Podcast appearances and mentions of laura whitaker

Laura Hope Whitaker  is an enthusiastic, thoughtful and energetic leader and CEO of ESP. As CEO, Laura uses her faith along with her leadership and management strengths to manage staff, oversee multiple year-round programs and raise funds to run Extra Special People.  Episode 7 encourages you to tap into your God-given gifts and discover your purpose through serving others. Laura emphasizes the importance of waiting on God and listening for His guidance in shaping the direction of our lives. She assures us that God will lead and guide us step by step. Laura offers this valuable reminder when seeking our gifts and talents: "Know yourself, lead yourself; know others, lead others." Additionally, Caroline and Laura discuss the significance of Sabbath and soul rest. Prioritizing rest and renewal is crucial for living a transformed life and fulfilling God's calling.   Episode 7 takeaways:  “The best way to find your purpose is in the service of others” JOY: Jesus, Others, Yourself True joy comes from going out & giving - “the joy exchange” Encouragement for finding yourself: Serve those around you Ask people around you Personality tests! Ask yourself  “What do people thank you for?” Anything worth doing is hard → “no grit, no pearl” Lean into the awkward - connect with people that are different Awkward is the first step to “aha” The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer: https://www.amazon.com/Ruthless-Elimination-Hurry-Emotionally-Spiritually/dp/0525653090    Romans 12:12: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”   2 Corinthians 12:9:  “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.”   Contact Laura:  Instagram: @laurahopewhitaker Website: www.laurahopewhitaker.com Email: laura@espyouandme.org ESP Instagram: @espinc ESP Website: www.espyouandme.org Let's connect! IG: carolineharrisward  Email: caroline@transfitathens.com Web: www.transfitathens.com   Train with me and my team at TransFit! We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information! So, if you're ready to take it to the next level, reach out to me, and let's get the conversation started.  Ready to conquer your fitness and health goals - the time is now!  

WGAU's annual Radiothon

The SOA launched a new initiative, the emerging topics community, as a pilot in 2021.  In this short discussion, we explain what the emerging topics community is, how it is structured and what benefits it brings to the SOA community.  Information is also provided on how anyone can volunteer and contribute. Joe Alaimo interviews volunteer leaders in the community Kevin Durand, Laura Whitaker and Nick Miller View the SOA professional opportunities such as webcasts and topic calls: https://www.soa.org/pdopportunities If you are interested in contributing by writing an article, speaking at a conference or joining a podcast send an email to communities@soa.org  

ESP envisions a world where every person, of every ability, in every community has universal access to transformative experiences. https://espyouandme.org/

Exta Special People: Envisions a world where Every person, of Every ability, in Every community has universal access to transformative experiences. https://espyouandme.org  

If you're feeling burnt out in your role in your business, there may be a very simple reason. Join us as Chad and Josh share about their discoveries of the same thing for themselves. Changing fundamentals around your business is always a messy and challenging step, but restructuring your operating systems and the language you use around company processes and procedures is hugely important for your business growth. In this episode, Chad and Josh discuss how they've implemented the Traction EOS into their businesses and the impact that decision has had on growth, on communication, and on clarity. If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, leave us a review and share it with a friend! We always love to hear about how our conversations have impacted you in a positive way. See you next week on the Stronger Business Podcast! Resources: “Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business,” by Gino Wickman Find out more about Laura Whitaker on laurahopewhitaker.com! Follow us on social media! Instagram: Stronger Business: @strongerbusiness Josh Melton @strongerjosh Chad Brown @serialcfo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongerbusinesssummit

Welcome to Episode 50 of The Darlington Podcast!  In this episode, Head of School Brent Bell talks with Laura Whitaker, CEO of Extra Special People, Inc. following her March 17 address as the inaugural speaker of the Darlington School Leadership Institute Speaker Series.  Laura Whitaker was named executive director of Extra Special People, Inc. at the age of 19, after the sudden passing of the organization's founder. Whitaker began her relationship with ESP by working as a counselor and, subsequently, a leadership team member in 2003. She became the organization's CEO in 2022.  Click here for complete show notes >>

Jeff Shafer, CEO of CommonGood Capital, is joined by Laura Whitaker, Executive Director of Extra Special People (ESP) and co-founder of Java Joy, to chat about how as teenager she discovered a joy in serving children with developmental disabilities, the pursuit of sharing that passion with those that want to use capital for good, how Java […]

Laura Whitaker is the Executive Director of Extra Special People (ESP). ESP helps people see the abilities in people with disabilities.  My first interaction with ESP was in Athens a few years ago with Java Joy, their coffee service program. Java Joy is completely run by people with disabilities and special needs. They call themselves JOYristas! Every cup of coffee is served with joy AND with a hug! In our conversation, Laura tells us about ESP and the programs that help assist, encourage and EMPLOY these wonderful friends. And oh my goodness…wait till you hear about the “White Apron” Ceremony! CONNECT @carmenbrown @themorningcruise @laurahopewhitaker @java.joy @esp_inc   MENTIONS Extra Special People Java Joy Young Life Capernaum Laura’s Ted Talk - The Dandelion Shift: Seeing the Ability in Disability

How do you lead with faith in a world that is uncertain? The COVID-19 pandemic presented many organizations with levels of uncertainty that they had never seen before. One of the populations that has been hardest hit by the pandemic has been children with disabilities, their families, and the organizations that support them. Our guest today, Laura Whitaker, is the executive director of Extra Special People, a non-profit that has not only weathered the storms of COVID but managed to grow in this uncertain time. Laura's here today to talk about her work, her faith, and how we can all lead better in times of uncertainty.  Java Joy: https://javajoy.org Follow: https://www.instagram.com/java.joy/ Extra Special People: https://espyouandme.org Follow: https://www.instagram.com/esp_inc/  Laura Whitaker: https://www.instagram.com/laurahopewhitaker/ Scripture References: Matthew 14:13-33 Romans 12:12 Mark 4:38-40

Today we sit down with Laura Whitaker, Founder and Executive Director of ESP to discuss the importance of casting vision and inspiring your team. Over the last 15+ years, Laura has led ESP to growth and the expansion of their mission. She is passionate about leadership and uses her management strengths to manage staff, oversee multiple year-round programs, and raise funds to run programs. Her favorite part of the job is getting to hug the many children who walk through the ESP doors. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees.  SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

We spoke with Laura Whitaker, Associate Director with Kentucky Nonprofit Network, about their 4th survey in 2020 and the responses on how Kentucky and Southern Indiana are fairing. It fleshes out a snap shot of where nonprofits in that area are doing health wise with regard to: Overall & Specific Revenue Streams Staff Burnout Nonprofits Closing Increased Need & Expenses Areas of Increased Need from Clients Permanent Impact of Pandemic What's Next For KY Nonprofits Follow this link to find the slides we talk through during the interview. Here's the summary report from Kentucky Nonprofit Network. Do you have questions for Kentucky Nonprofit Network? Send them here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/liz-hack/message

Laura Whitaker has been captaining the ESP Inc. ship as their Executive Director since she was nineteen and today they are recognized as the leading resource for families with differently abled children. This episode is the first in our special series, World Changing Women, Non-Profit Entrepreneurs. Whether you are involved in the non-profit world or the for-profit world, Laura's unflagging vision and insight for her company will inspire you to captain the vision of your company in new ways! “Rocket Fuel,” by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters Find out more about Laura Whitaker on www.hopesweethome.com or www.espyouandme.org! Follow us on social media! Instagram: The Entrepreneur Adventure: @theentrepreneuradventure Josh Melton @sidegigprophet Chad Brown @serialcfo Laura Whitaker @laurahopewhitaker ESP Inc. @esp_inc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theentrepreneuradventure/ https://www.facebook.com/ExtraSpecialPeople (As Amazon Affiliates, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

In a time of confusion and fear, Parenting Impossible guest Laura Whitaker says that she is leading her business with courageous and thoughtful decision making rather than being reactive to the constant changes that are occurring. Laura is the Executive Director of Extra Special People (ESP) in Athens, Georgia, an organization that provides summer camp, resources, support, and services for families of kids with disabilities. She started in this role when she was 19 years old, and she says that while some people may choose their job, this job chose her.  COVID-19 has made her organization’s traditional methods of operation challenging, so before attempting to create a system using what they already knew, they first asked each of the 600 families that ESP serves what they wanted and needed. Using the feedback they received, they created new services to provide support and resources for these families, including summer camp, “buddy calls,” support groups, counseling, and more. Laura’s favorite new activity to come out of the pandemic shift is Power Hour, a time for parents, kids with disabilities, camp counselors, program coordinators, and others to enthusiastically engage and share resources online. This program is available to anyone, anywhere, and you can find more information about it here.  Beyond helping her create new services, the pandemic has confirmed Laura’s belief that relationships and connections are essential, even virtually, and that moving forward with courage can allow you to analyze a situation thoughtfully before making a decision. One of her favorite quotes from Winston Churchill states, “Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision.” These words have helped shape the way ESP has continued to serve their community during this time.  Throughout ESP’s years of service and their changing methods during the pandemic, Laura’s goal has always been to educate while instilling confidence and compassion in people who are involved in the special needs community as well as families and individuals who may feel confused or scared about engaging with people with disabilities.   In 2019, Laura gave a TEDx Talk about what she calls the “Dandelion Shift.” This shift illustrates that, as children, many of us did not view race, color, ability, societal rules, or wealth in the same way as adults. She likens this to the way we see dandelions—a plant her young daughter enjoyed for its yellow beauty, but that her neighbor sprayed with weed killer in their front yard. Laura says that creating a knowledgeable and empathetic community can help people of all abilities learn new values and perspectives about life.  Laura and her remarkable team continue to lead with courage and help other organizations looking to support families of kids and adults with special needs duplicate their success. They are working to make ESP available in more locations and to help others learn from their years of experience and established reputation in the community. You can learn more about this organization here.  You can connect with ESP through social media on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Vimeo and Youtube, and you can contact their team here.  Annette Hines has been practicing in the areas of Special Needs, Elder Law, and Estate Planning for more than 20 years. Ms. Hines brings personal experience with special needs to her practice and podcasts as the mother of two daughters, one of whom passed away from Mitochondrial disease in November 2013. This deep, personal understanding of special needs fuels her passion for quality special needs planning and drives her dedication to help others within the special needs community.

Small Shop Fundraising is a podcast dedicated to small to medium sized nonprofits and the topics and issues facing them today. One in 10 Kentuckians work at a nonprofit. We talk with Kentucky Nonprofit Network's Assistant Director Laura Whitaker and how they are supporting all nonprofits with their FREE resources, webinars and town hall meetings. We also dive into: Their Rapid Pulse Survey Preparing for fall: Reopening Guide The importance of the Census to Nonprofits and The National Council of Nonprofits. You can contact Laura Whitaker here. Small Shop Fundraising is brought to you by Griffin Fundraising and Marketing. Email them today for a free consultation. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/liz-hack/message

Tim Bryant leaps from a plane in ESP's Big Jump fundraiser for ESP summer camps

Brought to you by OnPay. Built in Atlanta, OnPay is the top-rated payroll and HR software anywhere. Get one month free at OnPay.com. Laura Whitaker began as a volunteer at Extra Special People in 2003. With her passion for enhancing the lives of children with developmental disabilities, Laura became the Executive Director at the age […] The post Laura Whitaker with Java Joy appeared first on Business RadioX ®.

Laura Whitaker discusses Extra Special People's big annual gala

This week’s extra special and inspiring guest is Laura Whitaker. Laura Whitaker has been the executive director of Extra Special People since the age of 19 and has since taken on new roles as a mother and wife.  In this wisdom packed episode, Laura shares how her career has evolved and the many tidbits of knowledge she’s acquired throughout her journey. You won’t want to miss this conversation with your host, Robin Long, about developing emotional intelligence, living for small moments of love, along with tricks to make mornings with kids easier.    Show Highlights:    What Laura’s career and current season of life looks like How Laura got involved with ESP and how it’s evolved  Having a mentorship mentality and surrounding yourself with uplifting people   Different seasons Laura has experienced throughout her career and redefining what her job means over the years  Mental practices to master putting on different hats  Being understanding of the capacities of others How Laura balances friendships  How Laura utilizes her gifts of encouragement and marketing to motivate others  Things Laura doesn’t do in her daily life and the guilt of missing important moments  Laura’s current self-care regimen and what she does to prioritize her health  Dealing with burnout and shifting your mindset to positively impact others   The benefits of establishing a morning routine and meal prepping for the week  A rapid-fire session of Laura’s favorite products and resources  How to create a life that is unique and whole to you    Links:    Instagram: @thebalancedlife    5 Day Jumpstart:    https://thebalancedlifeonline.com/jumpstart/   Mind, Body, Pilates Challenge:    https://thebalancedlifeonline.com/mind-body-pilates-challenge/   Contact Laura:    https://www.hopesweethome.com   https://extraspecialpeople.com   https://javajoy.org   Resources and Products mentioned:    https://www.marcopolo.me   Amazon Echo Dot   Lululemon On the Fly Pants  

Laura Whitaker is the Executive Director of Extra Special People (ESP) – an organization that serves children and young adults with developmental disabilities and their families through year-round thrive programs, family support, and community involvement. Laura joins Justin to discuss her leadership journey and future growth for this incredible organization. 

“Beyond the Cupola” allows invited customers, community, and team members of Oconee State Bank to have an opportunity to share their stories of success and inspiration, and/or how the “Remarkable” culture of Oconee State Bank has inspired them to mark lives in their own right. Laura Whitaker/Extra Special People Extra Special People is the legacy […] The post Laura Whitaker with ESP (Extra Special People) appeared first on Business RadioX ®.

Laura Whitaker began as a volunteer at Extra Special People in 2003. With her passion for enhancing the lives of children with developmental disabilities and her specialized education in this field, Laura was selected as the Executive Director after Founder Martha Wyllie's sudden passing in 2004. As Executive Director, Laura uses her leadership and management […] The post Laura Whitaker with Extra Special People and Jake Berton with Rheos Gear appeared first on Business RadioX ®.