Podcasts about rotarians

WESLACO, Texas - The city of Rio Bravo in Tamaulipas has more than 250 illegal dumping sites, says an environmentalist with Rotary International.Dr. Bricia ElAwar, chairwoman of the environmental committee for Rotary District 5330 in Riverside, California, has led efforts to clear the dumps. She first visited the city 18 months ago and returned this past weekend with over 100 volunteers to help Mayor Miguel Ángel Almaraz Maldonado with his clean-up efforts.“Mayor Almaraz has been doing amazing things. He has already cleaned up over 100 illegal dumps."“The beautiful thing is he is working in the middle of a very dangerous city and he's doing amazing things. He can be example to mayors around the world, in terms of a government dealing with environmental challenges.”On her first visit to Rio Bravo, ElAwar and her team cleaned up a lagoon so that butterflies, birds, fish could return. But, once the Rotary members left more trash was dumped there. “I asked to the Rotarians to set up a meeting with the mayor. He said he would give us 15 minutes of his time but we stayed for one and a half hours. The mayor brought in eight new trucks to collect the trash.”ElAwar continued: “These lagoons can be beautiful for ecologic biodiversity. It is a great habitat for birds and the Monarch butterfly. If we protect our natural resources, I think mankind can have hope. Right now, I feel like Rotarians believe in what we're doing, and I think some governments are starting to have conscience about protecting their own communities too.”ElAwar said that for Rotarians, working on environmental issues goes “hand-in-hand” with efforts to secure world peace, having a humane migration policy, and fighting disease. “Everything is connected and working with the government is key,” she said.Asked how her environmental group came about, ElAwar said: “During the pandemic, COVID 19, I had many sleepless nights. I kept thinking of my family in Mexico that I could not see. I decided to take action. I had previously been in so many countries, helping so many people around the world. I thought, why not help Mexico?“I wanted to connect with people who are passionate about the river, people who care about their families, and I wanted to have a heart to heart conversation with governments in many (border) cities.”Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos. 

The May edition of Rotary Unscripted, brings together three guests to discuss Rotary's work across public health, modern slavery and sport, alongside a wider round-table conversation on the organisation's global reach.The opening interview features Francesco Arezzo, President of Rotary International. Speaking from his home in Sicily, Francesco reflects on taking up the presidency in unexpected circumstances and the transition into leading an organisation with more than a million members worldwide.Francesco outlines his presidential message, “Unite for Good”, and how this is intended to guide Rotary clubs in different countries.He also speaks about a visit to Pakistan, where he met people affected by polio, describing the realities of the disease and the ongoing work to eradicate it.The second guest is Dave McCleary, Chair of the Rotary Action Group Against Slavery. Speaking from Atlanta, USA, Dave discusses modern slavery and human trafficking, outlining the scale of the issue and how it operates across global systems.The programme then turns to sport with Steve Martin, a past district governor and Rotary International Coordinator. Steve, a keen Liverpool fan, introduces the Rotary Fellowship of World Football, a new initiative bringing together Rotarians with an interest in the game.---You have been listening to 'Unscripted', the official podcast of Rotary in Great Britain & Ireland.Unscripted is hosted by Dave King and Alicia Reade.If you'd like to find out more about Rotary or join us, visit rotarygbi.org/join and read more stories in Rotary Magazine at magazine.rotarygbi.org.You can listen to our archive wherever you found this podcast. Please follow us to get new episodes immediately downloaded to your device.If you've enjoyed this you can leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts – it helps to spread the word.We'd love you to share this podcast with friends, family and colleagues inside and outside of Rotary.

