Podcasts about Volunteering

Sign up for our Family Retreats here at this  link: Retreats & Getaways | Joni and Friends --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Recorded at the Biblical Counseling Coalition Global Summit, Michael interviews New Zealanders Darryl Burling and Jason Winslade about advancing biblical counseling and missions in New Zealand. Darryl founded the New Zealand Biblical Counseling Association (NZBCA) in 2017 and says it is being rebuilt with new board members and a renewed, context-sensitive approach rather than importing an American system. Winslade a Christchurch pastor, describes developing biblical counseling in his church, launching New Zealand's first biblical counseling center (Hope Counseling Center), and joining the NZBCA board to strengthen national reach across both islands. They explain NZBCA's virtual structure, speaker/workshop requests, volunteer opportunities, and a national counseling request process that routes people to certified counselors or seasoned pastors. They announce two 2027 conferences: March in Christchurch with Jim Fain and September in Auckland with Stuart Scott, emphasizing equipping local churches to reclaim soul care and use counseling evangelistically.00:00 Welcome and Setup00:58 Meet Darrell and Jason03:39 NZBCA Vision and Context05:43 Nationwide Structure and Travel07:24 Request Speakers and Workshops09:09 Conferences and Guest Speakers11:26 Volunteering and Church Support13:14 Counseling Requests and Local Hubs16:20 Why Counseling Belongs in Church18:46 Final Thanks and Next StepsEpisode MentionsNZBCA Hope Counseling Center 

Dr. Brennan Pitard, a small animal practice owner, continues our Opportunities in Organized Veterinary Medicine mini-series this week, speaking to the experience of volunteering with the Arkansas State Veterinary Medical Association.Volunteering is a great way to expand your network and help shape the future of our profession, but it can be challenging to know where to start, what options are available, and how to find the time. This 3-week miniseries shares the stories of 3 early-career veterinarians: their careers so far, how they got started volunteering, and what they think about the experience.Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at Hill's Pet Nutrition - Dog & Cat Food Transforming Lives and Hill's Vet - Veterinary Health Research, Practice Management Resources.Remember, we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.org.Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

While we reflect on the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it's important to highlight those doing what they can to help. Nick Bettin is a building maintenance technician from Saskatoon who volunteered to help Ukraine. He joins the show to share why he volunteered in the rebuilding effort and what it was like working on the ground, sometimes dealing with a dozen missile strikes in one day.

Record Numbers Shatter Post-Pandemic Expectations Six years after the pandemic first disrupted American life, a troubling trend emerges across rural Virginia. The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank now serves approximately 180,000 people every month—a staggering 39,000 more than the pandemic's peak. Les Sinclair, the organization's Communications and PR Manager, reveals this sobering reality during a recent conversation on The Valley Today with host Janet Michael. Initially, food bank officials believed the pandemic would represent the worst crisis they'd ever face. When government assistance programs temporarily lifted many families out of poverty, demand dropped slightly to around 141,000 monthly visits. However, this optimism proved short-lived. "We thought the numbers would never go up beyond the pandemic max," Les explains. "That just didn't pan out." Instead, inflation took hold with devastating consequences. While prices soared across every sector, wages failed to keep pace. Consequently, more working families find themselves unable to afford basic necessities, forcing them to seek food assistance for the first time in their lives. A Massive Rural Footprint The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank operates across an impressive territory that spans 25 counties and eight cities throughout Virginia. Stretching from Winchester and Frederick County in the north to beyond Lynchburg and Bedford County in the south, the organization covers approximately 12,000 square miles—roughly the size of Maryland or one-third of Virginia's total area. To manage this vast region effectively, the food bank maintains four strategic warehouse locations. Their headquarters sits in Verona, just outside Staunton, while additional distribution centers operate in Winchester, Charlottesville, and Lynchburg. Notably, the Winchester facility alone serves Frederick, Clarke, Fauquier, Warren, Shenandoah, Page, and Rappahannock Counties, including the densely populated Loudoun County. Moreover, the organization represents a groundbreaking experiment in food banking. When founded in 1981, most food banks concentrated on urban areas where dense populations made distribution easier. The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, however, pioneered rural food distribution—a critical distinction since nine out of ten food-insecure Americans live in rural communities rather than urban centers. The Partnership Model That Makes It Work The food bank functions as a sophisticated logistics operation, partnering with Feeding America nationally and hundreds of local food pantries regionally. Les compares their role to a Walmart warehouse, buying food by the truckload and storing massive quantities. Meanwhile, local pantries like Winchester CCAP serve as the "customer-facing" locations, directly distributing food to families in need. This partnership proves essential for reaching scattered rural populations. "We couldn't do what we do without them," Les emphasizes. "They couldn't do what they do without us." Furthermore, the organization sources food from diverse channels. Retail grocers contribute 36% of donations through partner pickup programs, where pantries collect excess inventory directly from stores like Food Lion, Kroger, and Giant. Additionally, the USDA provides government-purchased food from American farmers, while large manufacturers donate products with misprinted labels or excess inventory. Local and regional farmers also contribute fresh produce to the network. The Grocery Store Challenge Recently, however, the retail partnership faced unexpected pressure. During October and November, and again during winter snowstorms, consumers cleared grocery store shelves completely. When stores have no excess inventory, they have nothing left to donate. Compounding this challenge, grocery chains have become remarkably efficient at predicting demand. Using AI technology, they now anticipate that shoppers will buy strawberry Pop-Tarts before storms and adjust inventory accordingly. While this efficiency benefits retailers and consumers, it reduces the surplus available for food banks. Simultaneously, USDA food supplies have dropped 30% year-over-year, forcing the food bank to purchase more food directly. Although they cannot fully replace the high-quality proteins and vegetables the government typically provides, they continue prioritizing nutritious options for their partner pantries. Shattering Misconceptions About Food Pantry Users Perhaps the most persistent myth surrounding food insecurity involves who actually needs assistance. Many people assume food pantry visitors are simply lazy and should "get a job." The reality, however, tells a dramatically different story. Most people seeking food assistance are working. They're trying to improve their lives but living on financial margins so thin that a single unexpected expense creates crisis. In fact, more than a quarter of the food bank's guests visit only once per year—they simply need help getting over a temporary hump. Les shares the story of a convenience store worker who injured her wrist on the job. Unable to work while waiting for workers' compensation, she has zero income and cares for a paralyzed son. She's not lazy—she's injured, uninsured temporarily, and desperately trying to survive until she can return to work. Even when workers' compensation arrives, it typically covers only 70% of regular wages and takes considerable time to process. For families living paycheck to paycheck, missing even one payment creates cascading financial disasters. The Government Shutdown Ripple Effect Currently, partial government shutdowns compound these challenges. Federal workers, particularly TSA agents, continue reporting to work without paychecks. They still pay for childcare, gas, and other necessities, but many receive payment only monthly—making it extraordinarily difficult to stretch resources from one paycheck to the next. Contrary to popular belief, landlords cannot always wait patiently for delayed rent payments. Many landlords depend on rental income to pay their own mortgages. When a tenant misses a $2,000 rent payment, the landlord must still cover their mortgage. Moreover, the economic impact extends far beyond government employees. When federal workers stop dining out, restaurants lose business. Wait staff lose tips. Restaurant owners order less food from suppliers like Sysco. Truck drivers haul fewer loads. The entire economic system suffers. Sarah Cohen of Route 11 Chips experienced this firsthand. During COVID and government shutdowns, her sales to DC cafes plummeted because federal workers weren't coming to the office for lunch. These ripple effects reach deep into Virginia's economy, affecting businesses and workers far from the capital. The Impossible Choice: Heat or Eat Winter brings particularly cruel dilemmas for struggling families. Les recently spoke with William, a roofer injured on the job who lives in a mobile home with his dog, Cocoa. Unable to afford heating, William and Cocoa "just sort of curl up" together while he waits for surgeries that will allow him to return to work. Another woman caring for three disabled grandchildren faces $400 monthly electric bills. With both she and her husband experiencing serious health issues and the children's parents out of the picture, they constantly struggle with the impossible choice between heating their home and feeding their family. These aren't isolated cases. Across the food bank's service area, families regularly face this devastating decision. When $600 heating bills arrive after cold snaps, many choose to keep the lights on and visit food pantries to feed their families. Food as Medicine: A Holistic Approach The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank takes a progressive stance on nutrition, viewing food as medicine rather than mere sustenance. They prioritize fresh produce, which comprised 30% of their distribution last year, because they understand that proper nutrition helps people thrive. Nutritious food keeps medical bills down across entire communities. Children pay better attention in school when properly nourished. People can manage chronic illnesses and diseases through better nutrition. Conversely, when families can only afford high-calorie processed foods, they face increased health risks despite consuming adequate calories—debunking the myth that overweight individuals cannot be food insecure. Additionally, access to food reduces stress, which itself functions as a health intervention. When people live on the edge of a financial cliff, they cannot make good long-term decisions. They're too focused on simply not falling. However, when food security removes one major stressor, families can step back from that precipice and begin making better choices for their futures. Quality Food for Everyone Another common misconception suggests that food bank offerings are somehow subpar. In reality, the food distributed through this network maintains high-quality standards. While well-meaning donors sometimes contribute items like ramen noodles during food drives, the bulk of distributed food comes from retail grocers, USDA programs, and direct purchases of nutritious items. The food bank specifically prioritizes produce because people crave fresh fruits and vegetables. Although produce represents one of the most expensive food categories—often making it a luxury for families on tight budgets—the organization believes everyone deserves access to healthy, nutritious food regardless of their economic circumstances. How Communities Can Help Fortunately, community members have multiple ways to support this critical mission. Volunteering provides valuable assistance, and notably, many food bank guests themselves volunteer, giving back to the community that supported them during difficult times. Financial donations prove particularly effective. Just $1 helps provide more than three meals, meaning $10 supplies a month of meals for someone in need, while $100 provides 300 meals. The food bank's purchasing power and logistics expertise amplify every dollar donated. Beyond time and money, advocacy matters tremendously. Currently, the Federation of Virginia Food Banks—representing all seven food banks across the state—works to promote "food as medicine" initiatives with the state legislature. Community members can support these efforts through the food bank's website at BRAFB.org/actnow or BRAFB.org/getinvolved. Finally, social media engagement amplifies the message. Following the food bank's social media accounts, resharing posts, and commenting helps spread awareness that hunger relief remains an urgent community need. Finding Help When You Need It For individuals and families currently struggling with food insecurity, Les offers an important message: "You're not alone, and we are here with you. We are here to walk with you through this challenge in your life." The food bank's website features an easy-to-use food finder tool. Visitors to BRAFB.org can click "Find Food," enter their address, and immediately see all nearby pantries with contact information, open hours, and everything needed to access food quickly. Alternatively, Virginians can call 211 for phone-based assistance connecting them with local resources. A Community Responsibility As this conversation reveals, food insecurity affects far more people than most realize—one in nine people across the food bank's service area. These aren't strangers or statistics; they're neighbors, coworkers, and community members facing temporary crises that could happen to anyone. The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank stands ready to help, but they cannot do it alone. Through partnerships with local pantries, support from community donors and volunteers, and advocacy for systemic solutions, the organization continues fighting to ensure everyone has enough to eat. In Janet Michael's words, it's "a responsibility I do not take lightly"—and neither should any of us.

