Podcasts about Speak Out

During the winter months, the stakes are raised for the homeless members of our community. On December 21, the longest night of the year, the National Union of the Homeless and the Poor People's Campaign are soponsoring a speakout and vigil in Albany with a free meal to follow. Moses Nagel spoke with Joe Paparone about the event and the bigger picture for homelessness in our region.

Kathleen Gage is the founder of Vegan Visibility and the author of “Power Up for Profits: The Smart Woman's Guide to Online Marketing.” After decades of business success, she transitioned to align her life and work with her values, focusing on plant-based advocacy and animal rescue. With over 30 years of experience as a professional speaker, Kathleen empowers purpose-driven experts to grow their reach through effective speaking and podcasting. She hosts the “Plant Based Eating for Health” podcast and manages a self-funded animal sanctuary, promoting veganism, animal welfare, and vibrant living. In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Kathleen Gage joins Robert Plank to discuss the power of aligning your career with your core values. Kathleen shares her journey from traditional business success to becoming a leading voice for vegan visibility and animal welfare. She dives into the distinctions between animal rescues and sanctuaries, the challenges of funding advocacy work, and the transformative power of speaking and podcasting for building a movement. Kathleen also discusses her upcoming book “Speak Out,” healthy lifestyle shifts, and practical strategies for making an impact with your message. Quotes: “You can make money doing what you love, and that allows you to fund the things you care about.” “Vegan is a philosophy. Plant-based eating is the diet.” “You don't have to go it alone. Surround yourself with the right people, and you will change for the better.” Resources: Buy Kathleen Gage's book Power Up for Profits: The Smart Woman's Guide to Online Marketing on Amazon. Connect with Kathleen Gage on LinkedIn Follow Kathleen Gage on Facebook Vegan Visibility Productions

Wisconsin's school safety tip line received nearly seven-thousand tips last school year – mostly from students. Bullying was the most commonly reported issue to the Speak Up, Speak Out tip line, also referred to by its acronym SUSO. But threats of school violence or concerns about self harm are also reported to this line, such as the deadly shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison one year ago. To learn about how this works and when schools or parents become involved, WUWM education reporter Katherine Kokal is joined by the state's head of the office of school safety, Trish Kilpin. A note to our listeners this conversation touches on school violence and mentions suicide. 

If a four-year-old can price a canvas, track costs, and ship a painting, what else might kids be capable of when we give them the chance? We sit down with Leah Ellis, founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs, to explore how children can turn curiosity into real businesses that teach math, money, and leadership—without piling hours onto a parent's schedule. Leah's story begins with a pandemic pivot and a bold yes to her daughter Melody's idea, and unfolds into a practical framework any family can use.We walk through what a child-run business looks like at different ages: choosing a product or service that solves a real problem, setting prices with simple cost math, testing sales channels from fairs to Etsy, and learning customer service through experience. The conversation gets honest about the hard part—letting kids fail. From a slow sales day on a tenth birthday to a hasty impulse purchase on Black Friday, these moments become powerful lessons in resilience, commitments, and buyer's remorse. The wins are just as vivid: a neighborhood trash-can service funding big goals, the pride of buying a coveted item with earned money, and the joy of giving to someone in need.Leah shares time-saving strategies for parents and systems that hand ownership to kids, like using free bookkeeping tools such as Wave to manage invoices, payments, and inventory. We also map out options for families without fairs or dense neighborhoods: host your own children's business market, ask schools or co-ops for a market day, or launch a simple online shop for makers over 13. Throughout, we focus on the values that keep money healthy—spend, save, and give—so kids see money as a tool for building, not a trophy to hoard. We close with how the Society of Child Entrepreneurs supports families with a 36-week curriculum, children's books (Sparks to Stars on Amazon), quarterly fairs, and a junior board that helps steer programs.Ready to raise confident problem-solvers who can speak up, serve others, and build something real? Hit play, then share your child's business idea with us. Subscribe, leave a review, and pass this episode to a parent who needs a nudge to let their young founder fly.Welcome to Speak Out Stand Out — the show where we build confidence in our future, one voice at a time. I'm your host, Elizabeth Green.I grew up shy, so I know firsthand how life-changing it can be when someone helps you find your voice. Now, I get to help kids and teens do exactly that — and this podcast is a place to share those tools with you.Each week, I talk with experts and inspiring guests about simple, practical and tangible ways to help the young people in Thanks for listing! Be sure to check out the show notes for additional resources including a free public speaking lesson and 52 fun practice prompts.  And if you enjoyed what you heard today, please give us a follow. Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Wisconsin's Speak Up, Speak Out school safety tip line handles reports from students about everything from bullying to threats of school violence.

On this episode, we're joined by Angela Giampolo of Giampolo Law for our monthly SpeakOUT segment, which explores issues impacting the LGBTQIA+ community and how they intersect with the broader population. Angela breaks down current trends affecting the LGBTQIA+ community, including healthcare access and job discrimination, and discusses alarming new legislation that could have serious implications for people with dual citizenship—or those considering applying for that status.  But first, we shine a light on Christmas Babies, a holiday initiative founded by Philadelphia Police Officer Ashley Capaldi, an 18-year veteran who mobilizes fellow officers and community volunteers to deliver hundreds of Christmas gifts to families in the Kensington neighborhood. Through a partnership with SWAT, LaLa's Winter Wonderland, and local community leaders, Christmas Babies continues to grow—meeting urgent needs and spreading joy during the holiday season. You can help support families in need by visiting www.christmasbabies.com. Together, we can help ensure every child experiences the magic, joy, and love of the holidays.  Learn more & connect with Angela Giampolo / Giampolo Law:

