Podcasts about united way

When we think about what makes a strong community, it often comes down to one thing — people showing up for each other. Across Minnesota, thousands of volunteers are showing up every day — to stock food shelves, tutor students, plant community gardens, organize donation drives and more.And the way we serve is changing.Today, it's easier than ever to sign up for one-time events, find projects that line up with your skills or passions and even volunteer virtually from your computer.  MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about why volunteering matters, how it strengthens communities and how you can find opportunities that fit your interests and schedule. Guests: Niila Herbert is the executive director of the Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement.Melissa Wilson is the senior director of engagement at Greater Twin Cities United Way. She leads the United Way's Volunteer United program, which promotes volunteer opportunities and events.  

Are you ready to unlock the secret to powerful, effective leadership? In this inspiring solo episode of the Marli Williams Podcast, Marli shares a sneak peek into her brand new keynote—introducing the concept of Energy Intelligence. Discover the latest strategies to protect, generate, and transfer your energy as a leader, speaker, or coach. Learn about the “Lead Fully Charged” framework and get a taste of how intentional energy management can prevent burnout and boost your impact. Curious about how your presence shapes every room you enter? If you're interested in authentic leadership, self-awareness, and the habits of high-performing teams, this episode will have you looking at your calendar—and your energy—in a whole new light!Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they've always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli's work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliamsStay Connected to The Marli Williams PodcastFollow us on Instagram: @marliwilliamsOur Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.comHire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat!www.marliwilliams.comReally love the podcast and want to share it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Let's Lead Together and reach more people - we appreciate your support!!

In this final episode of The Bulletin miniseries "Artificially Intelligent,” Mike Cosper speaks with AJ Calhoun about AI and work, and what we can learn from technological revolutions of the past. Then, Clarissa Moll chats with Brenda Ng about AI in the doctor's exam room and ways that it may even bring humanity to that vulnerable space. Charlie Peacock shares what talented musicians can accomplish with AI tools in hand. And finally, SIL Global discusses how they're using AI to help their translators produce drafts of the Bible in new languages.  GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: - Join the conversation at our Substack. - Find us on YouTube. - Rate and review the show in Apple Podcasts. ABOUT THE GUESTS:   AJ Calhoun is the director of research and impact at Leading on Opportunity, an initiative of Foundation For The Carolinas. In this role, he leads a team of designers and social scientists to build inclusive, data-driven tools to advance economic mobility. AJ has worked on similar projects with the United Way, Knight Foundation, World Resources Institute, Chicago Community Trust, and Consultative Group to Assist the Poor at the World Bank.  Brenda Ng is the executive director for research & insights in the Digital Innovation Group of Providence Health and Services. She was previously principal and founder of The Trio Group, specializing in customer-driven business and marketing insights for technology companies, and a senior executive for consumer and competitive insights at Microsoft and T-Mobile where she played leading roles in the launch of X-Box and T-Mobile's first cell phone.  Charlie Peacock is a Nashville-based, four-time Grammy Award-winning, multi-format jazz and pop recording artist, composer and record producer. Peacock's production credits range from Chris Cornell and Ladysmith Black Mambazo to AAA and Americana successes such as The Lone Bellow, Holly Williams, The Civil Wars, Ben Rector and Brett Dennen.  Michael Martin is a software engineer at SIL Global researching the use of neural machine translation technology in multi-lingual, ultra-low resource language settings.  JoEllen Magnus is the business analyst for the Scripture Forge AI translation tools at SIL Global.  Cassie Weishaupt is a data scientist at SIL Global, and works on creating AI quality assessment tools for Bible translation teams and exploring the ways minority language expertise can be leveraged in the fight against human trafficking. ABOUT THE BULLETIN: The Bulletin is a twice-weekly politics and current events show from Christianity Today moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.  The Bulletin listeners get 25 percent off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more. “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today Producer: Clarissa Moll Associate Producer: Alexa Burke Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Music: Dan Phelps Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Southwest Michigan's Morning News podcast is prepared and delivered by the WSJM Newsroom. For these stories and more, visit https://www.wsjm.com and follow us for updates on Facebook. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Southwest Michigan's Morning News podcast is prepared and delivered by the WSJM Newsroom. For these stories and more, visit https://www.wsjm.com and follow us for updates on Facebook. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

20/20 est un podcast signé L'Express Éducation, entièrement consacré à l'enseignement supérieur. Il a été réalisé indépendamment de la rédaction de L'Express.

It's the United Way's Day of Caring coming up September 12 and you can be a big part of it! What's Day of Caring? President and CEO Amy Mangold is at the Celebrity Mic with all the details!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August 7, 2025 - Debbie Bogle of the United Way joined Byers & Co to talk about the busy summer, Caterpillar's campaign, and classic entertainment. Listen to the podcast now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest is Tracy Wallin, Marketing CoordinatorSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Community Focus with Gregory T. Roberts and Melvin Burns II, featuring guest Lisa Tyler, President and CEO of United Way of the Lakeshore, regarding their Parties in the Park event, and afterwards, guest William Kitchen, Muskegon Heights Council Member candidate.

This week on the Voices of Value podcast, I sat down with the thoughtful and powerful Hallie Young—a public health professional and personal trainer who's shaping the future of wellness through community and purpose.In this conversation, we cover:✅ Growing up in Washington, D.C. and the beauty of bilingual education✅ Why Hallie didn't find fitness until adulthood—and how it changed her life✅ The power of public health as a career of service✅ Building a wellness mindset across mental, physical, social, and financial domains✅ How community can shape both your health and your missionHallie's story is one of intention, growth, and purpose-driven work. Whether you're on a personal health journey, building a business, or just need some perspective—this episode has gems for you.Hallie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foreveryoungfit/Hallie's Website: https://www.foreveryoungfit.org/Collis's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisstutzertraining/Collis's Website: www.foundryhp.comResources:Play Equity Fund - https://www.playequityfund.org/Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport - https://chjs.org/LA Parks & Rec - https://www.laparks.org/YMCA - https://www.ymcala.org/United Way of Greater LA - https://unitedwayla.org/

