Leading The Way: A Ranger's Heart: Recent Episodes
Michael Curtiss
In 2011, I stumble across an opportunity that would change my life forever. A hard-nose Army Airborne Ranger, 1st Sgt. Will Williams, decided to be my mentor if I was willing to go the distance in helping others. This became a promise to each other.
Almost 10 years later, thousands of individuals stories, it is time to share their stories of courage and compassion. I have found that any one of us can be a Ranger if we have the heart.
Your story could be next...
We begin this series right from the beginning with a deep dive into 1st Sgt Will Williams early life as a foster child. Even thinking of becoming a Ranger was the least of Will worries as a young adult. Luckily for Will, he had a Father, Mother, and Sister who took him in as one of their own. Along the way, life lessons slowly began becoming a part of his DNA and a Ranger's creed. In this episode, Will shares some of the most important moments of his life that help guide him from an angry foster child to his first steps in joining the Army.
ShareTheWIll.ORG is an all volunteer non-profit foundation in Central Texas. Visit our website to see the latest events to join in on.
Hi Y'all
In this fun episode, Will and myself get a chance to talk with TSD Coach John Moore and a few of his players about the in-creditable season that ended with a Championship. I could go on and on about how much heart this team has for each other; however, I think they do a better job in describing it for themselves.
In alignment with this episode is the upcoming Texas School for the Deaf Pancake Breakfast (drive thru) on February 6th from 8AM to 12PM. Tickets are $8 a person, $25 for 4, and kids 5 and under eat free. More detail information and online tickets sales can be found through the following link:
https://tsdpancakebreakfast.ticketleap.com/texas-school-for-the-deaf-pancake-breakfast/
We hope to see y'all there in supporting the TSD.
-Michael
Music Credit to JD Dominowski from his 2020 Album "Teal"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyRuc1qfvcg&list=OLAK5uy_kKAeYK83kkJcnGNBe_jET_ULOISknuTJU&index=5
Hi Y'all
One of the cornerstones of the ShareTheWill Foundation is assisting our Veterans and their families. One way we have found to do this is by partnering with other foundations such as the Round Rock Community Foundation, the Hood Foundation, and our friends with YMCA.
In this episode, we chat a bit with Mr. Rick Oslovar from the Williamson's County YMCA Twin Lakes location in hearing the impact of its Veterans program focusing on families who either have love ones deployed or those who gave their last full measure of devotion. We get to hear the context of individuals who have already been through the YMCA program and the impact it has had on their lives.
If you like to know more about Rick's programs, please reach out to him at Rolsovar@ymcagwc.org
ShareTheWill is at sharethewill.org or email us at sharethewill@outlook.com.
Follow this podcast @leadingthewaypodcast on Facebook.
All The Best,
Michael
Hey Y'all!
We are back for season 2 of the podcasting! 1st. Sgt. Will and myself sit down to discussion the future of Share the Will (STW) for this fall. We know there are a lot of people counting on us to make things happen in a community, one of tens of thousands across this country facing hard times, that continues to demonstrate our better angels.
In the second half our conversation, we remember and discuss the importance of Chadwick Boseman who played such key characters in our pop culture.
We look forward to diving into more stories around the Central Texas area of people who continue to step up to the plate.
Please like and subscribed to the podcast on wherever you get your podcast. You can leave a review through iTunes.
We can best be reached at:
www.sharethewill.org
FB @LeadingTheWayPodcast
sharethewill@outlook.com
We'll see y'all soon!
Michael
Hi Y'all!
It is a privilege to have Pastor David Cox II from the Deliverance Worship Center making his first appearance on the show. I have had his name written down on a list of people who I wanted to speak with since the beginning of this podcast series. Pastor Cox is a long time friend and supporter of the ShareTheWill foundation. His passion to serve in the community stretches back to his arrival in Texas in the early 2000s. The impact by Pastor Cox big heart has changed the lives of numerous individuals. Chairman of ShareTheWIll, 1st Sgt. Will Williams, also joins in on the discussion through out the podcast.
-We start out by getting to hear Pastor Cox journey in how he became a leader in the community and what that responsibility means.
-As with the times, the heart of our discussion is with the ever evolving Civil Rights movement that has been re-ignited the past 2 months.
-A sample of the questions that were asks: What experiences both Pastor Cox and 1st Sgt Will have had with Civil Rights? How should the movement be direct and who should lead it? What fears they have with young marchers? How does MLK Jr. teachings impact their daily life?
As weeks and months go by, it will be interesting to hear and see the daily updates to local, state, and national news around issue of race relations in this country; will Pastor Cox and 1st Sgt. Williams answers to those questions become the reality that will be played out?
Is a change coming?
Contact Pastor Cox @DWorshipcenter on Facebook or by phone (512) 291-6865.
Follow us at @LeadingTheWayPodcast or @sharethewill on Facebook.
Stay safe friends,
Michael
Hi Y'all! Today episode guest features the long time Round Rock Icon, Yolanda Sanchez from the Round Rock Ballet Folkloric. Yolanda has been involved with competitive and performance dancing since 1966 in the Austin, Texas area. She has taught 100 hundreds, if not thousands, of young students how to guide their passion to dance into a life-long ability to showcase the gifts each student has. If you like to reach out to Yolanda or want to know more please contact her at 512-659-5667 or at https://www.roundrockballetfolklorico.org This episode was recorded before the riots and protest began across the country. I consciously did not mention the current state of affairs as to give focus and respect to the efforts Yolanda and her team is doing in addressing issues that focus on her students success in and out of her classroom. We continually give thanks to the show sponsors @kissmycakestx @Olveraboltonproperties @cristinadossantosyoga If you like to hear new and archive episodes, make sure to check out the show episode log through Apple, Spotify, Google Play, or radio public.com. Also, make sure to follow @LeadingTheWayPodcast The online survey is still open. Here is the link to take the 2-3 minute survey that shares your general taste in podcasts and any specific feedback you like to give back. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9MRRQ3J Thanks! See Y'all on the next episode.
Michael
Hi Y'all!
We have been talking with different types fo volunteers, public servants, organizations, small business leaders, and social groups in and around the Austin, Texas area. It was time to stretch our legs to see what the world looks like beyond our imagination. Today guest mustard up the courage to fulfill her dream to serve in the Peace Corps.
Erin shares her story in making the decision to join the Peace Corps, first hand experience in building economic security through agriculture, and the human connection she builds with her host family. There is so much that stood out in this episode including how far and how much water Erin's host family has to get every single day.
A quick thank you to Brenda who helped made the connection in getting a heart warming story like Erin's to shine through the chaos.
Remember to check out the @leadingthewaypodcast on Facebook in seeing what stories will be posted next or simply a chance to win some "Coffee with a Friend" gift card to Starbucks.
If you have listen to this episode or any episode, I am interested in your honest feedback. The following link takes you to a 2 minute survey that describes your tastes and preferences in podcast.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9MRRQ3J
We like to give continue thanks to this show sponsors: Kiss My Cakes www.kissmycakes.com; Olvera Bolton Properties https://www.olverabolton.com/ and Cristina with IamTrulyWell @cristinadossantosyoga on Facebook.
Y'all Come Back Now You Hear!
Michael
Hi Y'all!
What a guest we have on this week! We have a conversation with former District Governor of Eastern Montana and current Round Rock LIONS club member, Mrs. Shirley Dillman. It doesn't take long to hear and feel why she is so special to so many. Shirley continues to make a life long commitment as a servant heart well beyond her 40 years of being teacher. I loved every second to this interview of this hardworking cornhusker. Warning, there is a couple points in her story where I try to hide my tears. This could have the same affect of on others.
In this episode, we are promoting all small businesses out there. They need our help where we can. I recently spent a little extra at a small running shoe store locally operated. I looked at it as investing in my health, mindset, and looking out for my fellow local friends.
We continue to support:
Cristina from I Am Truly Well @cristinadossantosyoga or email Cristina iamtrulywell@gmail.com
Julio Olvera @olveraboltonproperties https://www.olverabolton.com
Kelly Marie with Kissmycakes in Round Rock, Texas. https://www.kissmycakes.com
Find us at @leadingthewaypodcast or sharethewill on Facebook.
See Y'all Soon,
Michael
Podcast Intro Song:
(Podcast Intro)
Sappheiros - Time Stands Still [ Creative Commons, Chillstep, Sad ] License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...
Hi Y'all!
We are thrilled to have on this week podcast the honorable Judge Alan McGraw. Judge McGraw began his public service career as a Round Rock, Texas Council Member in 2001 and then as Round Rock Mayor for 3 terms. We get to discuss the motivation, challenges, insights, frustrations, and the pride with all those years of public service. The best part is to our chat is Judge McGraw remind us the value of good government; that bond between trust and community is vital to that goal.
We, as in I, hope Judge McGraw would consider in possibly running for public office again. The temptation was too great for me not to ask him during our conversation. His answer was resolute to say the least.
We want to recognize two local business to the ShareTheWill family. Kelly with www.Kissmycakestx.com is finding new and creative ways to push through the COVID-19 pandemic. Her cake designs are absolutely amazing! I saw on her Facebook page of cakes looking like the Clorox Wipes bottle or Toilet Paper. You can also reach Kelly at 512-550-6084.
Second, Julio Olvera from Olvera Bolton Properties https://www.olverabolton.com donated an additional $50 towards a sprouts gift card. We love and thank you Julio in believing in this podcast and the ShareTheWill foundation mission. Julio is a man of character and we hope you consider him for any of your property needs. Julio can be reached by phone 512-909-9968 or email Julio@olverabolton.com
If you haven't before, please check out the @LeadingTheWayPodcast on Facebook or on our new Twitter page @Leading_Ranger. I, Michael Curtiss, am currently doing weekly $10 Starbucks e-gift card prizes out of my own wallet. Will and mine philosophy is solving world problems over a cup of coffee. I feel the need to share that spirit to others as much as I can. Follow us through the page to join in on the spirit of friendship and coffee.
Wishing All The Best,
Michael
Hi Y'all To those who are brand new and curious to this podcast. Here is a quick trailer to see how we each have our own unique story. That stories can inspires us and help us not feel so alone. We start with the journey with an old school Army Airborne Ranger 1st Sgt having guidance after being adopted at a young age. Join us on this journey to "Change The World One Person at a Time."
Follow us on Facebook @Leadingthewaypodcast, www.sharethewill.org, or email sharethewill@outlook.com
Michael
Hi Y'all!
We are honor to showcase a large and dedicated group of young ladies willing to show up and make a difference. Time and time again, community events such as the Texas School for the Deaf Pancake Breakfast would not be a success without all the volunteers like Zoi Ora Filos. Yet that is not the only event they do. This episode finds out the who and the how these young women teaches us adults a few new tricks when it comes to organization.
As we find out, Zoi Ora Filos in Greek means, "Lifetime Friends." At the introduction, we heard from Mr Julio Olvera in demonstrating the meaning of lifetime friends. His volunteer attitude to step up to the plate to, A) show trust in ShareTheWill, B) looking out for another small business, C) giving compassion to others; are all reasons why we, ShareTheWill, consider Mr. Julio Olvera a lifetime friend. Please check him out at https://www.facebook.com/brokerjuliocolvera/ or www.olverabolton.com. If nothing else, give him a shout of appreciation.
The NEW Facebook page is up and running! You can find all the latest and greatest things around the podcast @leadingthewaypodcast or https://www.facebook.com/LeadingTheWayPodcast/
Or email us sharethewill@outlook.com
Love,
Michael & Will
Greeting Fellow Jedis: In this week episode, we get to combine the best of both worlds: Star Wars and Community Service. I have know the Lone Star Saber Academy (LSSA) since the early days of the Round Rock 4th of July Parade. This group is amazing in showing up to entertain us with one of the most iconic movie franchises of all time. More over, they also give back to the community in harmony with the light side of the force. A side note to myself as when I do these pop quizzes; I need to choose my opponent more wisely than to tangle with a Master Jedi. A big thank you to Mark and Heidi Tucker to everything they do and supporting the ShareTheWill Foundation. A link to the LSSA Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/LoneStarSaberAcademy/ Email us at sharethewill@outlook.com Enjoy the show & (These are not the droids you are looking for)
Michael
Hey Y'all
Well, life has drastically changed for all us in the recent. It seem like this would be the time to pick up where we left off with the story of 1st Sgt Will Williams. There isn't a lot to say about this episode than simply the gratitude to hear what we need right now: HOPE. As we look to our family, friends, and community members; we see individuals like 1st Sgt. Will who have been in the dark hole before and know their way out.
I HOPE you 1st Sgt Will's story inspiring and comforting as we each find our way through the darkness.
FYI: With the aid of technology we were able to record while practicing social distancing.
Safe Safe Y"all and Best Health
Michael & Will
sharethewill@outlook.com
sharethewill.org
Contact Info: KissMyCakes Bakery in Round Rock, Texas
https://www.kissmycakestx.com
512.550.6084
Music Credit
(Podcast Intro)
Sappheiros - Time Stands Still [ Creative Commons, Chillstep, Sad ] License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...
82nd All-America Airborne Choir-Class 1992
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3yIw39dP_s
Hey Y'all! We have 2 fire fighters in the house, Wes Crossland and Tyler Paulus. Plus, Mrs. Emily Paulus is here to save the day just as much as our heroes. We recognize and honor the sacrifice family and friends make to our First Responders. This episode digs into that calling to be a fire fighter, overcoming challenges, and the heart to serve others. There is a point in this episode in which Tyler's wife Emily, went head-to-head with Tyler's fire fighter brother Wes, to see who truly knows the REAL Tyler. Who will come out the victor? Follow GT Fire Department either by Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GeorgetownTXFire/ or on Instagram @ GeorgetownFireDepartment Reach to sharethewill.org or email us at sharethewill@outlook.com As Smokey The Bear once said, "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires!" Cheers,
Michael
Music Credit: Sappheiros - Time Stands Still [ Creative Commons, Chillstep, Sad ] License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... Mumford & Sons Inspired by Hyde - Free Instrumentals https://soundcloud.com/davidhydemusic Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... Music provided by Music for Creators https://youtu.be/5shSBRjyeiI
Hey Y'all
In May 2016, young Brock Fleming was diagnosed with DIPG Cancer. DIPG Cancer is a rare and non-curable cancer that is a death sentence the day it is diagnose. Brock's mommy, Melissa Fleming and her friend Susan Withey, share Brock's story of how he became one of too many superheroes who fought against cancer. Since Brock passing in December of 2016, his spirit and love continues on with Team Brock getting close to a million dollars in the fight to cure cancer.
To join the fight with Team Brock at https://www.thecurestartsnow.org/get-involved/chapters/texas-austinround-rock/
or on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/teambrockfleming/
To hear Melissa's full story, check out this podcast link
https://theyakk.com/austin/podcast/episode-8-the-cure/
Reach us at either sharethewill.org or sharethewill@outlook.com
Until next episode
Love,
Michael & Will
Hola Amigas!
Will and I sit down with Vice President of Apoyando a un Angel Foundation Sheridel Sevilla. Besides being VP of the foundation, Sheridel is hard working entrepreneur while being a full time wife and mom. In short amount of time we have been become family with Apoyando a un Angel and those who help support them. I am for one so happy that fate brought us together.
Here is information more about Apoyando an Angel Foundation by finding them on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/apoyandoaunangelfoundation/
Sheridel business of Beauty Couture School & Medspa can be found at http://bcoutureaustin.com
We can be reached by email at sharethewill@outlook.com, www.sharethewill.org or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ShareTheWill/
Will & Michael
Hi Y'all!
Have you ever made a friend who helped shape your life? That would be how I describe my friendship to Mr. (DJ) Brandon Shabazz. DJ Brandon is an open book guy willing to be real with his story and trust his gut to do the right thing. In this episode, we touch on his experience in having a Vietnam Veteran father, losing his only sibling, and starting a family at the young age on 21. Even through all that, Brandon found his way to having a servant heart.
The part I enjoy the most in this podcast episode is that I get to Pop Quiz the "DJ" to see if he knows his music :-)
If you want to reach out to Brandon, you can reach him either at brandon@shabazz.net or www.premieraustindjs.com
Follow ShareTheWill on Facebook or Sharethewill.org
Email: sharethewill@outlook.com
Michael
Hi Y'all! Back by popular demand, we have 1st Sgt. Will Williams on the podcast! Who are we kidding, if we didn't have him back on I figure I would be next in line to be pushed out of a plane! We picked up from where we left off with Will heading to basic training. From there, we follow along his route in becoming a 82nd (All-American) paratrooper to his ultimate decision to have the Rangers patch proudly on his shoulder. We discuss the bumps and bruises, obstacles, difficult choices, and what "WE" means as a team. We hope you continue to subscribe/follow along on Apple, iTunes, Spotify, Google, or radio public.com. Make sure to rate us or leave a comment on iTunes. You can also find us at ShareTheWill.org or on Facebook at ShareTheWill. We will post when episodes are release through Facebook and you might be find clips of shows to come as well. Email us: sharethewill@outlook.com No time for coffee in this chapter as it time to take a leap of faith. HERE WE GO!!
Kind Regards,
Michael
Howdy Partnerns! If we are going to be talking Texas, what better way than to have a chat with a real, genuine cowboy! We take a little trip outside of Austin to the Ride on Center for Kids (The R.O.C.K.) to see and hear what great things they are doing for the human soul. Mr. Kevin Bowers was more than gracious with his time to sit down and tell the R.O.C.K.'s story. To the staff of the ROCK, healing through horses is more than just a motto to them, it is a way of life. ROCK (Ride On Center for Kids), a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, provides equine-assisted activities and therapies to children, adults, and veterans with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges. Check out www.rockride.org to know more. Remember to subscribe and like this podcast on all the major platform iTunes, Spotify, Google. Please check out ShareTheWill.org if you life what we do. You can reach me at sharethewill@outlook.com
Enjoy the show!
Michael
Hi Y'all!
Have you ever met somebody in your life who's positive energy and loving heart can be felt a mile away? That is how ShareTheWill felt the first time we met Ms. Penny. Her attitude and willingness to do for others is inspirational to follow. We wanted to tell that story of Penny's journey to becoming more than a friend to us: she has become family!
Pay close attention as the Bat Phone goes off during the episode with a Special Guess who drops in on the conversation!
ShareTheWill, in partnership with Texas School for the Deaf, has the pancake breakfast coming up on Feb 1st. Details can be found at https://sharethewill.org/calendar
If you ever would like to help out with ShareTheWill, you can reach us at sharethewill@outlook.com
Love y'all!
Michael
Hey STW family!
Are you ready to be bad to the bone!? If so, you have arrived at the right place! The Bad Boyz and Bad Girlz 4Ever Club stops by to talk about family and being of service to the community. When these guys talk about going BIG, there is no going home...it's what they do! Somewhere along the line in the discussion we do talk about bikes and those who have no fear in riding them. I'm a little bit jealous to say the least when it comes to bikes and having no fear. We thank the Bad Boyz and Bad Girlz in taking the time to talk with us. They truly have become family with Share The Will these past few years. If you like to know more about them, please follow them on Facebook Bad Boyz and Bad Girlz 4ever or on twitter @BadBoyzMC_ATX. https://youtu.be/5kEjuRi0f78 Please make sure to subscribe to the podcast to stay up-to-date on all new and archive episodes. You can also visit sharethewill.org for updates and events. Remember that the Texas School for the Deaf Pancake Breakfast is on February 1st from 7:30am to 1:00pm. $7 per plate and 4 for $25. We hope we see you there!
Love Y'all!
Share The Will
Hi Y'all!
With the beautiful backdrop of the City of Austin, I visited the Texas School for the Deaf (TSD) in having a conversation with Ms. Keena Miller from TSD. Keena has become a great friend and is a leader in the community for everything she does. In less than a month, ShareTheWill and the Texas School for the Deaf will be hosting a pancake breakfast in support of students at the school.
We get into both Keena background of her big heart and how she does all the things she does. Even more, we talk History of the School and some amazing stories of what the students at the school are able to do. Near the end of the episode, you will hear a heart warming message from "The Sheriff" in his appreciate of what the Rangers are able to do on the football field.
*A quick fact check on myself-The Texas School for the Deaf was the only school to stay open during the Civil War, not World War II, which makes it the oldest and longest operated school in the state of Texas since 1856.
Pancake Breakfast is on February 1st, 2020 at the TSD cafeteria. 1102 South Congress Avenue. Doors open at 7:30AM and will serve until 1PM. There will be entertainment starting around 10AM. Tickets are $7 a person or 4 for $25. You can donate via Venmo username Will-Williams-78. You can mark your calendar by going to
https://sharethewill.org/calendar
or
visit
https://www.tsd.state.tx.us
Enjoy the Show!
-Michael
Here We GO!
We are officially joining the ranks of "podcasting!" This first, short episode lays out the beginning in how and why I was able to get involve in volunteering. I never, in a million years, would ever thought that I would have an Army Airborne Ranger as a mentor and friend in showing me what it takes to have a Ranger's Heart. Since my first run in with 1st Sgt Will Williams, ShareTheWill Foundation is one of numerous foundations here in the Central Texas area that has made a significant impact.
Episodes in season 1 will be hearing from people who also carry the heart of a Ranger. We will explore their stories and see what magical journey we can go on. Until then...
Wishing everyone a Happy and Safe Holiday Season! See y'all in 2020!
Michael