What if kids learned the moment they needed a skill, not months before it mattered? We sit down with Ben Somers, founder of Recess.gg, to unpack how problem-first projects, kid choice, and safe online communities can turn screens into tools and learners into builders.Ben shares his journey from public school skeptic to education entrepreneur, influenced by first principles thinking and just‑in‑time instruction. We talk about why homeschoolers often thrive with this model, how small design choices—like letting kids switch classes—transform room energy, and what happens when a Minecraft trapdoor becomes the gateway to circuits, binary logic, and real coding. Along the way, Ben offers practical advice for parents who don't feel “qualified” to teach: lean on adaptive tools, build daily habits, and protect your child from inherited math anxiety by modeling curiosity over fear.We also break down “socialization” into three parts: connecting with people, navigating social norms, and maintaining a vibrant friend network. Ben explains how Recess.gg focuses on that third piece—matching kids by shared interests and giving them supervised spaces to collaborate on code, 3D worlds, and science simulations. Think of the computer as a modern wand: with the right guidance, kids can create, design, and solve problems that matter, gaining real agency in a world where nearly every job touches software.If you're curious how to start, Ben keeps it simple: begin with what fascinates your child, choose a safe space, and let projects pull learning forward. Explore Recess.gg, see what your kid wants to build, and watch enthusiasm do the heavy lifting. Enjoy the episode? Subscribe, share it with a parent friend, and leave a review to help more families find their path to purposeful learning.Connect with BenCheck out the website or find him on Instagram. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Hard conversations at home don't have to turn into shouting matches. We brought in Joe Dillon, a pioneer in divorce mediation, to show how the same tools that settle high‑stakes disputes can make family life calmer, kinder, and more effective. Joe's story starts in corporate publishing, where he learned to bridge the gap between sales, legal, and clients. That real‑world training led him to master negotiation psychology—and today he uses it to help families preserve dignity, protect kids, and reach agreements that actually stick.We dig into practical scripts you can use tonight. Curfew on the table? Replace knee‑jerk no's with four words that disarm: “Help me understand.” Ask for reasons, require a real trade, and agree on terms you both value. Joe explains why silence is a power move, not a punishment—giving teens the space to think, reveal the real issue, and choose better behavior. We break down conversational jujitsu, the art of stepping back, reading the emotion behind the demand, and lowering the temperature without giving up your standards.You'll also learn how to stop playing judge in sibling fights. Joe's rule: don't get in the box. Hand ownership back to the combatants with clear conditions and walk away, so they practice collaboration instead of outsourcing decisions. For friend drama, we coach I‑statements, empathy, and simple repairs that rebuild trust without blame. And for anyone edging toward divorce, Joe offers grounded guidance: tune out well‑meaning friends, seek quiet, and talk to a professional who can help you see options clearly.If you want a home where people listen, solve problems, and keep their word, these tools will help you get there. Subscribe for more conversations with experts who make communication easier. If this episode helped, share it with a friend and leave a quick review—it helps others find the show.Connect with Joe DillonFind him on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn. Or, check out his free resources for families contemplating divorce. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

October Breast Cancer Awareness Month may be behind us, but the fight against breast cancer continues every day. With 1 in 8 women in the U.S. expected to develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime, early detection remains one of the most powerful tools we have — reducing the risk of death by more than 30%. Joining us is Jennifer Pantleo, Certified Breast Care Nurse and Vice President of Clinical Programs at Solis Mammography, a national leader in breast health services for nearly 40 years. Jennifer shares how Solis Mammography's partnership with Jefferson Health is expanding access across the Philadelphia region, how AI-enhanced 3D imaging is improving early detection, and why staying on top of annual screenings can be lifesaving. We'll also highlight the new Jefferson Health–Solis center in Flourtown and how listeners can schedule their appointments.  

What if the most powerful tool we have to reduce school violence isn't a perfect policy, but a daily choice to truly see each other? That's the heart of our conversation with educator and speaker Jesse Hansen, who has spent 21 years inside junior highs and high schools teaching the psychology of meanness—and how to break the hate cycle with sincere, strategic kindness.We trace common motives behind school shootings—justice, revenge, and fame—and uncover the deeper driver connecting them: the desperate need to be seen. Jesse explains “grievance collecting,” the way small slights stack over years, and offers a practical, science-backed response teens can use when faced with cruelty. Instead of platitudes like “kill them with kindness,” she teaches a disarming script that creates cognitive dissonance: respond to active meanness with honest empathy and clear boundaries. It's not weakness; it's strength that rewrites the script and denies bullies the reaction they crave.Jesse also shares the turning point that changed her own story, when a junior high principal combined firm accountability with genuine care and said, “I see you.” We talk about the power of one caring adult, how relational aggression weaponizes belonging, and why naming behaviors—exclusion, manipulation, isolation—helps kids stop taking cruelty personally. Then we dive into the Kindest Kid in America project, a nationwide effort that celebrates real acts of kindness by writing custom children's books about the winners and surprising them at school assemblies. If violence can be contagious through notoriety, kindness can be even more contagious through recognition, storytelling, and community pride.You'll leave with practical language for hard moments, new ways to model strength with compassion online and off, and a simple invitation: be the adult who sees a child. If this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend, and nominate a student for Kindest Kid in America at kindestkidinamerica.com. Your story might be the one that changes theirs. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

What if you could stop feeling stretched thin and finally focus on the clients—and the kind of work—you love most? That's exactly what Jackie Larsen-Robinson did when she launched her adult-focused private practice, Livewell Speech Therapy, in Provo, Utah.Jackie is a speech-language pathologist who started her career later in life—returning to school at nearly 40. Like many SLPs, she entered the field with a desire for balance and impact, but soon found herself overwhelmed by the demands of school-based therapy. With an impossible caseload and too many diagnoses to juggle, she knew something had to change.After moving to Utah, Jackie transitioned into the medical side of speech therapy, working PRN at a rehab facility. There, she discovered her love for adult neuro and swallowing disorders—and her confidence grew. One day, a patient with Parkinson's disease specifically requested to work with her. Not wanting to let him down, Jackie dove into specialized training and became certified in SPEAK OUT! therapy for Parkinson's.That decision changed everything. Soon after, referrals started flowing in from support groups and local providers. But it wasn't until her daughter faced health challenges that Jackie realized she needed more control over her time and income. That's when she joined the Start Your Private Practice Program, determined to take small, confident steps toward business ownership.In this episode, Jackie shares how she runs Livewell Speech Therapy, serving adults with Parkinson's disease, swallowing disorders, and voice difficulties. She is certified in SPEAK OUT! and VitalStim and is passionate about helping clients regain their independence and confidence through compassionate, evidence-based care.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:How one determined patient with Parkinson's sparked her path to specializationThe moment she realized she could serve her community and her family better by starting her own private practiceHow she built her confidence step-by-stepThe inspiring quotes that keep her motivated every single dayJackie's practice is more than a business—it's a lifestyle that gives her the flexibility to care for her daughter, set her own hours, and never again have to ask permission for a day off. Her story proves that it's never too late to reinvent your career—or to build a business that truly aligns with your life. By taking one small step at a time, she created a thriving private practice that brings her joy, freedom, and purpose every single day.Ready to start your own private practice and build a career that fits your life—just like Jackie did? The Start Your Private Practice Program gives you the roadmap, resources, and support to begin. Visit StartYourPrivatePractice.com to learn more.Whether you want to Start or Grow a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources Mentioned:Follow Jackie on Instagram:

Ever ask “How was your day?” and get “fine”? We dig into why that question stalls and what to ask instead to unlock real stories, richer details, and genuine confidence. With strategist and storyteller Anna Tran, we explore the simple shift that changes everything: listen first, then guide with curious questions that help kids hear themselves think.We talk about transforming shy voices into self-assured communicators by making storytelling a daily ritual, not a performance. Think eye-level conversations, calm pauses, and prompts that open doors: What made you feel proud? Who surprised you at lunch? What did you learn that you didn't expect? As children narrate their day, they practice structure, recall, empathy, and clarity—the same skills leaders use in boardrooms. We also draw parallels between coaching teams and parenting: when we ask better questions and avoid rushing to fix, kids develop agency and problem-solving muscles that last.Social media hovers over modern childhood, so we tackle how to build offline self-worth before the likes arrive. We share ways to spot unhelpful thought patterns, create healthy digital boundaries, and ground a child's identity in effort, kindness, and contribution. Practical tools make it doable: a family gratitude jar for tough days, a one-minute story round after dinner, and a rotating “listener-leader” whose job is to ask follow-ups before anyone gives advice. Along the way, we trade honest stories—from sibling dynamics to classroom debates—to show how small habits become lifelong confidence.If this conversation sparks an idea, try one prompt at dinner tonight and watch what unfolds. Subscribe for more practical tools on confident communication, share this with a parent who needs a fresh question, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Host Polly Swingle is joined by Speech-Language Pathologist, Chrissy Regan, M.A., CCC-SLP, to talk about the benefits of working with a Speech and Language Pathologist for those with head and neck cancer. Chrissy breaks down what head and neck cancer is, causes of this type of cancer, and effective treatments for those who have been diagnosed.Chrissy Regan, M.A., CCC-SLP, earned her Bachelor of Applied Arts in Communication Disorders (2010) and Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology (2013) from Central Michigan University. She joined The Recovery Project in February 2025 after working for 10 years in a Michigan-based outpatient rehabilitation clinic, where she developed a head and neck cancer program focused on improving speech and swallowing outcomes for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Chrissy is certified in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD) and SpeakOut! therapy programs for the treatment of Parkinson's Disease and she specializes in adult neurological disorders. She also holds a certification in VitalStim® therapy, an evidence-based approach for the treatment of swallowing disorders. Chrissy is also a part of the Concentrated Stroke Rehabilitation team at The Recovery Project.Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.net Call us 855-877-1944 to become a patient Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

Fear of failure doesn't vanish with pep talks, and comparison doesn't make kids try harder. We sat down with psychologist and author Dr. Kate Lund to explore practical ways families can trade perfection pressure for resilient growth—without asking kids to be fearless. Kate shares her powerful personal story of growing up with hydrocephalus and how her parents focused on who she was, not what she had. That lens—see strengths, acknowledge limits, stay connected—anchors everything we unpack, from sibling dynamics to teen pushback.We get specific about the moments parents struggle most: a cautious child who won't start unless success is guaranteed, a sibling who races ahead and sets an unhelpful bar, and a teenager who says, “You don't get it.” Kate lays out clear moves that change the tone. Lead with active listening to earn trust, share your own stumbles only when it serves them, and replace outcome fixation with process praise. We dig into the comparison trap—why it erodes motivation—and how shifting to individualized expectations helps each child see their unique path. Instead of sizing kids against each other, we ask: what strengths did you use today, and where did effort show up?You'll leave with two simple habits that deliver real results. First, the relaxation response: five minutes of focused breathing with a soothing word builds a calm baseline so challenges don't spike into shutdown. Second, the daily wins exercise: write three to five things that went well to counter negativity bias and reinforce progress. These tools travel well across school, sports, and friendships, helping kids face hard things, learn from missteps, and try again with more confidence.If fear, comparison, or constant self-critique has been steering your home, this conversation offers a reset grounded in empathy, science, and doable routines. Listen, share it with a friend who needs it, and if it helped, follow the show and leave a quick review so more parents can find these tools.Connect with Dr. KateFind her on Instagram here, or check out her book Step Away: The Keys to Resilient Parenting on Amazon. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Ever feel the urge to “win” an argument with your kid and realize later nothing was learned, only lost? We sit down with licensed counselor and CEO Gino Titus Luciano to rethink conflict from the ground up—less power struggle, more problem solving. Gino brings experience spanning autism services, child welfare, correctional rehabilitation, and private practice to show why children copy what we model, not what we preach, and how accountability actually strengthens parental authority.We unpack the superhero myth—the idea that good parents are flawless and never back down—and how it fuels doubling down when we're wrong. Gino explains the science of emotions in plain language, showing how anger is often a fast response to hurt or fear. From there, we build practical tools: pause when emotions spike, name what you feel, and schedule the conversation to continue when both sides are ready. You'll hear how forgiveness and consequences can work together, why yelling kills learning, and how “circle back” conversations create safety without sacrificing standards.If you've handled conflict poorly and want to repair, Gino offers clear language to own your part, validate your child's experience, and invite them into a shared plan for next time. We discuss collaborating with teens who test limits, using empathy without losing structure, and letting kids see us grow so they learn growth is normal. Expect actionable scripts, mindset shifts, and a calmer way to teach hard lessons that actually stick.If this conversation helps, follow the show, share it with a friend who's in the thick of parenting, and leave a quick review to tell us which strategy you'll try first. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Ever notice how a single word can flip a conversation with your teen from tense to trusting? We sat down with teen and parent well‑being coach Laura Ollinger to unpack the small, repeatable moves that turn blow‑ups into breakthroughs—without scripts, shame, or power struggles. Laura brings the compassion of a mom of four and the clarity of a coach who's helped countless families navigate anxiety, curfews, grades, and all the messy middle moments of adolescence.We start with the simple truth that how we begin is how we'll likely end. Laura explains why a regulated parent sets the emotional weather of the home, and how opening with calm presence can redirect even late‑night conflicts. From there, we dig into perspective taking: helping teens move from black‑and‑white thinking to shades of gray using questions like “Is it possible…?” and reframes that lower the temperature. Validation is the bridge—acknowledging feelings without agreeing with conclusions—so teens feel seen and become more open to problem‑solving.You'll learn practical language shifts, including “I feel” statements that de‑escalate and model emotional fluency. We walk through setting clear expectations for curfews, driving, screens, and schoolwork, then linking them to agreed consequences so follow‑through teaches instead of punishes. Laura shares a forward‑focused feedback loop—What went well? What could be better next time?—that builds confidence after tests, games, and performances. We also talk openly about repair: how to apologize with context and a question when we slip, so accountability becomes a family habit.If you're ready to swap power struggles for connection and raise teens who can name their feelings, own their choices, and try again tomorrow, this conversation is your playbook. Listen, share with a friend who needs a boost, and subscribe for more practical tools that make family life calmer, kinder, and stronger.Connect With LauraCheck out Positively Healthy Coaching on Facebook or Instagram, and don't miss this free guide to cracking the parenting code. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