Adult language warning - this episode contains adult language, please bear this in mind when listening  This week's Patreon chat is all about race‑season plans, volunteering wins,  making OCR more inclusive and racing abroad Wendy and Bea share their goals for 2025—Wendy returning to racing after a year of volunteering, and Bea dedicating her season to giving back after smashing Limitless. We dive into junior race support, accessible setups at TMHQ, and standout volunteer perks like the 13 Valleys Ultra package. We look ahead to the 3K Series, British Champs, Tartan Warrior, and a packed awards weekend, plus the brilliant idea of Nuclear's volunteer dry robes. Alan also breaks down the new adaptive‑friendly scoring for Limitless, with Bea cheering the changes. The episode wraps with Alan chatting to Wil Chung about racing overseas—travel tips, race‑day hacks, and how to make international OCR trips actually enjoyable. Follow Wendy here Instagram Follow Bea here Instagram Follow Wil Here Instagram  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com.

Biblical Counseling Africa: Equipping the Church for Gospel-Centered Care in South Africa and BeyondRecorded on the road at the Biblical Counseling Coalition Global Summit, this Speak the Truth podcast episode features interviews with Kyle Johnston and Jane Kratz from Cape Town, South Africa, about their ministry contexts and the growth of Biblical Counseling Africa. Jane shares how her husband's death in 2012 led her to pursue a theologically rich approach to grief and loss, moving from prior psychology studies to biblical counseling training through ABC's Equipped to Counsel material and later studying at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, with additional church experience in Texas before returning to South Africa. Kyle, an ordained minister at Gracefield Church in Fish Hoek, explains how pastoral ministry exposed a gap between confident pulpit preaching and applying Scripture in complex, conversational counseling situations; this led him to training through Wayne Mack's curriculum in South Africa and a master's degree at The Master's University in Los Angeles (2012), while continuing to prioritize pastoral care and counseling in church life.They discuss why they remain committed to serving in Africa despite opportunities elsewhere, noting both the significant needs in Cape Town and South Africa and the mission field created by migration from other African nations. They describe cultural observations, including hospitality and the value of contextual ministry shaped by South Africa's historical experience, including navigating multicultural ministry after apartheid.Kyle outlines how Biblical Counseling Africa began in part to make CCEF training more accessible and affordable in their context and to expand beyond South Africa through online courses. The organization's aim is to equip local churches across Africa to provide wise, loving, gospel-centered pastoral care that restores Christ to counseling. They describe a three-level approach: (1) grassroots seminars, talks, and workshops (including using ABC conference resources with local case studies and courses such as Jane's nine-week grief care course); (2) training such as ABC's Equipped to Counsel offered during COVID and in-person; and (3) advanced CCEF courses, with growing enrollment. Future focus includes helping pastors develop a church-wide culture of care, vulnerability, and mutual ministry beyond sermon-centered expectations.They explain that Biblical Counseling Africa is a nonprofit and invite listeners to support the work through prayer, financial giving, and volunteering. They emphasize the need for resources to sustain operations, relieve volunteer load, and provide scholarships for students from poorer African contexts. They express gratitude for support from American partners including CCEF, ABC, BCC, and others, noting that courses are offered at about a quarter of the normal cost, and direct listeners to biblicalcounsellingafrica.com for more information and contact.00:00 Welcome to Speak the Truth (Podcast Intro)01:09 Meet Jane: From Grief & Loss to Biblical Counseling02:30 Texas Culture Shock & Accent Stories03:39 Meet Kyle: Pastoral Ministry Path into Counseling06:12 Why Stay & Serve in Africa? Calling, Need, and Gifts08:23 Jane's Perspective: Returning Home, Mission Field in South Africa10:56 Culture Notes: Hospitality, Affection, and Multicultural Ministry12:53 What Is Biblical Counseling Africa? Origins, Partnerships, Vision15:20 Equipping the Church: Training Levels & Accessible Resources16:35 Level 1 Training: Seminars, Consultations & Explaining Biblical Counseling17:16 Grief Care Course & Topic-Based Workshops (Burnout, Anxiety, Depression, etc.)17:53 Using ABC Conference Content: Videos, Workshops & Local Case Studies18:41 Advanced Training: Equipped to Counsel & CCEF Courses19:14 Next Step: Building a Churchwide Culture of Care (Pastors + One-Another Ministry)20:31 Beyond the Pulpit: Equipping the Saints & How Counseling Shapes Preaching24:10 How to Support Biblical Counseling Africa: Prayer, Giving & Website Info26:08 Funding Needs: Affordable Training, Supporting Students & Volunteer Capacity29:04 Volunteering with BCA: Gifts, Admin Help & Partnering via Email30:05 Wrap-Up: Invitation to Visit South Africa, Gratitude & Final ThanksEpisode MentionsBiblical Counselling Africa The Comfort of God in Grief - A Nine Week Grief Care Course by Jane  

SummaryIn this conversation, host Patrick Patino and guest Rhia Batchelder, owner of Rebuild with Rhia, discuss the overwhelming chaos and distractions in today's world, particularly focusing on the impact of burnout and the importance of self-preservation. They explore strategies for maintaining mental health, the significance of community engagement, and the role of hope in navigating difficult times. Rhia shares her personal experiences and insights on burnout prevention, emphasizing the need for intentional living and the power of small actions to foster resilience and connection.TakeawaysWe spend a lot of time being intentional around the way we live.Burnout often stems from misalignment of values and unmanaged stress.Carving out news-free time is essential for mental health.Engaging with the community can alleviate feelings of hopelessness.Hope needs to be actively fed through actions and connections.Small acts of kindness can make a significant difference.Finding joy in daily routines helps combat burnout.Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and connection.Historical resilience can inspire hope in current struggles.We are stronger together and can overcome challenges.https://www.rebuildwithrhia.com/https://www.instagram.com/rebuild.with.rhia/

Dr. Karen Cross, a small animal associate veterinarian, begins our Opportunities in Organized Veterinary Medicine mini-series this week, speaking to the experience of volunteering with AVMA as a member of the Early Career Development Committee.Volunteering is a great way to expand your network and help shape the future of our profession, but it can be challenging to know where to start, what options are available, and how to find the time. This 3-week miniseries shares the stories of 3 early-career veterinarians: their careers so far, how they got started volunteering, and what they think about the experience.Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at Hill's Pet Nutrition - Dog & Cat Food Transforming Lives and Hill's Vet - Veterinary Health Research, Practice Management Resources.Remember, we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.org.Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Become a volunteer at our Family Retreats today by signing up at www.joniandfriends.org. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

How purpose-driven volunteering strengthens college applicationsUsing entrepreneurship to create real-world impactThe role of Empower Education as a catalyst for leadershipBuilding a focused academic narrative around business and economicsWhy exploration before choosing a major mattersTurning interests into action through nonprofits and fundraisingLessons learned from competitive entrepreneurship programsThe power of mentors, collaboration, and networkingWhy LinkedIn matters — even for high school studentsApplying strategically to programs, internships, and opportunitiesHow College Ready supports students through college lists, essays, and strategyAdvice for freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who don't know where to startBalancing academics, mental health, and passion projectsWhat colleges really look for beyond grades and prestige

Discover how volunteering does far more than support good causes—it strengthens your well‑being. In this inspiring episode, we explore the powerful ways that giving back helps us feel better, grow personally and connect more deeply with others.Through practical insights and uplifting reflections, you'll learn how small acts of service can:Boost emotional and mental healthBuild confidence, skills and a renewed sense of purposeCreate meaningful social connections and a sense of belongingReduce stress and burnout by shifting focus to purposeFuel healthier, more connected communitiesWhether you volunteer regularly or are just curious how helping others might help you, this episode shows how service is a simple, accessible pathway to feeling more grounded, motivated and connected.If you're looking for a meaningful spark in your daily routine—or a reminder that your actions matter—this conversation is for you.Listen in, get inspired and take one small step to give, grow and connect.