Across the Shenandoah Valley, the spirit of community is alive and thriving, thanks in large part to the efforts of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley (UWNSV) and its dedicated partners. In a recent episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael sat down with UWNSV CEO Andy Gail to pull back the curtain on the organization's annual Impact Grants—a process that this year saw over $435,000 distributed to local nonprofits, with an additional $100,000 from other funding sources. What sets these grants apart is the community-driven approach: volunteers from across the region serve on grant panels, evaluating applications and making funding decisions that directly address the Valley's most pressing needs. Andy highlighted the collaborative nature of the process, noting how nonprofits are encouraged to work together, share resources, and even co-author grant applications. This year, the streamlined application and reporting process made it easier for organizations to focus on their missions rather than paperwork, while still ensuring accountability and transparency. The result? A more connected network of nonprofits, empowered to make a tangible difference in areas like education, health, and community resilience. The episode also spotlighted the upcoming First Responders Thank You event, organized by local business owner Kimberly Sowers in partnership with United Way. Set to be a family-friendly celebration, the event will offer free meals to first responders, live music, and activities for children, all in honor of the Valley's emergency personnel. Kimberly's passion for giving back to those who run toward danger instead of away from it resonated deeply, and the event promises to strengthen the bond between first responders and the community they serve. As the conversation wrapped up, Andy reflected on United Way's evolving role—not just as a funder, but as a connector, advocate, and resource for the region's nonprofits. By fostering collaboration, encouraging innovation, and keeping the focus on impact, United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley is helping to ensure that every dollar—and every act of kindness—goes further in building a stronger, more resilient community.  

In this episode of the Live United podcast, hosts Carla Meyer and Chase Mowery sit down with the 2025 Tulsa Area United Way Fundraising Drive Chair Jackie Price Johannsen, of Price Family Properties. Jackie shares her personal journey from practicing law in New York City to returning to Tulsa, explaining what convinced her to take on this vital role and why she believes everyone in the community is connected to the United Way's work. The conversation also highlights the Downtown Deco Challenge. Join us Saturday, August 23, from 8 am-12 pm for free food and fun for the whole family. For every person or pet that goes under the balloon arch, Price Family Properties will donate $100 (up to $100,000) to help kick off our 101st fundraising drive. Watch to learn more about Jackie's "all in" approach and how much it means to be "pulling on the same rope" for the Tulsa Area United Way.

July 31, 2025 - Debbie Bogle of the United Way joined Byers & Co to talk about the differences in generations, needs of the community, and entertainment. Listen to the podcast now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GBH executive arts editor Jared Bowen discusses AI-fueled video games and the mayoral forum on the arts.Harvard national security expert Juliette Kayyem discusses the latest on the gunman in New York, tsunami warnings after last night's earthquake, and new FEMA grants set to go out to states to build migrant detention facilities.Marty Martinez, President and CEO of United Way of Massachusetts Bay, joins to discuss the challenges facing community-based nonprofits right now. Martinez, who formerly served as Boston's health chief, also discusses the state of public health.Naturalist and author Sy Montgomery recounts her trip to see a thriving puffin population in Maine with BPR senior producer Zoe Mathews. Plus, Sy talks about elephants communicating with humans and a pair of coyotes living in Central Park.

Today:Naturalist Sy Montgomery zooms in to discuss her trip with producer Zoe Mathews to a puffin colony in Maine.And, Marty Martinez is the new CEO and President of United Way of Massachusetts Bay. He joins to discuss the nonprofit and social services.

Curious about the magic behind authentic leadership and personal growth? In this episode of the Marli Williams Podcast, Marli welcomes Dr. Michael Simmons—known as Shadow Mike—who unpacks the true meaning of “shadow work” and the hero's journey. Explore how embracing your hidden gifts, facing what's unsaid, and stepping into your wholeness can unlock purpose and fulfillment in both leadership and life. Alongside stories from popular culture, like Star Wars and Moana, Shadow Mike explains how the “enchanted forest” of self-discovery leads to real transformation. Whether you're a coach, leader, or simply feel called to more, tune in for fresh takes on vulnerability, energetic resilience, and the journey from role to soul. Are you ready to meet what's waiting for you beyond the threshold?Dr. Michael Simmons (aka Shadow Mike) is an expert shadow work coach and soul initiator. He specializes in finding the psycho-spiritual root ailing you, then guiding you to your own abundant medicine, power, and agency to embody your unlived soulful life.Michael offers Shadow Work Journeys to guide individuals through their dense, dark, inner landscape. Schedule a free 60-minute Consultation SessionLinkEmail: mike@shadowmike.comWebsite: ShadowMike.com1:1 Shadow Work: Schedule a free 60-minute Consultation SessionYouTube: @ShadowMikeCommunitySubstack: substack.com/@shadowmikePatheos Column: Transgressive Spirituality Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they've always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli's work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliamsStay Connected to The Marli Williams...

If you've ever called 211 here in Southwest Florida to find assistance with things like housing, food, healthcare, mental health — the list goes on — the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is who is supporting the 211 service, and is helping to fund the many agencies and nonprofits around the region who are there to help. Each year their fundraising campaign is designed to raise the money they need to help fund more than 90 partner agencies who help around a half-million people each year. Put simply, the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades provides an essential backbone for social services in southwest Florida. We learn about a breakfast on Monday, Aug. 4 that will help set the tone for this year's campaign.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Happy Headline is brought to you by United Way of Southwest Michigan - United Is The Way We Create Lasting Change in Southwest Michigan for Over 80 Years. Give, Advocate, or Volunteer now at UWSM.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Walleye category, bass category, big fish and legacy anglers...We reveal the winners and the prizes from the Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing TournamentSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson interviews Andrew Miller, a multi-faceted leader who serves as CEO of both the United Way of Skagit County and Tulip Valley Farms, as well as commissioner at Skagit PUD. Miller shares his unique journey from working at major tech companies like Amazon to returning home to Skagit County as an economic developer, only to eventually become the entrepreneur he had been encouraging others to be. The conversation explores the challenges economic developers face when advocating for entrepreneurship and innovation, the resistance to change in established systems, and Miller's decision to "walk the walk" by purchasing a farm business when others wouldn't take the leap. Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Look for gaps in existing industries where innovation can create new business models (like adding U-pick to traditional tulip festivals) Study successful elements from adjacent industries and adapt them to your community's assets Create bridges between urban and rural communities through experiential tourism Focus on finding and selling what's remarkable about your community to people willing to pay for it Combine unexpected elements (like Scottish Highland cows with tulips) to create unique attractions Make agriculture and rural life accessible to urban neighbors who lack farming connections Consider compound risks when developing agritourism ventures (weather for growing AND weather for visitors) Use personal availability and storytelling to create authentic connections with visitors Help passionate people in your community turn their interests into viable businesses Remember that credentials matter less than passion and willingness to learn in entrepreneurship Special Guest: Andrew Miller.

