA.org Phone: (818) 562-7778 Services Available: Emergency shelter for families with children Rapid rehousing assistance Eviction prevention support Financial education classes Employment support and job training Volunteer opportunities Facility tours Ways to Help: Donate to support families Volunteer with congregations or corporate teams Host a meal or tutoring session Provide job training or mock interviews Become a landlord partner NOTABLE QUOTES "One of the biggest travesties in our country is the number of unhoused individuals and families. We are a developed country, after all, and often fail to take care of our own." — Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff "Most of us are a paycheck away from losing our homes. The reality is, we're just trying to survive." — Albert Hernandez "It's not a handout. There are some requirements. The family has to have some skin in the game." — Albert Hernandez "Being treated like any other member of this community was the most impactful part of the process." — 90% of HALA graduates "They're not just making and serving dinner. They're actually breaking bread with the family." — Albert Hernandez, on volunteers RECOMMENDED LISTENING FOR Nonprofit leaders and staff Social entrepreneurs and business leaders Faith community organizers Policymakers addressing homelessness Corporate volunteer coordinators Anyone interested in community-based solutions to homelessness Job seekers and career counselors Listen to the entire episode at SmallandGutsy.org    

TWiV explains the Nobel Prize-winning discovery of pre-mRNA splicing, and engineering bacteriophage to deliver proteins to the human intestine. Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Kathy Spindler, and Brianne Barker Subscribe (free): Apple Podcasts, RSS, email Become a patron of TWiV! Links for this episode Support science education at MicrobeTV Immune 100 live at the Incubator Spliced segments of adenovirus mRNA (PNAS) An amazing sequence in adenovirus mRNA (Cell) Nobel Prize for mRNA splicing (Nobel) A predominant undecanucleotide in adenovirus late mRNAs (Cell) Splicing RNA with Phillip A. Sharp (ASM) Protein production in the gut by engineered phage (Nat Biotech) Engineered phage T4 (Curr Op Virol) Timestamps by Jolene Ramsey. Thanks! Weekly Picks Brianne – Can You Identify These Lines from Classic SciFi Novels? Kathy – Saturday Morning Physics, Photograph 51 and JCE article Rich – Wikipedia:Wiki Science Competition 2025 in the United States Jolene – Data visualization workshop Vincent – Transformer: The Deep Chemistry of Life and Death by Nick Lane Intro music is by Ronald Jenkees Send your virology questions and comments to twiv@microbe.tv Content in this podcast should not be construed as medical advice.

It wasn't pretty, but it was GUTSY! Big win for the Bears in DC.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/house-of-l-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this encore episode of Rapid Response, we chart OLIPOP's surging popularity. As Gen Z and millennials ditch sugary sodas, OLIPOP is leading the prebiotic beverage trend, sparking the likes of Coca-Cola and PepsiCo to enter the fray. OLIPOP's co-founder, CEO, and formulator, Ben Goodwin, shares how the brand is navigating the turbulence of rapid growth and rising competition, what leadership lessons he's had to embrace along the way, and whether healthy soda is actually healthy or just a TikTok-fueled fad.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.