Confused about whether your volunteer hours “count”? Here's what PA schools actually care about—and what matters more than the setting.___________________________________Inside Application to Acceptance (A2A), we walk you step-by-step through building your strongest CASPA application.Exactly how to put together your BEST, PA School interview-worthy app!How to write your personal statement to stand outCreating your best CASPA experience paragraphsHow to choose schools that will love you and your stats (even if you have a low GPA)If you're applying this cycle and want to do it right the first time, join A2A here!Keep up the awesome work, future PA!Katie + Beth

Folk and Roots presenter Aly prince has now been volunteering with RNIB and making his weekly music programme for 10 years. An incredible milestone. Barry Snell caught up with him to chat about his time presenting and volunteering with the UK's leading sight loss charity - RNIB.Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

In today's episode, Pierre Michiels interviews Kika, a legal studies student at College of DuPage and a legal professional working in immigration law. In the interview, Kika shares her journey of moving from Colombia to the United States, transitioning from a career in real estate to the legal field, and navigating cultural and professional differences while building a new career path. She also discusses the importance of networking, volunteering, mentorship, and using campus resources to gain experience and confidence. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of how to approach major career transitions with intention, resilience, and a commitment to continuous growth. Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.  00:00–02:00 | Episode Introduction & Guest OverviewHost Pierre Michiels introduces the Career Ready Podcast and welcomes Kika, a legal studies student at College of DuPage. He previews her story, which includes immigrating to the U.S., changing careers, and pursuing work in the legal field. 02:00–08:00 | Cultural Transition & Professional NormsKika discusses moving from Colombia to the United States and adjusting to cultural and workplace differences. She reflects on professional expectations, time management, and how understanding U.S. norms has shaped her growth and confidence in the workplace. 08:00–14:30 | Career Change & Choosing Legal Studies The conversation shifts to Kika's background in real estate and what motivated her transition into legal studies. She explains how her past experience aligned with legal work and how College of DuPage supported her career pivot through practical, real-world instruction. 14:30–19:00 | Networking, Volunteering & Skill Building Kika shares actionable advice on networking with intention, volunteering, joining student organizations, and building relationships that lead to opportunities. She emphasizes humility, consistency, and gaining experience while still in school. 19:00–23:45 | Final Advice & Encouragement To close, Kika offers guidance for students facing imposter syndrome or uncertainty, encouraging them to take action before feeling “ready.” Pierre reinforces the importance of self-advocacy, campus resources, and steady progress in career development.Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

What happens when a rainy Saturday turns into a day of unexpected kindness?In this uplifting short story for ages 8–10, Milo discovers that helping others doesn't require being big, brave, or perfect or just willing. When a simple volunteer project turns into a joyful adventure, Milo learns that even small hands can make a big difference.

RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.Richard Moore is back again to tell Amelia about being the CEO of a charity and why he loves volunteering for radio. Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Healing With Harmony: Avi's Transformative Musical Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-02-12-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: אבי הלך בשדה רחב ידיים.En: Avi walked through a wide-open field.He: הרוח החורפית נגעה בקלות בפניו.En: The winter wind gently touched his face.He: הוא נסע לקיבוץ כפר בלום.En: He traveled to Kibbutz Kfar Blum.He: לשם הגיע כדי להתנדב בבית החולים השדה שהוקם שם.En: He went there to volunteer at the field hospital that was set up there.He: מסביבו, הכל היה ירוק ונעים.En: Around him, everything was green and pleasant.He: קיבוץ כפר בלום היה ידוע בנופים המרשימים שלו, שנראו כאילו נלקחו מתוך גלויה.En: Kibbutz Kfar Blum was known for its impressive landscapes, which looked as if they were taken straight from a postcard.He: אבי היה אדם עם לב רחב ורצון לעזור.En: Avi was a person with a big heart and a desire to help.He: אך הוא חשש.En: But he was worried.He: לא היו לו הרבה כישורים רפואיים וזה הטריד אותו.En: He didn't have many medical skills, and that troubled him.He: החיוך על פניו נשמר ורק חבריו הטובים, נועה ותמר, היו אלו שידעו על כך.En: The smile on his face remained, and only his good friends, Noa and Tamar, knew about it.He: בחוץ היה קר, והשמים היו ברורים.En: Outside, it was cold, and the skies were clear.He: אך בפנים, לבו של אבי היה מלא בסיכוי.En: But inside, Avi's heart was full of hope.He: הוא צריך לעשות משהו כדי לשמח את החולים והצוות, אפילו על רקע הצלילים המתמידים של מכשירים רפואיים ורעש מסביב.En: He needed to do something to cheer up the patients and staff, even against the constant sounds of medical devices and surrounding noise.He: פתאום עלה בו רעיון – הוא יזום הופעה מוזיקלית קטנה.En: Suddenly, an idea popped into his head – he would organize a small musical performance.He: המוזיקה הייתה תמיד חלק מחייו הסודיים.En: Music had always been a part of his secret life.He: בהתחלה, היה לאבי מעט חשש.En: At first, Avi had some apprehension.He: האם זה יפעל?En: Would it work?He: האם זה יספק את המטרה?En: Would it serve the purpose?He: אך הוא ידע שהוא חייב לנסות.En: But he knew he had to try.He: בערב של יום האהבה, הוא אסף את נועה ותמר, ויחד הם החלו להכין את ההופעה.En: On the evening of Valentine's Day, he gathered Noa and Tamar, and together they began preparing the performance.He: האווירה במחנה שדה השתנתה.En: The atmosphere at the field camp changed.He: היה ברור שמשהו מיוחד עומד להתרחש.En: It was clear that something special was about to happen.He: הערב הגיע.En: Evening came.He: האור מהפנסים העלה צללים על הקירות והצוות הרפואי חייך כשהחולים התחילו להתאסף.En: The light from the lamps cast shadows on the walls, and the medical staff smiled as the patients began to gather.He: אבי לקח את הגיטרה והחל לנגן.En: Avi took the guitar and began to play.He: צלילים עלו אל האוויר החורפי הקר.En: Sounds rose into the cold winter air.He: משמעי המוזיקה רוממו את כולם.En: The music elevated everyone.He: החולים שכבו במיטותיהם, חלקם חייכו, אחרים מחאו כפיים יחד עם הקצב.En: The patients lay in their beds, some smiled, others clapped along with the rhythm.He: הרופאים והאחיות, עדיין עסוקים במלאכתם, העיפו מבטים וחייכו בעצמם.En: The doctors and nurses, still busy with their tasks, glanced over and smiled themselves.He: לרגע הרגיש אבי שהוא עשה משהו משמעותי.En: For a moment, Avi felt he had done something meaningful.He: הוא ראה את השמחה בעיניים סביבו והבין כמה שבירה המוזיקה יכולה לשנות.En: He saw the joy in the eyes around him and understood how transformative music could be.He: כל החששות שלו נמוגו והוא ראה עד כמה חשוב היה להאמין ביכולת שלו להשפיע.En: All his worries melted away, and he realized how important it was to believe in his ability to make an impact.He: בסוף המופע, אבי עמד מבוייש, אבל שמח ועוצמתי.En: At the end of the performance, Avi stood bashful, but happy and empowered.He: נועה ותמר חיבקו אותו והרגישו את השינוי בחברם.En: Noa and Tamar hugged him and felt the change in their friend.He: התשוקה שלו למוזיקה הפכה לכלי רב עוצמה לחיבור ולתרומה למקום שבו היה.En: His passion for music had turned into a powerful tool for connection and contribution to the place he was in.He: מאותו יום, אבי הבין שהוא יכול לשנות עולמות בדרכו שלו.En: From that day on, Avi realized he could change worlds in his own way.He: המוזיקה הייתה שער לפתיחת לבבות, והוא ידע שימשיך להשתמש באהבתו לרפא ולחבר את העולם סביבו.En: Music was a gateway to open hearts, and he knew he would continue to use his love to heal and connect the world around him. Vocabulary Words:field: שדהgently: בקלותvolunteer: להתנדבimpressive: מרשימיםtroubled: הטרידconstant: מתמידיםapprehension: חששpurpose: מטרהgather: להתאסףCasts shadows: העלה צלליםelevated: רוממוglanced: העיפו מבטיםtransformative: שבירהworried: חששותempowered: עוצמתיpassion: תשוקהcontribution: תרומהgateway: שערcheer up: לשמחsounds: צליליםsurrounding: מסביבsmiled: חייךperformance: הופעהmusical: מוזיקליתatmosphere: אווירהmoment: לרגעmeaningful: משמעותיchange: השינויimpact: להשפיעopen hearts: פתיחת לבבותBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

In this special episode of Weld Wednesdays with AWS, recorded live at the Inspection Expo & Conference in Austin, Texas, Jason Becker sits down with longtime AWS volunteer and industry veteran Bill Komlos for an in-depth conversation on volunteering on AWS code committees. While most welders, inspectors, and fabricators rely on AWS codes every day, few understand how those standards are actually developed. Bill shares his journey from local AWS section involvement to national technical committees, explaining how volunteers from across the industry—inspectors, fabricators, engineers, and educators—collectively shape the codes that govern welding worldwide. This episode covers why committee participation is open to the public, how involvement can accelerate your career, and why real-world shop experience is essential to keeping codes practical, relevant, and safe. Jason and Bill also discuss mentorship, networking, the value of diverse perspectives, and why the next generation of welders and inspectors is critical to the future of AWS standards. If you've ever complained about a code requirement—or wondered how to get involved in shaping them—this episode is for you.   For more information on how you can get involved with the AWS Click Here

Rima Jalba shares the good of the Cinnamon Trust, the UK national charity for older people, the terminally ill and their pets. The mission is as simple as it is clear: they provide hands-on assistance to pet owners across the country when any aspect of the day-to-day care of their pets poses a problem; as well as the provision of lifelong care for pets who outlive their owners. A life-long animal lover herself, Rima shares everything from her first pet as a child to how she made a life change, choosing to work for connection rather than just a paycheck. And that's exactly what brought her to the Cinnamon Trust's (doggie) door. For the animal lovers out there (just like us) and for anyone looking for inspiration on how to engage within your own community, this good one is for you. ___________________________ Steve's third book in his cozy mystery series, THE DOG WALKING DETECTIVES is finally here: SEASON'S SLAYINGS! Get your copy on Amazon: https://bit.ly/3WYTPiR or Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/4hOjILR Grab the first two: Book 1: DROWN TOWN Amazon: https://amzn.to/478W8mp Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/3Mv7cCk & Book 2: MURDER UNMASKED Amazon: https://shorturl.at/fDR47 Barnes & Noble: https://shorturl.at/3ccTy

Send a textIn this episode of Deconstructing Comp, Yvonne Guibert and Rafael Gonzalez welcome Tammy Boyd, newly appointed President of Kids' Chance of Florida, for a meaningful conversation centered on service, leadership, and the life-changing impact of educational scholarships for children affected by workplace injury or fatality. Tammy shares how her career in workers' compensation shaped her understanding of the human ripple effects of injury, and why Kids' Chance became a mission she felt called to lead.The discussion highlights the heart of Kids' Chance of Florida's work: providing hope, stability, and educational opportunity for children whose families have experienced devastating loss because of a work-related injury, or in some cases, a death. Tammy reflects on the organization's impact, the stories behind the scholarships, and the collective effort required to sustain and grow the program. She also explains how the Florida chapter fits into the broader Kids' Chance of America network, which supports students nationwide through locally driven chapters united by a shared mission.Throughout the episode, Tammy emphasizes that Kids' Chance is more than a charity; it is a long-term investment in people and communities. She offers a call to action for the workers' compensation community to get involved, reminding listeners that behind every claim is a family whose future can be profoundly changed through education. This episode is a powerful reminder that when an industry comes together in service, its impact reaches far beyond the system itself.Tammy shared that the Florida chapter started in 2015, and to date, has awarded over 100 scholarships totaling over $450K in support of students impacted by workplace injury. At the national level, Kids Chance of America has helped more than 11,000 students with over $42 million in scholarships through its network of 50 chapters, one in every state in the US. Upcoming Kids' Chance of FL events:Flagship event: WCI Golf Tournament (August 23, 2026)Breaking news! New for 2026: 2 golf sessions will be available5K Fun Run in South Florida (coming soon!)For more information and to find a chapter in your state, please visit https://www.kidschance.org/¡Muchas Gracias! Thank you for listening. We would appreciate you sharing our podcast with your friends on social media. Find Yvonne and Rafael on Linked In or follow us on Twitter @deconstructcomp

There is a theory that both the next podcast edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement as well as the next written version might be delayed out of some sort of concern about whether the internal numbering system is equipped to deal with the impending approach of the 1,000th edition. At least, that is one possible explanation of why it has taken so long to produce these older stories from the last week. There was a slight disruption in the routine which sometimes results in delays. I'm Sean Tubbs, and I look forward to sorting it all out.Audio versions of stories previously sent out in the newsletter: * Charlottesville City Council agrees to reallocate funding intended to run low-barrier shelter (read the story)* Charlottesville's finance director presents more details on city's $8.5 million surplus (read the story)* The 700 block of Charlottesville's West Main Street is now known as “Mel's Walk” (read the story)* Albemarle's Economic Development Authority agrees to spend $500K on Boulders Road Extension (read the story)* Supervisor Mike Pruitt shares information on CARTA with fellow elected officials (read the story)* The Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission will try again for federal funding for design of Rivanna pedestrian bridge (read the story)Charlottesville Community Engagement is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Today's shout-out: Cville Village seeks volunteers!Can you drive a neighbor to a doctor's appointment? Change an overhead lightbulb, plant a flower, walk a dog for someone who is sick, visit someone who is lonely? If so, Cville Village needs you!Cville Village is a local 501c3 nonprofit organization loosely affiliated with a national network of Villages whose goals are to help seniors stay in their own homes as long as possible, and to build connections among them that diminish social isolation. Volunteers do small chores for, and have gatherings of, professors and schoolteachers, nurses and lawyers, aides and housekeepers. Time and chance come to all – a fall, an order not to drive, failing eyesight, a sudden stroke. They assist folks continue living at home, with a little help from their friends.Cville Village volunteers consult software that shows them who has requested a service and where they are located. Volunteers accept only the requests that fit their schedule and their skills.Volunteering for Cville Village can expand your circle of friends and shower you with thanks.To learn more, visit cvillevillage.org or attend one of their monthly Village “meet-ups” and see for yourself. To find out where and when the next meetup is, or to get more information and a volunteer application, email us at info@cvillevillage.org, or call them at (434) 218-3727.End notes for #998-AMy thoughts were well-intentioned. As I was producing stories last week, I did produce the audio but I did not post them to the Information Charlottesville website. Somehow I forgot that finished audio segments had been made and it felt like a slog to have to do the audio again.This is because the radio version did not air last week and so I didn't feel the same pressure to follow all of the steps. This week there will be a radio show and I have enough material that I am considering slowing down a little this week to focus on business and administration things.Also, it is going to be in the fifties later and I want to go for a walk and watch the ice and snow melt. So I am going to aim to have the next newsletter out tomorrow. That will be #999 and after that will be #1000. No comma. I think that's how I'll get through adding a fourth digit.Another reason things were difficult this week is that my copy of Adobe Audition reset and a lot of my bookmarks disappeared. Because I could not see the recent links to session files, I assumed I had not produced them.I'm writing this as I produce the podcast and also missing are my links to various sound files I use as punctuation in between stories. Youngers versions of me used to love playing around with audio production. I still do, but these days the need to produce takes the capacity away from being creative.Which is why this may be a week I listen to my brain and take a slight reset. All I know is that I'm very glad to have this edition done and to have a few hours off away from writing. There are many stories to tell, but there are also days I need to do a little more.Oh! Another reason this week is weird. For some reason, the gain on the headphones for my recording set-up is really low so I can't really hear myself while narrating. This is an annoyance but also causes issues. Perhaps I'll spend the rest of the day setting up a new place to work! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe

Jim Damico is a US Peace Corps Education volunteer serving at a small rural school in Armenia. He is a native of Kansas City but since 2008, Jim has been doing volunteer teaching in Asia. First in Mongolia, but then with the Peace Corps in Thailand, Mongolia again, Nepal, and now Armenia. But over the years, Jim has had several careers: Mechanical Engineer, Physical Therapist, and lots of travel before he started teaching.Contact Jim DamicoAs a way of paying it forward for all the folks that have helped me along this Peace Corps journey, I've set up a website, WanderingTheWorld.com - All Things Peace Corps, to give tips and advice to PC applicants, invitees, and volunteers. I also have a monthly newsletter so folks can keep up to date with everything I add to the site.8. Social Media Site Profile links: Facebook LinkedIn Instagram X TikTokWebsite: https://wanderingtheworld.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderingtheworld.facebookInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderingtheworldcom/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wanderingtheworld/Monthly Newsletter: https://wanderingtheworld.substack.comDr. Kimberley LinertSpeaker, Author, Broadcaster, Mentor, Trainer, Behavioral OptometristEvent Planners- I am available to speak at your event. Here is my media kit: https://brucemerrinscelebrityspeakers.com/portfolio/dr-kimberley-linert/To book Dr. Linert on your podcast, television show, conference, corporate training or as an expert guest please email her at incrediblelifepodcast@gmail.com or Contact Bruce Merrin at Bruce Merrin's Celebrity Speakers at merrinpr@gmail.com702.256.9199Host of the Podcast Series: Incredible Life Creator PodcastAvailable on...Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/incredible-life-creator-with-dr-kimberley-linert/id1472641267Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6DZE3EoHfhgcmSkxY1CvKf?si=ebe71549e7474663 and on 9 other podcast platformsAuthor of Book: "Visualizing Happiness in Every Area of Your Life"Get on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4cmTOMwWebsite: https://linktr.ee/DrKimberleyLinertThe Great Discovery eLearning platform: https://thegreatdiscovery.com/kimberleyl

What does it mean to be dressed by love? In this episode of WAHNCast, Angie Truitt and Celia Gunn-Zaboli are joined by Karen Martin-Spellerberg of The Princess Project, a nonprofit that has spent more than two decades creating spaces where teens are not only dressed for prom, but wrapped in dignity, confidence, and belonging. Karen shares powerful stories of transformation — teens who arrive unsure and guarded and leave standing taller, parents experiencing the rare freedom of telling their child, “You can choose anything you want,” and volunteers who return year after year because of the joy this work creates. The conversation explores how The Princess Project goes far beyond formalwear, offering mentorship, leadership opportunities, and a community where every young woman is seen and celebrated without conditions. This episode also highlights why The Princess Project is the 2026 WAHNprom beneficiary charity, and how partnerships, volunteers, and donors help sustain a mission rooted in love. Support ensures that every teen who walks through their doors feels confident, welcomed, and worthy.  To donate visit https://www.princessprojectsd.org/donate Monetary donations help fund year-round programming and allow The Princess Project to purchase dresses in hard-to-find sizes so no teen is ever turned away. Other ways to support include: • Donating prom dresses or accessories • Volunteering with a local chapter • Sharing The Princess Project with schools, families, and community partners Every contribution helps create moments that last long after prom night ends.

So many helping hands involved with Second Harvest Heartland and the amazing work they do - one of them being Pete Wilson, he sits down with Chad to discuss the work him and others do with feeding so many in need, the camaraderie involved with this team and how people can get involved as volunteers!

Stop. Everything. Now. It’s Claudia Karvan day.

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Friday, January 30. The seven stories you need to know today. Read today's briefing.If you're not a subscriber, click here to start.

Volunteering and acts of service strengthen teams and organizations by fostering empathy in a divided world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

An organisation offering volunteering work abroad says New Zealand's tight job market is fueling interest in their assignments. Amy Williams reports.

#BeAGoodFriend and check out episode #156 of #FeeneyTalksWithFriends featuring Rino Ouellet.It was great to talk and eat Dirt Wings with my #friend, Rino! Rino is the Beverage Program Director and FOH Hiring Manager. We talked about:The holiday season (minute 1)Sagamore Rye Whiskey from Matt Whitney (minute 3)34 years at J. TImothy's  (minute  4.30)The J.Timothy's 35th Annual Golf Tournament on May 18, 2026 (minute 7.30)Travel back in time to 1989 (minute 9.30)Helping Plainville Food Pantry and The John Huey Scholarship (minute 11)“Controlled Chaos" (minute 13)Confirm or Deny: J. Tim's sold 12 tons of wings during last year's Super Bowl (minute 15)Barry aka “Dirt” was the pitcher on the J. Timothy's Softball Team  (minute 17)Close-up view of The Dirt Wings (minute 20)Jim Welch and Tim Adams created J. Timothy's (minute 22)Being on the Food Network in 2016 (minute 24)BOH vs. FOH (minute 26)3 Keys to the Beverage Program Director and FOH HIring Manager (minute 29)Wing Tasting Time!! (minute 34)The Bear, Waiting & Burnt (minute 36)Rino's Go-To Meal (minute 37)In 2025, 430 tons of wings were sold and 80% were Dirt Wings (minute 39)Only 5 Flavors offered  (minute 41)50th Year Anniversary is coming up  (minute 43)Does Dan Hurley really get free wings for life? (minute 44)Alex Karaban and teammates showed up for a fundraiser at J. Tims (minute 48)Congrats to Teddy from Martin Rosols for going from 2 children to 3  (minute 50)Events: First, Last, Best, Worst (minute 52)Volunteering at Plainville HS for 3 days during a snowstorm (minute 57)Selfie pic of The Sunday Night Crew (minute 1.00)@RinoEatsAndDrinks on Instagram (minute 1.01)Rino's favorite pizza (minute 1.03)Rapid Fire Questions (minute 1.04)Beers from New Park Brewing (minute 1.05)Podcast Sponsors: Directline Media - www.directlinemediaproductions.com/The Fix IV - www.thefixivtherapy.comWest Hartford Lock - www.westhartfordlock.comKeating Agency Insurance - www.keatingagency.comGoff Law Group - www.gofflawgroup.netParkville Management - www.parkvillemanagement.comLuna Pizza - www.lunapizzawh.com/lunas-menuPeoplesBank - www.bankatpeoples.comFloat 41 - www.float41.comMaximum Beverage - www.maximumbev.comSally and Bob's - www.sallyandbobs.com