In this jam-packed Friday edition of What's On Your Mind, Senator Kevin Cramer headlines a full-hour Talk Radio Town Hall — no topic is off-limits. From budget shortfalls and law enforcement hiring freezes to heated frustrations over light sentencing and intel abuse, this episode pulls zero punches. Cass County Sheriff Jesse Jahner sheds light on the fallout from North Dakota's 3% tax cap and shares candid insight on sentencing in the justice system. Later, listeners call in with fiery takes on everything from Epstein conspiracies to climate science coverups. The lines are hot, the takes are hotter. Plus: Meet Sandi Piatz, the incoming CEO of United Way Cass-Clay, and don't miss Scott's late-night steak rave about Harry's Steakhouse... and his run-in with the legendary Johnny Holm.

Greg Belfrage talks to listeners about the latest news regarding the United Way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg Belfrage talks about the latest news headlines including Jerome Powell, PBS and NPR, John Thune, The United Way, South Park, and more...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Daniel Liu, who recently was honored with the Youth Volunteer Award at the 2025 Strobel Volunteer Awards hosted by Hands On Nashville powered by United Way of Greater Nashville. Daniel Liu, a pre-med student at Vanderbilt, founded the Peace of Mind program to address the shortage of volunteers for home hospice care in Nashville. He recognized that while many students wanted to volunteer, transportation was a significant barrier, particularly for reaching the 90% of cases requiring in-home visits. Drawing inspiration from his middle school experience with free bus rides to nursing homes, Daniel developed a solution by coordinating free transportation for Vanderbilt students to volunteer in home hospice care, providing them with valuable patient experience while meeting a critical community need.Volunteer Uber Voucher PipelineDaniel created a simple pipeline that allows volunteers to apply for Uber vouchers to visit patient sites, considering factors like distance, time, and cost. Since its inception, 35 classmates have been trained to administer Hospice care, volunteering at patient homes and contributing to over 600 hours of service across nearly 200 patient cases. Daniel has personally volunteered for about 350 hours over two years, visiting around 20 patients, and finds the Uber voucher program to be one of the most impactful ways he has contributed to his community.Volunteering Shapes Leadership JourneyDaniel reflects on how his volunteer experience has shaped him as a leader, emphasizing that it taught him the importance of taking the first step in community involvement. He explains that he now understands the process of initiating change, from writing grants to securing funding, which gives him confidence in future endeavors. Daniel also describes the unique nature of hospice volunteering, highlighting that each patient interaction is different and tailored to individual needs, ranging from playing piano to discussing art.Vanderbilt Peace of Mind InitiativesDaniel discusses his work with Vanderbilt Peace of Mind, which involves meeting people, understanding their experiences, and conducting educational training sessions with experts in hospice care. He expresses his vision to lead interventions in communities and emphasized the importance of finding partners, communicating effectively, and identifying community needs to create impactful solutions. Daniel was recognized as the Youth Volunteer Award winner at the 2025 Strobel Volunteer Awards, which he considers a significant honor. He encourages others, especially college students, to take leadership roles and create movements for community betterment. Daniel also shares his email address for those interested in partnering with or supporting his efforts with Vanderbilt Peace of Mind.Email Daniel Liu at daniel.x.liu@vanderbilt.edu to learn more and get involved with Vanderbilt Peace of Mind.