What if the fastest way to help your child make better choices is to change how you show up as a parent? That question drives a candid conversation with author and mentor Richard Ramos, whose journey from at‑risk youth counseling to parent coaching revealed a hard truth: when the home isn't healthy, everything else struggles to stick. We dig into practical, human strategies that replace power struggles with connection, and rigid rules with durable influence.Richard breaks down attachment and psychological safety in simple terms—less interrogation, more curiosity. Instead of “Why did you do that?” try “What's pulling you toward this?” We talk about the exact moment trust is won or lost, like when a teen confesses breaking an online rule. You'll hear how to set proportionate consequences without shutting down future honesty, plus realistic guardrails for VR and social platforms that keep kids safe while keeping communication open. His “Home Field Advantage” framework offers a clear roadmap: gardener from 0–2, trainer from 2–5, coach from 5–12—preparing kids for separation and real‑world infiltration, not isolation. Along the way, we unpack identity development, helping children discover who they are so you can develop their strengths without comparison.Respect, Richard insists, is earned, not demanded. That means prioritizing the relationship over being right, apologizing when we blow it, and modeling the kind of leadership we want our kids to carry into classrooms, teams, and jobs. Emotional maturity sits at the core of it all: know yourself to grow yourself. When we regulate our reactions, keep promises, and repair quickly, home becomes the training ground for resilience, integrity, and responsible freedom. If you've wondered how to raise confident, grounded kids who can handle failure, peer pressure, and the messy parts of life, this conversation offers a playbook you can start using tonight.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more parents find these tools. Then tell us: what boundary or habit will you revisit this week?Connect with RichardFind him on Facebook, listen to the podcast, and sign up for his Parent on a Mission course here. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

HEADLINES:♦ Replit Founder Urges Tech Industry to Speak Out on Gaza♦ Careem Invests in UAE Car Rental Platform Swapp♦ Gems Education Bids for Saudi School Operator Ajialuna Educational♦ Dubai Journalist Calls for Courtesy Towards Speakers at Major Events Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY

What if you could have a conversation with your great-grandmother? Not just read her diary or look at old photos, but actually ask her questions and hear her voice tell you stories about her life? This isn't science fiction—it's becoming reality through innovative storytelling technology that's preserving family legacies in remarkable new ways.Jeremy Horne joins us to share his passion for capturing family stories that might otherwise be lost forever. His journey began as a child in Perth, Australia, recording his grandparents on borrowed video equipment, and has evolved into creating Winnie, an app designed to facilitate meaningful conversations between generations. But he's not stopping there. His newest project, Forever You, uses those recorded stories to create digital avatars that future generations can actually interact with.The conversation takes us deep into why these connections matter so much. Jeremy explains the concept of "social health"—the third pillar of wellbeing alongside physical and mental health—and how genuine human connection nourishes us in ways that social media never can. He shares fascinating research showing that children who understand their family history develop greater resilience and confidence, giving them an anchor to their past that helps them navigate their future.What makes this episode particularly powerful is the practical advice for fostering these connections. Whether it's being intentional about scheduling time for meaningful conversations, learning the art of asking good questions, or simply giving people space to tell their stories, Jeremy offers tools anyone can use to strengthen their relationships and preserve their family legacy.As we navigate an increasingly digital world where we're simultaneously more connected yet lonelier than ever, this conversation reminds us of what truly matters. The technology Jeremy describes isn't about replacing human connection—it's about enhancing and preserving it across generations. His parting words offer both wisdom and urgency: "I'm yet to meet anyone who regrets interviewing their parents, but I've met plenty who wish they could do it and no longer have that choice."Ready to start capturing your family's stories? Listen now and discover how these conversations might be the most precious gift you can give future generations.Connect with JeremyFind him on Facebook or Instagram, or download the Winny app. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

In this fourteenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Lawanda Grant.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this thirteenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Carrie & Kalib McCoy, a husband and wife self-advocates. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Samantha Elandary, MA, CCC-SLP, founder and CEO of the Parkinson Voice Project—and the powerhouse behind the SPEAK OUT!® therapy program. From her early days as an SLP navigating hospital systems to launching a nonprofit that's helped thousands access care regardless of insurance status, Samantha shares her deeply personal “why” and the bold vision driving her mission. Show notes page: https://syppodcast.com/378 Special links: https://parkinsonvoiceproject.org/ https://parkinsonvoiceproject.org/program/speak-out/   https://parkinsonvoiceproject.org/program/parkinsons-speech-exercises/ The post 378 – More Than a Voice: How One SLP Built a Movement of Access & Advocacy appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

In this twelfth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Timotheus (TJ) Gordon from the Institute on Disability & Human Development at UIC.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this eleventh episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Marijane Sheridan from Sertoma Star.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this tenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Jeffrey Matlock from Sertoma Star. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

What if philanthropy, as we know it, is a flawed system?In this episode, we're joined by Jen Nguyen, a director at the Stupski Foundation, a unique "spend-down" organization designed to close its doors after giving away all of its assets by 2029. Jen, a former college counselor, provides an unapologetically candid look at a sector she may soon leave, revealing a rare freedom to challenge the status quo from within.We'll discuss how a "wait and see" approach to philanthropy falls short in moments of crisis, why foundations often prioritize their own survival over the needs of the communities they serve, and what it truly means to lead with a "nothing to lose" philosophy. Jen unpacks her critiques of the 5% payout rule, the "overhead" myth, and the power imbalances between funders and the organizations on the front lines.This conversation is a must-listen if you've ever wondered what a more just, trusting, and effective philanthropic sector could look like, or if the "rainy day" that so many foundations are saving for is already here. ⛈️Notable Quotes“The rainy day is here. So what are we saving for? What good is the Stupski Foundation going to be if it exists 50 years from now?” — Jen[06:05]“In my opinion, my job is not hard. The work is hard... We just need to give out money more quickly.” — Jen[28:24]“We need to be able to value that solidarity… The philanthropic field is set up to reflect capitalism, competition….” — Jen[34:50]“It's their practices that are causing executive directors to have to stretch themselves into different practices and way too thin….” — Jen[40:42]Timestamps[00:00] The “Wait and See” Approach[01:03] The Flaws of Institutional Philanthropy[02:18] Why Funders Are Reluctant to Speak Out[03:55] A Crisis of Government Funding[07:01] The Spend-Down Foundation Model[10:09] Rethinking Trust-Based Philanthropy[14:49] The Proper Role of Philanthropy[19:38] Balancing Intentionality and Impact[22:16] A Magic Wand for Philanthropy[26:22] The Problem with Due Diligence[29:22] What Philanthropy Can Learn from Venture Capital[35:32] The Overhead Conversation[40:33] Advice for Foundations[42:28] Advice for Nonprofit Leaders[46:31] Where to Connect with Jen and the Stupski FoundationP.S. — Feeling a disconnect between your mission and your brand? Cosmic helps social impact leaders build trust through story-rich brands, compelling campaigns, and values-aligned strategy. Let's talk about how to elevate your impact: https://designbycosmic.com/Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.*** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

In this ninth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Iris Pickens. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

Have you ever wondered why modern parenting feels more challenging than ever before? In this eye-opening conversation with licensed family therapist Todd Sarner, we explore how parents can transform daily stress and disconnection into calm, confident leadership at home.Todd shares his profound insight that effective parenting starts with placing relationship first. Drawing from decades of experience helping thousands of families, he reveals that most parenting should be proactive rather than reactive—focusing on building strong connections, creating supportive environments, and developing crucial maturity processes in children.The discussion delves into three essential maturity processes children need to develop: integrative energy (the ability to weigh different perspectives), emergent energy (creativity and self-expression), and adaptive energy (processing frustration and change). Todd explains how technology and social media can interfere with these natural developmental processes, leaving children ill-equipped to handle life's inevitable challenges.Perhaps most powerfully, Todd emphasizes that "empathy does not mean you agree"—encouraging parents to take time understanding their child's experience before problem-solving. This simple shift in approach creates the connection children need to naturally want to cooperate. As he notes, "When we're connected and honoring the connection, you don't need to convince me to do stuff most of the time."With the rapid advancement of AI and technology presenting unprecedented challenges for families, Todd's attachment-first approach offers a refreshing perspective on what children truly need from parents that no technology can provide: genuine empathy, emotional regulation, and human connection.Tune in to transform your approach to parenting and discover how to create the calm, confident home environment your family deserves. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

On the 141st episode of What is a Good Life?, I'm delighted to welcome Professor Megan Reitz. Megan is an Associate Fellow at Saïd Business School, Oxford University, and Professor of Leadership and Dialogue at Hult International Business School. She is a leading thinker on leadership and dialogue, featured in the Thinkers50 ranking of global business thinkers, and the author of Dialogue in Organizations, Mind Time, and, most recently, Speak Out, Listen Up. Her work explores how we create the conditions for transformative dialogue at work, and her latest research examines how we can foster spaciousness — the capacity to innovate, reflect, and build relationships in workplaces addicted to busyness.In this conversation, we explore the impact of space, silence, attention, and an outward focus on our relationships and our experience of life.This episode serves as an invitation to pause, question the busyness we've become entangled in, and reconsider the status quo of how we relate.For more of Megan's work:Website: https://www.meganreitz.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganreitz/Contact me at mark@whatisagood.life if you'd like to explore your own lines of self-inquiry through 1-on-1 coaching, my 5-week group courses, or to discuss team coaching to stimulate greater trust, communication, and connection, amongst your leadership teams.- For the What is a Good Life? podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/00:00 How do I encounter the world?04:00 Flow amongst people07:00 How our gestures affect others11:45 The labels, assumptions, and roles that create distance17:13 The energy drain of societal expectations23:00 Allowing, inquiry, and meta awareness26:20 Creating the space we require33:45 How do we see the world?37:00 Navigating pauses and big questions44:00 How strange it has become to pause47:30 Our focus moving from ourselves53:30 Experiencing periods without an agenda57:00 Summary and what is a good life for Megan?

In this eighth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Carl Nave from Macon Resources. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this seventh episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Erika Kissel from Just a Dollop. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this sixth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Bridget Brown from Engage IL Leadership Team.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

This week feels different. The assassination of Charlie Kirk wasn't just another tragedy — it was a line crossed in America.In this episode of Spartan Leadership, Josh Kosnick shares his unfiltered response to the events of this week. From the cultural divide exposed by Charlie's death, to the dangerous normalization of political violence on social media, to the difference between justice and vengeance — this is a sobering conversation about the value of human life, leadership, and truth.Charlie Kirk was a 31-year-old husband, father, and believer. He wasn't a politician. He was murdered for his convictions. That reality demands we ask: which side of this divide will you stand on?Josh reflects on Scripture, leadership, and the responsibility to use your voice even when it costs you. This is a call to clarity, courage, and justice in a culture at war with itself.00:00 Introduction and Mission Statement00:16 Founding the Organization00:24 Core Beliefs and Values00:51 Christian Duty and Public Arena01:07 Personal Reflections and Gratitude01:52 Grassroots Movement and Media Perception02:14 Generational Realignment and Youth Engagement03:21 Tragic News and Emotional Response04:20 The Impact of Charlie Kirk's Death10:24 Social Media's Role in Modern Tragedies22:11 Call to Action and Leadership33:56 Concluding Thoughts and Final Call to ActionDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes featuring top business minds, elite performers, and leadership experts.Connect with Josh Kosnick: https://linktr.ee/joshkosnick#SpartanLeadership #Leadership #BusinessSuccess #Mindset #Entrepreneurship #SelfImprovement #Podcast #JoshKosnick #SpartanMindsetSpartan Valor Foundation is dedicated to empowering veterans, military families, and survivors of child trafficking. Through strategic partnerships, we provide critical resources, advocacy, and hope for those who have sacrificed so much. Join us in making a difference—because no hero should stand alone.