402-521-3080In this conversation, Stephanie Olson speaks with Kimberly Haley Coleman, the founder and executive director of Globe Aware, about the organization's mission to provide meaningful volunteer experiences through service vacations in various countries. They discuss the evolution of volunteerism, the importance of understanding local needs, and the impact of volunteers on communities. Kimberly shares insights on navigating safety, cultural immersion, and the empowerment of women in global communities. The conversation emphasizes the value of global service while addressing criticism and the broader impact of volunteerism on local communities.TakeawaysKimberly Haley Coleman founded Globe Aware to provide meaningful volunteer experiences.Volunteers pay to participate, which supports local staff and projects.The vocabulary around volunteerism has evolved due to past unethical practices.It's essential to engage with local communities to understand their needs.Volunteers often come with preconceived notions but learn through experience.Safety assessments are crucial for project management and volunteer safety.Cultural immersion is a key aspect of the volunteer experience.Women play a vital role in local communities and leadership.Volunteering abroad can inspire individuals to make a difference at home.Criticism of global service often overlooks the importance of cultural understanding.Bio of Kimberly Haley-ColemanKimberly Haley-Coleman is the founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, a US & Canada-based nonprofit that leads and mobilizes volunteers for short-term service projects in over 25 countries (since the year 2000). With a background in international business development and finance, she previously held leadership roles at global firms including CNBC.com, Space Services International, and Investtools. Kimberly holds an MBA in International Business, an MA in Art History, and a BA from Emory University. A multiple patent holder, SMU Guest Lecturer, and recipient of the Texas Business Hall of Fame Award and long-time Hall of Fame member, Chairman of the Executive Board for the International Volunteer Programs Association (IVPA) and actively engaged with organizations like the Building Bridges Coalition and United Nations ESOC Consultative Status Committee and variety of other nonprofit boards focused on international service, community development, and environmental improvement.Selected press about Globe Aware:·         ABC: More Americans Take Volunteer Vacations·         BBC: BBC Travel Show - Passengers with a Purpose·        Support the showEveryone has resilience, but what does that mean, and how do we use it in life and leadership? Join Stephanie Olson, an expert in resiliency and trauma, every week as she talks to other experts living lives of resilience. Stephanie also shares her own stories of addictions, disordered eating, domestic and sexual violence, abandonment, and trauma, and shares the everyday struggles and joys of everyday life. As a wife, mom, and CEO she gives commentaries and, sometimes, a few rants to shed light on what makes a person resilient. So, if you have experienced adversity in life in any way and want to learn how to better lead your family, your workplace, and, well, your life, this podcast is for you!https://setmefreeproject.net https://www.stephanieolson.com/

The schedule just couldn't work where the guys could podcast, so Dayna and Sarah are in charge and they're talking FMSC FargoPack with Director Amy Okeson. That Podcast is available on the following podcast services by searching “Atonement Fargo”: Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Castbox Find us online at: YouTube Facebook Twitter https://thatpodcast.net​​​​​​​ https://atonement.live​​​​​​​ https://www.atonementfargo.org

Today's edition is sponsored by the Ragged Mountain Running and Walking ShopWhen was the last time you played a musical instrument? When was the last time you recorded a song you wanted to write either for yourself or for others? In an attempt to change the tone of these introductory paragraphs of Charlottesville Community Engagement, I decide to look instead at this day in music.Two sources report that on January 22, 1959, Buddy Holly hit record on a machine and captured his final performances on a tape recorder, recordings that would later be posthumously produced professionally after his death in an aircraft crash on a snowy night. I'm Sean Tubbs, and more on that rabbit hole at the end of this edition.In this edition:* There is a vacancy on the Greene County Board of Supervisors as Francis McGuigan resigns* Albemarle and Charlottesville officials are preparing for a weekend storm expected this* The Charlottesville Albemarle Regional Transit Authority will meet today the first time in 2026* Albemarle County promotes Amy Smith to be the next Parks and Recreation DirectorCharlottesville Community Engagement is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.First shout-out: Cville Village seeks volunteersCan you drive a neighbor to a doctor's appointment? Change an overhead lightbulb, plant a flower, walk a dog for someone who is sick, visit someone who is lonely? If so, Cville Village needs you!Cville Village is a local 501c3 nonprofit organization loosely affiliated with a national network of Villages whose goals are to help seniors stay in their own homes as long as possible, and to build connections among them that diminish social isolation. Volunteers do small chores for, and have gatherings of, professors and schoolteachers, nurses and lawyers, aides and housekeepers. Time and chance come to all – a fall, an order not to drive, failing eyesight, a sudden stroke. They assist folks continue living at home, with a little help from their friends.Cville Village volunteers consult software that shows them who has requested a service and where they are located. Volunteers accept only the requests that fit their schedule and their skills.Volunteering for Cville Village can expand your circle of friends and shower you with thanks.To learn more, visit cvillevillage.org or attend one of their monthly Village “meet-ups” and see for yourself. To find out where and when the next meetup is, or to get more information and a volunteer application, email us at info@cvillevillage.org, or call them at (434) 218-3727.McGuigan resigns from the Greene County Board of SupervisorsThe Greene County Board of Supervisors will once again need to fill a vacancy now that one of its members has resigned while in office.Francis McGuigan turned in his resignation as the at-large Supervisor today, just over two years after being elected in November 2023.“We would like to thank Supervisor McGuigan for his commitment to the community,” said Board Chairman Steve Catalano in an information release.On January 13, McGuigan had voted for Catalano to be chair during the annual organization meeting. Midway Representative Matt Hartung was not present for the vote but joined the meeting later.The release states Supervisors will discuss how to move forward with a replacement at their next meeting on January 27.In the fall of October 2023, former Supervisor Abby Heflin resigned as the Stanardsville representative and the Board accepted applications for a replacement. The person appointed was Steve Catalano.For more on this story, take a look at this story on the Piedmont Journal-Recorder.Area preparing for heavy winter stormA large winter storm is heading for the east coast this weekend and that's expected to leave a heavy accumulation of snow and ice. Preparations are underway by first responders and the Virginia Department of Transportation.Albemarle's Deputy County Executive, Trevor Henry, briefed the Board of Supervisors Wednesday night about what was known at that time.“We have through our emergency manager a process by which we spin up our planning efforts,” Henry said. “And so I wanted to just assure the board but also use this as a reminder to the community that they should be paying attention to this weekend.”Henry said any snow and ice that falls may continue to be a problem as the forecast is for temperatures to remain below freezing through the end of next week. He added public safety will be ready.“Police and fire are really looking at a Saturday morning to at least initially through Monday night,” Henry said. “That may be a longer operational period where there's going to be additional resources.”Henry said the county is asking residents to be prepared to be without power for up to three days. To that effect, the county set out a message this afternoon with information including a checklist for an emergency kit created by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.Soon afterward, the City of Charlottesville announced it has activated the Snow Operations Team with a description of their duty.“The City is responsible for winter operations across approximately 165 centerline miles of roadway, 49 miles of sidewalks (including Safe Routes to School and City-owned properties), more than 45 municipal and school parking lots, City parks facilities, and the Downtown Pedestrian Mall,” reads the message.The city has over 165 people working on snow operations as well as a sizable inventory of equipment including “25 dedicated snowplow trucks equipped with salt spreaders and brine tanks.”Roads will be pretreated with brine and crews will begin clearing snow when necessary.“Snow response follows a priority plan,” reads the message from the city. “Crews will begin with primary routes, including major corridors and roads critical for emergency response and transit service.”Emergency snow routes will also be in effect as of 9 a.m. Saturday. Anyone who parks along these corridors must move their vehicle or it may be towed.Designated Emergency Snow Routes include:* Market Street (Old Preston Avenue to 9th Street NE)* High Street (Preston Avenue to 9th Street NE)* Water Street (Ridge Street to 10th Street NE)* 2nd Street West (Market Street to Water Street)* 4th Street East (Market Street to Water Street)* West Main Street (Ridge Street to JPA)* University Avenue (JPA to Rugby Road)There will be free parking in the two municipal parking garages Friday, January 23 at 6:00 PM through Tuesday, January 27 at 8:00 AM.For the city's full list, click here.Thanks for reading Charlottesville Community Engagement ! This post is public so feel free to share it.Charlottesville Albemarle Regional Transit Authority to meet todayIn late 2025, an entity known as the Regional Transit Partnership ended and transferred many of its duties to a recently created authority intended to promote greater cooperation and coordination between the area's multiple transit agencies.Today the Board of Directors of the Charlottesville Albemarle Regional Transit Authority will meet for the first time in 2026 at the Water Street Center. (CARTA website)The agenda for today's meeting looks much like an RTP agenda with opportunities for Jaunt, Charlottesville Area Transit, and University Transit Service representatives to tell what they're doing and how they fit into the bigger picture. So far, though, the only two voting members are Albemarle and Charlottesville.Scottsville Supervisor Michael Pruitt will be joined by newcomer Jack Jouett Supervisor Sally Duncan, and Charlottesville City Councilor Natalie Oschrin will be joined by newcomer Jen Fleisher. Fleisher has attended multiple meetings of the RTP as an alternative representing the Blue Ridge Health District.There are details on both Jaunt and the University Transit Service in the packet, but nothing from Charlottesville Area Transit.One of the main tasks for CARTA this year will be to conduct something called the “Regional Transit Service Prioritization and Implementation Feasibility Study” which builds off of the 2022 Regional Transit Vision Plan and the Regional Transit Governance Study from 2023.Not on the agenda is a discussion of how CARTA might be able to help increase funding for CAT's mission to hire a total of 108 drivers. That's the amount CAT Director Garland Williams says is needed to restore full service and make long-awaited route changes.Here's a story about that from December 2025 as well as a story from August in which a representative from IMPACT said the organization is watching. Patreon-fueled shout-out: Design DevelopArchitectural firm Design Develop is offering a new service aimed at the development community that the rest of us might want to know about , too — 3D point cloud scanning! This technique uses specialized equipment, such as 3D scanner systems, to gather a large amount of data points that represent the surface of the scanned object or scene. This really comes in handy when working with historic structures, as the firm knows from its experience in Baltimore and Charlottesville. Read their blog post for more information!The applications of 3D point cloud scanning are extensive and cover various fields, including architecture, construction, cultural heritage preservation, virtual reality, industrial design, manufacturing, and more. These applications require accurate 3D spatial information, and Design Develop's workflow provides precise and comprehensive results, all while being more cost-effective than traditional methods.Design Develop has expertise in this workflow for their own needs and now has a dedicated team offering this service in the Charlottesville and Albemarle Area. If you're involved in the real estate, design, or construction industry, contact them for more information or a free quote.Visit their website for an introductory video that captures the 3D point cloud scanning of the Downtown Transit Center and a booklet that will explain more!Albemarle promotes Smith to Parks and Recreation DirectorAfter a nationwide search, Albemarle County has named a veteran of the Parks and Recreation Department to lead the office after the retirement of former director Bob Crickenberger.“Our own Amy Smith, who has been the deputy director and, and has enjoyed a wonderful career serving Albemarle county, was our top candidate,” said County Executive Jeffrey Richardson.Smith will lead a department with a $5,584,028 budget for fiscal year 2026 and 27 full-time employees. Two objectives in the county's strategic plan address how parks can help reach Quality of Life Goals.These are:* 4.4 — Integrate parks planning with multi-modal transportation planning across the County* 4.5 — Enhance overall access to parks and recreational opportunities with an emphasis on urban neighborhoods.The FY26 budget also includes $1.5 million for work to pursue the latter objective through creation of a new urban pocket park on Hillsdale Drive as well as new amenities at Humphris Park.Soon after being announced, Smith explained her philosophy toward parks and recreation.“Our parks protect natural beauty, promote health and wellness, provide spaces for connection, and ensure that residents of all ages and abilities can enjoy the outdoors. I'm truly inspired by Albemarle's commitment to quality of life,” Smith said. “I plan to build upon the same foundation through increasing innovation, strategic management of resources, and furthering, uniting and empowering our dedicated Parks and Rec staff and our amazing community partners.”Smith began working for the county in 1993. Jack Jouett Supervisor Sally Duncan just joined the Board and said she was impressed by the time Smith has spent working for Albemarle.“I just think it's really great when we can retain people and have people, you know, build their careers here and have longevity,” Duncan said.Supervisor Ann Mallek is in her fifth term representing the White Hall District and said Smith has helped oversee and manage many of the parks that have come on line in the past two decades and will now work to bring many more that are planned into reality.“So many things on your plate with the blueways and Buck Island and the Brook Hill ramp and such a long, long list because there's so many places that you already manage,” Mallek said.The blueways are a series of amenities allowing people to use area rivers and streams for recreational purposes. As part of this effort, the county opened Brook Hill River Park on Rio Mills Road in the summer of 2019 and there are plans to develop a park at Buck Island 17 miles down the Rivanna River.Smith helped lead a parks and recreation needs assessment for Albemarle in 2018 and creation of a parks strategic plan. Much of that is now within the Parks and Recreation Chapter of AC44, the name the county called their Comprehensive Plan. This link will take you right there.There's also the recreation side of the department which provides many ways for people to interact with each other. Richardson said the intent is to overcome obstacles as they pop up.“When our middle school volleyball league registrations opened across Albemarle County, there was a rush of families signing up their students for this program,” Richardson said. “Henley was, was completely full within three minutes. Lakeside was full within 30 minutes.”Richardson said there were many calls from people who were disappointed they missed out but the department showed flexibility in the name of customer service.“So what the Parks and Rec department did was step back, reformatted the league and they expanded capacity, ultimately registering 400 participants across all the schools,” Richardson said. “And that eliminated the wait list.”For more on how to provide feedback on the new Hillsdale pocket park as well as Humprhis Park, visit engagealbemarle.org.Articles by other journalists you are encouraged to read next:* When Virginia GOP senator's solar farm stalled, the Youngkin admin got involved, Ben Paviour, Virginia Mercury, January 13, 2026* ICE detains 5-year-old Minnesota boy; school leader says agents used him as ‘bait', Elizabeth Shockman, MPR News, January 21, 2026* Va. lawmakers want voters to take a 180-degree turn on redistricting; some reform advocates are wary, David Poole, Virginia Mercury, January 22, 2026* Winter road salting is a growing source of pollution [and] Virginia officials want alternatives, Katherine Hafner, WHRO, January 22, 2026#989 is an echo from the pastA thing I keep to myself is a long history of relaxing through challenging myself to recording improvisational music. At one point I wanted to be in a band, but I've always been way too guarded to do such things. Or at least, not willing to put in the time.Yet I've recorded many hours of my attempts at songs over the years and I find the experience of expressing myself through musical creation helps me fill out a lot of the rough spots in my life. I made a decision a long time ago to keep all of that to myself, but I'm also aware of my mortality more than usual.So I had this idea to begin to put some of my sound recordings on Patreon as part of that system. After all, my hope is to soon have a mechanism people can use to make tax-deductible contributions for the reporting.This is still just an idea crafted at a time where I'm paying a lot of attention to where I was at this time in 2011. I was not quite four years into my time at Charlottesville Tomorrow and I was very uncertain about what I wanted to do. I am interested in what I was singing at that time for reasons I'll explore over on Patreon if I decide to go ahead with this side project.Oh yeah, also somehow this edition is a podcast, too. Not sure how that happened.And now, probably the weirdest video I've posted yet which is still germane somehow. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe

"Volunteering can satisfy psychological needs: the need to belong to a community, to see one's values an action or to develop skills and purpose."I am reading from Neurogiving. The Science of Donor Decision-Making by Cherian Koshy, published in 2025.Reflection question:How are you showing gratitude to your campaign volunteers?Reflection on quote:We are exploring how generosity is deeply embedded into what it means to be human and how that impacts capital campaigns, using insights from a book recently released by my friend and colleague Cherian Koshy. This week, we are looking at volunteering as it relates to capital campaigns.When I am discussing with the Executive Director the number of campaign volunteers that will be needed for a capital campaign, I often hear two concerns.  How can we ask someone to give so much of their time, often months and even years to the campaign?  And, secondly, how can ask them to donate financially as well?  As Cherian points out, we can ask because it's inherent to being human.  We desire social connection and meaningful work that shows progress.  Joining a campaign committee or being the campaign chair provides immediate social connections and meaning.  Further, as the committee raises funds together, they see the progress towards the goal and the actual building going up.  Further, campaign volunteers naturally want to give to the campaign because of their engagement.  They want to give both their time and money to be a part of the progress.  They are doubly invested. In small towns, their passion about the project will then draw others to join in. And, as result, when we keep sharing the progress of the campaign and show gratitude for their engagement, campaign volunteers will keep volunteering because it makes them feel good. Here's how to purchase Neurogiving from Wiley or Amazon.Quote used by permission.What do you think? Send me a text. To explore small town capital campaign coaching deeper and to schedule an free explore coaching call, visit ServingNonprofits.com.Music credit: Woeisuhmebop

GuestsTheo Lin — Founder & Head of Community EngagementCatalina Berrios — Head of Social MediaRyan Katz — Head of CommunicationsAva Kwon — Trainee (future Communications & High School Engagement)Lucas Suba — Head of Registration & Onsite Project ManagementWhat this episode coversWhy Theo founded DoGood after missing school service days for NAC travelHow DoGood finds and books volunteer projects in each host cityFavorite project types: animal shelters, food pantries, Ronald McDonald House, homeless sheltersTelling the story the right way: gratitude and joy, not “look at us”Getting the word out: local media, USA Fencing e-blasts, and an on-site NAC tableThe logistics: having a leadership point person at every projectThe switch to GivePulse and how it makes registration + tracking easierService hours: verification, certificates, and tracking (plus who to email)Succession planning: training the next leaders so DoGood doesn't disappear after graduationThe big vision: DoGood as the “ketchup to French fries” of volunteering at fencing events — and eventually beyond fencingQuick linksDoGood website: fencersdogood.orgInstagram: @fencersdogoodService hours verification: highschool@fencersdogood.orgCall to actionGoing to your next NAC? Sign up for a DoGood project and spend a couple hours giving back — you'll leave the city with more than just bout results. --First to 15: The Official Podcast of USA FencingHost: Bryan WendellCover art: Manna CreationsTheme music: Brian Sanyshyn

John Sillars, Chief Strategy Officer for Second Harvest Food Bank, explains how you can volunteer and help Second Harvest help those in need

This week on the Chamber Podcast, Rob sits down with Steve Grech, CEO of LOC Credit Union, and Stephanie Hamlin, Community Impact Manager, to talk about what it really means to be a community-first financial institution. With 90 years of history and more than 50 years serving Livingston County, LOC focuses on doing a few things exceptionally well, from affordable car loans and home equity lending to strong digital banking paired with real human relationships. Steve shares how LOC differentiates itself in a crowded financial market through thoughtful lending practices and service-driven culture, while Stephanie highlights the credit union's deep investment in financial education, school partnerships, and local programs that build confidence from elementary school through adulthood. The conversation offers a clear look at how staying focused, accessible, and people-centered helps LOC strengthen both financial health and community trust. 00:00 LOC Credit Union's Journey 03:12 What Makes LOC Unique? 06:00 Building Trust Through Relationships 09:15 Financial Literacy in Schools 12:22 2026 Initiatives and Community Engagement 15:15 Lending Wider and Deeper Show Links Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website. Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/  Guest Links Website: https://www.loccreditunion.com/ Guest Info: LOC celebrated our 90th Anniversary in 2025 with 6 locations across Livingston, Oakland and Wayne Counties. We like to think LOC stands for Lender of Choice for Auto Loans & Home Equity Loans while focusing on delivering five-star member service.   Our Brighton Branch opened in June of 2024 and is located on Grand River Avenue just outside of downtown, next to Planet Fitness and AutoZone.  We have had a presence in Livingston County for 50 years. In 1976 we opened in Howell and have been at our current location on Grand River since 1997. Our current Hartland location opened in 2007 at Old 23 and M59. As we continue to invest in Livingston County, we will be building a full-service branch with a drive thru in 2026. This branch will be adjacent to the Hartland Target parking lot.  Community Sponsorships and Volunteer Involvement:  In 2024 we partnered with Bountiful Harvest when we made large financial donation upon the opening of the Brighton branch in 2024. We continue to support their mission by providing an annual cereal drive where the donations stay right here in Livingston County and our staff volunteers at the food bank.  Brighton, Howell and Hartland - Athletic Business Sponsorships  Brighton Chamber Efforts and Events- the Farmer's Market Flower Day- Bouquet Building Station, Volunteering at Chamber Events such as the Smokin Blues and Brighton Holiday Glow Reindeer Game Sponsorship.  For the third year in a row, we sponsored the Tunnel of Lights at the Millpond Bridge for the community to enjoy a seasonable photo opportunity. Financial Literacy and Education Efforts The Community Impact Team provides a variety of financial education classroom experiences for grades K -12. Creating hands on experiences that give students a solid foundation for the real world. We also operate 19 student-run credit unions across Farmington and Livingston County that give students an independent interactive experience with banking and managing money.