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GDP Script/ Top Stories for July 17th Publish Date: July 17th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, July 17th and Happy birthday to Luke Bryan I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. 1. Gwinnett County Police retiring K-9 for health reasons 2. Gwinnett County Public Schools' newest teachers approaching job with enthusiasm 3. Gwinnett staff providing transportation to seniors in need after state vendor stops service Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 1: Gwinnett County Police retiring K-9 for health reasons K-9 Egan, a Belgian Malinois with the Gwinnett County Police Department, is retiring early due to health issues, including heat intolerance and declining mobility from job-related injuries. Since joining the SWAT Team in March 2022, Egan has been deployed on 132 calls, assisted in 30 arrests, and completed 1,540 training hours. Gwinnett County commissioners approved his retirement, prioritizing his well-being. Egan will now enjoy a relaxed life at home with his handler, Cpl. William Webb. While police K-9s typically serve until age 7 or 8, Egan’s career is ending earlier due to his health challenges. STORY 2: Gwinnett County Public Schools' newest teachers approaching job with enthusiasm Alejandra Ruiz, inspired by her first-grade teacher, is now set to teach first grade at Minor Elementary in Gwinnett County, where she hopes to make a difference for her students. She joined 1,200 new educators at GCPS’s New Teacher Orientation, which featured advice from leaders like Interim Superintendent Al Taylor, who emphasized urgency in addressing student needs, and a panel of award-winning educators. Fellow new teacher Michelle Juarez, a GCPS graduate, shared her excitement to give back to the district. The event provided valuable insights, including the importance of self-care and building trust with students. GCPS is nearly fully staffed, with just 35 positions left to fill before the school year starts on Aug. 4. STORY 3: Gwinnett staff providing transportation to seniors in need after state vendor stops service Gwinnett County staff are stepping in to assist elderly residents after the state’s primary transportation vendor, Deanna Services, ceased operations. About 320 seniors relied on the service for medical appointments and trips to senior centers. County staff are now prioritizing urgent medical trips, such as dialysis, and personally transporting seniors when necessary. While some state subcontractors continue to provide rides to certain senior centers, the county is filling gaps for other locations and helping residents find alternative transportation. Seniors needing assistance are encouraged to contact Gwinnett Health and Human Services at 678-377-4150. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back Break 2: Ingles Markets 4 STORY 4: Gwinnett, United Way teaming up to help inmates prepare for life outside jail The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the United Way of Greater Atlanta to support newly released jail inmates through the Gwinnett Re-Entry Intervention Program (G.R.I.P.). The county will provide $250,000 to fund resources like substance abuse treatment, job skills training, housing assistance, and crime prevention education. The program also includes inmate work detail units, offering skills training through partnerships with local businesses. The goal is to reduce recidivism by addressing addiction, mental health, and employment needs, ensuring a smoother transition back into the community. STORY 5: Lawrenceville resident joins Youth Villages’ internship program Ariya Maskara, a Lawrenceville resident and Emory University psychology student, is interning with Youth Villages, a nonprofit supporting young adults with behavioral challenges. Maskara is working in Nashville group homes, gaining hands-on experience with youth aged 6 to 17. This summer, Youth Villages welcomed its largest intern class, with 92 students from 48 colleges across 15 states, selected from over 950 applicants. Interns assist with goal-setting, recreational activities, and mentorship, while building skills in behavioral health. Youth Villages hopes many interns will return for full-time roles after graduation. Break 3: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets 4 Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: • www.ingles-markets.com • www.kiamallofga.com NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textA chance connection on social media led to one of the most heartwarming conversations in Kindness Matters history. Philip Parker, creator of multiple podcasts including "Unscripted Perspective" and "Untouched Melodies," joins Mike Rathbun to explore how kindness functions as both a personal healing force and a powerful tool for positive change.The conversation takes a particularly moving turn when Philip shares the origin story of "Rory Stories" – a podcast born from his four-year-old son's concern that his friends weren't getting bedtime stories. What began as a simple father-son project has evolved into a partnership with United Way, supporting both independent authors and children in need. It's a beautiful example of how even the smallest acts of kindness can create unexpected ripple effects.Despite navigating personal challenges including a recent separation, Philip maintains a commitment to kindness that shines through in his parenting philosophy. "I don't want to raise people that are not kind," he explains, sharing touching examples of how his children naturally absorb and reflect the kindness they witness. His guiding principle, borrowed from both Ted Lasso and Walt Whitman – "Be curious, not judgmental" – offers listeners a practical approach to navigating difficult interactions with grace.The episode weaves through discussions of modern media, the evolution of music platforms, and the importance of basic human connection in an increasingly digital world. Philip's infectious enthusiasm for creating content that uplifts others serves as a powerful reminder that while we cannot control global events, we can control our own actions – we can "lead with kindness."Whether you're seeking inspiration for your own creative endeavors, looking for practical kindness strategies, or simply need a reminder that goodness still exists in the world, this conversation delivers with authenticity and heart. Subscribe to Kindness Matters for weekly doses of positivity and join our community on social media to share your own kindness stories.Support the show

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tragic flash flood in Texas earlier this month is the latest reminder about nature's ability to turn deadly in an instant and the importance of preparedness - yet another challenge for disadvantaged communities (at 13:21) --- Inflation picked up again last month and while most analysts blame the impact of tariffs, there is another reason prices remain stubbornly high... the cost of increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks (at 22:58) --- Community and Business Spotlight: Don't look now, but it's almost time to kick off the annual fundraising campaign for the United Way of Hancock County... and this year, they're celebrating their 70th anniversary of making an impact in the community (at 44:58)

In this episode, Bryan Barrett sits down with Ella Weaver, Vice President of Collective Impact, and Rachel Hagler, Early Childhood Development Coordinator at United Way of Sou

Ready to boost your influence and make unforgettable connections at live events? In this episode of the Marli Williams Podcast, Marli teams up with powerhouse emcee and keynote speaker Quinn Conyers to explore the real keys to standing out in-person. Discover why showing up is just the start—how you use your voice, energy, and “verbal business card” makes all the difference in networking, speaking, and business opportunities. Marli even volunteers for a live communication makeover, so you'll hear practical tips in action! If you're a speaker, leader, or business owner craving more impactful in-person experiences and higher visibility, this conversation is packed with insights on personal branding, elevating your presence, and connecting authentically. Tune in for secrets on transforming your elevator pitch, using luxury language, and leveraging the power of presence for epic results.Quinn Conyers is a keynote speaker, event emcee, and verbal branding expert with 20 years of experience speaking on stages. She's hosted and spoken for brands like PayPal, Nike, Visa, and the United Nations, been featured in Black Enterprise and Good Morning Washington, and was recognized by AT&T as a Dream in Black Future Maker. Most recently, she was hired to create content for Footlocker as a result of her unique sneaker style on and off stage. Quinn is a Howard University alumna, 2-time author, and pitch competition winner who's won and coached others to win over $400,000 in funding. Quinn's signature keynote, "Turn Conversations into Clients," teaches entrepreneurs and speakers how to have conversations that convert with the power of visual and verbal presence and positioning.Connect with Quinn online quinnconyers.comMarli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they've always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli's work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliamsStay Connected to The Marli Williams PodcastFollow us on Instagram: @marliwilliamsOur Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.comHire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat!

Annette DiTommaso, Executive Director Annette DiTommaso is the Executive Director of the Blue Line Foundation, where she leads efforts to support first responders, uplift at-risk communities, and drive impactful urban revitalization projects throughout Greater Cincinnati. With over a decade of expertise in corporate social responsibility and nonprofit management, Annette is deeply committed to fostering strategic partnerships, securing sustainable funding, and spearheading initiatives that improve community infrastructure, promote neighborhood safety, and expand affordable housing.Before her role at Blue Line, Annette held key leadership positions at altafiber, including Senior Manager of Employee Experience and Corporate Impact and Employee Engagement Manager. There, she developed comprehensive global CSR programs, established charitable foundations, and significantly boosted employee engagement and corporate philanthropy.Annette began her career as a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch, specializing in ethical investing and strategic charitable giving, before moving into relationship management at United Way of Greater Cincinnati. A proud Indiana University alumna, Annette holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Public Policy and Nonprofit Management. Recognized as a YWCA Rising Star, she combines strategic vision, data-driven solutions, and passionate leadership to create lasting, positive change in the community. Charlie Williams, President Charlie Williams is a seasoned financial professional and Director of Wealth Management at LS Financial Group, with nearly two decades of experience guiding clients through strategic financial planning, investment management, retirement strategies, and estate planning. At the Blue Line Foundation, Charlie serves as President and leverages his extensive financial expertise to help drive strategic decision-making, fiscal responsibility, and long-term sustainability, supporting the Foundation's critical mission to uplift first responders, enhance community safety, and foster urban revitalization.In addition to his role at LS Financial Group, Charlie previously served as a Financial Consultant at A.G. Edwards & Sons, bringing a wealth of experience in wealth-building and client relations. He also contributed to public service as the Campaign Manager for Debbi Alsfelder for Congress, underscoring his commitment to community and civic engagement.A proud graduate of Miami University, Charlie holds degrees in Diplomacy & Foreign Affairs and Economics. He is recognized as a Five Star Wealth Manager and maintains several financial certifications, including Series 7, 63, and 65 licenses. Charlie is passionate about applying his financial acumen and strategic insight to make a lasting positive impact in his community.

