Podcasts about Western Carolina University

In this episode of the TNT Podcast, KT and Kent Temple sit down with Stefanie Conley, a standout real estate professional whose journey from college athletics and university fundraising to real estate success is both unique and inspiring. Stefanie shares how her experience building donor relationships, leading sponsorship campaigns, and engaging alumni at Western Carolina University laid the foundation for her client-first approach in real estate. Her transition into the industry led to over $8 million in sales during her first year—largely without tapping into her personal sphere. Tune in to hear Stefanie's insights on the power of authenticity, consistency, and emotional intelligence in building a service-driven business that creates lasting impact.

In our second Writing Roundtable episode, renowned literacy expert Lester L. Laminack joins us to discuss his Ferris wheel of education concept, providing a fresh perspective on educational trends. Lester examines the current state of writing instruction, investigating how recent developments influence students' writing experiences and skills. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of writing pedagogy as Lester addresses the promising advancements and potential challenges facing educators. GO DEEPER:Read Lester's original "Ferris Wheel" piece on The Robb ReviewABOUT OUR GUEST:Lester Laminack, Professor Emeritus, Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina is a full-time writer and consultant working with schools throughout the United States and abroad. He is the author of over 25 books for teachers and children. His academic publications include Climb Inside a Poem (Heinemann) Cracking Open the Author's Craft (Scholastic), Bullying Hurts: Teaching Kindness Through Read Aloud and Guided Conversations (Heinemann), The Writing Teacher's Troubleshooting Guide(Heinemann), Writers ARE Readers: Flipping Reading Strategies into Writing Instruction (Heinemann), Reading to Make a Difference(Heinemann), The Ultimate Read Aloud Guide 2nd Edition (Scholastic) and The Ultimate Read Aloud Collection Fiction and Nonfiction (Scholastic), Critical Comprehension: Lessons for Guiding Students to Deeper Meaning (Corwin). Lester is also the author of several children's books including: The Sunsets of Miss Olivia Wiggins, Trevor's Wiggly-Wobbly Tooth, Saturdays and Teacakes, Jake's 100th Day of School, Snow Day!, Three Hens and a Peacock  (2012 Children's Choice K-2 Book of the Year Award), and The King of Bees all published by Peachtree Publishers. His most recent book for children is Three Hens, a Peacock, and the Enormous Egg.  His most recent book, A Cat Like That was released in January 2025.Lester is available for professional development and school author visits. You can contact him via his website, and follow him on Facebook.Thanks to our affiliate, Zencastr! Use our special link (https://zen.ai/mqsr2kHXSP2YaA1nAh2EpHl-bWR9QNvFyAQlDC3CiEk) to save 30% off your first month of any Zencastr paid plan. Send us a textPlease subscribe to our podcast and leave us ratings/reviews on your favorite listening platform.You may contact us directly if you want us to consult with your school district. Melanie Meehan: meehanmelanie@gmail.com Stacey Shubitz: stacey@staceyshubitz.com Email us at contact@twowritingteachers.org for affiliate or sponsorship opportunities.For more about teaching writing, head to the Two Writing Teachers blog.

On this week's episode, host Tim Boyum and his guests discuss a recent study on the state of North Carolina elections.  Low faith and trust in elections is widespread, but North Carolina's elections are more successful than many other states, according to a study from cross-partisan organization North Carolina Fair Safe and Secure Elections. "One big takeaway we have is that early voting is working really well in North Carolina by any metric," Dr. Chris Cooper, from Western Carolina University, said.  Cooper and Dr. Michael Bitzer, from Catawba College, are members of the group that conducted and released the study. They join Tim to break down everything from the initial registration process, to rallies and challenges following the election.

What precisely is the work that mothers do to raise children? Has the nature of mothers, motherhood, and the work mothers do changed over time? Nora Doyle, an Associate Professor of History at Western Carolina University, has combed through the historical record to find answers to these questions. Specifically, she's sought to better understand the lived and imagined experiences of mothers and motherhood between the 1750s and 1850s. Nora's Webpage | Book  Show Notes: https://www.benfranklinsworld.com/237   RECOMMENDED NEXT EPISODES

In this installment, after the team opens with a discussion about new legislation in California that seeks to make Bigfoot the official state cryptid, we are joined by researcher Jeff Carpenter, who discusses his experiences covering more than 20 years of research into the Sasquatch (Bigfoot) legend as well as local history/legends from the WNC mountains. Jeff grew up learning outdoor craft of hunting and tracking from his father, Earvin Carpenter. He is a descendant of some of the earliest settlers of the Western North Carolina mountains, including his grandfather, Harley Carpenter who was one of the first mountain people written about in the well-known Foxfire book series on Appalachian Mountain Living. Jeff is currently a Field Investigator for the Bigfoot Research Organization which interviews witness reports as well as documenting them for further study.  He is also a member of the East Coast Expeditions Group, Kentucky Bigfoot Organization and the Co-Founder of the Appalachian Sasquatch Research Project.  Jeff has presented his research findings during presentations he has given in North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky and Ohio, as well as being a guest speaker on numerous podcasts.  He made an appearance in the Small Town Monsters documentary movie titled “ On the Trail of Bigfoot: The Ancients”, which can be seen on YouTube and Amazon Prime, as well as other streaming channels. Jeff is the former Director of the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department where heworked for 32 years and is now retired.  He is a graduate of Western Carolina University and still resides in Sylva. Stories and other links discussed in this episode:  Albert Ostman's story of being kidnapped by Sasquatch Follow Sasquatch Tracks on Twitter. Got a news tip or story to share? Send us an Email. Have you seen an animal you can't identify? Submit a report here.

The Murder of Karen Styles (12-5) Karen Styles was a gifted and kind individual. Graduated High School in 1990. Continuing to college, where she helped create a program for disabled youth & kept 3 jobs while staying on the Dean's List Styles' college years were marked by exceptional commitment and accomplishments. 1994, she received her Bachelor of Science in therapeutic recreation from Western Carolina University. She completed a 12-week internship at a Montana wilderness camp and then part-time work at Asheville Mall. Styles' passion for wilderness programming led her to a job at a South Carolina state-run wilderness camp. Taking a role in the program's development. Twenty-two-year-old Karen Styles had a 2 p.m. shift at the mall on October 31, 1994. Before her shift, she planned to run.  That  Halloween morning, Styles disappeared into the National Forest.   When she did not return home, A search was initiated.  She would not be located alive.

Alex Hall has been an active alumnus of the Master's degree in HR program at Western Carolina University for over a decade. His career in HR has spanned several industries, most notably Insurance where he spent nearly 12 years with Liberty Mutual Insurance. Alex is a seasoned expert in talent management. He is also passionate about the future of HR, effective systems & processes, and artificial intelligence. He recently started his own HR consulting firm, Valinor Talent Solutions. In this episode, Alex talks about the future of the HR profession and shares his thoughts about AI. Host and Producer: Marie-Line Germain, Ph.D. Mixing: Kelly Minnis

Welcome to "Advancement Amplified: AI for IA," a 5-part Pulse Check hosted by Dan Giroux, a higher education marketing and communications leader focused on elevating the strategic impact of Advancement. Advancement is at a pivotal moment. As institutions navigate shifting donor expectations, alumni engagement challenges, financial pressures, and the demand for greater efficiency, AI is emerging as a transformative force.In today's Part 1, Dan Giroux sits down with Matthew Lambert, Senior Vice President for University Advancement at William & Mary, and Dan Frezza, Chief Advancement Officer at the College of Charleston. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of institutional advancement, from donor engagement to marketing and career services. With rapid technological shifts, both institutions are leveraging AI-powered tools, including autonomous virtual engagement officers (VEOs), to enhance outreach and optimize fundraising efforts.Related Links:Inside Higher Ed interview with Wren and Wren's websiteAGB magazine article around AIKey TakeawaysAI is not a replacement, but an enhancement. AI tools in advancement free up professionals to focus on high-value tasks while automating routine processes like contact reports and donor outreach.Virtual Engagement Officers (VEOs) are changing the game. AI-driven fundraisers at William & Mary and the College of Charleston are already fostering one-on-one donor relationships, leading to increased engagement and donations.AI adoption requires a culture of innovation. Institutions that embrace risk-taking and long-term thinking are better positioned to leverage AI effectively.Personalization is key. AI tools can customize communication, ensuring alumni and donors receive relevant, engaging content that strengthens their connection to their alma mater.Transparency builds trust. Clearly identifying AI-powered agents in donor interactions helps maintain credibility and donor confidence.Advancement leaders should experiment and iterate. Small-scale testing of AI tools allows teams to refine their approach while minimizing risks.Episode SummaryHow is AI Being Used in Institutional Advancement?AI is playing an increasingly critical role in institutional advancement, helping teams engage donors, streamline operations, and personalize communications. Both William & Mary and the College of Charleston are leveraging AI-driven solutions like virtual engagement officers (VEOs) to handle donor outreach, allowing human fundraisers to focus on high-value relationships. AI is also being integrated into marketing, career services, and student engagement to drive deeper connections across the university ecosystem.What Are Virtual Engagement Officers (VEOs) and How Do They Work?VEOs are AI-powered autonomous fundraisers that manage donor portfolios, initiate personalized conversations, and guide alumni through the giving process. At William & Mary, the VEO named "Wren" is engaging alumni by sharing curated content, answering inquiries, and even suggesting philanthropic opportunities based on donor interests. Similarly, the College of Charleston's VEO, “Alex,” is successfully fostering engagement by tailoring interactions, including crafting poetry for an alum who tested its capabilities.How Do Institutions Ensure AI Enhances, Rather Than Replaces, Human Connection?A key priority for both institutions is maintaining authenticity and transparency in AI-driven interactions. AI fundraisers introduce themselves as virtual engagement officers, rather than impersonating human staff members. Additionally, AI serves as a bridge to real fundraisers, helping schedule meetings or flagging high-potential donors for personal outreach. By handling lower-priority tasks, AI allows advancement professionals to deepen relationships with major donors and alumni in meaningful ways.What Challenges Exist in AI Adoption for Advancement?Implementing AI in institutional advancement comes with hurdles, including skepticism from staff, concerns over data security, and the need for institutional buy-in. Some advancement professionals worry about AI's impact on job security, while others fear losing the human touch in donor relationships. However, leaders like Lambert and Frezza emphasize that AI is not replacing human fundraisers, but rather empowering them to be more efficient and effective.What's Next for AI in Advancement?Both William & Mary and the College of Charleston plan to expand their use of AI beyond fundraising. Future applications may include using AI for student engagement, career advising, and even enrollment marketing. As AI technology continues to evolve, its role in advancement will likely grow, offering new ways to personalize outreach, improve donor experiences, and drive institutional success.AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it's happening now, and institutions that embrace it strategically will have a competitive edge in advancement and fundraising.Guest Names: Matthew Lambert, Senior Vice President of University Advancement, William & Mary; CEO, William & Mary FoundationDan Frezza, Chief Advancement Officer of Institutional Advancement, College of Charleston; CEO, College of Charleston FoundationGuest Socials: Matthew - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewtlambert/Dan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-frezza-56203262/Guest Bios: Matthew T. Lambert - Matthew Lambert leads University Advancement at William & Mary, overseeing all alumni engagement, private fundraising and philanthropic outreach, university marketing and communications, and career development & professional engagement efforts. Under his leadership, William & Mary successfully completed its record-breaking $1 billion For the Bold campaign, strengthening the university's culture and philanthropy. As CEO of the William & Mary Foundation, he stewards more than $1 billion in endowments, ensuring long-term financial support for the university. A William & Mary alumnus, Matthew holds degrees from The Ohio State University (M.A.) and the University of Pennsylvania (Ed.D.). Before returning to W&M in 2013, he held leadership roles in Advancement at Georgetown University. In addition to his work in philanthropy, he is an active scholar in public policy and higher education, authoring Privatization and the Public Good (Harvard Education Press) and co-editing Advancing Higher Education (Rowman & Littlefield). Follow Matthew Lambert on LinkedIn. Dan Frezza - Dan Frezza serves as the Chief Advancement Officer at the College of Charleston, leading the university's development, alumni relations, stewardship, and advancement services. In this role, he is responsible for fostering a strong culture of engagement and philanthropy across the institution. As CEO of the College of Charleston Foundation, he oversees institutional fund management and works to grow the university's endowment. Before joining the College of Charleston in 2023, Dan spent over a decade at William & Mary, where he played a key leadership role in the university's $1 billion For the Bold campaign alongside Matthew Lambert—driving alumni engagement and participation efforts. Prior to that, he led advancement programs at Appalachian State University and East Carolina University. Dan holds a Master's in Higher Education Administration from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor's in Communication with a minor in Business from Western Carolina University. Follow Dan on LinkedIn.  - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

******Support the channel****** Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedissenter PayPal: paypal.me/thedissenter PayPal Subscription 1 Dollar: https://tinyurl.com/yb3acuuy PayPal Subscription 3 Dollars: https://tinyurl.com/ybn6bg9l PayPal Subscription 5 Dollars: https://tinyurl.com/ycmr9gpz PayPal Subscription 10 Dollars: https://tinyurl.com/y9r3fc9m PayPal Subscription 20 Dollars: https://tinyurl.com/y95uvkao   ******Follow me on****** Website: https://www.thedissenter.net/ The Dissenter Goodreads list: https://shorturl.at/7BMoB Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedissenteryt/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheDissenterYT   This show is sponsored by Enlites, Learning & Development done differently. Check the website here: http://enlites.com/   Dr. Christopher Hoyt is an Associate Professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Western Carolina University. His research interests include Wittgenstein, and the philosophy of film.   In this episode, we talk about Wittgenstein, philosophy of mind, and religion. We start by discussing Wittgenstein's philosophy, how it relates to philosophy of mind, and how he approached religion. We talk about rituals and meaning, language games and belief systems, and religious dogma. Finally, we discuss the cognitive science of religion; evolutionary theory, and religion as an adaptation; naturalizing religion; and whether there would be room for collaboration between the Wittgensteinians and the cognitive scientists of religion. -- A HUGE THANK YOU TO MY PATRONS/SUPPORTERS: PER HELGE LARSEN, JERRY MULLER, BERNARDO SEIXAS, ADAM KESSEL, MATTHEW WHITINGBIRD, ARNAUD WOLFF, TIM HOLLOSY, HENRIK AHLENIUS, FILIP FORS CONNOLLY, ROBERT WINDHAGER, RUI INACIO, ZOOP, MARCO NEVES, COLIN HOLBROOK, PHIL KAVANAGH, SAMUEL ANDREEFF, FRANCIS FORDE, TIAGO NUNES, FERGAL CUSSEN, HAL HERZOG, NUNO MACHADO, JONATHAN LEIBRANT, JOÃO LINHARES, STANTON T, SAMUEL CORREA, ERIK HAINES, MARK SMITH, JOÃO EIRA, TOM HUMMEL, SARDUS FRANCE, DAVID SLOAN WILSON, YACILA DEZA-ARAUJO, ROMAIN ROCH, DIEGO LONDOÑO CORREA, YANICK PUNTER, CHARLOTTE BLEASE, NICOLE BARBARO, ADAM HUNT, PAWEL OSTASZEWSKI, NELLEKE BAK, GUY MADISON, GARY G HELLMANN, SAIMA AFZAL, ADRIAN JAEGGI, PAULO TOLENTINO, JOÃO BARBOSA, JULIAN PRICE, EDWARD HALL, HEDIN BRØNNER, DOUGLAS FRY, FRANCA BORTOLOTTI, GABRIEL PONS CORTÈS, URSULA LITZCKE, SCOTT, ZACHARY FISH, TIM DUFFY, SUNNY SMITH, JON WISMAN, WILLIAM BUCKNER, PAUL-GEORGE ARNAUD, LUKE GLOWACKI, GEORGIOS THEOPHANOUS, CHRIS WILLIAMSON, PETER WOLOSZYN, DAVID WILLIAMS, DIOGO COSTA, ALEX CHAU, AMAURI MARTÍNEZ, CORALIE CHEVALLIER, BANGALORE ATHEISTS, LARRY D. LEE JR., OLD HERRINGBONE, MICHAEL BAILEY, DAN SPERBER, ROBERT GRESSIS, IGOR N, JEFF MCMAHAN, JAKE ZUEHL, BARNABAS RADICS, MARK CAMPBELL, TOMAS DAUBNER, LUKE NISSEN, KIMBERLY JOHNSON, JESSICA NOWICKI, LINDA BRANDIN, GEORGE CHORIATIS, VALENTIN STEINMANN, PER KRAULIS, ALEXANDER HUBBARD, BR, MASOUD ALIMOHAMMADI, JONAS HERTNER, URSULA GOODENOUGH, DAVID PINSOF, SEAN NELSON, MIKE LAVIGNE, JOS KNECHT, LUCY, MANVIR SINGH, PETRA WEIMANN, CAROLA FEEST, STARRY, MAURO JÚNIOR, 航 豊川, TONY BARRETT, BENJAMIN GELBART, NIKOLAI VISHNEVSKY, STEVEN GANGESTAD, AND TED FARRIS! A SPECIAL THANKS TO MY PRODUCERS, YZAR WEHBE, JIM FRANK, ŁUKASZ STAFINIAK, TOM VANEGDOM, BERNARD HUGUENEY, CURTIS DIXON, BENEDIKT MUELLER, THOMAS TRUMBLE, KATHRINE AND PATRICK TOBIN, JONCARLO MONTENEGRO, AL NICK ORTIZ, NICK GOLDEN, AND CHRISTINE GLASS! AND TO MY EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS, MATTHEW LAVENDER, SERGIU CODREANU, BOGDAN KANIVETS, ROSEY, AND GREGORY HASTINGS!

  ACTA's chief of staff and SVP, Armand Alacbay, sits down with Jon Hardister, who once chaired North Carolina's House Education Committee, and now serves as a trustee at Western Carolina University. Hear his insider insights on the key role trustees play in university governance, student success, and protecting free speech on campus.

302: Nonprofit Success Through Donor Relationships (Melissa Le Roy)SUMMARYThis episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates. Check them out for your next career opportunity OR for help finding an interim executive or your next leader. Are you ready to take your nonprofit's fundraising to the next level? This episode dives deep into the art of relationship-driven fundraising and the strategies that sustain long-term nonprofit success. In episode #302 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Melissa Le Roy shares actionable advice for building meaningful donor connections. Learn her "five steps to building a fire" for sustainable fundraising strategies, discover how gratitude and consistent communication can transform donor retention, and explore how AI can streamline segmentation and personalized outreach. Melissa also highlights leadership lessons, emphasizing transparency, integrity, and prioritizing relationship-building to inspire greater engagement. ABOUT MELISSAMelissa Metcalf Le Roy, a graduate in Entrepreneurship, with a minor in business law of Western Carolina University and a graduate in Nonprofit Management of Duke University teaches non-profit management classes throughout North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia for Duke University and Western Carolina University. She is a past board member of the North Carolina Center for Non-Profits. For four years she contributed a regular “Non-Profit Leadership” column for the Tryon Daily Bulletin and currently offers her services as a consultant through her own firm, OnFire Nonprofit Consulting. You can also view her TEDx talk “A Love Affair, the Art of Not Asking” on Nonprofit Fundraising.EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCESReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuireDonor Centered Fundraising by Penelope BurkeHave you gotten Patton's book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon't miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership

In this episode of Full Disclosure, we share an extraordinary story of resilience, leadership, and community effort in the face of disaster. Our hosts, Tyler Traudt and Nina Enholm, are joined by Melissa Moore, CFO of Buncombe County, and Matt Evans, Financial Planning & Analysis Manager, as they recount their experiences navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated Western North Carolina. Melissa and Matt share personal and professional accounts of the storm's impact, from the harrowing challenges of managing emergency operations without communication systems to ensuring that first responders were fed, roads were cleared, and resources were distributed. Melissa reflects on stepping into her role at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) while Matt describes the importance of documenting every expense for FEMA reimbursement and the painstaking process of modeling the financial impacts of the disaster on the county's tax base. This episode shows the remarkable spirit of the Buncombe County community, where residents and local businesses rallied with heavy equipment, supplies, and sheer determination to assist in rescue and recovery efforts.  Episode Images Featured Guests Melissa Moore is the Finance Director for Buncombe County Government, bringing over 15 years of experience in public finance and local government to her role. Since stepping into this position in September 2023, Melissa has focused on advancing financial strategies, managing government bonds, and ensuring sound budgetary processes that align with the County's goals. Prior to her current role, Melissa served as the Director of Finance for the City of Pflugerville, Texas, where she oversaw financial operations for over two years. Her extensive career includes key positions such as Assistant Director of Finance for the City of San Marcos, Texas, and Finance Program Manager at CPS Energy, one of the largest municipally-owned utilities in the nation. Matt Evans, MPA, CLGBO, is the Financial Planning & Analysis Manager at Buncombe County Government, where he oversees debt issuance, financial forecasting, and the implementation of fiscal regulations to ensure the County's financial health. With almost ten years of experience at Buncombe County, Matt has spearheaded initiatives ranging from managing multi-million-dollar grants to leading strategic financial planning and risk mitigation efforts. An expert in public finance, Matt has presented on government reporting at the national Workday Rising conference and is a certified Workday Financials power user. He holds a Master of Public Affairs from Western Carolina University, where he was recognized as Public Management Student of the Year, and is passionate about driving innovation and efficiency in local government finance.

Hospitality is key, especially under hardships and destruction, something Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele, Co-Owners of the Wrong Way River Lodge and Cabins in Asheville, North Carolina are passionate about. They discuss their unique urban campground hotel and the challenges they've faced. The conversation explores the definition of hospitality, the building of their flood-resilient property, and the impact of a recent historic flood on their business and the local community. The duo share their entrepreneurial journey, the human spirit of resilience, and the importance of tourism in revitalizing Asheville post-disaster. The episode is a testament to perseverance, community, and the spirit of hospitality in the face of adversity.Takeaways: Incorporate local culture and unique features of the area into the business, as shown by Joe and Shelton's emphasis on Asheville's outdoor personality and countercultural vibe.Build emotional connections with guests by highlighting the distinct aspects and personal stories associated with the property.Ensure infrastructure is resilient to natural disasters by adhering to local zoning and building laws.Utilize existing local networks and connections with other businesses to offer comprehensive guest experiences, whether extreme activities for the adventurous or more relaxed, outdoor-curious activities.Foster strong community bonds and be a part of local recovery efforts, which can also lead to supportive relationships and collaborations.Make every guest feel special and connected to the place by providing immersive and memorable experiences, such as customized murals that resonate with the property's theme.Promote group activities and communal spaces to enhance guest interactions and create memorable experiences. For example, having shared spaces like campfires and communal dining areas.Quote of the Show: “ It's my backyard and I wanted to share it with everyone and create an experience that aligned with my version of Asheville.” - Shelton Steele“ It's part of our mission to connect people with the outdoor experience, whether they be one of those people that's outdoor active or someone that's curious about it.” - Joe BalckenLinks:Joe's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbalcken/ Shelton's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelton-steele-39521566/ Website: https://www.wrongwaycampground.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wrongwaycampground/ Shout Outs:0:59 - All Forward Outdoors https://www.allforwardoutdoors.com/ 1:24 - Independent Lodging Congress https://ilcongress.com/ 7:33 - Pleb Winery https://www.pleburbanwinery.com/ 13:49 - French Broad River https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_Broad_River 15:37 - Starman https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starman_(film) 16:26 - Amy Michaelson Kelly https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-michaelson-kelly-a547a717/ 37:51 - Hurricane Katrina https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Katrina 39:58 - Meg Gutowski https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-gutowski-09b33972/ 45:43 - Wedge Brewery https://wedgebrewing.com/ 46:00 - Biltmore Estate https://www.biltmore.com/ 49:34 - Western Carolina University https://www.wcu.edu/ 

Dr. William Turner and Dr. Ted Olson talk to Geonoah Davis and Kelly Thompson, two artists whose hip-hop sounds are expanding traditional ideas about music in Appalachia. Borrowing from a generations-old African American heritage of spoken word expression, rap and hip-hop echo a long narrative tradition of African American cultural survival against all odds. These original historical elements are deeply rooted in the fabric of Appalachia, blending into the backdrop of the region's musical character yet revived and brought forward again by these fresh creative talents with their contemporary styles.Geonoah Davis, known by the artistic name geonovah, was born and raised in Big Stone Gap, VA, in the heart of Appalachia's coal and iron industry. He wasn't the first rapper in his family, and early collaborations with his cousin RKMITCH allowed him to develop his powers of poetry into an artistry for hip-hop lyric and verse. Kelly Thompson, a.k.a Pookie, also hails from Big Stone Gap but spent his early childhood in North Carolina. Friends since middle school, he and Geonoah have made music together for many years—Kelly creating beats and Geonoah writing lyrics. Kelly evolved his talents to include music production, learning from local producers in his area.Dr. William Turner is a long-time African American studies scholar and retired Distinguished Professor of Appalachian Studies and Regional Ambassador from Berea College. He was also a research assistant to Roots author Alex Haley and co-editor of the groundbreaking Blacks in Appalachia. In 2021, Turner received Western Carolina University's individual Mountain Heritage Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Southern Appalachian studies. His memoir called The Harlan Renaissance, available from West Virginia University Press, was awarded the prestigious Weatherford Award at the 2022 Appalachian Studies Association Conference.Dr. Ted Olson is a music historian and professor of Appalachian Studies at East Tennessee State University. He is the author of many books, articles, reviews, encyclopedia entries, and oral histories. Olson has produced and compiled a number of documentary albums of traditional Appalachian music including On Top of Old Smoky and Big Bend Killing, both from Smokies Life. His work has received a number of awards, including nine Grammy nominations. The East Tennessee Historical Society honored Olson with its Ramsey Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2021.Music featured includes:1.    “John Henry” performed by Amythyst Kiah and Roy Andrade from GSMA's (now Smokies Life's) album Big Bend Killing2.    “Takin' Me Over” performed by geonovah for the album No Options: Hip-Hop in Appalachia, used courtesy of June Appal Recordings3.    “S&S” performed by geonovah for the album No Options: Hip-Hop in Appalachia, used courtesy of June Appal Recordings4.    “Black Lives Never Mattered” by RKMITCH featuring geonovah, vocals mixed by Pookie 

This week's Practical Horseman Podcast, sponsored by Purina, is with this week's episode is with hunter/jumper trainer Julia Collins. She spoke with us in mid-November about two months after her facility in Asheville, North Carolina, was affected by Hurricane Helene.To give you a little more background on Julia, she coached her students at A and C circuit shows for several years. Eight years ago, she shifted her focus to predominantly collegiate equestrian shows. Julia coaches Western Carolina University's Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) team, growing the program from six to 25 riders. She also heads up the University of North Carolina Asheville IHSA team. At the 2024 IHSA National Championship, Julia served as the volunteer coordinator and received the Hunter Seat Coach Award. She has owned Over the River Farm in Asheville, North Carolina, for over 20 years. She teaches lessons and aspires to give her students great experiences in and out of the show ring.In our discussion, Julia talks about how her farm was affected by Hurricane Helene. She shares how the horse community came together to aid those in need as well as disaster-preparedness tips.About This Episode's Sponsor, PurinaConfidently address your horse's unique weight needs and help optimize their overall wellbeing with research-proven Purina Animal Nutrition feeds—designed by passionate equine nutritionists. Partner with Purina to nourish your horse to their optimal body condition. Explore weight management resources for your horse today at purinamills.com/feed-finder.You can also follow @purinafeedgreatness on Instagram and @PurinaHorse on Facebook.

This week's Practical Horseman Podcast, sponsored by Purina, is with this week's episode is with hunter/jumper trainer Julia Collins. She spoke with us in mid-November about two months after her facility in Asheville, North Carolina, was affected by Hurricane Helene.To give you a little more background on Julia, she coached her students at A and C circuit shows for several years. Eight years ago, she shifted her focus to predominantly collegiate equestrian shows. Julia coaches Western Carolina University's Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) team, growing the program from six to 25 riders. She also heads up the University of North Carolina Asheville IHSA team. At the 2024 IHSA National Championship, Julia served as the volunteer coordinator and received the Hunter Seat Coach Award. She has owned Over the River Farm in Asheville, North Carolina, for over 20 years. She teaches lessons and aspires to give her students great experiences in and out of the show ring.In our discussion, Julia talks about how her farm was affected by Hurricane Helene. She shares how the horse community came together to aid those in need as well as disaster-preparedness tips.About This Episode's Sponsor, PurinaConfidently address your horse's unique weight needs and help optimize their overall wellbeing with research-proven Purina Animal Nutrition feeds—designed by passionate equine nutritionists. Partner with Purina to nourish your horse to their optimal body condition. Explore weight management resources for your horse today at purinamills.com/feed-finder.You can also follow @purinafeedgreatness on Instagram and @PurinaHorse on Facebook.

"Women are underrepresented at every level of North Carolina politics": that's the eye-catching title of a chapter in a new book called "Anatomy of a Purple State: A North Carolina Politics Primer." The book's author, Chris Cooper, professor of political science and public affairs at Western Carolina University, has compiled statistics around the issue. Only 30% of next year's state legislators are female. Cooper joins WUNC's Colin Campbell to talk about the numbers along with Rep. Lindsey Prather of Buncombe County, who shares her experience in the legislature.Sign up for our free, weekly WUNC Politics Newsletter here.

THE MEDICAL RECORD PANEL: ONTARIO LAUNCHING A NURSING PROGRAM & CANCER PATIENTS IN THE ER  Libby Znaimer is joined by Dr. Fahad Razak,  General Internist at Unity Health Toronto and Canada Research Chair in Healthcare Data and Analytics at the University of Toronto, Dr. Alisa Naiman, a family doctor practicing comprehensive primary care in Toronto, and Dr. Malcolm Moore, Medical Oncologist of Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. This week: there's an interesting study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal on people going to emergency rooms just before being diagnosed with cancer, or being diagnosed with cancer while there. On the positive side, the first new nursing program in 20 years was announced. It comes after the Ford government announced restrictions on medical school admission designed to boost the number of doctors here in Ontario. DONALD TRUMP HAS WON THE U.S. ELECTION Libby Znaimer is joined by Whitley Yates, a Republican strategist and founder and owner of The Niche Agency, as well as Dr. Chris Cooper, a Political Science Professor at Western Carolina University. After months of coverage and dramatic twists and turns in the U.S. Presidential contest, Donald Trump secured a decisive victory. We discuss that and analyze some of the promises he's made during the campaign. WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE UPDATED COVID-19 VACCINES AVAILABLE NOW Libby is joined by Pharmacist Molly Yang, Director of Pharmacy Innovation; Professional Affairs at Whole Health Pharmacy. Have you had the latest COVID-19 booster? What about the flu shot? The latest guidance is to take them together, but there are also other vaccines Zoomers should be getting to prevent difficult and possibly debilitating bouts of illness.

Join host Martin in this episode of Papa Bear Hikes as he chats with Ben “Paddox” Cox, a lifelong outdoor enthusiast whose passion was sparked by family ties. Growing up in Dorchester County, Maryland, and continuing his journey at Western Carolina University, Ben developed a deep love for the outdoors.He shares his recent experience in the Norwegian backcountry, reveling in the freedom of Allemannsretten, which allows camping and hiking almost anywhere. Ben recounts finding a peaceful campsite and enjoying authentic Norwegian cuisine at Fagerheim Fjellstugu Hostel. Martin and Ben also discuss their favorite outdoor gear, offering practical tips for adventurers ready to hit the trails.Be sure to follow Ben on Instagram for more outdoor adventures and insights! Check out his journey at @bencox357. Join him as he explores the great outdoors and shares his passion for nature! Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media ServicesSupport the showGet outside, have fun and be safe!Martin Armitage, Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcasthttps://www.papabearhikes.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

In this episode, Western Carolina University political science professor Chris Cooper joins Jeremy Markovich to talk about the things that drive the political scene in our state, why candidates do the things they do, and how the Roy Cooper of the past made things tougher for the Roy Cooper of the present. Read more at ncrabbithole.com. Check out Chris's new book, "Anatomy of a Purple State" Read Jeremy's Politico story referenced in this episode: "I Ran the Worst 5K of My Life So I Could Explain Gerrymandering To You."

Just days before election day, host Tim Boyum talks with two experts about the early voting numbers we are seeing and what it might mean in terms of momentum for one candidate or the other.  Republicans are seeing higher numbers, but are they new voters or just voters that previously voted on election day? Dr. Michael Bitzer, from Catawba College, and Dr. Chris Cooper, from Western Carolina University, have been analyzing the data. They break it all down in these crucial last days of candidates' campaigns.

Because of the Family First Prevention Services Act passed in 2017, residential care facilities, or “group homes,” for foster youth have lost significant funding—leading to the closure of many residential treatment options. Many advocates of the policy believe that placement with families are always the best option for kids. But what about the numerous foster youth who report immense benefits from their time in residential care? This week, Naomi and Ian are joined by Bruce Henderson, a former professor of psychology at Western Carolina University for over 40 years. Drawing on his background in child psychology, Bruce conducted a comprehensive review of the research on residential care facilities to understand how time spent in these homes affects foster youth. This research led to the publishing of his recent book, Challenging the Conventional Wisdom about Residential Care for Children and Youth. In this episode, Bruce explains the findings of his research and why he believes residential care must continue to be supported as an option for foster youth. Lastly, he shares a way to support The Black Mountain Home for Children and Families, a very impactful residential care home for foster youth in Black Mountain, North Carolina, that has suffered significant damage from Hurricane Helene. We encourage our listeners to give as they are able. Resources• Challenging the Conventional Wisdom about Residential Care for Children and Youth | Bruce B. Henderson• A Critical Dialogue on Residential Care for Children and Youth: What We Really Know and Questions of Quality | Bruce B. Henderson and James P. Anglin• Why Foster Children Are Sleeping in Offices and What We Can Do About It | Naomi Schaefer Riley et al. Show Notes• 00:54 | What motivated your interest in this research topic?• 02:32 | What is the Family First Prevention Services Act?• 05:44 | Why does residential care carry so much stigma today?• 07:09 | What were your findings when you looked at residential care facilities in other countries?• 09:06 | Is there a version of Family First that you would have supported?• 10:51 | What are the circumstances that make it possible for residential care to have a positive impact on a child's life?• 13:17 | Do attitudes around race play a role in the policy conversation around residential care?• 13:51 | How do you make appropriate comparisons when you look at this research and what studies have you found helpful when evaluating the effects of residential care on foster youth?• 17:14 | Does research show if the type of organization plays a role in the success of the residential home (i.e., faith-based, etc.)?• 18:21 | Do you envision a situation where we start to rethink whether we can really do without residential care? Can we go back?• 21:06 | Where does the financing come from for these facilities and programs?• 24:10 | How to Help The Black Mountain Home for Children and Families

While we're all focussed on the horse race, the question people are focussing on less is what will the aftermath to November's vote be like? We discuss how the fallout will look, and just how ugly it might get. Plus, Chris Cooper, political science professor at Western Carolina University and author of Anatomy of a purple state: A North Carolina politics primer, joins to talk about why North Carolina is key during this election.  Buy Anatomy of a purple state: A North Carolina politics primer through our affiliate bookshop and you'll help fund American Friction by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org's fees help support independent bookshops too. Back us on Patreon – we need your help to keep going. Get ad free episodes, extra bits and merch: patreon.com/americanfriction  We're now on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanFrictionPod  Follow us on social media:  Twitter Instagram  TikTok Written and presented by Chris Jones, Jacob Jarvis and Nikki McCann Ramírez. Audio editor: Simon Williams. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Executive producer: Martin Bojtos. Artwork by James Parrett. Music: Orange Factory Music. AMERICAN FRICTION is a Podmasters Production. www.podmasters.co.uk  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jim talks with Marcia Gralha about her and Gregg Henriques's work identifying the common core of psychotherapeutic traditions. They discuss her collaboration with & recent engagement to Gregg, framing psychotherapy, the enlightenment gap, the development of eclecticism, common factors between approaches, the integration movement, approaches to integration, the 3(+1) elements of the Common Core, the quality of the therapeutic bond, cultural legitimization, choosing interventions, rituals, the Unified Theory of Knowledge (UTOK), disentangling confusions in terms, the persona filter, person-centered therapy, the neurotic loop, character adaptation systems, cognitive therapy & cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), wokeism in academia, a sexual harassment complaint, woke 1.0 vs 2.0, the ability to deal with strong stuff, and much more. Episode Transcript Inside UTOK (Substack) JRS EP59 - Gregg Henriques on Unifying Psychology JRS EP176 - Gregg Henriques Part 1: Addressing the Enlightenment Gap "The Common Core of Psychotherapy," by Gregg Henriques and Marcia Gralha "What Is It Like to Be a Bat?" by Thomas Nagel Marcia Gralha is an independent scholar of the Unified Theory of Knowledge (UTOK) and serves as a content and community curator for the theory. She holds an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Western Carolina University, North Carolina, and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, FL. Marcia has contributed to the development of various UTOK initiatives, including the Annual Conference "Consilience," publications, lectures, workshops, and coaching services. She is also the co-founder of the Nexus project, an initiative dedicated to fostering unification and integrative approaches to psychology in Brazil.

It's election season, which means we're facing a great opportunity to shape the futures of our communities. To help us explore just how this election can impact our local public schools we're joined today by Dr. Chris Cooper from Western Carolina University, Jennifer Rubin from the League of Women Voters of North Carolina and some outstanding educators who can share firsthand how policymaking decisions impact schools. Guests: Dr. Chris Cooper, Western Carolina University Political Science Professor Jennifer Rubin, League of Women Voters of North Carolina President Laura Wilson, 2023 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC Southeast Region Teacher of the Year Dr. Marlow Artis, Craven Early College High School Bettina Umstead, Durham Public Schools Board of Education

Professor Chris Cooper's 'Anatomy of a Purple State' hit bookstores this week and the Western Carolina University political scientist stops by the podcast to discuss it with Skye and Brian.   While in Raleigh, Dr. Cooper also talks about Hurricane Helene's impact on his part of the state and the effect he thinks the aftermath of the storm will have on the November 5th election.  And speaking of unprecedented storms, Cooper also talks about Mark Robinson's possible effect on down ballot races.   Plus, the General Assembly returns to Raleigh to begin addressing the Helene recovery process, three new House members seated, swing state POTUS polling, an #ncpol reporter moves up and out, former Rep. Phil Haire dies, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

On this encore episode of The Nurse Keith Show nursing and healthcare career podcast, Keith interviews Kimberly Gordon, DNP, CRNA, an accountant turned nurse who is the co-founder of Healing Politics, a non-profit organization on a mission to inspire, motivate, recruit, and train nurses and midwives to run for elected office while building a culture of civic engagement within the professions. Ms. Gordon earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration from John Carroll University in Ohio. After working seven years in various cost accounting and managerial positions, she chose to pursue a career in nursing and then nurse anesthesia. Kimberly graduated with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in nursing from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She completed her Doctor of Nursing practice at Yale University where she and a colleague developed the first-of-its-kind Campaign School for Nurses and Midwives. As mentioned above, Kimberly is the co-founder of Healing Politics, a non-profit organization on a mission to inspire, motivate, recruit, and train nurses and midwives to run for elected office while building a culture of civic engagement within the professions. She is an adjunct faculty member teaching health policy and leadership at the Wake Forest School of Medicine and Western Carolina University. She practices anesthesia per diem for Novant Health in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Kimberly has always been involved in the nursing profession. First, in the NC Nurses Association, then the NC Association of Nurse Anesthetists, and most recently as a board member of Healthcare Providers for Greater Access and the Government Relations Chair for the NC Organization of Nurse Leaders. She loves talking about nursing leadership, professionalism, and political involvement with anyone who will listen. Kimberly wishes that every nurse understood the powerful impact that they have on their communities, colleagues, and the healthcare system. She believes that nurses working together could, quite literally, change the world. Contact Nurse Keith about holistic career coaching to elevate your nursing and healthcare career at NurseKeith.com. Keith also offers services as a motivational and keynote speaker and freelance nurse writer. You can always find Keith on LinkedIn. Are you looking for a novel way to empower your career and move forward in life? Keith's wife, Shada McKenzie, is a gifted astrologer and reader of the tarot who combines ancient and modern techniques to provide valuable insights into your motivations, aspirations, and life trajectory, and she offers listeners of The Nurse Keith Show a 10% discount on their first consultation. Contact Shada at TheCircelandtheDot.com or shada@thecircleandthedot.com. The Nurse Keith Show is a proud member of The Health Podcast Network, one of the largest and fastest-growing collections of authoritative, high-quality podcasts taking on the tough topics in health and care with empathy, expertise, and a commitment to excellence. The podcast is adroitly produced by Rob Johnston of 520R Podcasting.

Tillich Today has returned after a long hiatus! Our first episode features Dr. James McLachlan, a professor at Western Carolina University who specializes in theology and philosophy of religion. We talk about French existentialism, literature, and how well Robert Pattison puts on an Appalachian accent.

The designation of North Carolina as a purple state is a common observation in the context of elections. But many might be asking, “what implications does that have and how might it affect the upcoming election?”  Dr. Chris Cooper from Western Carolina University joins host Tim Boyum to talk about his new book, “Anatomy of a Purple State” to peel back the layers of North Carolina's unique and ever changing politics.

THE MEDICAL RECORD: WHAT COMES AFTER CANCER TREATMENT? Libby Znaimer is joined by Dr. Fahad Razak, a Canada Research Chair in Healthcare Data and Analytics at the University of Toronto and General Internist at Unity Health Toronto, Dr. Alisa Naiman, a family doctor practicing comprehensive primary care in Toronto, and Dr. Keith Stewart, Vice President, Cancer and Director of Princess Margaret Cancer Program at the UHN. Today: a discussion about what comes next for cancer patients who complete treatment, a new guideline in the U.S. pertaining to mammogram results and, closer to home, Ontario Health is changing its guidelines on how iron deficiency is measured. THE PAINFUL REALITY OF ONLINE TRANSACTIONS Libby Znaimer is joined by Carmi Levy, Technology Analyst and Journalist based in London, Ontario. Why is making a transaction online such a hassle whether we purchase tickets for a concert or sports match or purchase something from a retailer? There's always a tedious process to follow including registration and providing personal details and even credit card info. Why are companies doing this, and what can we do as consumers to make the process less of an inconvenience?   REACTION TO THE TRUMP-HARRIS DEBATE Libby Znaimer is now joined by Brad Polumbo, a Conservative commentator and editor-in-chief  & Co-Founder of BASEDPolitics, Dr. Chris Cooper, Political Science Professor at Western Carolina University, and Lee Strickland, Toronto Chair of Democrats Abroad. Americans and the world got to watch the first ever debate between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris and it ventured into the absurd at times. Our panel of Americans weighs in on what was said and whether VP Harris or former President Trump won the debate.

Show Title: O Captain, My Captain with Michael Miller Power Quote: “Let there be joy!”  Description:Today's show is like a voyage. We'll begin in one port, set a course, examine the voyage, and anchor at our destination. This episode is expansive and there are lots of wonderful insights into leadership. We use the metaphor of being a ship captain, so without further introductions, let's set sail! Guest Bio:Mike (or Michael) Miller has been an educator since 1996 and has held positions in schools from classroom assistant to PE teacher, and from bus driver to principal. He taught second grade and fifth grade students in the classroom as well as elementary PE. He's been an assistant principal in an elementary and intermediate school, and principal in a PK-8th grade school. He's a graduate of UNC and Western Carolina University and is a Tarheel through and through. He is married to his wonderful wife, Kathy and between them they have four children and seven grandchildren. He is now working as an assistant superintendent and cannot wait to support schools from this level.  Warmup questions:·      We always like to start with a celebration. What are you celebrating today?·      Is there a story that will help listeners understand why you are doing what you do?  Questions/Topics/Prompts·      In a previous conversation, you used the analogy of the harbor captain. I've structured our discussion around the idea of the principal as a boat captain, but before we dig in, can you explain the analogy and why it resonates with you?·      One paradigm we can use for thinking about leading a school is as a sea voyage. o   Leaving port and taking stock of your ship – checking what's “ship-shape” and where the problems might be.o   Sailing into stormy weather (or perhaps transitioning form first mate to captain in the midst of a storm). What does leadership need to focus on in rough times, and how do you do that?o   After the storm, transitioning to high speed and making progress.o   The next transition – knowing when it is time to head to port and turn the ship over to a new captain. Closing questions:·      What part of your own leadership are you still trying to get better at?·      If listeners could take just one thing away from today's podcast, what would it be?·      Before we go, is there anything else that you'd like to share with our listeners?·      Where can people learn more about you and your work…   Sponsorship:I want to thank IXL for sponsoring this podcast… Everyone talks about the power of data-driven instruction. But what does that actually look like? Look no further than IXL, the ultimate online learning and teaching platform for K to 12. IXL gives you meaningful insights that drive real progress, and research can prove it. Studies across 45 states show that schools who use IXL outperform other schools on state tests. Educators who use IXL love that they can easily see how their school is performing in real-time to make better instructional decisions.  And IXL doesn't stop at just data. IXL also brings an entire ecosystem of resources for your teachers, with a complete curriculum, personalized learning plans, and so much more. It's no wonder that IXL is used in 95 of the top 100 school districts. Ready to join them? Visit http://ixl.com/assistant to get started.   Close·      Leadership is a journey and thank you for choosing to walk some of this magical path with me.·      You can find links to all sorts of stuff in the show notes, including my website https://www.frederickbuskey.com/·      I love hearing from you so consider email me at frederick@frederickbuskey.com or connecting with me on LinkedIn.·      My new book, A School Leader's Guide to Reclaiming Purpose, is now available on Amazon. You can find links to it, as well as free book study materials on my website at https://www.frederickbuskey.com/reclaiming-purpose.html·      Please remember to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast.·      Have a great rest of the week, be present for others and, more importantly, take time to reflect and recover so you can continue to live and lead better.·      Cheers!  Guest links:Mike Miller's email: mdmiller@rcdoc.org  Frederick's Links:Email: frederick@frederickbuskey.comWebsite: https://www.frederickbuskey.com/LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/strategicleadershipconsultingDaily Email subscribe: https://adept-experimenter-3588.ck.page/fdf37cbf3aThe Strategic Leader's Guide to Reclaiming Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CWRS2F6N?ref_=pe_93986420_774957520

For the week of Sept. 2, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer's Capitol bureau chief, is joined by Western Carolina University political science professor Chris Cooper. They talk about the North Carolina's governor race and the latest news about where the campaign stands for Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson and Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein. Host: Dawn Vaughan Guest: Chris Cooper Executive Producer: Kevin Keister Want even more North Carolina politics news? Our Under the Dome newsletter dives deep into all things #ncpol and legislative happenings. It's sent to your inbox Tuesday to Friday and Sunday. Sign up here. Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you're already a subscriber, thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EPISODE 411 - Lorraine Norwood - My Characters Speak To Me - Letting The Story LeadHi there! Thanks for stopping by. I'm glad you're here. I'm glad you take an interest in writers and writing. And I'm glad you love books.I'm a native of Western North Carolina, home to the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in English with honors in creative writing and then pursued a career as a professional journalist for over 20 years, working in print and television journalism.My lifelong interest in archaeology and all things medieval led me to a mid-life career change. I earned a second degree in anthropology at Western Carolina University followed by a Master's Degree in Medieval Archaeology from the University of York in the UK.  I was 50 years old when I graduated. I know! I know! It sounds crazy, but it was one of those things I just had to do. I try to go back to the UK to participate in excavations as often as I can. I love to stay in York, my favorite city, and volunteer with the York Archaeological Trust. You can find them here. Two of my favorite places to stay in York are the Adams House and the Bar Convent.My novels are set in 14th century England, France, and Germany. It's fascinating, it's hard, and it's fun.I love getting stuck down rabbit holes finding facts that will add to my story and authenticate my characters and location.When I'm writing, I'm usually accompanied by my yellow Lab Sally. Sally is like a toddler – she follows me wherever I go. Most of the time she's looking for a handout.I'm happiest when I'm writing and the magic moment occurs – the words sing and the hairs go up on the back of my neck. It's been a long road, but I'm pleased that at long last after two marriages, two children, nineteen jobs, three college degrees, and twenty-seven moves (one of which was abroad), I have a room of my own in which to write. Virginia Woolf would be proud.https://www.lorrainenorwood.com/Support the Show.___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/

THE ZOOMER SQUAD: THE GTA GRAPPLES WITH MORE SEVERE RAINFALL, FLOODING Libby Znaimer is joined by Rudy Buttignol, President of CARP, John Wright, Executive Vice President of  Maru Public Opinion and Anthony Quinn, Chief Community Officer of CARP. This past weekend, the GTA grappled with more heavy rainfall and flooding after the major rainstorm. And, today marks the 82nd anniversary of the Dieppe Raid during World War II.  TORONTONIANS IN THEIR 20s ARE STRUGGLING MORE WITH THEIR MENTAL HEALTH AND FINANCES COMPARED TO OLDER DEMOS: TORONTO FOUNDATION Libby Znaimer is now joined by Mohamed Huque, Director of Community Impact for Toronto Foundation.  What a new study from Toronto Foundation tells us about how Torontonians in their 20s are doing when it comes to mental health and their finances and how that compares to the older demographics.  DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION BEGINS TODAY Libby Znaimer is now joined by Dr. Chris Cooper, Political Science Professor at Western Carolina University, and Matt Wylie, a Republican political strategist and founder of Wylie Strategy Group. The Democratic National Convention begins today in Chicago. What can we expect from it? 

Assistant Principal Podcast Content Episode Outline  Show Description:In 2007 I lead a group of six professors at Western Carolina University in a total redesign of our masters of school administration principal licensure program. I was the coordinator of a program that had jest become fully online, our admissions were skyrocketing and our students were becoming much more diverse. The old program just didn't work, so we collectively decided to trash it and begin anew. It was a long process, building a program from the ground up – exhilarating, motivating, but also, at times, grueling. Once we had agreed to scrap the old program, our first step was to go offsite for a day and a half and develop a vision and core goals. What we came up with was this: Live your leadership journey courageously. I share all this as an introduction to an episode focused on vision, and when it comes to vision, I think many of use get it wrong.   Celebrations:Ranford Almond is my future son-in-law. He's a talented musician and has a remarkable gift to write songs that tap into our inner most being. Ranford had a big show at Floyd Fest this weekend and then traveled four hours to share a couple days with Pam and I, and his fiancé – my daughter Mara. I'm celebrating family, and the addition of a special person. I should mention that Ranford wrote and played the music for our show, and today I'll close the show with a full version of Old Soul. I encourage you to listen. The Big Idea I'm building this episode off a series of daily emails I wrote back in October and November 2021. I'll likely resurrect them as part of this show and send them out to my readers in a week or so, so if you are into daily leadership emails and don't already subscribe, head to https://www.frederickbuskey.com/ and hit a sign-up link.  Summarizing (The big takeaway)  You see things; and you say “Why?” But I dream things that never were; and I say “Why not?”-George Bernard Shaw, 1949 I have a love/hate relationship with vision. I used to be in love with the idea of creating a great vision. Then one day, a “leader” came into the organization I worked in and imposed his vision on all of the people and programs that had been there before him. Three years later, the “leader” was gone, but most (not all) of the people were still there. Those people were left to pick up the pieces of a painful and contentious series of changes. Vision is a double-edged sword. “Where there is no vision, the people perish…”-Proverbs 29:18, King James Bible Vision can be a powerful tool for good. Here is the challenge as I see it… The vision must be a shared vision. Leaders are servants first, and part of their job is to articulate the goals, dreams, and aspirations of the people within the organization. Where things are unclear, limited, or confused, leaders work to educate, clarify, and build consensus. Every organization should have a vision, but the genesis of that vision should lay at the intersection of the purpose of the organization and the people within it. So how do you sell a vision? You don't! People shouldn't have to buy someone else's vision. Instead, they should be investing in the collective vision – in the creation and implementation. Instead of selling, what if we focused on serving? Bring people together and help them clarify their values, aspirations, and beliefs.  Then help them identify the common pieces and articulate a vision – the impact that they want to have on the world. This is a shared vision. It is what we agreed to. There is no selling. And because we agreed to it, we hold each other accountable for pursuing it.  Yes, it takes more time to create a shared vision. It also takes more skill. However, in the end, a shared vision is so much more powerful.  The final kicker is that even after you leave, the people will still share the vision. How cool is that?    Creating a shared vision is not always simple. A vision really begins with dreams, and a group of people need four conditions to be able to dream:1.     Safety. This is best achieved by creating a community in which people can:a.     take risksb.     share divergent thinkingc.     trust each other2.     Space.a.     A physical space to gather togetherb.     Mental space to think and reflectc.     Emotional space to be authentic3.     Permission to dream without the limitations of current realities4.     Perspectives. Shared knowledge, experiences, and values need to be identified. Alternative experiences and views need to be embraced and included. Meeting these conditions lays the ground for developing a shared vision that works for the organization and its people.  Leaders don't create visions. They help people to clarify and articulate a shared vision. Sponsorship:I want to thank IXL for sponsoring this podcast… Everyone talks about the power of data-driven instruction. But what does that actually look like? Look no further than IXL, the ultimate online learning and teaching platform for K to 12. IXL gives you meaningful insights that drive real progress, and research can prove it. Studies across 45 states show that schools who use IXL outperform other schools on state tests. Educators who use IXL love that they can easily see how their school is performing in real-time to make better instructional decisions.  And IXL doesn't stop at just data. IXL also brings an entire ecosystem of resources for your teachers, with a complete curriculum, personalized learning plans, and so much more. It's no wonder that IXL is used in 95 of the top 100 school districts. Ready to join them? Visit http://ixl.com/assistant to get started.  Let's walk through an example of what a collective vision-defining workshop might look like. I am the board chair of a local non-profit focusing on meeting the most urgent needs of our most vulnerable and highly stressed youth. We've experienced a lot of growth coming out od the pandemic and the future looks unpredictable. We've stepped in to fill lots of gaps in supporting kids, which has brought in new people, new priorities, new opportunities, and new directions.  We decided we needed to g...

With all the news swirling this week about the presidential campaign and the possibility of Gov. Roy Cooper as a vice presidential candidate, we're bringing you a segment from WUNC's Due South. Host Jeff Tiberii spoke with Western Carolina University political scientist Chris Cooper and WUNC Capitol Bureau Chief Colin Campbell about where things stand and what Cooper would bring to the race.Sign up for our free, weekly WUNC Politics Newsletter here.

ORIGINAL AIR DATE June 12 2023 on our Patreon page release now for FREE in memory of Pete. Here's one for those of you out there hungering for more Southern stuff. Our buddy Dr. Peter Carmichael came to the studio to talk about Confederate reactions to the Battle of Gettysburg.  Peter S. Carmichael received his Ph.D. in History from Penn State University in 1996. His academic interests include 19th-century US history, Civil War and Reconstruction, southern history, public history and cultural history. Carmichael's most recent book, The War for the Common Soldier, was published by University of North Carolina Press in November 2018 as part of the Littlefield History of the Civil War Era series. The culmination of nearly ten years' work, this cultural history of soldiering in Civil War armies explores how soldiers endured the brutal and unpredictable existence of army life during the war years, drawing heavily on close examination of the letters and records left behind by individual soldiers from both the North and the South.His previous books include The Last Generation: Young Virginians in Peace, War, and Reunion (UNC, 2005) and Lee's Young Artillerist: William R. J. Pegram (Virginia, 1995). In addition to his books, he has also published a number of articles for both scholarly and popular journals, and he speaks frequently to general and scholarly audiences. Carmichael has recently appeared on the PBS Robert E. Lee documentary for the American Experience series and on the popular TV show “Who Do You Think You Are.” View Professor Carmichael's talks on C-SPAN.After completing his doctorate at Penn State University under Dr. Gary W. Gallagher, Professor Carmichael went on to teach at Western Carolina University, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and West Virginia University, before coming to Gettysburg College.In addition to holding seasonal interpretive positions at several National Park Service sites, Carmichael served as Gettysburg National Military Park's first Scholar-in-Residence in 1999, and has developed a lasting relationship with the NPS. In addition to overseeing multiple interpretive workshops for National Park Service staff, he directed a 2010 seminar at Gettysburg NMP to discuss new interpretive approaches to the Civil War sesquicentennial and co-directed (with Jill Ogline Titus) the joint GC/GNMP conference, The Future of Civil War History: Looking Beyond the 150th in 2013.  

 **Join Us for a Special Teatime with Miss Liz!**  **New Date**: July 22nd  **Time**: 7pm ESTPrepare for an inspiring evening as we bring the magic of Bible stories to life!  We are thrilled to welcome the former reading specialist Janice Burnette, who will share her incredible journey and passion for teaching children.Whether you're a parent, teacher, or someone who loves a good story, don't miss our live open discussion! Bring your support, comments, and questions—together, we can make a difference! **Subscribe to Miss Liz's YouTube Channel Now**: https://lnkd.in/eyUnWa5q**Meet Our Guest - Janice Burnette**:Janice's story is one of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to education and community. From a young girl reading by age five to a seasoned reading specialist, Janice has continually sprinkled her love for reading and teaching wherever she went. Through her unique journey, from the mountains of North Carolina to the halls of Western Carolina University, Janice has inspired countless children and adults alike. Her experiences, from being a band member to a church organist and even a radio station co-owner, are as rich and diverse as the many stories she loves to tell.Join us and Janice Burnette for a heartwarming discussion that promises to entertain and inspire children to read and explore the wonders of the Bible.Let's come together for a night of inspiration and community! **Hashtags**:#misslizstea #makingadifference #biblestories #reading #readingspecialist #inspiringstories #inspiringkids #joinus #livestreaming #podcastshow #OpenDiscussion #meetmyguestWe can't wait to see you there! 

Luke Manget is an author, historian, and assistant professor of history at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina. After a reading from an 1870's newspaper about a strange race of beings known as “saugers,” we dive straight into the significance of ginseng on the American frontier [1780's], specifically in southern Appalachia: Va, WV, NC. We get into such topics as: the commons vs private property; old world mandrake folklore; & deterring poachers with traps. Luke then describes the ginseng digger stereotype as perpetuated & mythologized by newspapers of the late 19th-century, opening a discussion about class in Appalachian society. For the last third of the episode we hear about the other roots and herbs that were dug for profit besides ginseng; the counter-medical-establishment herbalism movement of the 1800's; and lastly, newspaper accounts of The Wild Man of the Woods.Reading from Ginseng Diggers: A History of Root and Herb Gathering in Appalachia by Luke Manget. Check out Luke's site The Southern Highland where you can purchase his book, Ginseng Diggers. Music:"Ginseng Sullivan"Written by Norman BlakePerformed by Andy & Graham FerrellCourtesy of Old Home Place Recordings"Ginseng Blues"Written by the Kentucky RamblersPerformed by The Bird Family Band"Weary Blues"Traditional SongPerformed by Andy & Graham FerrellCourtesy of Old Home Place RecordingsSupport Our Numinous Nature on Patreon.Follow Our Numinous Nature & my naturalist illustrations on InstagramCheck out my shop of shirts, prints, and books featuring my artContact: herbaceoushuman@gmail.com

Jessica Humphrey is the President of the Musical Theater Educators' Alliance and an Assistant Professor at Texas Christian University. In this episode we discuss the Musical Theater Common Prescreen Criteria developed in partnership with MTEA, Accptd, and several Musical Theater programs across the country. We also discuss the upcoming MTEA conference in London at the Guilford School of Acting from July 23rd to July 25th, 2024. Her recommendations include: Something Wonderful: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Broadway Revolution by Todd S. Purdum and getting an “old-fashioned” planner!  Jessica is a native of Dallas, Texas and attended Western Carolina University where she received a Bachelors of Music in Musical Theatre. This is where she first started working as a dance captain for Tony nominee Charlotte d'Amboise and assistant to Tony Award nominee Terrence Mann both on productions and at their summer intensive, Triple Arts. She has continued to assist the husband and wife team until she moved to TCU. Both Terrence and Charlotte directed Jessica in shows such as A Chorus Line (where she eventually took over the role of Cassie when Tony nominated actress Ariana DeBose suffered an injury), Sweeney Todd (Johanna) and Pirates of Penzance (Edith). Jessica went on to work as a dance captain for original Rent dance captain, Owen Johnston and spent two summers as the dance captain for Wild Adventures Theme Park. After graduating in 2011, she moved to New York City where she performed in several regional shows including the regional debut of The Boy from Oz, Cats (Rumpleteazer) and Into the Woods (Little Red). Some other favorite productions have included Dames at Sea (Joan), West Side Story (Anybodys) and Brigadoon (Bonnie Jean).  Eventually she decided it was time to further her education and completed her Masters in Musical Theatre at San Diego State University where she received support from the Roscoe-Tiffany MFA Musical Theatre Scholarship and the Marion Ross Scholarship. The program is one of only a few in the nation with a terminal degree in musical theatre, and the only one that has a clear focus on both performance and academia. An important aspect of this program is working on developing new musical theatre works. Jessica worked with Dallas natives in developing the show “On the Eve” and with Tony Award Winner BD Wong and Wayne Barker on the show, “Mister Doctor”. Jessica went on to work with BD and Wayne again in New York, on a new musicalized version of Mister Holland's Opus. Jessica taught classes such as History of Musical Theatre, Acting I, and Musical Theatre performance. While completing her thesis on the evolution of rap in musical theatre, Jessica left California in order to perform in Alaska as Peter in Peter Pan. While flying every night, and completing her thesis, she also worked to choreograph numbers for the Aztec Follies, a cabaret of graduate students filmed for PBS. During her time in grad school, Jessica also worked at the famed La Jolla Playhouse, in the Development Department and the Musical Theatre Archive at SDSU, the largest Musical Theatre Archive west of the Mississippi. After moving back to New York City, where she resided until August 2018, Humphrey worked with organizations such as the Ziegfeld Society, Rosie's Theatre Kids, and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. She continues to study voice with the esteemed instructor Andrew Byrne and works as a performer both onstage and in voiceover.

Polls will once again open all across North Carolina on Tuesday, May 14. But with mostly down-ballot races on the ballot, will Republican primaries be decided by a tiny number of voters? Political scientist Chris Cooper of Western Carolina University shares some turnout trends and other dynamics for North Carolina's rare runoff primaries with WUNC's Colin Campbell. And we hear from the two Republican candidates for state auditor, Jack Clark and Dave Boliek, who offer contrasting backgrounds and visions for an important state government watchdog role.

"Choral programs don't exist in a vacuum. They exist in a place, and they exist in a place that serves a people. That people group is always bigger than choir. The first thing that you've gotta do is answer the question, 'how are my people, how is my place going to be served by choral music?' and then build that. You've gotta build that one step at a time."Joshua Cheney, a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, is the Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina. He is responsible for the leadership and administration of GWU Choirs, to include the direction of Concert Choir, Men's Chorale, Handbell Ensemble, and the Worship Ensemble. Joshua also teaches courses in conducting, voice, and guitar.In addition to his work in teaching, Joshua currently serves as the Interim Music Minister for the First Baptist Church of Asheville, North Carolina. In this role he participates in worship planning and leads the Adult Choir in rehearsal and worship. Joshua is an active performer and has sung professionally with the North Carolina Master Chorale Chamber Choir, Bel Canto Company, the Red Shift Choir, and Coro Vocati. Joshua is a regular clinician, adjudicator, and presenter, having directed honor choirs, adjudicated choral festivals, and given lectures at professional conferences throughout the South. Previous appointments include service as the Assistant Professor of Choral Music at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee, the Assistant Director of Music and Worship at the First United Methodist Church of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the Choral Music Educator at John M. Morehead High School in Eden, North Carolina, and the Choral Music Educator at Harnett Central Middle School in Angier, North Carolina.Joshua holds the B.A. in Music Education from Campbell University, the M.M. in Choral Conducting and Church Music from Mercer University, and the D.M.A. in Choral Conducting from Louisiana State University. Joshua is married to Rebekah Cheney, who serves as the Director of Annual Giving at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina. Joshua and Rebekah reside in Asheville, North Carolina.To get in touch with Joshua, you can find him on Instagram (@jcheneyconductor or @gardnerwebbchoirs) or email him at mailto:jcheney1@gardner-webb.edu .Choir Fam wants to hear from you! Check out the Minisode Intro Part 3 episode from February 16, 2024, to hear how to share your story with us.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson

In this special live recording of Read Appalachia, host Kendra Winchester talks to Ron Rash and Ann Pancake. A special thanks to Jeremy B. Jones and Western Carolina University for hosting us at the 22nd Spring Literary Festival.Books MentionedAbove the Waterfall by Ron RashThe Risen by Ron RashStrange As This Weather Has Been by Ann PancakeThe Stories of Breece d'j Pancake by Breece d'j PancakeBlack Ticket: Stories by Jane Anne PhillipsClearing in the Sky & Other Stories by Jesse StuartThe Knockout Artist by Harry CrewsI Am One of You Forever by Fred ChappellGUEST INFORon Rash: WebsiteAnn Pancake: Website---Show Your Love for Read Appalachia! You can support Read Appalachia by heading over to our merch store, tipping us over on Ko-fi, or by sharing the podcast with a friend! For more ways to support the show, head over to our Support page. Follow Read Appalachia Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok ContactFor feedback or to just say “hi,” you can reach us at readappalachia[at]gmail.comMusic by Olexy from Pixabay

Mac Brown is the owner of Mac Brown Fly Fish and Fly Fishing Guide School in Western NC. Mac pioneered the first full-time fly fishing guide service in the region and was instrumental in establishing the Upper Nantahala River's Delayed Harvest. As an educator, Mac served as an Associate Professor at Western Carolina University, shaping the next generation of anglers and fostering the area's competitive fishing scene. Author of "Casting Angles," Mac is a Master Casting Instructor and a Southern Fly Fishing Hall of Famer. Recognized by FFI with prestigious awards, including the Mel Krieger Fly Casting Instructor Award and Lifetime Achievement Award, Mac's contributions extend beyond teaching to product development and media presence. Active in fly fishing shows and youth coaching, Mac's legacy is rooted in decades of dedication to the sport and its community. In this episode of Anchored we discuss advanced fly casting, trick casts, fly fishing's evolution and so much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Giddy-up folks, we are talking about everyone's favorite topic: DEATH. I loved talking with Kierston about all things death, funeral practices from around the world, grief, and love. Kierston is a library customer services supervisor and loves to read, especially books that teach her something new. You can follow her beautifully curated Instagram: @oursharedshelves For our discussion Kierston chose From Here to Eternity: Traveling the World to Find the Good Death by Caitlin Doughty, a mortician who is fascinated by death. There are so many different funeral and burial practices around the world and this book explores many of them. For our drink we went witha beer: the Rogue Dead Guy Ale, which is delicious and a great choice to go along with the title.In this episode:Ask a Mortician - Caitlin Doughty's YouTube Human Remains Project in Cullowhee NC (Correction: In the pod I misremembered this program being at UNC Pembroke - It's at Western Carolina University. Apologies to the entire UNC school system!)Congratulations! The Best is Over by R. Eric Thomas Celebrating Dia de los Muertos in Mexico

In this special edition of Poetry Corner, host Kendra Winchester is joined in conversation with poets Willie Edward Taylor Carver Jr., Rahul Mehta, and Doug Van Gundy. A special thanks to the librarians at Western Carolina University for helping arrange this recording.Books MentionedGay Poems for Read States by Willie Edward Taylor Carver Jr.Feeding Ghosts by Rahul MehtaA Life Above Water by Doug Van GundyGuest InfoDoug Van GundyTwitter / X | InstagramRahul MehtaWebsite | Instagram | Twitter / XWillie Edward Taylor Carver Jr.Website | Instagram---Show Your Love for Read Appalachia! You can support Read Appalachia by heading over to our merch store, tipping us over on Ko-fi, or by sharing the podcast with a friend! For more ways to support the show, head over to our Support page. Follow Read Appalachia Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok ContactFor feedback or to just say “hi,” you can reach us at readappalachia[at]gmail.comMusic by Olexy from Pixabay

Join host Tamra Andress as she delves into an inspiring conversation with Doug Elks on The Messenger Movement Podcast. Discover Doug's remarkable journey from childhood challenges to launching the AIM movement, his mindset around suffering and gratitude, and his dedication to aligning business initiatives with advancing God's kingdom.   Don't miss this insightful episode filled with wisdom and encouragement! We discuss:  Ambition Mindset and Faith Journey: Doug Elks shares his compelling story of overcoming childhood challenges, including having a drug-addicted father, and how these experiences shaped his ambition mindset. Despite adversity, he found strength in his faith and a sense of purpose in community building. Balancing Business Growth with Kingdom Advancement: A central theme of the discussion is Doug's commitment to aligning his business ventures with his faith. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining alignment across all initiatives to focus on advancing God's kingdom and making disciples, demonstrating a holistic approach to entrepreneurship rooted in spiritual values. Leveraging Personal Brand for Ministry: Doug highlights the significance of using personal branding and social media platforms as tools for ministry. By boldly sharing his faith online and focusing on his personal relationship with the Bible, he aims to reach and encourage others, exemplifying the integration of faith into professional endeavors.   About Doug:  Doug Elks is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and hybrid athlete. He formerly played D1 college basketball at Western Carolina University where he also earned a double business major in management and marketing. He now travels as a motivational speaker primarily for schools and athletes while also building his nutrition and wellness brand, Kaizos. In his free time he enjoys challenging physical feats like 100 mile races and more.   https://instagram.com/dougelks https://kaizos.co/?fbclid=PAAaaLUXTQKr0hc-2vby19d7dsRkzYeFYRwPWOIF2cpP3R06ZSo15oWvbTW4U_aem_AdJyRNVEMmb29YLFGzpmDAmzWkArwojV__m9Kt-qw_NkfGVoMz9zX6nYUIrVW7pZ4XY Dougelks.com   Where to Find Tamra: Become a Millionaire Messenger! Take your Voice and Vocation to the Nations: https://fitinfaithmedia.com/millionaire-messenger ⁉️ Have a faith & or biz question you'd like to have me answer? Feel free to write it, along with your honest review on Apple Podcasts - I'll share you and give you the answer in an upcoming episode!

  The 2024 North Carolina Super Tuesday primary election has finally come and gone and now it's full speed ahead for the next eight months to the November election. And for better or worse, voters should have very little trouble distinguishing the major party candidates. According to Western Carolina University political scientist, Prof. Chris Cooper, […] The post WCU political scientist Prof. Chris Cooper discusses Super Tuesday election results appeared first on NC Newsline.

In this empowering episode of Athlete Mindset, we're honored to host Danita Johnson, a trailblazer in the world of sports. As the President of Business Operations for D.C. United, Danita brings a wealth of experience, innovation, and leadership to the forefront. We discuss the core themes of consistency, communication, and commitment. And then explore how these principles have shaped her career and success. Danita shares her unique perspective on the process over outcome, the importance of being a "professional friend," her addiction to building and growing in her field, and how confidence, pressure, and purpose intertwine in her journey.SUBSCRIBE to Athlete Mindset for $10/monthAs a subscriber, you will receive exclusive content and consistent updates on athlete mental health. With your support and amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted.About this Episode | Danita Johnson, D.C. United | Consistency, Communication, CommitmentConsistency, Communication, Commitment: Exploring the foundational elements that drive success in sports business and personal growth.Process Over Outcome: Danita's philosophy focuses on the journey rather than the destination.Being a "Professional Friend": How building strong relationships contributes to personal and professional success."Addicted to the Build": A deep dive into Danita's passion for creating, developing, and enhancing sports organizations.Confidence, Pressure, and Purpose: Unpacking how these elements interact in high-stakes environments.Preparation, Routine, and Mindset: The daily habits and mental frameworks that fuel success.The Power of Authentic Leadership: The impact of genuine, transparent leadership in the sports industry.About Danita:Danita Johnson stands as the first Black President of an MLS Club and only the third woman in league history to serve in this prestigious role.Danita has a 17-year career marked by significant achievements, including record-breaking sales, innovative marketing strategies, and impactful community engagement.Under Danita Johnson's leadership, D.C. United saw a substantial increase in ticket sales, concessions, apparel sales, and partnership revenue, alongside hosting landmark events.Danita spearheaded the re-introduction of the D.C. United Foundation and significantly enhanced the club's community relations efforts, positively impacting over 125,000 individuals.From launching professional franchises to leading the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks to historic attendances and sponsorship dollars, Danita's influence spans across major sports leagues.Through her mission of "Unite Sport. Build Community. Win Championships," Danita has fostered a culture of success and community involvement.A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and a graduate of Western Carolina University, Danita is deeply involved in community service, serving on multiple boards and as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, leadership, and personal growth, offering invaluable insights from one of the industry's most influential figures.Production Team for "Danita Johnson, D.C. United | Consistency, Communication, Commitment":Presented by SportsE Media: a digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sportsSocial Media:Lisa Bonta Sumii: LinkedIn | Instagram | websiteSportsE Media:  TikTok | Instagram | XDanita Johnson: Instagram | LinkedIn | US Soccer | DC UnitedRelated episodes to "Danita Johnson, D.C. United | Consistency, Communication, Commitment":Michelle Alozie: Navigating the Challenges of College and Professional SoccerThankfulness = Success with Pro Soccer Player, Luca DezaUS World Cup Series | The Biggest Sporting Event, Even Bigger Than the Super BowlMusic credit:Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White HotLisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW | CEO & Founder of AthMindset® Lisa brings a high level of expertise to the athlete mental health space, from both a clinical and performance focus. She works with elite youth athletes, collegiate student-athletes, Olympians/Olympic hopefuls, professional athletes, coaches, teams, and the entire sport ecosystem.  Lisa is the first-ever Mental Performance Coach for the Oakland Roots Sports Club, a men's professional soccer team, in the USL, working alongside other coaches on the Technical Team, as well as the Sports Medicine staff.  Lisa is listed in the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee's Mental Health Registry, the NFL Player Association's Clinician Directory, and the Major League Rugby Mental Health and Wellness Directory. As a direct response to need, Lisa founded AthMindset® – a diverse team of athlete-centered, licensed mental health clinicians and mental performance consultants, serving across several states.   Lisa is a professional podcast host and podcast guest. She hosts the Athlete Mindset Podcast and co-hosts Roots Radio. She is a keynote speaker, an accomplished TEDx Speaker, speaks nationally and internationally, and is often invited to speak at conferences and contribute to expert panels. Lisa has been quoted in Time Magazine, Teen Vogue, Women's Health Magazine, as well as being interviewed on the BBC World News and Radio Bliss, in Jordan. Her first book, The AthMindset® Workbook: Training your mind for optimal mental health in sport and in life is now available. Lisa received her Master's in Clinical Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work and attended the University of California at Santa Barbara as an undergraduate. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Dr. Angela Dills is a labor economist who teaches at Western Carolina University and whose work focuses on the economics of education, crime, and health. In this episode of Acton Line, Angela and Dan Hugger discuss her research into the gender wage gap. Do women really earn only $0.83 for every $1.00 a men earn? […]