One of the most common questions I hear in real estate is, "Will you mentor me?" Here's the truth: most people asking that question haven't done a single thing to earn mentorship. They don't know us, we don't know them, there's no shared work or contribution, just an expectation that access should be free because they asked nicely.  Let's clear something up. Mentorship doesn't come from chasing people down hallways or sending hopeful DMs; it comes from contribution. What most agents miss is the ultimate power move that doesn't seem like one at first. It puts you in rooms you'd never get into otherwise, and gets you standing with the people you wish would mentor you.  What's the key to getting the mentorship you need to succeed in real estate? How do you get the most out of this opportunity? In this episode, we get real about why asking for mentorship without offering value first backfires and what to do instead.   Things You'll Learn In This Episode  Stop asking for mentorship before you've earned it If someone doesn't know your name, your story, or your work ethic, why would they invest in you?  Volunteering is access, not charity When you show up early, prepared, and useful, you stop being invisible. How do you stop treating volunteering like a favor instead of the opportunity it actually is? People are watching when you think they're not Lateness, inconsistency, and excuses don't get forgotten; they get labeled. How can this work against you in real estate?    About Your Host Marki Lemons Ryhal is a ​​Licensed Managing Broker, REALTOR®, and avid volunteer.  She is a dynamic keynote speaker and workshop facilitator, both on-site and virtual; she's the go-to expert for artificial Intelligence, entrepreneurship, and social media in real estate. Marki Lemons Ryhal is dedicated to all things real estate, and with 25+ years of marketing experience, Marki has taught over 250,000 REALTORS® how to earn up to a 2682% return on their marketing dollars. Marki's expertise has been featured in Forbes, the Washington Post, Homes.com, and REALTOR® Magazine.   Subscribe, Rate & Review Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm, so our show reaches more people. Thank you!     

Sarah Morgan and Josh Sutton-Ziaian set out to cycle from the UK to India, but their adventure didn't go as planned, and that's what makes their story so good. Between health issues, winter cycling, and countless unexpected detours, they learned to let go of the original plan and embrace whatever came their way. Volunteering in remote villages and crashing with locals through Warmshowers, they discovered that the best parts of bike touring aren't about reaching your destination, they're about the people you meet and the moments that surprise you along the way.If you've ever been curious about ditching comfort for adventure or just want to hear what makes people choose a slower, more intentional way of traveling, this conversation will inspire you to grab a bike and start your own journey.Catch up with Sarah & Josh:YouTube: Josh & Sarah RideInstagram: @joshandsarahrideFacebook: Josh and Sarah Ride Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Whether you're a student seeking experience, a retiree giving back or a newcomer wanting to connect, volunteering unites people of every generation and background. With so many major events happening this summer like the Aus Open; the Grand Prix and Surf Lifesaving, lending a hand is keeping Aussies connected with pride and purpose How do we turn one-off volunteers into lifelong givers? 

Jodi Silverman's personal journey began with the realization of an impending empty nest as her children prepared to leave home. Finding herself with a significant amount of free time, Jodi recognized that her current work in her print business was not fulfilling. Her decision to remain open to new opportunities led her to a business opportunity in direct sales, which eventually sparked her passion for personal development and coaching. Through facing her own fears, doubts, and limiting beliefs, Jodi discovered her ability to inspire and guide other midlife women. This transformative experience culminated in the creation of her DARE Method, aimed at helping women to embrace their new freedom, rediscover their passions, and live fulfilling lives beyond motherhood.   What You Will Hear in This Episode:    02:03 Jodi's Personal Journey and Realizations 04:15 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Fears 08:35 Creating a Business from Personal Growth 12:00 Common Challenges of the Empty Nest 13:23 Navigating Friendships After Children Leave Home 14:25 The Dual Identity of Working Moms 15:01 Overcoming Fear and Doubt in New Beginnings 16:13 The DARE Method: Deciding and Awakening 18:14 Rediscovering Old Passions and Hobbies 20:57 Volunteering for Fulfillment and Connection 23:02 Midlife Transformation and Personal Growth 25:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Quotes   " Women often find their purpose in the process of overcoming their own challenges. " " Daring became my platform, which simply means step outta your comfort zone and try something to see what happens."  " As a mom, it's very easy to have your identity be 100% wrapped up in that of motherhood." " Don't be stingy.  Yes, the world needs you."   Mentioned: Beyond Empty Nest Podcast   eConnect with Bonnie Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition Gendered Ageism Survey Results Forbes article 5 Tips to own the superpower of your age IAMMusicGroup   Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:    If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review  

Is it time for you to give back? Is your heart calling you to use your talents to help others?My guest, Amina Mohamed, is here to talk about her non-profit called “Cameras for Girls” and her efforts to bring the art of photography and photojournalism to young women across Africa who likely would not otherwise have had the opportunity to explore it. In 2018, she started an initiative with a mission to teach photography and business skills to marginalized females across Africa who endeavor to become journalists. She gives each of them a camera and and has taught  129 in Uganda and has 50 enrolled for 2026, 25 in Tanzania with 10 enrolled, and 80% of our students have paid work within 6 months of completing our program!! And Cameras for Girls is launching in Kenya in 2026. Truly amazing.In addition to her volunteer efforts, Amina has spent fifteen years exploring her passion for photography while working in film and television as a producer and production manager on numerous movies and documentaries. Amina share tips onabout how to proceed when you are called to give back, and want to make the world a better place using your photography. Here are some of her tips for getting started: Figure out what you are talented atAnd which segment of society you want to helpDon't worry about registering for any “official” programsLook for places to volunteer (but be careful about “voluntourism”)Listen now to hear Amina's amazing story and find out more about tapping into your inner volunteer!And connect with Amina at:@CamerasForGirlsamina@camerasforgirls.orgwww.camerasforgirls.orgConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.

Why are fewer Americans volunteering—and why does it matter? Michael digs into new data showing a long-term decline in volunteerism, echoing warnings first raised by Robert Putnam in Bowling Alone. Joined by Wall Street Journal opinion editor Mary Julia Koch, Michael explores how civic engagement has shifted toward episodic, virtual, and performative activism—and what we've lost as a result. They discuss generational trends, loneliness, the rise of online substitutes for real connection, and why volunteering doesn't just help communities—it strengthens the people who do it. From tutoring students to mentoring veterans, listeners across the country share how showing up has changed their lives. In a fragmented, self-sorted society, volunteering may be one of the last true “mingle” experiences left. Original air date 4 December 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ryan sits down with Andrea, Katie, and Elena, the creators and performers behind "Life: A Delightful Show About Fear and Grief". They start with holiday spirit stories that are funny, messy, and painfully human, then go deep on how the show blends monologues, spoken word, and comedy to help people move through fear and grief without trauma dumping. They also share Denver resources for affordable counseling and addiction recovery, plus some 2026 intentions that are equal parts tender and practical. Tickets and show info Show website and tickets: https://fearandgrief.com/ Life: A Delightful Show Venue: The Bug Theatre (Denver) https://www.bugtheatre.org/ The Bug Theatre Sponsors MotorStreet 360: https://motorstreet360.com/ MotorStreet® Telescope Mapping: https://telescopemapping.com/ Telescope Mapping Den Thai (featured restaurant): https://denthaidenver.com/ Den Thai Denver Guests and links Andrea Marie Comedy (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/andreamariecomedy/ instagram.com Moms Unhinged (Andrea's show): https://momsunhinged.com/ Moms Unhinged Katie Mason: https://katiemason.com/ Katie Mason Elaina McMillan: https://elainamcmillan.com/ Elaina McMillan Fear and Grief Show Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FearandGriefShow/ facebook.com Denver resources mentioned People House (affordable counseling): https://peoplehouse.org/ PeopleHouse Colorado Addiction Recovery Services: https://coloradoars.com/ Colorado Addiction Recovery Services Things mentioned in the conversation KUVO Jazz Odyssey: https://www.kuvo.org/jazz-odyssey Homepage Let's Vibe (Danny Newman, Denver AI meetup): https://letsvibe.org/ LinkedIn Chapters (approx) Intro and sponsor reads (MotorStreet 360, Telescope Mapping, Den Thai) Meet Andrea, Katie, Elena. Holiday spirit stories and the "no more littles" Christmas problem What the show is and why it works. Comedy plus grief without emotional whiplash Processed stories vs stage ready stories. Craft, care, and not making the audience take care of the performers Community resources in Denver (People House, Colorado ARS) New Year intentions for 2026. Volunteering, ritual, more love, and Ryan's year of curls Quoteable moments "Everything is funny. It just depends on how you look at it." "We are guides as much as we are performers." "Processed enough to share, without throwing your shame on the audience."

We're nearing the end of this special collaboration between Denim-wrapped Nightmares and In Defense of Fandom. Devastating, we know, but we're going out with a bang

Church techs confessed some absolutely wild things to us in 2025. -Volunteering so you can marry the tech director-The worst TV stage rollout possible -Deciding to "kill" the file for the spicy "Marriage Conference Talks" In this episodes you'll hear: 1:00 Toby's little story: Nate Bargatze stand up 5:15 Why you should have a billionaires kid on your volunteer team9:15 “Lemons into Lemonade” Award 14:50 “Funniest Moment of the Year” Award 20:15 “Awkward Moment of the Year” award24:30 “Hero of the Year” award30:00 “Worst Sin of the Year” award 33:20 “The Toby Award” award 36:45 Church Tech Takeaway: Guard your audio console from water38:45 2025's Church Tech Confessionals! Check out their projects and job opportunities here!  Come Hangout With Your Tech Community at The Mix! Resources for your Church Tech Ministry Sell Us Gear: Does your church have used gear that you need to convert into new ministry dollars? We can make you an offer here. Buy Our Gear: Do you need some production gear but lack the budget to buy new gear? You can shop our gear store here. Connect with us: Sales Bulletin: Get better deals than the public and get them earlier too here! Early Service: Get our best gear before it goes live on our site here. Instagram: Hangout with us on the gram here! Reviews: Leaving us a review on the podcast player you're listening to us on really helps the show. If you enjoyed this episode, you can say thank you with a review!

How can you use your pet care business to make a bigger impact? Cheyenne Williams returns to share how community involvement has transformed her life and her business. From leading suicide prevention walks to supporting foster care initiatives, Cheyenne explains how giving back is not just about writing checks—it's about connection, purpose, and passion. She shares the challenges of balancing business demands with emotional nonprofit work, and how boundaries and clarity of purpose keep her grounded. This conversation is a powerful reminder that we were whole people before our businesses, and we'll be whole people long after. Main topics: Volunteering through your pet business Suicide prevention advocacy Building client relationships through shared values Balancing burnout and service Setting boundaries with community involvement Main takeaway: "What is the point of having a business without giving back?" As pet sitters and dog walkers, we're already deeply connected to our communities—but what if we went a step further? Giving back doesn't always mean writing a big check. It can look like sponsoring a school event, volunteering with a local rescue, or using your newsletter to highlight important causes. When we give back, we're not just running a business—we're becoming part of something bigger. And the ripple effect is real: stronger client relationships, deeper personal fulfillment, and a lasting impact beyond the leash. What's one way your business is giving back this season? About our guest: Cheyenne Williams is a dynamic entrepreneur, dedicated wife, and proud mom of two incredible daughters. As the owner of Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care, she leads a multi-award-winning business, most recently honored with the SRQ Best Of Bronze Award for 2025. Cheyenne is also a devoted pet mom to a lively household that includes three dogs, four cats, and a hedgehog. With a degree in Veterinary Nursing, Cheyenne's expertise and compassion shine through in both her professional and personal life. She was recognized with the prestigious Women That Roar Award in 2024 for her leadership and impact in the community. Beyond her business, Cheyenne serves as Board Chair for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and plays a key role as Walk Chair for three of their major events, attends legislative meetings in Washington DC and attends the annual Leadership Conference. She is also PTO President for her daughter's K–8 charter school, and a passionate advocate for vulnerable communities through her work with Guard Against Trafficking (where she is a pending board member), Foster the Family Florida as a community partner, and serves on the Fundraising Committee for Satchel's Last Resort. Cheyenne's life is a testament to compassion, advocacy, and service—both in the lives of animals and the people in her community. Links: NAMI help lines: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/ 988 crisis line https://shineydaypetsitting.com https://www.facebook.com/ShineyDayPetCare https://www.instagram.com/shineydaypetcare/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/shiney-day-specialized-pet-care/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)- www.afsp.org FB & Insta: @afspswfl Foster the Family- fosterthefamily.org  FB: https://www.facebook.com/fosterthefamilyus Guard Against Trafficking- guardagainsttrafficking.org. Linktree to all platforms linktr.ee/guardagainsttrafficking Satchels Last Resort- satchelslastresort.org/  FB- https://www.facebook.com/satchelslastresort Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off

This season, find an opportunity to do something for someone who cannot repay you. Text me at 972-426-2640 so we can stay connected!Support me on Patreon!Twitter: @elliottspeaksInstagram: @elliottspeaks

My goal in this episode is for you to walk away knowing your ideal deep dopamine habits.  Those little things you do that make you feel fulfilled and happy and like you are making progress in the ways that you want to.    You know that feeling after you've been on your phone for 45 minutes scrolling or flipping through tabs and you look up and feel kind of empty? Like your brain is tired but you didn't actually do anything? That's cheap dopamine. It's the quick hit. The fast fix. The thing that feels good in the moment but leaves you drained and unfocused. Now imagine the opposite.    You go for a walk, lift weights, write something meaningful, finish a book, or work on something that's important to you. It's not flashy. It doesn't give you the instant rush. But it gives you something way better… calm, clarity, and long-term satisfaction. That's deep dopamine. And today we're talking all about how to stop chasing the quick hits and start training your brain to love the good stuff.     I could not do this without planning my weeks every Sunday… I physically couldn't! Here's the system I created & use & love!  To plan your days and your life with intention…  https://howtobeawesomeateverything.com/pages/2-0weeklyhabitsandplanningsystem   What Dopamine Really Is Dopamine is a neurotransmitter. It's often labeled as the pleasure chemical, but it's more about motivation and drive. It plays a key role in what gets your attention and what keeps you engaged. Every time your brain anticipates a reward, dopamine is involved. It's what makes you chase something, whether that's a cookie, a workout, a new follower, or a big goal. It's not the dopamine itself that's the problem. It's where you're getting it from and how often. If you constantly flood your brain with quick and easy sources of dopamine, you make it harder to get motivated for the slower, more meaningful things. Andrew Huberman explains it this way: dopamine is not about the pursuit of happiness, it is about the happiness of pursuit. He also teaches that dopamine is a currency. We are always spending it, and when we use it on things that require no effort, we get very little return. But when we invest it in things like a hard workout or a creative project, the return is stronger and lasts longer. He emphasizes that dopamine is what drives us to act, to seek, to pursue… it is not simply about feeling good. It's about staying in forward motion.   What Is Cheap Dopamine Cheap dopamine comes from fast, easy sources that take very little effort and offer very little reward long term. Some examples of cheap dopamine: Scrolling social media Watching endless TikToks or YouTube videos Snacking out of boredom Clicking for likes or notifications Gossiping or complaining Online shopping for things you don't need Checking your phone over and over without purpose These things feel good in the moment, but often leave you feeling worse later. It's like junk food for your brain… sweet, salty, addictive, and ultimately unfulfilling. Studies show that excessive exposure to short-form content or fast dopamine triggers can lead to decreased attention span, mental fatigue, emotional numbness, and a decreased ability to feel reward from slower, more meaningful tasks. Huberman also talks about dopamine stacking... when you stack multiple sources of cheap dopamine together, like scrolling while snacking while listening to background noise. This overstimulates the reward system and makes it harder for your brain to enjoy simple or quiet activities. You become desensitized, and what used to bring joy now feels flat. That's the cost of too much cheap dopamine.   What Is Deep Dopamine Deep dopamine is the kind of reward your brain gets from actions that require effort, presence, or skill. It builds over time and leads to a longer-lasting sense of fulfillment. Examples of deep dopamine: Strength training or physical exercise Reading a book Writing or creating something Deep, uninterrupted work Learning a new skill Spending intentional time with people you love Completing a long project Volunteering or contributing in a meaningful way These habits take more focus and often feel slower, but they leave you with a sense of momentum and pride. You don't crash after them. You build from them. When you choose deep dopamine, you're making a longer-term investment in your mental clarity, emotional resilience, and sense of purpose. You start feeling calm instead of anxious, proud instead of overstimulated, and you strengthen your ability to focus and follow through. Huberman explains that deep dopamine is often tied to effort. It's the system that rewards you after doing something hard, not something convenient. And that's what makes it powerful. The satisfaction comes from knowing you earned it.   Why This Matters The more often you go for quick, cheap dopamine, the more your brain becomes desensitized to it. Over time, you stop getting the same hit from a scroll or a like, and your baseline dopamine levels drop. It's harder to feel motivated. Harder to feel joy. Harder to stay focused. You might feel like you need constant stimulation to avoid feeling bored or anxious. But when you flip that script and start choosing deep dopamine more often, your brain rebalances. You regain your ability to enjoy slow progress. You stop needing quick distractions and start enjoying the quiet confidence that comes from doing things that matter to you. Research shows that daily engagement in physical activity, creative work, or focused learning helps restore natural dopamine cycles, improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and increase emotional stability. Huberman explains that one of the fastest ways to rebalance your dopamine system is to temporarily reduce cheap dopamine triggers and replace them with effort-based rewards... even small ones. The shift doesn't require massive lifestyle changes. It starts with awareness, then small swaps, and finally momentum.   How to Train Yourself to Choose Deep Dopamine Recognize the patterns. When you feel the urge to scroll, pause and ask yourself what you're looking for. Are you bored? Anxious? Trying to avoid something else? Replace, don't just remove. If you're going to stop scrolling, have something better ready. A walk. A good podcast. A book. A 10-minute workout. Make a plan ahead of time. Don't wait until you're tired and distracted to decide what matters. That's when the cheap dopamine wins. Give yourself permission to enjoy effort. Deep dopamine often comes with friction. It's not always fun in the beginning, but the payoff is real and lasting. Set up your environment to support better choices. Turn off notifications. Put your phone in another room. Put your workout clothes or journal somewhere visible. Celebrate your wins. When you choose deep dopamine over cheap dopamine, take a second to notice how it feels. Reinforce that feeling. Huberman reminds us that the brain changes based on what it's exposed to regularly. Choosing deep dopamine isn't about perfection. It's about consistently reminding your brain what fulfillment actually feels like. The world is full of cheap dopamine. It's built into our apps, our habits, and even our conversations. But you don't have to live in reaction mode. You can train your brain to want the things that give you long-term growth and peace instead of short-term distraction. Start by noticing. Then start swapping. Choose things that challenge you, ground you, stretch you, and make you proud. It won't always be easier in the moment, but it will always be more fulfilling. That's how you create a life that actually feels good to live... one deep dopamine choice at a time.