Gavin Lubbe - Believers Stand Up and Speak Out by Living Faith Church

In this fifth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Nicholas T from Envision Unlimited. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this fourth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Deanna E from Envision Unlimited. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this third episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with April McHenry and Leanne Mull who have been at the first SUSO 20 years ago. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this second episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talk to Eva Kott and her parents Michael and Alena about her self-advocacy story, first-time speaking at this conference, and her empowering story.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this first episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Speaker, Comedian and Television Writer Zach Anner about his Keynote Presentation “Joyful Grit: Turning Setbacks Into Setups” and about his role as a television writer on the hit ABC sitcom “Speechless. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

Gary Chubik, mental performance coach to pro athletes and organizations like the FBI, shares his journey from a shy, reluctant speaker to a confident professional communicator with practical frameworks anyone can use.• Building self-trust is essential for confident communication• The "Me-We-Topic-You-Us" framework provides a simple structure for effective presentations• Preparation and proving skills to yourself creates genuine confidence• The CAPE method (Control, Assess, Plan, Execute) helps manage high-pressure situations• Focus on communicating one or two key points rather than overwhelming your audience• Find the optimal level of emotional engagement using the Yerkes-Dodson scale• Parent with emotion, not emotionally, for more effective communication with childrenFind Gary on Instagram or at elitemindset.nation.com to learn more about unlocking your potential through mental performance coaching. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

On this encore Special Chronicles Podcast episode: host Daniel Smrokowski shares his keynote from the 2020 Speak Up and Speak Out Summit, presented by The Arc of Illinois and funded by the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. Hear the origin story of Special Chronicles, nearly two decades of disability media storytelling, tips for creating social change, live audience Q&A, and musician Peter Leidy's song “Speak Up and Speak Out.” This episode originally aired on November 17, 2020. Episode 783 ShowNotes & Links Learn more about The Arc of Illinois' Speak Up and Speak Out Summit, a 3 day conference for people with disabilities Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

Send us a textImagine a world where every voice is heard, where empathy leads to genuine dialogue, and where personal transformation fuels leadership growth. How can we harness the power of our voice to inspire change and empowerment in ourselves and others? Join us in this compelling episode as we sit down with Tricia Brouk, an award-winning director, producer, author, and speaker, who transitioned from a successful dance career to a powerful advocate for amplifying voices. Through her Big Talk Academy, Tricia has become a thought leader in communication, championing the importance of empathy and the courage needed for authentic conversations. Tricia's new book, Being Smart Is Stupid: Why Embracing the Wisdom of Your Buddha Nature is the Secret to Great Leadership, explores the question: What if everything you've been told about leadership is wrong?We delve into Tricia's latest entrepreneural venture, The Wise Leopard, focusing on empowering women in midlife. In our current troubled environment, we talk frankly about how choosing love over fear and speaking out can lead to transformative change. Chapters with Timestamps:00:03: The Power of Your Voice 07:43: Being Smart Is Stupid10:39: Empowering Women in Midlife25:03: Choose Love, Speak Out, Have Courage Links:Preorder Being Smart Is Stupid: Why Embracing the Wisdom of Your Buddha Nature is the Secret to Great LeadershipConnect with Tricia Brouk on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.Listen to The Big Talk With Tricia BroukLearn more about:The Big Talk AcademyThe Wise LeopardTricia Brouk's websiteDon't forget to subscribe to the Adventures in Learning podcast and leave a review! Your voice matters, and we'd love to hear from you. Thanks for celebrating three years of storytelling with us!Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

The college landscape has transformed dramatically in a single generation. What once cost $7,000 annually now approaches $70,000, creating unprecedented financial pressure on families navigating the higher education maze. In this eye-opening conversation with Lee Norwood, founder of College Sharks, we unravel the complexities of finding the perfect college fit while managing costs.Contrary to popular belief, your child's most affordable option may not be that in-state university. Leigh reveals how merit scholarships can make seemingly expensive private colleges more budget-friendly than public alternatives. Her own experience attending Elon University for less than in-state Maryland tuition demonstrates this counterintuitive reality—a revelation that could transform your family's college search strategy.Beyond finances, we explore what college admissions officers actually evaluate first: curriculum choices. Before GPA or test scores, they examine whether students challenged themselves appropriately within their school's offerings. This insight, along with Leigh's guidance on extracurricular involvement (quality over quantity), provides a roadmap for application success.Parents of undecided students will find particular comfort in Lee's perspective that college remains a time of discovery, with excellent resources available for students still exploring potential paths. Meanwhile, homeschooling families receive specialized advice on documentation and transitioning to higher education. And for those questioning whether college remains essential, Leigh offers a balanced view acknowledging that while crucial for many careers, alternatives like trades or military service better suit some students.The college journey needn't overwhelm your family. By breaking the process into manageable monthly tasks over junior and senior years, you can navigate this pivotal time with confidence rather than anxiety. Visit CollegeSharks.com to access Lee's structured guidance programs and free resources like her comprehensive two-year planning calendar. Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Mallary Tenore Tarpley shares her journey through eating disorder recovery and offers guidance for parents navigating these conversations with their children in today's challenging social media landscape.• Understanding eating disorders beyond body image—Mallary's anorexia developed after her mother's death as an attempt to "stop time" and stay connected to her• The importance of recognizing the "middle place" in recovery where both progress and slips coexist• Teaching children that all bodies deserve respect regardless of size or shape• Avoiding labeling foods as "good" or "bad" which can create harmful associations for children• Creating positive relationships with food by involving children in meal preparation and giving them appropriate autonomy• Approaching concerns about disordered eating with curiosity rather than accusation• The importance of early intervention and seeking specialists in eating disorders when concerned• Recognizing that recovery's middle ground is not settling for stagnation but learning to manage vulnerability• Understanding slips as opportunities for growth rather than evidence of failureCheck out Mallary's memoir "Slip" to learn more about navigating the complex journey of eating disorder recovery.Connect with Mallary on Facebook or Instagram! Get a free mini lesson plus 52 prompts so your kids can practice every week here!Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!