Jim Morris of Healdsburg Rotary and Randy Johnson of Getaway Ventures join Herlinda and Daedalus on Brew Ha Ha to talk about the Giro Vigneti bicycle ride. Also, Herlinda is back from a trip to Philadelphia where she attended the Craft Brewers Conference and the World Beer Cup. She has a lot to tell about Philadelphia and naturally she has also brought some beers back to taste and share. Later in the show, Jim Morris from Healdsburg Sunrise Rotary and Randy Johnson from Getaway Ventures join us to talk about the Giro Vigneti bicycle ride. This year Philly will be a big part of the nation’s 250th or sesquicentennial celebrations. Herlinda’s last visit there was in 2020 during the pandemic and the Glass fire at home, when she escaped to Tara’s in Camden. During Covid they only let 6 or 12 people at a time into the Declaration of Independence. This time, there were school groups coming through. Philadelphia was our first national capital city and one of the cities at the heart of the American Revolution. ***** Visit Russian River Brewing Co. online for up-to-date hours at the Downtown Santa Rosa and Windsor locations, menus, beers available and more. ***** The first beer Herlinda opens is a collaboration brew from the Craft Brewers Association and several other breweries. The members of the Craft Brewers Association are small independent family-owned businesses, not large corporate operations. This beer is a lager, 5.7% ABV and he label says, “Of the brewers, by the brewers, for the brewers…” Several Bay Area breweries won medals at the World Beer Cup: Russian River Brewing Co. won a bronze medal for Velvet Glow. Morgan Territory Brewing in Tracy did very well. Fieldwork Brewing, which just came into Santa Rosa, won several golds. Danville Brewing Company, Hot Dogma and Alvarado Street Brewery won medals. Otherwise Brewing in San Francisco swept the gluten-free category. Sonoma Springs Brewing in Sonoma County and Cooperage Brewing in Santa Rosa also won medals. They begin the second portion of today’s show by tasting the second beer, called A Smile with Every Sip, from Troëgs. Jim Morris from Healdsburg Sunrise Rotary and Randy Johnson from Getaway Ventures join Herlinda and Daedalus. They are here to describe the Giro Vigneti bicycle ride. It is a bicycle ride and race, one of the more beloved ones out there. It has a culinary tilt to it that no other ride has. There are three different routes, The Healdsburg Century, a Metric Century and an intermedio. There are well over 100 riders. The itineraries start and end in Healdsburg and go around the hills and the valley, with rest stops. The Giro Vigneti is a fund raiser. The grand prize is dinner for two at fifteen different restaurants in Healdsburg, including some pretty big names. The raffle tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100. All of the Rotarians are out selling raffle tickets. This is their single biggest fund raiser. To register to ride, go to the Giro Vigneti website. You can also ride a pedal-assist e-bike that you can rent from Getaway Adventures dot com in Healdsburg. They are offering 20% off for this race.  

Update on water shortage; CCEDC, city leaders attend grant presentation in Little Rock for new water line; Saint Vincent Morrilton brings new $1.3 million CT scanner online; Menifee Mayor discusses park improvements, other plans in presentation to Rotarians; Dispatchers assist man trapped in vehicle while help arrives; Morrilton Chamber to host Outdoor Business Pitch contest; UACCM SkillsUSA chapter excels in competition; Wonderview's Dockery signs to play basketball at Central Baptist; high school baseball and softball games postponed until today; we visit with Woneda Grayham of Our Blood Institute.

Local organizations and clubs often invite distinguished guests to share information and provide programming. Bismarck's Rotary Club hosted such a guest at its April 22, 1936, noon lunch, when North Dakota's Department Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Philo George Harrington, spoke on the Spanish-American War.

Send us Fan MailWe meet four first-time district governors stepping into leadership across the Northeast and hear what they want clubs to feel when the year is done. Then we check back in with the outgoing “delinquents” to learn what their big swing for change actually looked like after twelve exhausting months. • introducing the incoming district governors and what they represent for 2026-2027 • what “doing it right” means as a district governor and why availability matters • how to follow a high-energy leadership year without copying it • making Rotary fun in a way that feels inclusive to non-Rotarians • peacebuilding and conflict resolution as a district focus including a global grant • youth programs that teach peace skills and create real cross-cultural contact • leadership development and succession planning to widen the bench • belonging and membership as the foundation for lasting community impact • what the delinquents learned about authenticity, resistance, and showing up • why strong team culture becomes the real safety net during hard weeks • smile moments from the year including PolioPlus energy and large-scale service If you're interested in having the show come to your block, your event, your club, your district conference, your assembly, or even your convention, let me know. Rotarianpod at gmail.com. Check out the fabulous footage of this drop in the same day as this podcast, our YouTube channel has the Action to Impact Videocast on it. Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people turning their Actions 2 Impact all over the world. #BE THE CHANGE

Send us Fan MailWe hit the road to Northeast PELS and hand the mic to presidents-elect, district leaders, and longtime Rotarians who are stepping into big roles. The stories range from hilarious name-tag moments to serious talk on membership, global service, and leading from peace instead of chaos. • Live voices from President-Elect Training and why it matters for Rotary leadership • What assistant governors do and how districts keep tabs on club health • Preparing for district leadership and building a team mentality • A Haitian physician's path into Rotary and what it means to have both received and given service • Vocation, faith, and service above self as one integrated life • Membership challenges, attendance culture, and why flexibility can strengthen engagement • Balancing club traditions with needed change in long-established Rotary clubs • Partnering with Kiwanis, Toastmasters, and other service organizations • Global grants and international service projects including El Salvador and Ukraine support • The leadership lesson that lands hardest: human beings, not human doings Most importantly, I want you to remember that this whole thing is on YouTube. The Action to Impact YouTube channel. Check it out. If you want me to hit your Pels next year, let me know. Rotarianpod at gmail.com. Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people turning their Actions 2 Impact all over the world. #BE THE CHANGE

As Ukraine passes the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion, the March episode of Unscripted, brings listeners first-hand accounts from Rotarians whose lives and service have been shaped by years of conflict and displacement.Mykola Stebljanko joins the episode from the Khershon region of Ukraine, close to the front line, where he is serving in the Marine Corps. Home is Odesa, where he and wife Olga continue their lives and Rotary involvement amid the realities of conflict.Also featured is Borys Bodnar, a British-Ukrainian Rotarian based in Lviv. Born in Leicester to Ukrainian parents, Borys moved to Ukraine several years ago and now oversees the logistics of Rotary's principal humanitarian aid hub in Lviv.The episode's final guest is Nadia Tikhonova, a Ukrainian national now living in Rutland in the East Midlands. After arriving in the UK following the invasion, Nadia helped establish the Ukrainian Rotary Impact Club of Rutland, a group that supports humanitarian projects in Ukraine while fostering ties within the local community.Across these conversations, Unscripted presents a range of perspectives tied together by a common thread: Rotarians responding to extraordinary circumstances through service and coordination.For Rotarians in Great Britain & Ireland, many of whom have supported Ukrainian projects financially and practically over the past four years, the episode offers direct insight into where that support goes - and why it continues to matter.---You have been listening to 'Unscripted', the official podcast of Rotary in Great Britain & Ireland.Unscripted is hosted by Dave King and Alicia Reade.If you'd like to find out more about Rotary or join us, visit rotarygbi.org/join and read more stories in Rotary Magazine at magazine.rotarygbi.org.You can listen to our archive wherever you found this podcast. Please follow us to get new episodes immediately downloaded to your device.If you've enjoyed this you can leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts – it helps to spread the word.We'd love you to share this podcast with friends, family and colleagues inside and outside of Rotary.

Send us a textRotary has Rotary clubs and Rotarians in Russia? Yes,Yes we do! And they are doing great work all over the world.Today meet Anna Tumanova, as she tells me about all thge wonderful work being done by Russian Rotarians.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people turning their Actions 2 Impact all over the world. #BE THE CHANGE

Co-hosts Kathy Kruger and Jonah Triebwasser interview Rhinebeck Interact students about their south american service project.

Yesterday (Nov 5, 2025), Jen Risley—editor of the Main Street Journal—and I hosted our monthly livestream conversation. Each month, we compare notes on what's moving in community capital and how the Main Street investing movement intersects with the impact-crowdfunding work we do here. Yesterday's talk was packed; here are the big threads and why they matter—especially if you're joining us from the MSJ community.The plumbing we're (finally) seeing.Jen led with a piece that captured my imagination: Michael Shuman's interview with DW Ferrell about the “plumbing of local finance.” DW has built something deceptively simple and potentially transformative: “a ledger that connects a group of community-aligned funds.” If you've ever asked, “Where's the local stock exchange?”—this is one credible attempt to answer it. Even better, DW's on-ramp is intentionally low: “It starts at 50 bucks,” which means regular people can test, learn, and participate without having to be whales.For readers new to our corner of finance: when we say regulated investment crowdfunding, we mean a U.S. framework that lets everyday people invest small amounts in startups and local businesses through SEC-regulated online portals (websites that host these offerings). It's not donation crowdfunding; you're buying a stake (equity or debt). One problem we're always trying to solve is how these small, early investments connect into a broader system so communities can keep capital recycling locally. A ledger that links mission-aligned funds is one promising piece of that system.Public banks and the NYC thought experiment.We also kicked around a timely idea: could a public bank in New York City help? The U.S. has one durable precedent in North Dakota. We talked about how a city- or state-owned bank might partner with local lenders instead of competing with them, and we acknowledged the regulatory headwinds that have slowed efforts in places like California. Still, the upside is huge: “If you could have New York City pull this off… what city wouldn't try to duplicate that?”A public bank is simply a bank owned by the public (city/state), chartered to serve public priorities—think financing local infrastructure, affordable housing, small business lending—often in partnership with community banks and credit unions. In our world, that public bank could pair with community equity raised via crowdfunding, creating a capital stack that makes more Main Street projects financeable.Why the pieces fit “hand in glove.”That pairing is the heart of what excites me: if a bank focuses on lending to local businesses and the crowd (neighbors, customers, fans) provides some equity, the bank's risk drops and more loans pencil out. As I put it on the livestream, “It's the perfect complement. Hand in glove, they fit.”Raising communities, not just capital.Jen pulled a line from my recap of the Crowdfunding Professional Association summit that sums up the movement's soul: regulated investment crowdfunding “isn't just about raising capital. It's about raising people, raising communities and raising possibilities.” That's not rhetoric for us—it's the metric. The capital is a means; the measure is whether people, places, and small businesses are stronger afterward.What “liquidity” can look like.One question MSJ readers often ask is: How do I ever get my money back? There isn't one answer, but I shared a personal example: I invested in Aptera years ago; those shares now trade on a public exchange. That doesn't make every crowdfund investment liquid, but it illustrates a path: early, community-backed ventures can mature into publicly tradable companies, creating, in my words, “a clear path to liquidity.”Bridging purpose-driven networks.We also talked about Rotary. I'd just aired my conversation with Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo. Rotarians are relentlessly local and globally minded—cleaning parks on Saturday and fighting disease overseas the next. Many still haven't encountered investment crowdfunding, but I'm convinced they'll recognize the values-fit when they do.For MSJ readers new to Superpowers for Good: that's our mission—telling the stories of founders and communities raising patient, values-aligned capital and stitching together the ecosystem so more people can participate.Two communities, one Main Street.Jen and I wrapped with mutual invitations: if you're part of the Super Crowd and you're not reading the Main Street Journal yet, you'll find indispensable reporting on buy-local strategies, local investing, and the policies that make it all work. As I said on the livestream, consider subscribing—it's a small monthly investment for outsized learning. And to MSJ readers discovering us: you're welcome here. We publish daily interviews, weekly deep dives, and hands-on guidance for founders and investors who want to fuel their hometown's economy.What's next.I plan to invite DW Ferrell on the show to unpack that ledger concept further—and, yes, I'm putting my own “50 bucks” to work to learn by doing. If you joined us live yesterday (Nov 5), thank you. If not, watch the replay above. Either way, pull up a chair. The plumbing of local finance is getting real—and we get to help lay the pipes. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

Send us a textPart 2 here we go!Brian Rusch and I are back with the rest of the amazing conversation we had about hard conversations in Rotary and beyond. If you missed part 1 last week, check it out, and then join us for part 2.Friend of the show Brian Rusch joins me to talk about some of the conversations that are causing some real controversies. Mainly Dubai and the walk out on a speaker at this years convention in Calgary. Are Rotarians loosing their skill of "Hearing Both Sides" Is the political climate just getting so hard to navigate that we can't just hear both sides? Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people turning their Actions 2 Impact all over the world. #BE THE CHANGE

Fabian Patin, a Lafayette architect whose name has become synonymous with the preservation and beautification of Rotary Point, a peaceful sanctuary on the Bayou Vermilion, joins Discover Lafayette to discuss his decades-long dedication to Lafayette's waterways and the enduring spirit of civic service that drives the Rotary Club of Lafayette. He has been a loyal member of the club for decades. Origins of Rotary Point and the Bayou Vermilion Revival Rotary Point came to life in the 1980s through a partnership among the Rotary Clubs of Lafayette, the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, and the creation of Bayou Vermilion District. At the time, Lafayette was in the throes of the oil bust, and the once-vibrant bayou had fallen into neglect and pollution. Patin recalled how his colleague, attorney, Bob Cole, then Lafayette Chamber president, looked beyond the downturn: “Rather than worrying about it, Bob said, let's do some things to improve it. We've got a bayou; it's not the best one now, but it can be.” Cole's optimism led to the creation of a master plan for the Vermilion River. Half the funding came from private citizens and companies, the other half from the City of Lafayette. That plan inspired state legislation to create the Bayou Vermilion District, a nine-member commission—of which Fabian was an original commissioner—charged with implementing restoration and access projects. To secure federal funding under the Dingell-Johnson Act, Lafayette needed a 20 percent local match. Fabian and local leaders convinced the Parish Council to contribute the unused 400-foot right-of-way from West Bayou Parkway to the Vermilion as the local match. The federal funds, championed by then U.S. Senator John Breaux, completed the financing. Fabian recalled, "If you give us the right to use that land for our 20 percent match, that can be our 20 percent—and it worked.” How Rotary Point Got Its Name Initially conceived as a simple boat launch, the site evolved when Fabian—active in both the Bayou Vermilion District and Rotary—saw an opportunity: “If I can go to our Rotary Clubs and say, look, if we call it Rotary Point, I think I can get our clubs to pay for the overlook.” That promise birthed Rotary Point, with local Rotary Clubs funding the overlook while the Bayou Vermilion District handled access improvements. It became one of the first public boat launches on the Vermilion and a shared symbol of civic collaboration. Stewardship and Beautification Through the years, the Bayou Vermilion District has continued major maintenance—most notably replacing the aging wooden bulkhead with steel reinforcements—while the Rotary Club of Lafayette maintains and beautifies the grounds. Fabian, now 81 years of age, can still be found there almost every day: mowing, planting, spreading mulch, or supervising upgrades. The site now features benches, picnic tables, irrigation, flowering azaleas, and majestic live oaks—many planted to honor international Rotary presidents. Fabian explained how community partnerships brought the space to life: Azalea Trail volunteers donated 35 azaleas. Trees Acadiana, led by Sarah Schoeffler, provided and planted dozens of plants and live oaks. Compost from Lafayette Parish enriched the soil, coordinated by Rotarian Stan Messenger, who negotiated increased deliveries of mulch and soil for the park. Dr. Jim Rees established a Peace Pole inscribed in eight languages reading “May peace prevail on Earth.” Centennial Monument and the Sugar Mill Gears In 2020, to commemorate the Rotary Club of Lafayette's 100th anniversary, Fabian spearheaded the construction of a striking centennial monument. The centerpiece: enormous gears salvaged from historic sugar mills, a visual echo of Rotary's gear-wheel emblem. “We poured concrete on site. Rotarians learned how to pour concrete.” Despite an initial $100,000 goal reduced by COVID-era constraints to $18,

Send us a textThis week is part ! of a 2 part Conversation about Conversations. Friend of the show Brian Rusch joins me to talk about some of the conversations that are causing some real controversies. Mainly Dubai and the walk out on a speaker at this years convention in Calgary. Are Rotarians loosing their skill of "Hearing Both Sides" Is the political climate just getting so hard to navigate that we can't just hear both sides? Join us!Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people turning their Actions 2 Impact all over the world. #BE THE CHANGE

Martine Babineau is a proud member of the Rotary Club of Atlantic International Passport. Martine and her fellow Rotarians support the Humanity Project, which provides housing and programming for those in need in Moncton, New Brunswick.A great example of the impact of People of Action.

(Riverton, WY) - Riverton Rotary President Jennifer Marshall and Treasurer Marcia McBeath stopped by KOVE's Today in the 10 Morning Show to tell us more about some things happening with the club and their boot and shoe drive. Rotarians are hoping that folks around Fremont County are able to donate gently used shoes and boots at one of many drop-off locations across the county. The footwear is then given to those in need in third world countries and provides and opportunity for Riverton Rotary to benefit financially from the donation. Jennifer and Marcia explained that money collected locally helps go back to several community projects like park improvements and scholarships for young students. More details about the shoe and boot drive can be found here. Listen to the full chat with Jennifer and Marcia in the player below!

(Lander, WY) – The KOVE 1330 AM / 107.7 FM Today in the 10 interview series, Coffee Time continued today with host Vince Tropea, who recently spoke with George Case and Maria Kidner, local Rotarians from the Lander Rotary. Case and Kidner stopped by to give our listeners/readers details on the annual Buffalo Burger BBQ, which is the Lander Rotary's largest public fundraiser of the year. h/t Lander Rotary Case and Kidner share details on this year's BBQ, give us a history of the BBQ's origins and why the fundraiser is so important, and provide info on all of the amazing things that the Lander Rotary does for the community. Check out the full Coffee Time interview below for all the details! Be sure to tune in to Today in the 10 and Coffee Time interviews every morning from 7:00 to 9:00 AM on KOVE 1330 AM / 107.7 FM, or stream it live right here.

In 2025, Creating Dementia Solutions is looking deeper into what The Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention and care has indicated are ways people can reduce their risk of dementia.Lancet includes Diabetes treatment as one of those ways. In this episode, T R Shaw tells us how the Cereal City Sunrise Rotary Club has developed an action group in hopes of growing awareness about the disease and how its treated.Episode ResourcesThe Lancet Commission Risk Factors for DementiaMiles for Memories websiteMiles for Memories technologySherii Sherban talks to Community Matters about MFM technologyMore Creating Dementia Solutions episodes ABOUT MILES FOR MEMORIESMiles For Memories is a Calhoun County, Michigan organization created in 2013 to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's Disease. Later in 2014, the vision was expanded to include all types of dementia. MFM raises money each year through sponsorships, community events, and grants to gather funds to create local programming for both the person living with dementia and the caregiver. Along with local efforts, 20% of the funds to prevention-related dementia research. Miles for Memories is a committee of 70-plus volunteers and are always looking for more to get involved.

Send us a textJoin me for the last EP. of the "I'm A Rotarian Podcast" before my big name change in July:How can we help stop the War on Vaccines, well RI Polio Plus Committee Chair Michael McGovern is here to talk about the problem and how big this "No to all Vaccine" hysteria really is.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textTime to take a fresh new look at ClubRunner. Did you know it was started and is run by Rotarians? Did you know it's one of the safest websites your club can use? Did you know that it can do much, much more then just email, and a club website? Well join me as we break the myths with ClubRunner founders and CEOs Halle and Sara.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textSo, Rotary's supposed to be politics and religion-free, right? But is God popping up too much in meetings? Met a new friend from Canada (no names this week)  who's wondering if it's making her wanna stay or leave. Do we need to say "under God" should we pray? Is it against the rules?Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textWe are asking all the questions you were always to scared to ask a transgender person. My friend Teri from Canada is willing to talk about anything Trans and I am so happy to ask , and learn and understand the world of transgender people.I love this show, but parents check it out first, see the language, and slang that we use so nothing in surprising and you can talk to your kids about it. Trans is "ok" and part of that DEI stuff we all need to know and respect. Please, listen and learn. It's worth it.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textShe a singer, Vet, Asst. Gov, Teacher Professor, Foundation chair and oh, yes a Rotarian too. Meet Angela Walker, this week on the podcast.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

In July 2024, dozens of gunshots pierced the quiet Seattle night. Sex traffickers jockeying for turf fired 30 shots on Aurora Avenue North, two blocks from journalist Erin Gartner's house. Amid a surge of violence crashing over the neighborhood, Gartner felt hopeless — until she found a group of neighborhood volunteers and experts in the problem of trafficking, all of them part of a Rotary club dedicated to the issue. In this episode, Niala Boodhoo speaks with Gartner and two of her fellow Rotary club members.If you are in the U.S. and suspect someone is being trafficked, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. In Canada, call 1-833-900-1010. 

Send us a textI'm off to my families homeland of Wales to meet the youngest Rotary DG maybe EVER! 27year old James Thomas. Come hear this DG's words of wisdom and how he feels he owes a debt to Rotary. Join us for an amazing conversation.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textSteve Martin was a cop for 30years, and part of one of the most famous days in english policing history. But that's not his whole story. Get to know my new friend Steve and we talk his life, and our love of football (soccer) too.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textMeet my new friends Robert Friend(Really that's his name) and Martha Wells Hoffman of the Call 2 Care water project. We talk about the project, how you can help, and how the whole idea started with a dream. That's right a dream.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textThis week I'm talk to Rocky Wagner about Operation Pollination. We need more Bees, butterflies, and Hummingbirds. In Fact our world food chain needs them most of all. Time to plant some seeds, and help these friends do their job!Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textWelcome to this 90min conversation that came from a simple question I put up on Facebook. "Is Rotary too WOKE" Join us for this powerful conversation, that I hope will make you think, and will help you understand "WOKE" Rotary's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:At Rotary, we're committed to treating everyone with dignity and respect, allowing everyone's voice to be heard, and providing equitable opportunities for fellowship, service, and leadership.Our members want and expect Rotary to be a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization. Although the Rotary experience may differ from country to country, issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion are globally relevant.We embrace the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize that being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization will enhance the experience that members have in Rotary, allow us to carry out more meaningful and effective service efforts, and create open, welcoming environments that appeal to people who want to connect with us. Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textJoin me and my new friend Robyn Curtis from the Rotary Climate Change Action Group. We are talking ECO, we are talking big problems, and even some big solutions. We are talking about one of our 7 areas of focus that maybe doesn't get all the love and attention that it should.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Join us for the next Speaker Circle Community Call at https://SpeakAndStandOut.com/Speaker-Circle *****Today's Speaker Circle Community Call:Civic organization, Rotary International host meetings M-F, morning, noon, and evening. They book a speaker for EVERY SINGLE MEETINGLearn my strategy for picking the Rotarians to speak in front of, how to get booked, and which dates to avoid for great attendanceI share my story how I've sold so many books at Rotaries, even through you can't pitch your services. Learn my secret.**********************Join the next Speaker Circle Community Call at https://SpeakAndStandOut.com/Speaker-Circle *****Book a Speaker Success Call at https://SpeakAndStandOut.com/Speaker-Success *****Grab your FREE copy of the Be In Demand Listener Guide at https://SpeakAndStandOut.com/Guide *****

Send us a textWelcome to part two of this NEPELS celebration! In this  "Voices from NEPELS"  we hear from the governors, passed, present, and future. There's also a bonus conversation with the crazy group of governors that start their jobs July 1, and the big ideas they have for the future of the Northeast.Join me for part two of this northeast celebration of leadership.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textWell, the most fun about being on location is that you will never know what happens. From the clanking of doors to high ceilings that made everything echo to Mics that got unplugged and computers that were quirky. But who cares! The "I am a Rotarian" podcast was on location at Northeast PELS! We got two episodes worth of total joy. Join me this week for part one and meet the presidents. Then meet me for part two as you're introduced to the district governors, district governors elect, and even a few district governors, and friends from the past years and past shows. Voices from PELS is part one of a two part celebration of the new leadership here in the Northeast.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textOur  Marvelous Mondays continue with Mary Bak and Mental Health Monday. Mary a member of the Rotary Mental Health Task Force has put together a Monday night series to help and inform folks about Mental Health issues.Join us!  Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textJoin me for week one of my two week "Marvelous Monday" shows. We have two show about Monday Zoom meetings open to everyone about New members, and, next week Mental Health. These two shows will give you great ideas, and, I hope a reason to join these monthly Monday events in the future.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textDid you know that the Rotary E-Club of Innovation has a poetry contest? And the winner is announced at convention? Well now you do! So come here all about it as my new friend Nan McCreadie joins me to tell us all about it.WWW.Rotarypoetry.orgSupport the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a text Today for the first time I am off to the amazing country of Pakistan to not only learn about the Rotary Academy of Pakistan but how  it's leader Arshed Kamal Sethi is teaching yoga and how it can teach us to be better Rotarians and better humans too. Join meSupport the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textWell it has been 5years since Evan and I sat down for a chat,and BOY a lot has changed. From a new partner, to two new boys and now DGE for his area.Come join me as we talk the past, the present, and a wonderful future with Rotary influencer Evan BurrellSupport the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

I'm not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?John: When you talk about my superpower, I think it's grasping a vision, a strategic direction, a strategic idea, or an important idea, and then rallying people around that idea and then driving it to a successful outcome.Loneliness has become a public health crisis, as highlighted by the U.S. Surgeon General. Rotary International offers a solution through its unmatched global platform of 46,000 clubs, bringing 1.4 million people together across over 200 countries.John Hewko, Rotary's General Secretary and CEO, shared in today's episode how Rotary's mission addresses this growing issue. “Our clubs are all about bringing people together, about building connections,” John explained. “It provides an outstanding vehicle to stay connected, not be isolated, and to make a difference through that connection.”Since its founding in 1905, Rotary has evolved from a professional networking organization to a dynamic platform for community service. Members find opportunities to engage in local, regional, and international projects, making a tangible impact. John emphasized the organization's flexibility, allowing clubs to pursue initiatives that resonate with their members. “Rotary is exactly the opposite in terms of top-down,” he noted. “Each club has significant autonomy to carry out those things that the members are passionate about.”One of Rotary's most inspiring examples of grassroots initiative is the organization's decades-long effort to eradicate polio. What began as a small vaccination project in the Philippines has grown into a global campaign, reducing cases from 350,000 annually in 1985 to just 88 last year. “Rotarians have contributed over $2.7 billion to that effort,” John shared. “It's a great example of the power of individuals rallying around a cause.”Rotary's adaptability and global reach make it a powerful antidote to isolation. Through fellowship and service, members build deep connections while contributing to meaningful projects. If you're looking for an organization where you can engage locally and make an impact globally, Rotary might be the perfect fit.Visit Rotary.org to find a club near you and join a community of changemakers.tl;dr:* Rotary's 46,000 clubs combat loneliness and isolation by building community and fostering connections.* Members engage in local, regional, and global projects, including Rotary's polio eradication campaign.* Rotary's adaptability includes online and cause-based clubs, attracting diverse, younger members worldwide.* John Hewko's superpower, visionary leadership, transforms strategic ideas into impactful global initiatives.* Visit Rotary.org to join a network empowering individuals to make a difference globally and locally.How to Develop Visionary Leadership As a SuperpowerJohn's superpower is his ability to envision strategic goals and rally people around them. “It's grasping a vision, a strategic direction, or an important idea and driving it to a successful outcome,” John explained. He highlighted his role in promoting regional flexibility within Rotary to adapt to different needs worldwide, demonstrating his knack for strategic thinking.John's leadership was pivotal in transforming a local Rotary fundraising event, the Tour de Tucson bike ride, into a global effort. Initially raising $15,000 annually, John mobilized Rotary's global network, helping to generate over $70 million for polio eradication in 12 years. His passion for cycling and strategic vision turned a modest initiative into a monumental success.Tips for Developing Visionary Leadership:* Analyze challenges critically to identify barriers to success.* Pilot ideas locally to build momentum and demonstrate feasibility.* Use thoughtful arguments to build consensus rather than imposing solutions.* Foster adaptability by recognizing when traditional methods are no longer effective.* Leverage networks and communication to amplify successful ideas.By following John Hewko's example and advice, you can make visionary leadership a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJohn Hewko (he/him):General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Rotary InternationalAbout Rotary International: Rotary unites a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the world's most pressing humanitarian challenges and creating lasting change. Rotary connects 1.2 million people of action from more than 45,000 Rotary clubs around the world. Their service improves lives both locally and internationally, from helping those in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world.Website: rotary.orgX/Twitter Handle: @RotaryCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/rotary/Other URL: endpolio.orgBiographical Information: John Hewko is the general secretary and chief executive officer of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation. From 2004 to 2009, Hewko was vice president for operations and compact development for the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), a U.S. government agency established in 2004 to deliver foreign assistance to the world's poorest countries.X/Twitter Handle: @JohnHewkoPersonal Facebook Profile: fb.com/JohnHewko/Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/johnhewko/Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Bellevue Montgomery, Solvari and How to Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on January 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, February 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe will be leading a session on "Calculating Your Funding Needs," providing essential guidance for entrepreneurs and impact-driven businesses to determine the right amount to raise for sustainable growth. Whether you're preparing for your first crowdfunding campaign or planning to scale, this is a must-attend! Don't miss it!* SuperCrowdLA: we're going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can't-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* RootsCamp, A powerful and unique (un)conference in Baltimore for progressive organizers to reflect on the election and share lessons and strategies to build our future, January 23-25th.* Community Capital Live, Bernel Hall, New Jersey Community Capital, January 29, 2:00 PM Eastern.* Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.* NC3 Changing the Paradigm: Mobilizing Community Investment Funds, March 7, 2025* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, April 1-2, 2-25.* Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

Send us a textWe are dropping this weeks EP. early so you can get a first hand understanding with 5280 DG Albert Hernandez  of the tragedy that is the fires in LA, and how you can help.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textI'm catching up with my friend Mohan Kumar as his updates me on his amazing work bringing independence, and hope to thousands of people with missing arms and legs. Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textThis week i'm off to Sweden to talk Rotary history with longtime Rotary History geek and PDG Matts Ingemanson. We talk early Rotary, we talk about Rotary and the UN, and most of all we talk about how Rotary  is making wonderful new history everyday .Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textI'm taking a few weeks off to enjoy the holiday season with mu family, but i'll be right back here Jan.8th 2025 with new stories and new fun. Hope to see you then.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textJoin me for my first Holiday show where I introduce you to 7870 DG Bill Stevens and Sleep in Heavenly Peace member David Sodders. We talk about the sad fact of how many kids have no beds to sleep in at night, and how a team of Rotary clubs, and SHP reps and building there way to fixing that need.Find out more about how you can join the bed making fun @SHPbeds.orgSupport the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textToday we are talking Rotary,50 years in Rotary. How has it changed? What made you stay in Rotary, Why don't more folks stay in this long? What has been some of your greatest events and stories. Just a few of the questions i put to my friend and 5050 DG, and 50yr Rotary vet, Dave Daskin.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textTime to talk, even if it's uncomfortable? Join me as I talk to Sidney Smith. PDG of 5180 who is bringing his "5 Points of Conversation" not only to Rotary but to the world. Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Send us a textTime to learn about "Rotary Hands Across the Border" with 5050 DGE Marie Isabell Martinez Hair. She has gone way beyond "Peace Pole" to bring Rotarians for 2 different sides and countries to talk peace and understandingSupport the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

It's time to enjoy another fellowship this time "The  Fellowship of Rotary Photography". Our longtime podcast friend and fellowship junky Madu Bishnu is back to tell us all out these talented Rotarians, and the photo contest though RI that will show off their amazing work.Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Today I'm off to Malta to talk to new friend, Rotary Trainer/Zone 14 RYLA chair John DeGiorgio.We talk RYLA. We talk training. We talk "clubs getting the kudos they deserve. We talk about one of the best "Smile Question" answers I have ever heard.Join us! Support the showJoin me as I talk to those "amazing people who proudly call themselves Rotarians." and tell a friend to join us too.

Season 3, Episode 1: Incredible ripple effects are being felt across Melissa, Texas, and the local Rotary Club is the catalyst behind a lot of it. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll focus on a this impactful organization. We'll tell the Rotary Club's story through the stories of three dedicated Rotarians. On this episode, we'll hear from John Cave, past president of the Melissa Rotary Club … Ken Truax, who joined the Rotary Club in 2022 … and Mary Grubbs, the current chapter president. #thefrontporch Melissa Rotary Club: WebsiteMelissa Rotary Club: Facebook PageCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com