Is Columbus ready to hit three million residents? Ready or not, it's a milestone that's just 25 years away, according to estimates. While the surge brings enormous opportunity—more jobs, greater diversity, and increased investment—it comes with high-stakes questions: Is the region truly prepared for what's ahead? And what happens if it isn't? Columbus is now one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, with its metro population expected to rise by 35% and surpass 3 million by 2050. This growth is fueled by millennial migration, international immigration, and a strong economy attracting both businesses and talent. This forum tackles the most urgent issues shaping the future of a larger, more complex Columbus: how to build a workforce that meets growing demand, how to expand and modernize public transportation, and how changing demographics will redefine the region's cultural and civic landscape. Featuring:  Rob Dorans, President Pro Tem, Columbus City Council;  Monica Tellez-Fowler, President & CEO, COTA;  Michael Wilkos, Vice President of Community Engagement, United Way of Central Ohio.  The host is Jordan Laird, Politics and Government Reporter, The Columbus Dispatch.  This forum was sponsored by Columbus City Council, COTA, and Downtown Columbus, Inc.  The presenting sponsor of the CMC livestream was The Center for Human Kindness at the Columbus Foundation.  CMC's livestream and promotional partner was The Columbus Dispatch.  This forum was recorded before a live audience at The Ellis in Columbus' historic Italian Village on July 16, 2025. 

MUSICEvolution Fest and United Way of Greater St. Louis (UWGSL) have partnered to provide relief and recovery for those affected by the severe storms and tornadoes on May 16. The festival has pledged more than $100,000 to the United Way of Greater St. Louis' Storm Relief Fund, and festival goers can contribute, too! To contribute to the cause, tickets can be purchased at: https://evolutionfestival.com This weekend Darius Rucker was doing a show in Atlantic City, New Jersey and his voice started to go out. https://theboot.com/ixp/204/p/darius-rucker-refunds-crowd-loses-voice/ After abandoning their farewell tour in 2023 due to singer Steven Tyler's vocal cord injury, guitarist Joe Perry says Aerosmith is talking about a proper career sendoff. https://miamimusicbuzz.com/briefing/joe-perry-says-aerosmith-are-talking-about-reuniting-to-play-together-again/ RIP: David Kaff, best known as Spinal Tap keyboardist Viv Savage in This Is Spinal Tap, died in his sleep on July 11th at the age of 79. https://www.facebook.com/MOAWK/posts/pfbid026qi8fM3BrNi3Jvv2XquykRnuz5HF2jFHqx3tQqPjZn7YEwdLYNGVTqM4HPmttVhWl TVElmo from Sesame Street had an eventful weekend, after the official X account for the muppet was hacked with some pretty awful language. https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/elmo-hacked-calls-trump-child-f-in-profane-epstein-posts-release-the-files/ Voices that sell cars … For 15 years, actor Jon Hamm has been the voice of Mercedes-Benz ad campaigns. But a new study showed that ads voiced by females score higher on things like memorability, engagement, and overall likability. And so, with these new study results, Hamm is being replaced by Lucy Liu as the voice of the company in U.S. commercials. https://www.newsweek.com/more-people-want-buy-vehicles-when-ads-are-voiced-women-not-men-2097981 A sports radio show and their band got Ray Romano to rap Eminem's "Lose Yourself" at the 2025 American Century Celebrity Golf Tournament. Wondering how well he did? Check it out. (From Sports Radio 810 WHB in Kansas City.) https://www.facebook.com/reel/4069098933407539 Both Phil and Kay Robertson, who starred in the original A&E series, Duck Dynasty, are the patriarch and matriarch of the Duck Dynasty crew. https://tasteofcountry.com/duck-dynasty-miss-kay-talks-health-issues/ MOVING ON INTO MOVIE NEWS:'Jurassic World Rebirth', which has grossed $530 million a the box office, is set for an August 5th streaming release. https://movieweb.com/jurassic-world-rebirth-digital-streaming-release-date/ Golf ... Adam Sandler's long-awaited sequel Happy Gilmore 2 is debuting on Netflix July 25th, and this time around the golf company Callaway is cashing in. Callaway is selling limited-edition Happy Gilmore hockey stick putters for $500 and golf balls for $60 per dozen. https://www.instagram.com/p/DL-LG1jsQM3/Sarah Jessica Parker expressed interest in returning for Hocus Pocus 3 and mentioned ongoing conversations about the potential sequel. https://variety.com/2025/film/news/sarah-jessica-parker-hocus-pocus-3-talks-1236459518 AND FINALLY – there's a couple of rumors swirling through the Hollywood headlines, and I want to get the official Rizz Show Take on these dumb headlines:Kim Kardashian isn't ready to give up the spotlight, but it might not be her choice. Sydney Sweeney commanded most of the attention at the Jeff Bezos wedding, and Kim reportedly had a MELTDOWN over it. https://www.sheknows.com/entertainment/articles/1234902300/kim-kardashian-meltdown-jeff-bezos-wedding/ A Turkish plastic surgeon speculates in a post that 61 year old Brad Pitt had a facelift sometime before filming "F1 the Movie", due to a scar behind his ear. https://atlantablackstar.com/2025/07/13/male-facelift-done-right-fans-debate-if-brad-pitts-refreshed-look-is-due-to-plastic-surgery-or-healing-from-trauma-after-finalizing-divorce-from-angelina-jolie/ AND THAT IS YOUR CRAP ON CELEBRITIES!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hour 3 - Olin Buchanan joins us LIVE from SEC Media Days in Atlanta + Community SpotLight with United Way

Estás escuchando #JUNTOSRadio, ¿Es cierto que los alimentos enlatados no son saludables?, ¿cómo tener acceso a alimentos frescos cerca de donde vivo?, ¿tener una dieta es lo mismo que comer saludable? ¿Qué es Kanbes? Nuestros invitados, Alejandra Espinosa y Andrés Chaurand no responden estas y otras preguntas.   Sobre nuestros invitados: Alejandra Espinosa Alejandra es dietista nutricionista registrada con maestría en salud púbilica. Profesor adjunto del departamento de ciencias de la salud, programa de nutrición y dietética en la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile y también es coordinadora y tutora de diferentes cursos de pre y post grado del departamento de ciencias de la salud, programa de nutrición y dietética en la universidad. Alejandra es nutricionista ambulatoria de la unidad de medicina del deporte y salud familiar de la red de salud uc-christus.   Andrés Chaurand Nacido en Kansas City, Missouri, en el seno de una familia de pequeños empresarios (sus padres son dueños de La Fonda en Southwest Boulevard), Chaurand ha hecho de Kansas City, Kansas, su hogar y el centro de su incansable labor de defensa. A lo largo de su carrera, Chaurand se ha involucrado activamente en la organización de base. Como baterista de Making Movies, una banda internacional de rock 'n' roll formada en Kansas City, conocida por su activismo latino, ha ampliado sus conexiones fuera de la región y las ha profundizado dentro del área metropolitana. En los Centros Guadalupe y United Way, Chaurand ha impulsado iniciativas que fortalecen los lazos comunitarios y promueven la equidad. Su enfoque práctico en la participación cívica refleja una profunda comprensión de que los cambios significativos ocurren a nivel comunitario. Ya sea trabajando para aumentar la representación o mejorar el acceso a servicios esenciales, su compromiso para hacer de Kansas City una ciudad más inclusiva y vibrante para todos los residentes se mantiene inquebrantable.   Recursos en español Consejos para una alimentación saludable: https://www.cdc.gov/.../healthy-eating-tips/index-es.html Plato para comer saludable: https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/.../tra.../spanish/ Visita la página de Kanbe's Market: https://www.kanbesmarkets.org/   Facebook: @juntosKS   Instagram: juntos_ks   YouTube: Juntos KS Twitter: @juntosKS   Página web: http://juntosks.org   Suscríbete en cualquiera de nuestras plataformas de Podcast: Podbean, Spotify, Amazon Music y Apple Podcast - Juntos Radio   Centro JUNTOS Para Mejorar La Salud Latina 4125 Rainbow Blvd. M.S. 1076, Kansas City, KS 66160   No tenemos los derechos de autor de la música que aparece en este video. Todos los derechos de la música pertenecen a sus respectivos creadores.

The Valley Today was abuzz with meaningful discourse as Janet Michael, host of the popular show, invited two significant figures in the United Way network to discuss their mission of community upliftment and collaboration. The guests, Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, and Angela DeBoskey, Executive Director for United Way Virginia, shared valuable insights into the collective efforts of United Way organizations at local, state, and worldwide levels. Angela offered a detailed explanation of the hierarchical structure of United Way, ranging from local operations to a worldwide network. Angela highlighted the organization's flexibility to adapt and meet specific community needs, emphasizing their power to create a unified voice when addressing legislative and social issues. Angela elaborated on the robust structure of United Way Worldwide, which not only provides local organizations with resources like training and branding but also bridges the gap between local needs and national or international trends. This ability to adapt and adopt effective strategies is crucial for addressing the unique needs of each community and achieving sustainable change. Angela discussed how global perspectives inspire local initiatives, with Janet noting the effectiveness of Andy in leveraging worldwide trends for local benefits. An integral part of the conversation was the role of data in driving effective advocacy. Angela spoke passionately about how United Way employs a multitude of data sources—such as the 2-1-1 helpline, which records crucial community needs—to shape their support strategies. Andy echoed this sentiment, explaining how regional United Ways can use collective data to present a compelling case to lawmakers and funders alike. This data-driven approach ensures that United Way's efforts are not only timely but also relevant to the communities they serve. Janet shifted the focus to the importance of volunteerism, spotlighting upcoming events such as the Day of Caring. Andy provided a glimpse into the extensive planning and community involvement that goes into such events, highlighting the significant impact—both financial and social—of community volunteer efforts. Angela crystallized this idea by explaining how even limited volunteer hours can translate into substantial community benefits. Andy also pointed to the altruistic spirit of Shenandoah Valley residents who continually step up to support their neighbors. The discussion circled back to the core of United Way's mission: fostering partnerships and building a cohesive network capable of advocating for systemic change. Angela explained their strategic approach to advocacy, which involves collaborating with various stakeholders—businesses, nonprofits, and government officials—to address complex social issues collectively. By forming such alliances, United Way is uniquely positioned to drive impactful legislative changes and community improvements. Andy emphasized the invaluable service United Way offers by acting as a trusted partner and expert resource for elected officials. Janet expressed hope that listeners would be moved to engage more deeply with United Way's mission. Both Angela and Andy encouraged the public to get involved, whether through volunteering, financial contributions, or professional skill-sharing. Their message was clear: collective efforts lead to measurable, impactful changes in society. For those interested in participating or supporting United Way, Andy provided links: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/ and contact information, underlining that every bit of help counts. He reiterated the agency's commitment to transparency and community accountability, inviting everyone to explore their revamped website which will be online in the coming months, for more information and data resources.  With a steadfast commitment to holistic community support, United Way continues to shine as a beacon of hope and unity, proving that the collective power of engaged citizens and dedicated organizations can indeed carve out a brighter future for all.