Exulansic returns to update me on: I Am Jazz's Waking Nightmare, Autoandrophilia, The struggles of having “a rooster and a WAP,” Cotard sexuals, And if sex isn't gender, then why are we changing sex traits? Check out my book, That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore: On the Death and Rebirth of Comedy https://amzn.to/3VhFa1r     Check out my short story "Paul's Ghost" in Nothing Sacred from Heresy Press and Skyhorse Publishing. I've been rocking XX-XY Athletics wares. WORK OUT, SPEAK OUT! You can get 20% off your purchase of the perfect burpee gear with promo code LOU20. https://www.xx-xyathletics.com/?sca_ref=7113152.ifIMaKpCG3ZfUHH4  Support me at www.substack.com/@louperez    Join my newsletter www.TheLouPerez.com  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../the-lou-perez.../id1535032081  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KAtC7eFS3NHWMZp2UgMVU  Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/.../2b7d4d.../the-lou-perez-podcast  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb5trMQQvT077-L1roE0iZyAgT4dD4EtJ  Lou Perez is a comedian, producer, and the author of THAT JOKE ISN'T FUNNY ANYMORE: ON THE DEATH AND REBIRTH OF COMEDY. You may have seen him on Gutfeld! , FOX News Primetime, One Nation with Brian Kilmeade, and Open to Debate (with Michael Ian Black). Lou was the Head Writer and Producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV. During his tenure at WTI, Lou made the kind of comedy that gets you put on lists and your words in the Wall Street Journal: “How I Became a ‘Far-Right Radical.'” As a stand-up comedian, Lou has opened for Rob Schneider, Rich Vos, Jimmy Dore, Dave Smith, and toured the US and Canada with Scott Thompson. Lou has also produced live shows with Colin Quinn, the Icarus Festival, and the Rutherford Comedy Festival. For years, Lou performed at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (both in NYC and L.A.) in sketch shows with the Hammerkatz and his comedy duo, Greg and Lou. Greg and Lou is best known for its sketch "Wolverine's Claws Suck," which has over 20 million views on YouTube alone. In addition to producing sketch comedy like Comedy Is Murder, performing stand-up across the country, and writing for The Blaze's Align, Lou is on the advisory board of Heresy Press, a FAIR-in-the-arts fellow, and host of the live debate series The Wrong Take and The Lou Perez Podcast (which is part of the Lions of Liberty Podcast Network). How'd Lou start out? He began doing improv and sketch comedy while an undergrad at New York University, where he was part of the comedy group the Wicked Wicked Hammerkatz. Lou was a writer for Fox Sports' @TheBuzzer; produced The Attendants with Lorne Michaels's Broadway Video; produced pilots for FOX Digital and MSN Games; and was a comedy producer on TruTV's Impractical Jokers. Lou hosted the stand-up show Uncle Lou's Safe Place in Los Angeles, performed at the Big Pine Comedy Festival, Bridgetown Comedy Festival, Punching Up Comedy at Freedom Fest, and co-created the political comedy podcast Unsafe Space. Lou taught creative writing at the City College of New York, "writing the web series" for Writing Pad, and comedy writing workshops for the Moving Picture Institute. Lou worked with The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression as Communications Manager and later as a producer and consultant. Their video "Taking a Knee in Sports? For what?" was broadcast during a USC vs. Notre Dame football game and was a SILVER ADDY® WINNER at the American Advertising Awards. Lou is also a brand ambassador for XX-XY Athletics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out my book, That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore: On the Death and Rebirth of Comedy https://amzn.to/3VhFa1r My mother drank Budweiser when she was pregnant with me, so this episode of The LPP on Bud Light is close to my heart. (Albeit Mom was a Bud-Heavy drinker.) I hope you enjoy my very sober conversation with Anson Frericks, a former president at Anheuser-Busch and author of Last Call for Bud Light. https://amzn.to/4i7kCSz  We talked about Dylan Mulvaney, Shareholders vs Stakeholders, millionaires hating billionaires, and how much European ass the US of A is kicking. Check out my short story "Paul's Ghost" in Nothing Sacred from Heresy Press and Skyhorse Publishing. Catch me on tour, opening for the brilliant Scott Thompson. (Dates Below) Tickets here: https://newscottlandland.com/live-events Philadelphia, PA - June 3 Alexandria, VA - June 4 Atlanta, GA - June 10 I've been rocking XX-XY Athletics wares. WORK OUT, SPEAK OUT! You can get 20% off your purchase of the perfect burpee gear with promo code LOU20. https://www.xx-xyathletics.com/?sca_ref=7113152.ifIMaKpCG3ZfUHH4 Support me at www.substack.com/@louperez     Join my newsletter www.TheLouPerez.com   Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../the-lou-perez.../id1535032081   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KAtC7eFS3NHWMZp2UgMVU   Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/.../2b7d4d.../the-lou-perez-podcast   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb5trMQQvT077-L1roE0iZyAgT4dD4EtJ   Who am I? Lou Perez is a comedian, producer, and author of That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore. You may have seen him on FOX's Gutfeld! and Open to Debate (with Michael Ian Black). Lou was the head writer and producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV and produces Comedy Is Murder, a sketch comedy series with Free the People. Lou is a FAIR-in-the Arts fellow, on the advisory board of Heresy Press, and hosts the live debate series The Wrong Take and The Lou Perez Podcast.  During my tenure at We the Internet, I made the kind of comedy that gets you put on lists and your words in the Wall Street Journal: “How I Became a ‘Far-Right Radical.” How'd I start out? I began doing improv and sketch comedy while an undergrad at New York University, where I was part of the comedy group the Wicked Wicked Hammerkatz. For years, I performed at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (both in NYC and L.A.) in sketch shows with the Hammerkatz and my comedy duo, Greg and Lou. G&L are probably best known for our sketch "Wolverine's Claws Suck," which has over 20 million views across online platforms. I was a writer for Fox Sports' @TheBuzzer; produced The Attendants with the Above Average Network; produced pilots for FOX Digital and MSN Games; and was a comedy producer on TruTV's Impractical Jokers. I hosted the stand-up show Uncle Lou's Safe Place in Los Angeles, performed at the Big Pine Comedy Festival, Bridgetown Comedy Festival, and co-created the political comedy podcast Unsafe Space. I've opened for Jimmy Dore, Rich Vos, Dave Smith, and Rob Schneider. I'm currently on tour with Scott Thompson. I taught creative writing at the City College of New York, "writing the web series" for Writing Pad, and comedy writing workshops for the Moving Picture Institute. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out my book, That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore: On the Death and Rebirth of Comedy https://amzn.to/3VhFa1r     I really enjoyed my conversation with writer and teacher of statistics, Hunter Ash. We talked about “trans widows,” my mission to normalize dudes with breasts, as well as the impact of psychedelics on Hunter's ideological and physical transformations. Check out my short story "Paul's Ghost" in Nothing Sacred from Heresy Press and Skyhorse Publishing. Catch me on tour, opening for the brilliant Scott Thompson. (Dates Below) Tickets here: https://newscottlandland.com/live-events Boston, MA - May 28 Ogunquit, ME - May 30 Stamford, CT - May 31 NYC, NY - June 1 Philadelphia, PA - June 3 Alexandria, VA - June 4 Atlanta, GA - June 10 I've been rocking XX-XY Athletics wares. WORK OUT, SPEAK OUT! You can get 20% off your purchase of the perfect burpee gear with promo code LOU20. https://www.xx-xyathletics.com/?sca_ref=7113152.ifIMaKpCG3ZfUHH4 Support me at www.substack.com/@louperez     Join my newsletter www.TheLouPerez.com   Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../the-lou-perez.../id1535032081   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KAtC7eFS3NHWMZp2UgMVU   Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/.../2b7d4d.../the-lou-perez-podcast   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb5trMQQvT077-L1roE0iZyAgT4dD4EtJ   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out my book, That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore: On the Death and Rebirth of Comedy https://amzn.to/3VhFa1r     I always have fun talking with my friend Larry Sharpe of The Sharpe Way. On this episode, I come to him for advice on how to get my child to put/keep his pants on and insights into how bad New York really is, who's behind the migrant crisis and the homeless industrial complex, and just how much money can be made off of human suffering. While others are looking to be the next 600-pound influencer, “quiet quitting” or “showing their independence” (that's when you get a job but choose not to show up on the first day of work), I'm pushing the Flashdance career path: Be a dancer but also be a welder—and always be a creator. Check out my short story "Paul's Ghost" in Nothing Sacred from Heresy Press and Skyhorse Publishing. Catch me on tour, opening for the brilliant Scott Thompson. (Dates Below) Tickets here: https://newscottlandland.com/live-events  Buffalo, NY - May 20 Cleveland, OH - May 21 Pittsburgh, PA - May 22 Toronto, CA - May 24 Boston, MA - May 28 Ogunquit, ME - May 30 Stamford, CT - May 31 NYC, NY - June 1 Philadelphia, PA - June 3 Alexandria, VA - June 4 Atlanta, GA - June 10 I've been rocking XX-XY Athletics wares. WORK OUT, SPEAK OUT! You can get 20% off your purchase of the perfect burpee gear with promo code LOU20. https://www.xx-xyathletics.com/?sca_ref=7113152.ifIMaKpCG3ZfUHH4  Support me at www.substack.com/@louperez    Join my newsletter www.TheLouPerez.com  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../the-lou-perez.../id1535032081  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KAtC7eFS3NHWMZp2UgMVU  Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/.../2b7d4d.../the-lou-perez-podcast  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb5trMQQvT077-L1roE0iZyAgT4dD4EtJ  Who am I? Lou Perez is a comedian, producer, and author of That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore. You may have seen him on FOX's Gutfeld! and Open to Debate (with Michael Ian Black). Lou was the head writer and producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV and produces Comedy Is Murder, a sketch comedy series with Free the People. Lou is a FAIR-in-the Arts fellow, on the advisory board of Heresy Press, and hosts the live debate series The Wrong Take and The Lou Perez Podcast.  During my tenure at We the Internet, I made the kind of comedy that gets you put on lists and your words in the Wall Street Journal: “How I Became a ‘Far-Right Radical.” How'd I start out? I began doing improv and sketch comedy while an undergrad at New York University, where I was part of the comedy group the Wicked Wicked Hammerkatz. For years, I performed at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (both in NYC and L.A.) in sketch shows with the Hammerkatz and my comedy duo, Greg and Lou. G&L are probably best known for our sketch "Wolverine's Claws Suck," which has over 20 million views across online platforms. I was a writer for Fox Sports' @TheBuzzer; produced The Attendants with the Above Average Network; produced pilots for FOX Digital and MSN Games; and was a comedy producer on TruTV's Impractical Jokers. I hosted the stand-up show Uncle Lou's Safe Place in Los Angeles, performed at the Big Pine Comedy Festival, Bridgetown Comedy Festival, and co-created the political comedy podcast Unsafe Space. I've opened for Jimmy Dore, Rich Vos, Dave Smith, and Rob Schneider. I'm currently on tour with Scott Thompson. I taught creative writing at the City College of New York, "writing the web series" for Writing Pad, and comedy writing workshops for the Moving Picture Institute. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out my book, That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore: On the Death and Rebirth of Comedy On this episode I talk with filmmaker and co-host of The System is Down, Dan Smotz, about collapsitarians (my new favorite word), wedding videography, and Who Is Roger Ver? If you're a paid subscriber to my Substack or the Lions of Liberty Podcast Network you're hearing this first. Lemme know what you think. Would you survive the end of the world? For how long? Catch me on tour, opening for the brilliant Scott Thompson. (Dates Below) Tickets here: https://newscottlandland.com/live-events Louisville, KY - May 17 Indianapolis, IN - May 18 Buffalo, NY - May 20 Cleveland, OH - May 21 Pittsburgh, PA - May 22 Toronto, CA - May 24 Boston, MA - May 28 Ogunquit, ME - May 30 Stamford, CT - May 31 NYC, NY - June 1 Philadelphia, PA - June 3 Alexandria, VA - June 4 Atlanta, GA - June 10 I've been rocking XX-XY Athletics wares. WORK OUT, SPEAK OUT! You can get 20% off your purchase of the perfect burpee gear with promo code LOU20. https://www.xx-xyathletics.com/?sca_ref=7113152.ifIMaKpCG3ZfUHH4 Support me at www.substack.com/@louperez    Join my newsletter www.TheLouPerez.com  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../the-lou-perez.../id1535032081  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KAtC7eFS3NHWMZp2UgMVU  Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/.../2b7d4d.../the-lou-perez-podcast  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb5trMQQvT077-L1roE0iZyAgT4dD4EtJ  Who am I? Lou Perez is a comedian, producer, and author of That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore. You may have seen him on FOX's Gutfeld! and Open to Debate (with Michael Ian Black). Lou was the head writer and producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV and produces Comedy Is Murder, a sketch comedy series with Free the People. Lou is a FAIR-in-the Arts fellow, on the advisory board of Heresy Press, and hosts the live debate series The Wrong Take and The Lou Perez Podcast.  During my tenure at We the Internet, I made the kind of comedy that gets you put on lists and your words in the Wall Street Journal: “How I Became a ‘Far-Right Radical.” How'd I start out? I began doing improv and sketch comedy while an undergrad at New York University, where I was part of the comedy group the Wicked Wicked Hammerkatz. For years, I performed at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (both in NYC and L.A.) in sketch shows with the Hammerkatz and my comedy duo, Greg and Lou. G&L are probably best known for our sketch "Wolverine's Claws Suck," which has over 20 million views across online platforms. I was a writer for Fox Sports' @TheBuzzer; produced The Attendants with the Above Average Network; produced pilots for FOX Digital and MSN Games; and was a comedy producer on TruTV's Impractical Jokers. I hosted the stand-up show Uncle Lou's Safe Place in Los Angeles, performed at the Big Pine Comedy Festival, Bridgetown Comedy Festival, and co-created the political comedy podcast Unsafe Space. I've opened for Jimmy Dore, Rich Vos, Dave Smith, and Rob Schneider. I'm currently on tour with Scott Thompson. I taught creative writing at the City College of New York, "writing the web series" for Writing Pad, and comedy writing workshops for the Moving Picture Institute. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices