Sew Powerful Podcast: Recent Episodes
Sew Powerful Podcast
The Sew Powerful Podcast shines a light on the people behind the mission to keep girls in school and create purposeful products in Zambia. Join us every week for a new 30-minute episode to meet new people, hear inspiring stories, and learn how you can join us in this global movement. Whether you sew or not, make purses or not, you will find something to enjoy in every episode. Listen today.
In this concluding episode of Season 1, Sew Powerful co-founder Jason Miles gives the background information behind his first Quarter presentation. He recaps Events, Chapters, the Facebook Group, the Purse Count, Funding, Expenses, and we talk about the new shipping option. In addition, Jan and Jason take a short walk down memory lane recounting the many great experiences in the previous 98 episodes of Season 1 of the Sew Powerful Podcast. There will be a Season 2. Dates TBD.
Besides her Sew Powerful CFO duties, Sue Kirby has taken on the role of Manager, National Shows and Events for 2022. In this episode, Sue announces the dates and places for upcoming quilt shows where Sew Powerful will exhibit. She also recaps the shows we have already complete. Along with host Jan Cancila, Sue shares experiences and tips for attending the shows. Finally, listen for a checklist of all the reasons you will want to participate in an upcoming quilt show with Sew Powerful. Scattered throughout are mentions of the many volunteers without whose help and dedication we could not participate in these shows.
A beloved member of the Sew Powerful family, Irene Davidson Thomas joins us in today's episode. Irene talks about her many Sew Powerful experiences, including three trips to Zambia and travels to Renton to help with unboxing the purses. We get a glimpse into her very interesting life and her fondness for not so typical pets. Irene explains why her heart is so drawn to Sew Powerful and offers some sewing advice along the way.
Jason Miles, Sew Powerful co-founder discusses social enterprise as modeled in Thomas Vozzo's recently released book, 'The Homeboy Way: A Radical Approach to Business and Life.' Los Angeles-based Homeboy Industries is lauded for its innovative approach to dealing with those living in the 'Forgotten America.' We compare and contrast Homeboy to Sew Powerful and discover that both organizations operate with a remarkably similar approach. And the volunteers who serve both organization experience God's grace, growing in faith as they use their God-given talents to help those in need.
When life-long sewer, Jill Riffe discovered Sew Powerful it wasn't long before she was churning out purses by the dozens. Listen as Jill shares a couple of unique tips that help her be efficient, yet still have fun making purses. You may have missed Jill in the past couple of years. She explains the life changing event that occurred but what led her to return to Sew Powerful, even volunteering at QuiltCon Phoenix from far away Minnesota.
Meet Carla Robertson, co-founder and operator of the non-profit, Dallas Designing Dreams. This unique organization is a small business incubator, offering access to equipment and expertise to make entrepreneurs' dreams come true. Finding Sew Powerful brought Carla another opportunity to give back because her new Sew Powerful Chapter, Sew My Dream, meets in this studio and makes use of the fabulous array of equipment and creative space. Listen as Carla shares what motivates her to help dreams come true for her community and our schoolgirls in Zambia.
This week we introduced the Sew Powerful Purse Distribution video to two teen girls. After they share their own school experiences and promising futures, our guests give us their take on the video. They express empathy for the challenges the schoolgirls in Zambia face, offering encouragement for them. Our guests may be the youngest to date, but you will appreciate their maturity and compassion for girls living in very difficult circumstances.
Longtime Sew Powerful volunteer, Torey Elwell, shares her Africa connection in this episode. Not only does Torey volunteer with us to help those in Zambia, she and her husband are very involved in supporting a 700-student school in rural Ethiopia. Torey discusses the similarities and differences to provide an insight into the plight of those living in poverty in Africa. Torey also has several examples of great outcomes that will warm your heart.
Meet Region 6 Chapter Manager Sharon Helms. In this episode we are going to get to know Sharon, learning about her surprising hobbies and vocations. Sharon has been a Sew Powerful volunteer for a number of years. She has a creative way of introducing people to Sew Powerful, making it easy for them to become engaged. Warning: Sharon's passion for Sew Powerful is contagious and you will come away feeling the same joy in your heart.
Meet two Sew Powerful Quilt Show managers who give us the inside scoop as they prepare for their roles as Show Managers. Betty Johnson will oversee the Sew Powerful booth at QuiltCon Phoenix and Jan Paul leads the way at AQS Branson. Betty and Jan share how they have prepared, the materials and guidance they have received, and why they have taken on these roles. They also talk about the Quilt Shows themselves and the activities you and your families can enjoy if you make these shows your destination. Betty and Jan offer encouragement to anyone thinking of taking on this fun job.
Meet Linda Ronk. Linda has a most intriguing background including becoming an Air Force nurse at a more mature age than most enlistees. Linda, now retired, serves Sew Powerful as a Chapter Leader in Belton, Texas. She has set an ambitious goal for herself and has far exceeded it already. Listen as we learn why and how Linda, and her husband, support Sew Powerful so enthusiastically.
Sew Powerful co-founder, Jason Miles, shares exciting news about feeding hungry kids in the Ngombe compound. Through a newly established partnership, more than 4800 children will receive a hot lunch every school day. Listen as Jason explains how the program will work and miraculously, how God prepared one of our Zambian team members to take a leadership role in this amazing new venture. Be sure to listen to the end for a second announcement about a new launch and partnership.
We want to make sure that if you are new to Sew Powerful, you feel welcome and have a good understanding of what we do and why we do it. In this episode, Sew Powerful co-founder, Jason Miles talks about the various ways people find Sew Powerful. In addition, Jason introduces us to a brand-new concept: monthly Meet & Greet sessions conducted via Zoom. During these sessions, you will meet Jason and Cinnamon, learn about Sew Powerful, chat with other purse makers, and have a chance to ask questions. It's all casual, fun, and informative. Look for the schedule on the SewPowerful.org website under Serve With Us > Welcome, where you will also find free downloads and other great information. See you on Zoom!
In this episode Jan Cancila and Jason Miles change hats with Jason serving as host and Jan sitting in the guest chair. Service projects is a topic near to Jan's heart and in this episode, Jan shares the fascinating back stories for several organizations that have chosen Sew Powerful as the beneficiary of their service project. You will learn about a new volunteer role that has just been filled to put greater emphasis on supporting and developing service projects along with the various resources we offer service project leaders. Lots of shout outs too, so listen for your name.
Start the new year with a resolution to create your own personal mission statement. In this episode, Sew Powerful co-founder Jason Miles shares his personal mission statement and talks about the inputs we need to create our own. Read Acts 17:6 to find the foundation for Jason's mission statement. Several other passages, as well as references to various personality and work style tests, are provided that will help you develop your own mission statement. There is even a challenge to see where we are by December of this year. Happy New Year!
In our continuing series, Jesus and the Poor, Sew Powerful co-founder Jason Miles explains what we mean by 'Messiah Complex'. What is it? Why should we avoid it? Could our good intentions turn into bad outcomes if we are not aware? Comparing 1 John 3:16 to John 3:16, we look at the role of sacrificial servants and what this means for the Sew Powerful ministry in Zambia.
Jason Miles, Sew Powerful co-founder and Jan Cancila, Sew Powerful Director of Global Volunteerism explore what it means for Sew Powerful to be an all-volunteer organization. Jason leads us through scripture to understand how 'tent-making' supports this model while Jan points out how volunteering has touched her life and the lives of others in the organization. The conversation includes examples of how God has prepared us with talents and vocational experiences that we can bring to the ministry. Are you a retiree looking for ways to apply your experiences that will really make a difference? We would love to hear from you.
Let us love one another. From the name, to the operation, to those it helps, the Tikondane Garden Program exemplifies the message of 1st John 4:7: to love one another. In this episode we break down the origin of the program, how it works, who is helped and who are the helpers. Learn why some residents of Lusaka were wary to participate but have certainly changed their minds as the gardens have flourished. The Tikondane Garden program is another way Sew Powerful provides opportunities for those living in extreme poverty to change the trajectory of their lives.
The Sew Powerful ministry integrates opportunities for women in Zambia to earn a wage to feed their families, pay the rent and educate their children. In many cases, these women are widows or de-facto widows, serving as the head of their households while living in very challenging conditions. This is how we often think of this ministry serving widows. But around the world, Sew Powerful also serves our volunteer purse makers, some of whom may also be widows, by providing a spiritual, creative, and service outlet to serve, just as God has prepared us.
In this Thanksgiving episode Sew Powerful co-founder, Jason Miles, recounts the origins of the 3 Esthers Farm: how the fallow land was converted into a farm that now grows vegetables and fruit, how the name came about, and how God sent caretakers to get the farm started. Jason also shares what daily life is like for children and families in the Ngombe compound when they have absolutely no food. The introduction of the Tikondane backyard gardens is one step towards bringing food to families but Jason also shares that he is working to unlock strategies to bring lunches into more schools in Ngombe compound.
We continue our series, 'Jesus and the Poor' with Jason Miles. Today's topic is God's Heart for Orphans. We explore how Sew Powerful serves the orphans of Zambia, how this ministry may differ from others, and then Jason shares scripture that extols us to care for those in need. You will hear how Sew Powerful seeks out those most in need and why we do that. Learn what is truly at the heart of the Sew Powerful mission.
A recent blog post on the Sew Powerful website features a young woman named Frienda who recently graduated from being a trainee to a junior seamstress in the sewing co-op in the Ngombe compound in Lusaka, Zambia. We wanted to delve deeper into the impact local hiring has on a community, especially when extreme poverty affects more than half the population. Sew Powerful co-founder, Jason Miles explains how the jobs we provide, are life-changing for an employee, their family and an ever-growing circle in the community. Jason expands on the critical role donors play in ensuring children have an aspiration nurtured by working role models in their own homes.
In this second episode in our 'Jesus and the Poor' series, Sew Powerful co-founder, Jason Miles answers the central question: Why do we do what we do? And what's next? Following Eliyahu Goldratt's (The Goal) and Peter Drucker's (Management by Objectives) models, Jason talks us through our theory of change. What needs to change; what do you change to; how do you change? Jason compares and contrasts motives and priorities Christian versus non-Christian organizations implement when working with those living in in the most challenging and desperate conditions, as we do with those in Zambia.
Welcome to the first in a series of about a dozen discussions with Sew Powerful co-founder Jason Miles. Today we kick off the series called 'Jesus and the Poor' with some background information about Jason himself, and then we look ahead to upcoming episodes. In these future episodes, Jason will present the concepts and I will ask questions and even play devil's advocate. The idea is to bring all of us to an in-depth understanding of the planning, thought process, back stories, challenges and difficulties of operating the Sew Powerful ministry in Zambia. Be sure and include your questions in the comments section below.
Meet Freweini Mebrahtu, the 2019 CNN Hero of the Year. A native of the Tigray region of Ethiopia, Freweini leveraged her university degree to change the lives of women in her home country. She obtained a patent, took out a loan and opened a factory manufacturing sanitary pads. She employed women who had never held a job. She offered day care for her workers so they could countinue to earn a wage to support their families. All of this hard work came to a halt when a civil war erupted in Ethiopia in November 2020. Freweini educates us on the dire situation in her homeland that includes destruction, brutilization of women, and famine for a half million people. Freweini wants to use the platform afforded her by the CNN award to bring resolution to the conflict and resume her work in support of women at home. While much of the content of this episode is uplifting, there is some disturbing discussion of the horrors of this war.
Doryce Fitzgerald had never heard of Sew Powerful until her favorite quilt shop newsletter featured Sew Powerful earlier this year. When she read the article, the light bulb went off and soon Doryce and friends were off and running. In less than six months, the Santa Clarita Valley Quilt Guild's 81 members, with a little help from their friends, churned out 126 purses. Making it a true family affair, Doryce's daughter and son in law made a very generous donation to cover the cost of labor and materials for all those purses. Purse makers and members of quilt guilds everywhere will enjoy hearing how Doryce sponsored and supported Sew Powerful to get this project off the ground for 2021. Spoiler alert: We are on their books for 2022 also.
Meet a Star War aficionado who serves on the global leadership council of the non-profit Rebel Legion Star Wars Costuming Group. Katherine Winchell's hobby is costume making, all things Star Wars, and she is one of the principal organizers of the October 16, 2021, Rebel Reads webathon. Sew Powerful will benefit from the sale of special enamel pins offered during the event. In addition, Katherine has challenged each national and international Rebel Legion outpost to submit a video showing their Sew Powerful purse making progress, stirring up a little intergalactic rivalry. Please listen to the end because Katherine reveals her very surprising day job and it is literally out of this world. Literally.
Meet the proprietor of Sewpbox Productions based in West Hollywood, California. Russell Conte owned a retail sewing shop until he discovered his true passion: teaching others to sew. His portfolio includes fashion sewing, leather goods, shoe making and more. Russell is a university instructor in advanced sewing techniques and also serves as a Babylock ambassador. His video sewing lessons are very short and tackle just one targeted subject in a hyper focused approached.
Meet Susan Pfaff, purse maker and supporter of Sew Powerful. With a name like 'Pfaff' we all have to be wondering, "Is Susan related to the Pfaff sewing machine people?" You'll have to listen to get the answer, but here is a hint: Susan has traveled all over the United States as an Pfaff educator. Susan has even held the dreamiest of jobs: fabric store owner. Now retired, Susan has taken to YouTube with her charming video series, 'Let's Sew! KIDS' introducing the younger generation to the basics of sewing. Susan shares her purse making philosophy and much more in this week's episode.
Listen as we count down the 10 most listened-to podcasts of the past twelve months. Our eclectic assortment of guests includes Sew Powerful Regional Coordinators, Industry Influencers and others who just happen to have a passion for Sew Powerful. You will hear snippets from the podcasts to remind you why these ten episodes garnered so much attention. You might even want to go back and listen again...or for the first time. We also share a big announcement about what is coming in the very near future for the Sew Powerful Podcast.
Two weeks ago, we listened to Jason Miles talk about Mary, Martha and Lazarus in John, Chapter 11. (See Sew Powerful Podcast, episode 67) Today, Jason moves on to John, Chapter 12 and introduces several Biblical references to the poor and caring for those living in poverty, including Deuteronomy 15, Galatians 2, Acts 2 and Isiah 61. But Jason also quotes the New York Times and plays a clip from a local Los Angeles TV station. He reminds us to find the balance between faith with no action and action with no faith. As always, Jason includes great contemporary stories to illustrate the lessons he finds in scripture.
In this week's podcast we hear from Dana Buck. Dana is a Sew Powerful board member and author of 'The Sew Powerful Parables,' both in book and podcast formats. Today's engaging talk is one he recently shared with the congregation of Renton Christian Center. Dana focuses on John 12, verses 20-24 to help us understand how the broken can become beautiful. Listen for the story of the truck driver with a bad heart and the young widow with a life insurance policy. Then you will probably need a tissue, I know I did, as Dana reads his original work, 'Broken Teacups.'
The guest on today's podcast is the Sew Powerful co-founder, Jason Miles. Rather than an interview format, we are sharing the sermon Jason delivered to his church in July 2021. Using John, Chapter 11 as the basis of his sermon, the next 30 minutes or so will delight you as Jason weaves contemporary life into the story of Jesus’ love for Mary and Martha at the time of Lazarus’ death. And Jason wraps it up by helping us understand how Jesus loves each of us.
Ginny Buckley lives near Bristol in the UK. There she has organized sewing days, drawing in members of her church and local community to come sew a bag for Sew Powerful. In this episode, Ginny walks us through her planning process and how she arranged the room to ensure safety protocols, provide convenient access to the supplies, while still encouraging sharing and friendship. Ginny also reveals her secret weapon that draws in her bag makers and she literally shares the recipe for her success.
The voicemail episode is a compilation of voice mail messages left by our Sew Powerful friends. We asked them to finish these phrases and share their thoughts with us via voice mail: The reason I volunteer for Sew Powerful is…What I like best about Sew Powerful is...The best thing that happened to me last week was...I am asking for prayers for.... The result is an uplifting, interesting and fun listen as our volunteers tell us what is important to them. Enjoy.
Attention all machine embroiderers and friends of embroiderers. In this episode, the creative force behind the free Sew Powerful embroidery designs, Peggy Creighton, walks us through her process, explains ITH, and hints at what will be available in the months ahead. Peggy explains how to use her designs on your embroidery machine. Then she encourages all purse makers to engage with a friend who has an embroidery machine as a way to introduce them to Sew Powerful in a partnership of friendship and creativity.
As we celebrate the Olympics, meet the Marketing and Communication Officer for the Zambia National Olympic Committee, Felix Munyika. Even with an early defeat in women's futball (soccer) , the NOCZ is proud of its team's showing. Zambia sent a delegation of 50 athletes in 5 sports to the Tokyo games. Listen as Felix reveals how the Olympics in Zambia has parallel goals to those of Sew Powerful with a prediction our two organizations could find synergy in the future.
Sew Powerful's first exhibition in front of Pinterest enthusiasts will occur October 8-9th at the Pinners Conference in Indianapolis. Listen as Mary Inchauste, Show Manager, and Kathleen Broadfoot, the willing and able support coordinator, describe how they are preparing for this show. Their enthusiasm is contagious as they explain how a Pinners Conference might be different than a traditional Quilt Show. They elaborate on why they have taken on these roles, what tools Sew Powerful has supplied them, and why you too should consider volunteering to work in a Sew Powerful booth at a show near you.
Meet a remarkable woman with a passion for helping others. Using her own life experiences and her deep and abiding faith in the Lord, Barbara Stroup has compassion for those who find themselves in challenging circumstances. Listen as Barbara shares her life story, amazing world travels, words of wisdom and surprising connection to Sew Powerful.
Our guest this week has been with World Vision for nearly 30 years, and currently serves as their Chief Development Officer. Kathryn Compton is a dynamic and innovative leader who developed and leads Strong Women Strong World — a global Women’s Empowerment initiative focused on bringing together influential and affluent partners who are dedicated to empowering women and girls through gender reconciliation in developing countries. Kathryn shares her background, world travles and illustrates why it is important for Sew Powerful to continue our work in Zambia.
Deborah Peterson is the Sew Powerful Chapter Leader of the Oly~Lacy Crafty Sewers. In this episode we learn about Deborah's interesting background but really delve into what it has been like to form a Sew Powerful Chapter. We talk about how she found new members, what materials she found helpful and how, through her outreach, she has brought more than a dozen new purse makers into the Sew Powerful fold. We talk about an upcoming Quarterly Chapter Leaders' meeting, which will actually take place the day before this episode airs. If you are thinking of forming or joining a Sew Powerful Chapter, you won't want to miss this episode.
Impressive credentials aside, Philippe Ayivor has been at the forefront of economic and social development in Africa since 1995. Whether it is working on water treatment infrastructure for impoverished communities or spearheading the work to bring vocational training to build a strong middle class in Africa, Philippe's work resonates with our Sew Powerful mission to bring the dignity of work to those in need.
Living life to its fullest in her adopted country, Myra Lehmann shares her interesting background and the path that took Myra, her husband and daughter to Sweden many years ago. What was intended to be a one year stay has turned into almost a 50 years residency. Myra explains her volunteer activities as well as her devotion to Sew Powerful. She even greets us in Swedish to start our talk.
Putting her passion for sewing to good use, Chris McMullen has found a very creative outlet for marrying Sew Powerful, her teaching experience and reaching out to her own community. Listen as a very new Regional Coordinator inspires us with ideas to help, not only the girls in Zambia, but how that same vehicle trains women in her home town who need to learn to sew as a way to support themselves, bringing blessings in a Sew Powerful full circle.
Another, in our series, 'The Real Husbands of Sew Powerful', features the husband of our CFO/HR Director, Sue Kirby. Doug has a very specific expertise that he has put to good use to help Sew Powerful. Listen as Doug recounts his life growing up in Oregon, becoming an entrepreneur, and his return to ranching. He shares with us how he and Sue decided to spend their retirement, making a difference in the lives of those living in Zambia.
If you are considering forming a Sew Powerful Chapter, or maybe you are just curious about the process, you won't want to miss this episode. Jason, Sue and Jan have a lively conversation about marketing your newly formed Chapter. We share a long and growing list of proven ideas for finding Chapter members and expanding Sew Powerful. If you love making Sew Powerful purses and notecards, why not share your passion by forming a Chapter in your community? We are here to help you get it going.
A Navy wife finds herself facing a very challenging situation. With grace and determination, our guest, LaQuita Herrin, not only survived, but turned her own hardship into advocacy for others. LaQuita is a brand new Sew Powerful purse maker and by witnessing her determination with making her first purse, we can easily imagine how she uses that same tenacity in her personal life. We also talk about our shared Indiana roots, discovering an improbable closeness we could not have predicted.
Amy Brooks came to our attention at Sew Powerful because she wrote a story for the second edition of the We Are Sew Powerful book. I hardly know where to begin in describing this remarkable woman. She is an artist, author, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, independent, determined woman and a very strong Christian. But another part of Amy's identity is that she is differently able, having been born with no arms or legs. That has not stopped her from achieving a very long list of accomplishments, including sewing a Sew Powerful purse. I am in awe. You will be too.
Have you ever been sitting in church listening to a sermon and had the urge to raise your hand and ask questions? That happened to me yesterday. Our pastor's sermon was titled 'Fear of Public Speaking' and I began to wonder if he was speaking to our congregation or to us at Sew Powerful. Using the Apostle Peter as an example, Pastor Mark Plunkett listed situation after situation where Peter found himself in very uncomfortable circumstances, yet he spoke up. So I asked Pastor if he would share his 'Fear of Public Speaking' thoughts with us today so that when we find ourselves wanting to explain Sew Powerful, we can be comforted by the Apostle Peter and his public speaking evolution.
Attending Sew Powerful's virtual Spring 2021 Summit is going to be one of the most rewarding experiences you've had in the past year. In this episode, Sew Powerful co-founder Jason Miles, walks us through the who, what and when of the May 13-14, 2021 virtual Summit. A bevy of keynote speakers will share how they were activated by God to serve the poor. Perhaps the Summit can help us all answer, "What will you I with the next chapter of my life?" Besides the speakers, there will be breakout sessions focused on volunteer opportunities, sewing skills and a no-holds barred Q&A session with Jason and Cinnamon. Register before May 13, 2021 at Summit.SewPowerful.org.
In this episode we are introduced to the many talents of Peggy Creighton. We journey through Peggy's early childhood, her career in education and library sciences, her advanced degrees, her publications and her life, post-retirement. Peggy brings these life experiences to Sew Powerful, realizing God has been preparing her for this work since early childhood. Peggy currently wears several Sew Powerful hats and we talk about all of them.
It seems Judy Ann Kennedy has been running a parallel course to Sew Powerful but it wasn't until the Spring of 2021 that our paths crossed. Judy is an accomplished bag maker, notecard maker and most importantly has a heart for mission work. Her missionary work in Russia and the Phillipines involved educating children living in poverty, affected by natural disasters and those who never had the opportunity to hear God's Word. Amazing changes happened, but many were totally unexpected.
I thought it was about time for you to meet my husband. In this episode, Chris gives the inside scoop on being married to a slightly obsessive Sew Powerful volunteer. Chris talks about the role he plays in supporting Sew Powerful and provides some great suggestions for ways spouses and family members of our volunteers can also contribute to the success of Sew Powerful.
Say "Hello" to Millie McKerley. Millie is a native of Alberta, Canada but now lives just outside of Washington, DC. Millie worked in Finance until she decided to homeschool her son all the way through middle school. An avid gardener, quilter and generous contributor to a number of charities, Millie brings her love of sewing and helping others to Sew Powerful. You've seen photos of her many purses. Now you will get to meet the woman behind the creative purses and kind comments on Facebook.
Today's podcast comes from Mumbai, India. We meet Asha Merchant, who has made a very impressive number of Sew Powerful purses. Born and raised in Sri Lanka, Asha has also lived in India and the US. She earned a degree in Fashion Design, which was a natural fit for her creativity. Not in the podcast, but Asha shared with me how she has involved many others in Sew Powerful including the shipping company that sends her purses and friends and relatives who help write the notecards. Sewing purses for Sew Powerful has given Asha confidence that translates to other areas of her life. Sit back and enjoy learning about Asha's interesting life in India.
If you think Lynne Johnson's name sounds familiar, you must be a fan of the monthly Sew Powerful Live events on Facebook and YouTube. It seems every month Jason Miles calls out Lynne's name a time or two, recognizing her for submitting boxes of purses. You will enjoy getting to know Lynne and learn about her varied interests and accomplishments. Besides being a registered nurse and owning a small business, Lynn is a prolific purse maker for Sew Powerful. Lynne shares heartfelt stories about her mom, her husband and especially how Sew Powerful has been a life-line for her during the pandemic.
This week we talk to our Omaha, Nebraska Regional Coordinator, Laura Ostdiek. Laura has a fascinating life story, including a history of decorating floats for the annual Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. This has to be one of the most unusual hobbies we have encountered. Listen carefully because Laura reveals a very surprising secret about float decorating that you wouldn't suspect just by watching the parade. Floats aside, we will explore Laura's passion for Sew Powerful, making purses and volunteering beyond her responsibilities as a Regional Coordinator.
Our purse makers are a wealth of knowledge and that knowledge was right there in front of us, untapped, until a light bulb went off. Instead of guessing, why not ask our purse making community what they would want in terms of forming local groups. Viola! The Local Growth Survey was born. Hundreds of you participated and you are probably curious about the results. Wonder no more. This episode provides the survey results and outlines next steps for creating Sew Powerful local groups. Thanks to all who participated in the survey and the dedicated volunteers serving on the committee to bring about the local groups!
Eavesdrop on Session 1 of "Speak Up for Sew Powerful" training. In this orientation for the 6-part program you will hear instructor, Betty Johnson, provide background and techniques for delivering a 30 second elevator talk about Sew Powerful. Participants relate personal anecdotes about situations we have all experienced that make having an elevator speech in your 'back pocket' so important. This and all the remaining sessions, along with session hand-out materials, will all be available as a complete video training course in mid-April.
In these challenging times, having a purse challenge may be just what the doctor ordered. Two of our UK volunteers, Ginny Buckley and Louise Ambrosi, take us on a delightful journey as they explain how they will revive the purse challenge, what it is, who it is for and how often they will issue the challenge. Lots of laughs and giggles in this episode so be prepared to share in the merriment.
Kylie Gersekowski may be in Australia but she had a vision that Sew Powerful would need her talents globally. And she sure was right. As the founder and original member of the Sew Powerful Purse Project on Facebook, Kylie pulled together other Aussie bag makers to sew for Sew Powerful. But soon the word spread far and wide and behold, we now have a 4000 member Facebook group that supports and encourages each other. Listen as Kylie gives her history with Sew Powerful but then ends with a very important announcement about her role and a new person on the scene in Australia.
Listen as the founder and dedicated members of TELAS (The East Los Angeles Stitcher) share how their organization came to be and the passion they have for Sew Powerful. They seemed to appear out of nowhere, sending in 292 purses in 2020. But it turns out they have been there all along, finding and supporting worthy causes every year. But Sew Powerful struct a chord when a few of the members happened upon the Sew Powerful booth at the 2019 Internation Quilt Festival in Houston. But they weren't just attendees. They had their own booth to display the amazing work they do, as they have displayed at Quilt Shows as far away as Australia. Now meeting by Zoom, the group hasn't slowed down one bit.
With a degree in Fashion and Merchandising, it is no surprise that Natalie Wellman was instantly drawn to Sew Powerful back in 2015. Since that time she has challenged herself to make many, many purses including making a purse a day during the month of January. Don't be fooled by the quantity of purses Natalie sends to Sew Powerful every year. She is all about quality and the photos of her purses prove it. In this episode Natalie will share some tips about how to bring Sew Powerful to the attention of members of other groups on social media so they too will join us in making Sew Powerful purses for our girls in Zambia.
Meet Pat Quigley, a retired nurse with a passion for helping others. Whether she is on a medical mission trip with her church, making quilts for animals affected by natural disasters, or sewing purses for Sew Powerful, Pat puts her whole heart into her efforts. She is a talented seamstress and we talk about her unique fabric choices, making the purse photos she posts on Facebook instantly recognizable as Pat Quigley originals.
Betty Johnson is one of the newest purse makers to join the ranks of the Sew Powerful Regional Coordinators. Betty finds inspiration from Sew Powerful in the way that lives are changed for school girls and members of their communities in Zambia. Betty enjoyed a long career as the VP of HR for Goodwill Industries. While there, she introduced Toastmasters to her staff to help them speak at public events. Betty is brimming with enthusiasm and great ideas, including ways to make purses that bring fun and efficiency to her efforts. You will enjoy listening to Betty Johnson as she shares her experiences and philosophies.
Our first guest of the 2021 season is Daryl Perry of Patchouli Moon Studio. Daryl is an enthusiastic blogger who recently discovered Sew Powerrful. With a history in the textile arts, Daryl starting documenting her creations 13 years ago. As a professional handbag maker, Daryl was excited to discover Sew Powerful. Not only did the purse speak to her creative side, the mission spoke to her heart. She has been making purses and documenting her Sew Powerful journey on a special section of her blog. Listen to this episode and you will be inspired to check out Daryl's blog, Facebook page, Pinterest and Instagram posts.
2020 was quite the year. In this nod to Clement Moore's original ''Twas Night Before Christmas', Jan Cancila takes us on a journey through the ups and downs of 2020, yet heralding the accomplishments of Sew Powerful and ending on a note of optimism.
More than 25 years ago Rose Turner and 5 others started the Texas PinPals. This charity serves the North Dallas area by providing underprivileged children with a wonderful Christmas experience. The children not only receive, buy learn the joy of giving as well. Rose's connection to Sew Powerful came through Liberty Jane as her group searched for patterns for clothes for the dolls the group donates every year. Listen as Rose shares tips and ideas on group sewing sessions you can incorporate into your own sew-a-longs. In the heart of the Christmas season, rejoice with the children of North Dallas who benefit from the generosity of Rose and her Texas PinPals.
This episode will inspire you the next time you sit at your sewing machine, work at your craft table or even cook your signature meal.The Sew Powerful Massachusetts Regional Coordinator has a philosophy about creativity. Listen as Maryann Gubala talks about the source of creative impulses for all of us. She shares her interesting family background, how she contributes at the non-profit where she works but also how she uses her God-given skills and talents to make a difference for girls in Zambia. As Maryann says, 'Nobody can do everything, but everybody can do something.'
Meet Sandy Simm, the Sew Powerful UK Regional Coordinator, as she extoles the dedication and contributions of Team UK. An accidental internet search result became a lifeline for Sandy at a time when things were at their gloomiest. Sew Powerful turned things around for her and gave Sandy wings to soar and she's brought along several other purse makers on the journey. Lots of 'shout outs' in this episode so listen for your name.
For Thanksgiving 2020, we catch up with Jason and Cinnamon Miles and find out what makes them thankful about this year. It turns out, there is a very long list of Sew Powerful accomplishments that bring gratitute to their hearts. As you prepare your turkey today, listen as Jason and Cinnamon recount a year full of amazing blessings. So, happy Thanksgiving to our US listeners and to those of you elsewhere, please enjoy this recap of an amazing year.
In this special episode, we talk with Shirley Utz, the Social Media Regional Coordinator for Sew Powerful. Shirley shares her passion for Sew Powerful but she also takes us on her journey with pancreatic cancer. We learn where Shirley was when she received her diagnosis, her surprising reaction and how she has coped with the treatment regiment. You will feel hopeful as we learn of her progress, how friends and family have stayed close, and the way in which Shirley has graciously allowed those who care about her to help her on this journey. Produced commercial-free.
Mary Inchauste is an architect with a unique design aesthetic. In today's podcast, Mary shares the life challenges that made her appreciate education as the pathway to success. As a woman in a field dominated by men at the time she entered architecture, Mary became an unwitting trailblazer, mentoring and coaching younger women and students interested in pursuing a career in design and architecture. Listen as Mary shares her experiences, and her passion and appreciation for Sew Powerful.
In this episode we get to know Kathleen Broadfoot. Kathleen's degree in textiles and clothing from Indiana State University has served her well in her many contributions to Sew Powerful. Whether it is making over 250 purses or designing and making the purse panels to display our purses at Quilt Shows, Kathleen's life- long love of sewing coupled with her degree makes her a natural. You will enjoy learning about her family, travels and even her mother's enthusiasm for Sew Powerful.
Pour yourself a nice cup of tea and sit back and listen as one of our British volunteers, Ginny Buckley, shares her life in Yatton, England. She is an aspiring equestrian, hen rescuer, dog lover, snail aficionado, camper, puzzler and prolific knitter. Add to those interests her passion for Sew Powerful. Ginny shares how she got started with Sew Powerful and then held very lucrative fund raisers in her village, giving us great ideas we might try in our own hometowns.
Ours is not the task of fixing the entire world all at once, but of stretching out to mend the part of the world that is within our reach." This quote by poet Clarissa Pinkola Estes is a favorite of our guest, Donna Moscinski. It speaks to her heart as she shares her talents with a number of non-profits; but Donna feels it especially applies to our work with Sew Powerful. You will see a pattern of giving as you listen to Donna's fascinating story including her deep roots in Chicago and her love of all things sewing and quilting.
A series of seemingly chance encounters brought David Derr to purchase land in Zambia, partner with Sew Powerful to benefit the families of the Needs Care School, and find Nicholas to manage the farm. But on further inspection, the words in Esther 4:14 provided a more divine explanation: "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this." Listen as David recounts the early trials in getting the farm started to the current times, still with challenges, but also with many benefits to the families in the Ngombe compound.
This week we switch things up a bit by looking back at our most popular podcasts. Without revealing who made the list, we can hint that we had international guests, industry influencers and some very dedicated Sew Powerful volunteers. We will play short snippets from each of the ten podcasts that made the list. If you've not listened before or maybe missed a few episodes, this will give you a shortcut to the episodes everyone is talking about.
This co-hosted episode takes you on a 65 year journey of friendship, sewing, travel and finally re-uniting through Sew Powerful. Based on the co-authored story published in the second edition of the We Are Sew Powerful book, Jan Cancila introduces you to her BFF, Linda Reid Faught, a name you will surely recognize. Linda is known for her kind comments in the Sew Powerful Purse Project Facebook group as well as the beautifully made and bountiful purses she produces every year. Sit back and listen as these life long friends reminisce about distant and not-so distant events that have shaped their lives with each other and Sew Powerful.
Meet a business woman with a modern sewing company who takes life in stride. Yolanda Stiger was a middle school teacher who discovered students and teachers alike were hungry to learn to sew. That inspired Yolanda to open Sew Houston several years ago and has since brought the love of sewing to the local community. Yolanda's vision for her company incudes giving back and as such she has been generous to Sew Powerful and other charitable organizations. Listen and learn as Yolanda takes us on this journey from concept to successful sewing business.
You know Toby Capps' big cheerful voice from the unboxing parties of years past. Now meet the man behind the voice; a man who changed a corporation and in the process, changed untold thousands of lives in Africa during the AIDS pandemic. Get your tissues ready because in this episode we will cry with Toby, laugh with Toby and get to know a man whose life can only be described as very well lived.
You've seen him holding up boxes at the unboxing parties, but that gig is a tiny fraction of the volunteer work Dana Buck does for Sew Powerful. Sit back and listen as Dana shares his early days at World Vision and how the chance encounter with Esther at the Ngombe compound changed everything. Now Dana wears a multitude of Sew Powerful hats. When he's not counting purses, Dana writes and records some of the most charming, inspiring parables, all done in poetic verse. We even play a snippet in the podcast. [Audio clip from 'Royal Blue with Stripes of Red' used with permission. Written by Dana Buck, Narrated by Kim Pratt, produced by Beneath Blue Skies Productions, Music by Pond5]
Industry icon, Eileen Roche, founder of Designs in Machine Embroidery, better known as DIME and her colleague, Gloria Cardoza of My Fabric Designs, take us on a journey to the world of true personalization. Learning how to create custom fabrics at the touch of a button is just the beginning of what awaits you in this engaging conversation. Eileen shares her history, her connection to Sew Powerful but also looks in her crystal ball to predict a resurgence in all things sewing.
Our Regional Coordinator in Sao Paulo along with a recent University graduate recount how the Fashion Design Students at Anhembi Morumbi University adopted purse making for Sew Powerful as a campus-wide project. Sue Banman Sileci and Victoria Batista give us a bilingual perspective on the project that started in 2017 and has since generated nearly 200 purses for school girls in Zambia.
An avid doll collector and a Sherlock Holmes fan finds herself drawn to Sew Powerful though an email she received from Pixie Faire. Meet Marcy Mahle whose busy life includes memberships in several clubs devoted to her hobbies. Marcy still finds time to sew purses for Sew Powerful because she feels it is important to give the girls in Zambia an opportunity for a brighter future.
Meet the UK administrator for the Sew Powerful Purse Project group on Facebook. Besides keeping her eye on Facebook when we are sleeping over here in the US, Louise Ambrosi runs her own business creating custom purses (rather bags, as the British call them), is a mom, Sew Powerful purse/bag maker and aqua aerobic enthusiast. Louise lived, studied and married in South Africa before returning home to England. Hear more of her captivating life story in this week's podcast.
When you live in your Design, it is from there that God shines. This is more than a slogan for Anita Morris. It is the guiding principal of her life, her business and even the way she sews. Besides serving as an ambassador for Baby Lock, Anita runs her online blog, website, YouTube channel and Amazon store under the Anita by Design moniker. You will thoroughly enjoy meeting this very busy woman of great faith, grace and talent.
A hydrogeologist who makes soap as a hobby and a retired English teacher who recruits purse makers from a Fair Trade storefront.
Karen Loke found her way to Sew Powerful in 2014 and within a year, found herself in Zambia with the Sew Powerful team. Her experiences in Zambia affected her in the most positive way. Now friends, family and work collegues all know about Sew Powerful and Karen's dedication to the organization. She also shares how important purposeful giving is and how she saw the benefits first hand while on her trip.
Kathy Simonsen is passionate about sewing with a purpose and helping women in developing countries. When she found Sew Powerful and discovered it combined her two passions she was in! A trip to Zambia cemented that relationship. Hear Kathy describe, in her own words, the way in which Sew Powerful has come along side those in the Ngombe compound to bring dignity and hope to this very poor community.
When your guest answers 'anything about the goodness of life inspires me,' you know you are in for a treat. Evy Hawkins is the owner of A Bit Of Stitch, an online embroidery retailer and an official industry influencer for Babylock. Join us as Evy shares her process and passion for her work. We learn how her lifelong love of sewing brought her to her current success and to her relationship with Sew Powerful.
A type-A, CEO with little time for giving, Christina Porter finds herself and her family in a totally different state of mind after a devastating fire destroys her home, including her sewing room and everything in it. We explore how this life changing event became a heart changing experience. Spoiler alert - Sew Powerful plays a big part!
From the time she was a teen, Shirley Utz has had a passion for Africa. In this episode we travel with Shirley to places like Tanzania, South Africa and of course, Zambia. Starting with her formal education, to her early days making purses for Sew Powerful, traveling to Zambia and now serving as the Sew Powerful Regional Coordinator of Facebook, Shirley's passion for Africa remains steadfast.
As VP of Volunteers and CFO for Sew Powerful, Sue Kirby takes the core values of Sew Powerful to heart. Her dedication to Sew Powerful is tied directly to how this value driven organization works every day to improve the lives of those in need, especially for widows and orphans. Sue has traveled to Zambia and has seen the need and will share with you heartfelt stories that tie directly to those values.
Sew Powerful co-Founder, Jason Miles discusses the ways volunteers serve the organization. Whether you sew or not, if the mission of Sew Powerful touches your heart, there is a place for you here. Be sure to check out the chapter called 'Help Wanted' in the 2nd edition of the We Are Sew Powerful book for even more exciting opportunities.
Meet Sew Powerful's volunteer #1. Leslie Unruh unwittingly helped create the model for the way volunteers support Sew Powerful. Leslie shares the early days as the first volunteer to the role she plays in the expanded organization today.
Sew Powerful co-founder, Cinnamon Miles shares how a purse became a symbol of hope and love. Cinnamon has first hand experience witnessing the joy the recipients feel when receiving this treasured gift. Cinnamon will take us on a journey from the very first purse design to the latest versions that is larger and easier to make. She even hints at what might be on the purse horizon at Sew Powerful.
We continute our discussion about life in the Ngombe compound and the role Sew Powerful plays there. Plus we get to know the Sew Powerful co-founders, Jason and Cinnamon Miles. Outside of Sew Powerful, who are they? How did their backgrounds and business savy help launch Sew Powerful? How do they operate their other successful businesses?
In our inagural episode we introduce you to Sew Powerful: what it is, how it came to be, what it looked like in the beginning and how and why it has grown to what it is today. Co-founders Jason and Cinnamon Miles share their inpiring story, which is now available in Version 2 of their best selling book, "We Are Sew Powerul".