Summer is in full swing, and with summer for academics comes the typical question, “Do you have summers off?” I can't speak for all academics, but summers don't mean the lack of work, but the shifting of work. We go from our primary focus being on teaching and into other pursuits that we don't have time for during the school year. Typically that means research and writing.  For me, it is no different. I've been doing a lot of writing, working on the Experience by Design book and making some progress. Of course, I think that everything I am writing is terrible. At some point soon you can be judge at how bad or good it is. But rather than thinking of “bad' or “good”, I'm thinking more in terms of “done” or “not done.” And “done” is better.Another part of my summer is doing this podcast. When this was started over 6 years ago, the biggest challenge was getting people who wanted to chat about their work. Then gradually PR firms would contact me about their clients who could appear on the show. Now, getting guests is no longer the hardest part. Rather, it is getting the episodes out to keep up with the number of conversations that I'm having. This means that I'm going to try to go to launching an episode a week. This is no small feat given that this is a one-person operation. Communicating with guests, having an introductory conversation, recording the conversation, recording intros and outros, audio engineering, loading it up, updating the website, creating promotional materials. All of it is me. That's a lot of work.The biggest payoff is the conversations that I get to have with the people who appear. I think about how I would have never have learned as much as I have and made the connection that I have if it wasn't for the podcast. And that's pretty cool. And makes the work worth it.My guest today has been part of many different design projects, including the Most Important Conversation Initiative. Chad Lefevre and I were once neighbors, me living in Detroit and he being born in Windsor. Has since traveled the world doing design work. From the United Way in Calgary (we also have in common that we worked for United Way) to working with thought leaders at Design Shop to tackle society's most complex problems (like peace in the Korean peninsula), he's covered a lot of ground. We do likewise in our conversation. Along with those topics, we look at the impact of AI on society and the workforce, and how we need to design a new way of being. We talk about how we are entering the Creative Economy, and how creativity is the new currency. We talk about even though people are resistant to change, change is the only constant in life and this moment requires it. And finally we talk about through our conversations maybe we can make a shared reality that allows us to change things together.The Most Important Conversation - https://tmicglobal.comChad Lefevre - https://chadlefevre.comChad Lefevre Substack - https://chadlefevre.substack.com

“Just keep doing the next right thing, even though it's hard.” This mantra has become a political north star for Scranton mayor and recurring How To Really Run A City guest (and sometimes host), Paige Cognetti. She knows that what drives a city forward is everyone doing their parts at all levels. “It's the colleges and universities,” former Mayor Michael Nutter interjects. “It's the corporate communities. It's the committee people. It's the block captains. Cities are living, breathing entities.” Cognetti and Nutter recently joined Citizen co-founder Larry Platt for a special live taping of the podcast at Philadelphia's OpportUNITY Summit hosted by United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. It was a rousing conversation that included a lot of teasing of Nutter by Cognetti, but also included some high-minded reminders that the future of cities depends on practical local government reformers. “What can all of us do to move the [political] needle back to sanity?” Platt asked. “Tell the stories that reflect your reality,” Cognetti said. “Vote,” Nutter immediately answered. “Put down the phone, go to the voting booth and do your thing. Then you can get back to TikTok. Better yet, make a video about how you voted!” Join us for an uplifting live conversation about civic duty and the motivations of true city changemakers. Remember to subscribe to the podcast to keep up on all the latest episodes. Watch and follow new episodes on YouTube. As cities go, so goes the nation!

“Just keep doing the next right thing, even though it's hard.” This mantra has become a political north star for Scranton mayor and recurring How To Really Run A City guest (and sometimes host), Paige Cognetti. She knows that what drives a city forward is everyone doing their parts at all levels. “It's the colleges and universities,” former Mayor Michael Nutter interjects. “It's the corporate communities. It's the committee people. It's the block captains. Cities are living, breathing entities.” Cognetti and Nutter recently joined Citizen co-founder Larry Platt for a special live taping of the podcast at Philadelphia's OpportUNITY Summit hosted by United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. It was a rousing conversation that included a lot of teasing of Nutter by Cognetti, but also included some high-minded reminders that the future of cities depends on practical local government reformers. “What can all of us do to move the [political] needle back to sanity?” Platt asked. “Tell the stories that reflect your reality,” Cognetti said. “Vote,” Nutter immediately answered. “Put down the phone, go to the voting booth and do your thing. Then you can get back to TikTok. Better yet, make a video about how you voted!” Join us for an uplifting live conversation about civic duty and the motivations of true city changemakers.  As cities go, so goes the nation!

In this episode, Messellech “Selley” Abebe speaks with Jered Bruzas about the importance of engaging fathers as advocates and how their involvement can help build stronger systems for children and families. Bruzas is a father of four, a passionate community advocate, and the Chief Impact Officer at United Way of Greater Waterbury. He brings firsthand insight into the societal and systemic barriers families face, particularly in education, food insecurity, and access to opportunity. This conversation highlights the real-life impact of policy decisions — and the critical role fathers can play in creating meaningful change.  To learn more about Jered Bruzas' work with United Way of Greater Waterbury, visit unitedwaygw.org. You can follow UWGW on Instagram and Facebook. Want to keep digging into the real-life impact policy decisions have on children? Here's some of what First Focus on Children has published recently: Privatizing Public School Funds: Threats to Equity, Access, and Educational Quality  H.R. 1 Puts Children Last: An Unprecedented Betrayal of America's Future  How Funding Cuts Threaten the Future of Early Childhood Education To join the conversation, follow First Focus on Children on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  Send us comments or thoughts via email: SpeakingOfKids@firstfocus.org Find us on Twitter/X: @SpeakingOfKids and @First_Focus Want to be a voice for kids? Become an Ambassador for Children here.  To support our work and this podcast, please consider donating to First Focus on Children here. 

In the heart of Old Town Winchester, at the bustling Espresso Bar, a deeply insightful conversation unfolded between Janet Michael, host of The Valley Today, and Andrea Cosans, Executive Director of Winchester CCAP. The topic, while sobering, is crucial: the recent cuts to SNAP benefits and their far-reaching impacts on the community. "I'm here about once or twice a week," Andrea began, referring to the frequency of her visits to the popular café. Janet echoed this sentiment, acknowledging their shared space for meetings and cooling off, and this casual start quickly transitioned into a critical discussion about the newly passed legislation affecting SNAP benefits. Andrea provided a detailed look at their clientele, mainly the elderly on fixed incomes or those in the 'ALICE' population—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. These individuals are the working poor, juggling multiple jobs without health insurance and still unable to make ends meet. Janet stressed, "It's important to understand that these are working people, not folks looking for a handout." Statistics were highlighted, revealing that last year, CCAP's food pantry program assisted 8,500 unduplicated individuals, with many visiting only twice a year, underscoring the crisis nature of food insecurity. People often visit multiple food pantries, not to game the system but to survive. The rising cost of living, particularly rent, was another focal point. For many families, access to food pantries is the difference between making rent and feeding their families. Janet noted, "In so many cases, being able to come to CCAP and stock their pantry, put some food in their refrigerator, is the difference between them making their rent or feeding their family." Concerns about food supply shortages were raised, with Andrea mentioning that sources like the USDA are showing signs of strain. She recounted a six-month period when meat was unavailable at food banks, highlighting the fragility of food supplies. Janet urged listeners to empathize by imagining a month without meat—a stark reality for many families. Andrea emphasized that the food available at pantries, typically canned and boxed goods, wouldn't be chosen if there were better options. Despite these challenges, Janet noted the silver lining—those who visit for food might discover other valuable services offered by CCAP, such as clothing, financial literacy classes, and rental assistance. Andrea discussed the shame some people feel in accessing these services, saying, "You know what I hear all the time? 'But I'm not that needy; there's somebody else more desperate.'" This sentiment is likely to change as more people find themselves in tighter spots. Looking forward, Andrea warned that SNAP benefit cuts would likely worsen, moving thousands from food insecurity to hunger. Andrea highlighted that CCAP might have to cap the amount of food distributed or focus resources entirely on food or financial aid. Despite these challenges, grants from United Way and collaborations with local suppliers like USA Produce offer some relief. The discussion also shifted to the broader economic impacts. If local organizations can't fulfill their obligations, small businesses and vendors suffer, creating a trickle-down effect that harms the community. Janet stressed the systemic nature of these issues and the importance of collaboration among local organizations. Janet concluded by asking how the community can help now. Andrea's answer was multi-faceted: donations, volunteer work, and advocacy. She invited people to donate food or money, volunteer their time, or bring unique skills to assist CCAP. Janet encouraged listeners to educate themselves and their circles about the pressing issues discussed. Andrea highlighted the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank's advocacy resources, she framed the situation as a collective challenge requiring united efforts. "Thank you for taking some time and making me more depressed," Janet jested, adding, "But at the same time, giving me some hope, because I know that there are so many organizations in our area that are like you, and they're like, okay, challenge accepted." In closing, Janet made a heartfelt plea for solidarity and support. "I encourage you to take the information that you've learned today because it is real. It is local information. And help educate those around you so that they too understand the value of giving in their communities," she concluded. The essential message remains clear: Together, we can make a tangible difference in addressing the SNAP benefit cuts and their impact on our community.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you ready to make small shifts that have a big impact? In this inspiring episode I sit down with guest Jennifer Delliquadri — master life coach, and “Dream Advocate” for women in transition. Together, they spark a fresh conversation about moving from comfort zones into the unknown, building authentic self-trust, and creating alignment on your path of personal growth. Tune in to hear relatable stories of taking leaps from steady careers, shifting identities, and embracing the messy magic of evolving into the next version of you. You'll walk away with practical tools, mindset shifts, and the honest truth about what it really takes to step into your dreams. If you're craving more purpose, or searching for that next right step in your journey, this episode gives you both encouragement and real strategies to fuel your transformation.About Jennifer:Jennifer Delliquadri is a certified life coach, yoga instructor, and somatic facilitator on a mission to help purpose driven individuals achieve their biggest dreams. With a unique blend of mindset coaching, somatic practices, and her signature Subtle Shifts Method. Jennifer empowers clients to overcome self-doubt, embrace their purpose, and take bold steps toward their goals. She believes every dream deserves a chance, and her passion is helping you believe in yourself as much as you believe in your vision.Jennifer Delliquadri - Life Coach & Dream AdvocateListen to the Subtle Shifts PodcastFollow on Instagramwww.jenniferdelliquadri.comMarli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they've always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli's work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliamsStay Connected to The Marli Williams PodcastFollow us on Instagram: @marliwilliamsOur Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.comHire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat!

322: How Can You Make Your Nonprofit's Message Stick? (Salvatore Manzi)SUMMARYSpecial thanks to TowneBank for bringing these conversations to life, and for their commitment to strengthening nonprofit organizations. Learn more about how they can help you at TowneBank.com/NonprofitBanking.Why do even the most passionate nonprofit leaders struggle to cut through the noise and communicate a message that truly inspires action, and what can they do to make it stick? In episode 322 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, leadership communication coach Salvatore Manzi shares powerful, practical strategies to help leaders develop presence, inspire trust, and communicate with impact. He introduces key frameworks including “project confidence, command attention, inspire trust,” the “You-Then-Me” approach for difficult conversations, and the “humble brag” formula for sharing accomplishments without sounding boastful. Learn how to build a shared story vault to unify your team's messaging, prepare for crisis communication with clarity, and transform your storytelling into a tool for deeper engagement and fundraising success. Whether you're an introvert or an experienced public speaker, this episode offers essential communication tools every nonprofit leader can use to rise above the noise and make their message truly resonate.ABOUT SALVATORESalvatore Manzi is a leadership communications coach, speaker, and facilitator helping nonprofit leaders amplify their message and impact. With over 20 years of experience coaching executives, scientists, and investment officers, he brings research-driven strategies to organizations like Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and REDF. Studying the psychology and neuroscience of communication, Salvatore has developed proven frameworks to help leaders inspire action, build trust, and engage donors, teams, and boards with greater clarity and confidence.EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES How to Tell a Story: The Essential Guide to Memorable Storytelling from the Moth by The Moth, et al. Want to chat leadership 24/7?  Go to delphi.ai/pattonmcdowellHave you gotten Patton's book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon't miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership