Be The Good: Recent Episodes
Christy McCaffrey
Host Christy McCaffrey is on a mission to shed light on all the good that is being done in our world right now. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who are working in their own unique way to make a difference in the world. This podcast is full of goodness and inspiration!
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD—amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and society.
Robyn is the Vice President of Development in the Philadelphia region at Emancipet. Emancipet is a nonprofit organization that operates low-cost veterinary clinics in neighborhoods nationwide to ensure that all pet families in need have access to affordable veterinary care.
Robyn joins the show this week to share Emancipet's fantastic work and how this organization is working to provide affordable and accessible veterinary care for every pet owner in need.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
0:40 - Podcast start and about Robyn Colajezzi
3:28 - How does Emancipet offer high-quality, affordable veterinary care?
8:33 - What services do Emancipet offer?
9:53 - What is the process for using Emancipet’s services?
11:44 - How have pets become more a part of our families than ever?
14:17 - More about the new dental and surgical clinic EMANCIPET is opening
15:59 - What kind of events do EMANCIPET host?
20:40 - How to volunteer at EMANCIPET?
22:55 - What is Robyn’s idea of compassion?
27:1 5 - Some of Robyn’s thoughts on animal compassion
31:13 - What does community mean to Robyn?
32:37 - Where can people go to discover more about EMANCIPET?
Backlinks:
Website: https://emancipet.org/clinics/adams-avenue/
Documentary: https://emancipet.org/documentary/
Events: https://emancipet.org/events/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emancipet/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emancipet
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emancipet
Robyn’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyncolajezzi/
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD, amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and society.
Felicia is the Executive Director of the GreenLight Fund Philadelphia, with over a decade of experience leading and expanding grassroots community engagement efforts across the Philadelphia metro area. Felicia firmly believes that the most sustainable and innovative solutions to social challenges are established through collaborating with community partners and centering the voices of those most underserved.
Felicia joins the podcast to discuss how the GreenLight Fund partners with the community to break down barriers to inclusive prosperity by launching and scaling proven programs that meet community-identified needs.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:52 - Podcast start and Felicia journey to the GreenLight Fund
8:10 - What is the GreenLight Fund?
11:46 - How does the support GreenLight provides benefit the community?
16:42 - How does the GreenLight Fund work to tackle community barriers?
18:52 - What are Felicia’s favorite aspects and memories of her work?
22:51 - What is the importance of community to GreenLight?
26:22 - What is Felicia’s idea of compassion, and how does it relate to her work?
30:07 - How can someone support or invest in the GreenLight Fund?
33:07 - How can people follow GreenLight Fund’s mission?
Backlinks:
Website: https://greenlightfund.org/sites/philadelphia/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreenLightFund
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenlight-fund/
Felicia’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicia-rinier-66386658/
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD—amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and society.
Corinne is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia; she drives the strategic vision of HfH PHL, working towards a city where everyone has a decent place to live. She brings over two decades of experience in nonprofits specializing in housing and homelessness to her role for Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia. She is a 2017 awardee of the Valentine Leadership Fund, which recognizes and enhances female leadership in nonprofits. Most recently, the Philadelphia Business Journal honored Corinne as one of the top 25 most admired CEOs of 2019, which recognizes established leaders throughout all industries with a strong record of innovation in their field, outstanding financial performance, commitment to quality, a strong vision, commitment to diversity in the workplace, and contributions to Greater Philadelphia.
Corinne is here to discuss the fantastic work Habitat for Humanity is doing not only locally in Philadelphia but globally as well and how, together, with compassion and kindness, we can all make change.
Timestamps:
1:20 - Corinne’s start and how she became CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philly
3:07 - What are the core values and overall mission of Habitat for Humanity?
6:52 - What are the benefits of how Habitat for Humanity operates?
9:48 - How can people get involved in volunteering at Habitat for Humanity?
10:55 - How has the Habitat for Humanity support for volunteerism grown?
12:06 - What is a Habitat for Humanity ReStore?
14:50 - What are the current initiatives in place at Habitat for Humanity?
16:50: How does Habitat for Humanity encourage advocacy?
20:53 - What are some events Habitat for Humanity Philly will be hosting?
27:08 - What is Corinne’s idea of compassion?
34:45 - What does community mean to Corinne and Habitat for Humanity?
42:48 - How can people help Habitat for Humanity and follow their mission?
Backlinks:
Website: https://www.habitatphiladelphia.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/habitatphiladelphia/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/habitatphilly/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/habitat-for-humanity-philadelphia-inc-/
**Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD—amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
Fritzi Horstman is the Founder and Executive Director of the Compassion Prison Project. She is a Grammy-award-winning producer for her work on “The Defiant Ones,” has been a producer and post-producer on dozens of television projects and documentaries, and has directed several films.
She believes it is urgent to bring humanity and compassion to those living behind bars; these acts will help transform our society. Fritzi joins Christy in discussing how her journey and experiences helped shape her newfound perspective on healing and forgiveness, and why it’s so important for all of us to tap into our compassionate side to build a better community for everyone around us.
Timestamps:
1:00 - How did a book change Fritzi’s life?
7:10 - How did Fritzi’s own experiences inspire the Compassion Prison Project?
19:11 - Step Inside the Circle & Honor Yard
25:40 - Why is addressing our own trauma and collectively healing important?
37:20 - How does the CPP focus on C.H.A.N.G.E?
44:35 - How can we healthily integrate former inmates into society?
46:45 - How can people contribute to the Compassion Prison Project?
Backlinks:*https://www.linkedin.com/in/fritzi-horstman-47508735/* https://compassionprisonproject.org/team/fritzi-horstman/
https://www.facebook.com/compassionprisonproject/
https://www.instagram.com/compassion.prison.project/?hl=en
https://twitter.com/PrisonKind**
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
As a global health podcaster and storyteller, Hetal Baman helps social impact organizations tell their story through the powerful medium of podcasting so that they can spread awareness of their mission, grow their advocacy, and ultimately increase their funding.
She joins the show this week to talk with Christy about her decision to step away from the path her family wanted and expected of her and find her way to a more impact-driven career and felt more aligned with what matters to her.
Timestamps:
1:15 - A serendipitous episode
3:40 - How did Hetal get to where she is now?
14:45 - How did Hetal’s podcast and career change come about?
27:12 - How have Hetal’s experiences led her to dive into social work?
33:30 - How Hetal makes complex topics so simple on her podcast?
43:10 - How can the average person get involved in social impact work?
48:40 - What does compassion mean to Hetal?
53:55 - Where can everyone find and follow Hetal’s podcast?
Backlinks:https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/https://www.globalhealthpursuit.com/podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hetalbaman/https://www.instagram.com/hetal.baman/https://www.facebook.com/globalhealthpursuit
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
Maria Pendolino is a full-time professional voice actor and voiceover artist who has provided voiceover services for over a decade. Known for her roles in Army Wives (2007), House Hunters (1999), and English Vinglish (2012), she joins the podcast to shed light on her individual experiences and the impact she makes in the disabled community.
Diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis after moving to New York to pursue her acting career, Maria’s career and lifestyle were forced to shift. Embracing her position and platform, she, along with the help of other disabled colleagues, formed a database that connects disabled actors to directors looking to fill those roles.
From a “Fastest Talking New Yorker” competition in Madison Square Garden for a year's supply of coffee to how she aims to cultivate a sense of community for disabled actors and people, Maria's journey unfolds with authenticity, humor, and inspiration.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro & Maria’s path into acting
5:20 - Favorite Roles
8:00 - How living with a disability allowed her to carve out her unique career path
15:00 - Misconceptions & Stereotypes Surrounding Actors/Casting with Disabilities
20:00 - Fastest Talking New Yorker?
23:00 - What does compassion mean to Maria?
32:00 How important is community? And what does it mean to Maria?
Backlinks:http://www.voicebymaria.comhttp://www.disabledvoiceactors.comhttp://www.millennialvoiceover.com
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
Marianne A. Fray is the President and CEO of Maternity Care Coalition (MCC). Marianne leads the day-to-day affairs of MCC, a 42-year-old community-based nonprofit. MCC serves pregnant and postpartum women and parenting families, impacted by racial and social inequities, throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. MCC’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of our families while enhancing the school readiness of their children ages 0 to 3.
Speaking with Christy, Marianne discusses her journey, from her own personal challenges to her role in helping others in underserved communities. She also discusses how her work is so meaningful to her and how she aims to expand the Maternity Care Coalition to improve the lives of those in need.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro to Marianne
1:00 - Who is Marianne and how did she become the CEO of MCC?
7:10 - How MCC was created and what were the initial goals?
10:37 - What services are offered at MCC?
17:30 - How does MCC impact marginalized communities?
27:00 - What kind of advocacy does MCC do?
30:30 - What does compassion mean to Marianne, and what does it look like for her?
34:00 - How important is community to the families MCC serves?
43:00 - How can people find and support MCC?
Backlinks:https://maternitycarecoalition.org/
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
Maria Picone is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, USA Championship Rower, and, most importantly, a mother. After her daughter was born with a rare genetic disorder called Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), Maria and her husband committed to creating solutions for rare diseases so nobody felt the way they had hearing their daughter’s diagnosis. This inspired TREND Community, and today, she uses her platform as Founder and CEO of TREND to advocate for and bring hope to people living with rare, chronic, and emerging diseases.
Speaking with Christy, Maria dives into her personal journey before her daughter, and how everything changed when she received the news of her diagnosis. She discusses the importance of community and how her corporation aims to cultivate a sense of community for those who are in the same position as her family.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Maria’s Intro
1:30 - Maria’s experiences before Trend Community
3:00 - How did Trend Community come about?
5:11 - What is Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS)?
6:35 - How does Trend Community provide insights to researchers, families, and caregivers to advance treatments for rare diseases?
10:00 - What does the information captured go to, and how does that advance research and treatment?
16:40 - How does the trend’s technology hope to improve treatment for rare diseases?
19:40 - How important are advocacy and awareness in treating rare diseases? And what is the greatest value in cultivating stronger communities surrounding rare diseases?
26:00 - Why is it important for Trend Community to be a certified B-corporation?
28:00 - How does compassion play a role in furthering the mission of Trend, and what does it mean to Maria?
30:55 - Where can people go to get involved and support TREND Community?
Backlinks:
https://trend.community/
https://www.facebook.com/trendcommunity/
https://www.facebook.com/trendcommunity/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariapicone/
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
Sarah Greim is the executive director at The Timothy School. The Timothy School is the oldest nonprofit-approved private school in Pennsylvania devoted exclusively to teaching students with Autism. The Timothy School works to empower students with autism to achieve their greatest potential. Sarah started working for The Timothy School right after college and has been there for twenty-three years.
Sarah shares with Christy how she and her team are working to expand the reach of their mission and vision to increase community awareness, acceptance, and support for individuals with autism
Timestamps:
1:22 - Sarah’s intro
3:55 - How did The Timothy School start and what was their mission?
6:40 - How do you encourage students to practice skills?
12:35 - How does The Timothy School help to build awareness, acceptance and support?
16:40 - What makes the culture and community so special outside of the classroom?
18:40 - How does keeping staff for long periods help the students?
21:35 - What is your favorite story of an alumni of The Timothy School?
23:45 - What does compassion mean to you? How is it important to the autistic community?
28:30 - How can listeners help to support The Timothy School?
https://thetimothyschool.org/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-timothy-school/about/
https://www.instagram.com/thetimothyschool/
https://www.facebook.com/Timothyschool/
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
Fernando Ramirez founded Bridges 2030 to support underprivileged communities and the forcibly displaced. As a producer and developer of social impact documentaries to amplify the voices of disadvantaged communities and forcibly displaced citizens, Fernando Ramirez joins the podcast this week to share his personal experiences and how his organization is working to create a sense of urgency to cultivate compassion.
Specifically covering Ukraine, his experiences in disadvantaged communities, and his work alongside Christy, Fernando expands on his hopes to cultivate a sense of responsibility among all of us to help those in need.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Fernando’s Intro
1:30 - How Fernando started his nonprofit.
3:48 - What is Bridges 2030’s mission?
5:30 - How did moving from Colombia to the United States cultivate Fernando’s passion?
7:45 - What support does Bridges 2030 give to forcibly displaced families in the Philadelphia area, and back where they’re from?
11:00 - Supplying a generator in Ukraine.
12:55 - What programs does Bridges 2030 work on and provide?
18:20 - How does Fernando’s documentary inspire change?
22:38 - How do forcibly displaced people react and absorb the life-changing experiences they face?
27:10 - How important is aid and assistance for forcibly displaced people so they can cultivate their own, new sense of community?
32:07 - What are Fernando's future plans and stories on telling after Beyond the Statistics?
34:50 - How can people engage with Bridges2030 and start making an impact?
https://bridges2030.org/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/bridges-2030/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/framirezglobal/
https://www.instagram.com/bridges.2030?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
With over 15 years of career experience in people and business operations, leadership, and organizational development, Jessi Sheridan prioritizes partnerships that build community, foster engagement, and provide growth opportunities.
Jessi’s passion for women's leadership has led her to create Habituelle, a platform to amplify the voices of inspirational female leaders in Philadelphia, and Habituelle Life and Leadership Coaching, coaching services for ambitious women.
Timestamps:
1:30 - Christy discusses her connection with Jessi and Habituelle
2:07 - Jessi’s career path leading up to Habituelle
6:40 - How Habituelle was born
11:15 - The first year of Habituelle
16:30 - Conversations of fears and desires
23:00 - What is Habituelle Leadership
29:24 - The importance of owning our power
35:27 - Jessi’s advice on uncovering your potential
40:17 - What compassion means to Jessi
https://habituelleleadership.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/habituelle/
https://www.instagram.com/habituellecoaching/
https://www.instagram.com/_habituelle_/
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
Darrien Johnson is the Founder & CEO of The Community Curator, a social impact consulting firm created to support individuals, organizations, and businesses in establishing, expanding, and evaluating their philanthropic footprint throughout Philadelphia communities.
Starting social work at a young age, Darrien found her passion in helping others. She joins Christy this week to discuss the services and opportunities that the Community Curator provides to the people in the Philadelphia area.
Timestamps:
1:40 - Darrien’s story and introduction
3:48 - How did Darrien find her calling in social work?
6:12 - What does she do, and what programs is Darrien most passionate about?
8:00 - What curation experiences are offered by the Community Curator?
10:05 - What is the greatest value for nonprofit organizations when working with a consulting firm like the Community Curator?
12:05 - What opportunities are offered to get involved with the Community Curator?
14:00 - How do funds and investments aid the mission of the Community Curator?
18:00 - How important is community building, and how do they go about community building at the Community Curator?
20:20 - What does compassion mean to Darrien?
22:25 - How can people find, support, and learn more about the Community Curator?
https://www.thecommunitycurator.com/
Be The Good Media strives to elevate the GOOD - amplifying compassion-driven stories and encouraging the support of people and organizations who are focused on creating a lasting and positive impact. Christy McCaffrey is the owner, producer, and host of the podcast. She focuses on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who is working in their own unique way to make a difference in their communities and in society.
Paul Isenberg is a co-founder and CEO of Bringing Hope Home, a nonprofit organization that helps families in the Philadelphia area. As the leader of HOPE Nation, Paul is determined to make an impact in the lives of Families battling cancer. Every day he upholds his late wife Nicole’s vision of delivering Unexpected Amazingness to local Families with cancer through financial and emotional support. Through the Light of Hope Family Program, Bringing Hope Home offers one-time financial assistance to pay essential household bills for Families with cancer.
Timestamps:
1:30 - Nicole, Paul's late wife, story and how that experience helped you to start Bringing Hope Home?
6:00 - When did Bringing Hope Home start in relation to Nicole?
9:35 - What is unexpected amazingness and how is that support fulfilled?
14:03 - What is Hope Nation and how does it help families that are affected by cancer?
19:30 - What is the students Bringing Hope Home program? How can schools get involved?
23:38 - What are other programs people can support through donating or volunteering?
26:05 - How would you define compassion?
30:15 - What is the importance of community in relation to people fighting cancer?
35:10 - Where can people find more information about Bringing Hope Home?
BackLinks:
https://bringinghopehome.org/
https://www.instagram.com/BringingHopeHome/
https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Learned-Comprehensive-Passion-Driven-Nonprofit/dp/173442771X
Jessica K. Smith is the founder of Living Well With Epilepsy, a website and community that is intended to be a trusted resource to and reflective of the millions of people who are living with epilepsy.
In addition to Living Well With Epilepsy, Jessica is also the Executive Director of the American Society for Experimental Neurotherapeutics (ASENT). ASENT is an independent non-profit organization established in 1997 by leaders in academia, government, advocacy and industry to facilitate the process by which new therapies are made available to patients with neurological disorders. Its primary goal is to encourage and advance the development of improved therapies for diseases and disorders of the nervous system.
Jessica is here today to share more with us about her own personal journey with epilepsy and all the incredible good she is working to create for the epilepsy community.
To learn more please visit: https://livingwellwithepilepsy.com
Jenn Parrado is the Executive Director of an organization called Simon’s Heart.
The vision of this organization is a future in which parents and communities no longer lose children to detectable and treatable heart conditions. The mission of Simon’s Heart is to create and advance innovative and evidence-based programs, policies, and research that prevent sudden cardiac arrest and death in children, teens and young adults.
Jenn is here to share with us more about the importance of early detection screenings, life saving AED machines, and the amazing work that this organization is doing nation wide to bring attention to this very important cause!
Be sure to visit simoneheart.org to learn more
To make a donation please visit: https://simonsheart.org/donate_now/
Follow @simonsheart on Instagram!
Kahea Pacheco is the co-director of a nonprofit organization called Women’s Earth Alliance. Women’s Earth Alliance is on a mission to protect our environment, end the climate crisis, and ensure a just thriving world by empowering women’s leadership. WEA aims to elevate women leaders around the world who are protecting the earth and taking bold action against climate change.
WEA provides leadership, strategy, and technical training for women leaders to scale their climate and environmental initiatives while connecting them to a global alliance of peers, mentors and funders.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast, Kahea is here to share more with us about the incredible and empowering work this organization is doing and how we can all get more involved in making a lasting global impact for the good.
Learn more about Women's Earth Alliance @ https://womensearthalliance.org
To DONATE please visit: https://womensearthalliance.org/donate/
Be sure to follow @womensearthalliance
Anil Gupta is recognized worldwide as the Love Doctor, as he helps couples in rekindling their relationships and singles in finding the right partner.
After overcoming suicidal thoughts in 2008 Anil has gone on to inspire thousands of people with his methodologies and best selling book, "Immediate Happiness".
He has given relationship and mindset workshops in over 18 countries and has been invited to meet with leaders of countries, spiritual leaders (such as the Dalai Lama!) as well as celebrities, billionaires and athletes, such as Mike Tyson.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast, Anil is here to share with us not only his own personal journey of overcoming adversity but also to share valuable tips, tools and nuggets of wisdom that can help us all live our lives more fully and more joyfully.
Visit www.meetanil.com to learn more!
Visit www.chatwithanil.com to schedule a one on one call!
Michal Smith is the Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia. The mission of Cradles to Crayons is to provide children from birth through the age of 12 with the everyday essentials they need to thrive at home, at school and at play.
The overarching vision of Cradles to Crayons is a future free of childhood poverty. On this episode of Be The Good Podcast, Michal shares with us how her organization's “kids come first” values and culture have enabled C2C to energize a diverse and inclusive community of more than 75,000 volunteers while supporting more than one million children in need.
Visit https://www.cradlestocrayons.org/philadelphia/ to learn more and be sure to follow @:
Cradles to Crayons on Instagram
Cradles to Crayons on Facebook
Eric Williams Is the Founder of an organization called Project Elijah Empowering Autism (PEEA).
PEEA is a 501(c)3 organization established in 2004 and named after Eric’s son Elijah, now 24 years old, who at the age of 3 was diagnosed with autism. With no programs in his community serving autistic children or their families at that time, Eric created PEEA as a community resource and support system that he has now been leading for the past 18 years in Philadelphia.
Eric uses unique and innovative methodologies to offer diversity and inclusion experiences for the autistic children and their families and is a dedicated leader in his community. On this episode of Be The Good Podcast Eric is here to share with us his personal journey to create and expand PEEA and the powerful impact his organization is having on the autistic community that he serves.
Learn more about PPEA at: https://peea.org
Follow PEEA on IG: @peea98
Donate HERE
Monique Kelley is the CEO and Founder of Monique Kelley Consulting, LLC, Associate Professor of Strategic Communication and Faculty Advisor of The Public Relations Student Society of America at Boston University's College of Communication.
Monique is a purpose-driven, strategic communications professional and trusted advisor within the global pharmaceutical and biotech industries. She is an independent consultant and professor who draws from her recent experiences as a former senior leader in both corporate and agency settings.
Since 2020, Monique has served as a Boston Founding Member of CHIEF, an executive and C-suite-level community connecting and supporting women leaders. Additionally, leading industry publication PRNews awarded her with its "Top Women in PR" honor.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast, Monique is here to share with us how she has worked to bring about a focus of compassion and empathy with her work over the years in PR and patient advocacy, the value and fulfillment she has found as a professor at her alma mater B.U., and how she is working to champion for women of color in leadership roles.
Connect with Monique on LinkedIn
Learn more about the Nonprofit Organization Monique mentioned: NAMI
Donate to NAMI here.
Aric Steinberg is the Executive VP of Development and Artist Relations for an organization called The Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.
The Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides financial assistance to all types of career musicians and music industry workers who are struggling to make ends meet while facing physical or mental health issues, disability or age related problems.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast Aric shares with us the compassion driven work that this organization is doing and all the ways that donors can get involved to help support this incredible cause.
Be sure to visit https://www.sweetrelief.org to learn more, DONATE here.
and follow @sweetreliefmusiciansfund on Instagram.
Monica Packer is a recovering perfectionist, podcaster and progress coach. She is also the founder and facilitator of a community called About Progress.
About Progress is a community made up of people who want to work on their self-development AND self acceptance. Through her community, Monica guides women to grow into living with purpose and connecting to their greater potential.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast Monica shares with us her own personal journey away from perfectionism and into the practice of embracing the "mess of progress".
Be sure to follow @aboutprogress on Instagram and visit https://aboutprogress.com to learn more!
Steve Fletcher is the Director of Economic Development for an organization called Low Country Local First. Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Low Country Local First advances economic prosperity and local ownership through innovative and inclusive initiatives that build on the local community's wealth and wellbeing.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast Steve shares more about the value and benefits of supporting local businesses and the many ways that his organization is developing innovative models for sustainable and equitable local economies.
To learn more about Low County Local First please visit www.lowcountrylocalfirst.org
Kyra Knox is an award-winning impact producer and director. Her love and passion for the arts started at the age of six, when her journey began as a student at Freedom Theatre. Kyra understands the power of storytelling across mediums and her producing experience has taken her on shoots across the country, from commercial to corporate to documentary. Her social impact work has been recognized with two Silver Tellys Awards for "In The Know" with Verizon Media and she has also won a Gold Addy and Mosaic Award for her work with the Philadelphia Eagles producing a PSA to bring awareness to the gun violence in her city.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast Kyra is here to discuss her journey of becoming an impact producer and director and also to highlight her first feature length documentary film titled “Bad Things Happen In Philadelphia.”
To learn more about Kyra Knox visit www.kyraknox.com
Follow Kyra Knox on Instagram @kyraknox_
Follow along with her latest film "Bad Things Happen In Philadelphia"
And please be sure to learn more about (and support!) the nonprofits that Kyra mentions in her Be The Good interview:
Shoot Basketballs NOT People
Mothers in Charge
Joshua Santiago is the founder of an organization called Empowering Cuts. He is a returning guest to Be The Good Podcast and our first conversation “Humanizing The Homeless” is actually the most listened to episode of this podcast thus far.
It is not only the incredibly kind and generous work that Joshua is doing to uplift and compassionately support the homeless community, or the 108K followers who are tuned into his work via Instagram – that is so impressive, it is truly the level of heart and empathy that Joshua shows up with every single day, in everything that he does for the homeless community that has made the biggest impression on me. He is one of the most genuine people I have ever spoken to and the work he is doing is so powerful and inspiring.
It is a true pleasure and honor to have him back with us again for more inspiring conversation. Joshua is here to catch us up on all that has been going on for him via Empowering Cuts since we last spoke.
Follow @empoweringcuts_ on IG
DONATE
Taylor Kane is a 23 year old carrier of the X linked disease Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). Her father Jack was diagnosed with ALD when she was three years old, Jack’s condition quickly deteriorated, and he was completely bedridden for many months, unable to talk, walk or swallow, or understand much of what was going on around him. Sadly, Jack passed away when Taylor was just 5 years old.
Taylor became an advocate for ALD families at a very young age, helping to raise over $200,000 for ALD research. When she was in high school she, she lobbied the senate and assembly in her home state of New Jersey to introduce and pass a bill requiring the screening of newborns for ALD. She subsequently testified before both houses in support of the bill, and petitioned the governor to sign the bill into law, which he did in 2013.
Taylor went on to create an organization called Remember the Girls after learning that more than 50% of female ALD carriers go on to develop physical symptoms – sometimes severe ones – and that many other carriers of X-linked disorders are similarly affected. She soon realized that these female carriers, as a group, are often overlooked by the medical community, omitted from clinical trials and have little peer or other support.
Taylor is here to share with us more about her ongoing mission with Remember The Girls and all the good she is doing to advocate for a cause and a community that is so personal to her.
Learn more about Taylor Kane at TaylorKane.com
Learn more about Remember The Girls HERE
Follow Taylor on IG @rarelikeher
Follow Remember The Girls on IG @rememberthegirls
Follow @rarelikeusbook
Purchase "Rare Like Us", Taylor's Memoir
Pat House is a nationally touring comedian based out of Philadelphia.
For Pat, everyday life seems to be a great source of material. Spending years bartending and interacting with strangers, Pat says he was constantly intrigued, amazed and extremely annoyed at the ridiculous things people say and do in public.
A regular performer in comedy clubs, casinos, and theatres all over the country he has been a choice opener for Sebastian Maniscalco, Tom Segura and Dan Cummins. Pat has performed at Funny or Die’s Oddball Festival, has been featured by the Metro and Philly Weekly. He recorded his first album Biggest Thing in 2013 and has since recorded 2 more albums - all of which are available on iTunes and Amazon.
Pat also just so happens to be a former high school classmate of mine who over the years has become a very good friend. Pat and I chat regularly about our creative pursuits in podcasting and writing and I have come to deeply admire his ability to bring so much goodness into the world with his humor.
Pat is here to share more with us about his comedic journey over the years, his podcast, his intent and hope for the value that his comedy will bring into the world and of course some good energy and laughs!
Learn more about Pat House, his comedy and his tour dates HERE
Follow Pat on IG - @bohemianpatsody
As the host of Podcast Therapy, and The Women’s Empowerment Director for an organization called YWCA in the Greater Green Bay area - Suzanne Wittman aims to empower and lift the voices of all women – especially women of color.
As an intersectional feminist and immigrant herself, Suzanne supports the efforts of BIPOC communities and is an LGBTQ+ ally. She is a founding member of The Northeast Wisconsin Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Professionals group and was named one of Wisconsin’s 34 most influential Asian American Leaders in 2021.
Suzanne is here to share more about her work with the YWCA as well as her journey to create her podcast, Podcast Therapy With Suzanne Wittman.
Listen to Podcast Therapy With Suzanne Wittman!
Learn more about YWCA Greater Green Bay
At the age of 12 months, Daniel DeFabio’s first child Lucas was diagnosed with a rare disease called Menkes Syndrome. After adjusting his expectations of what raising a child might look like Daniel began to tell Lucas’ story with a short documentary. That film led Daniel to co-found DISORDER: The Rare Disease Film Festival and later The Disorder Channel, both which are dedicated to spreading awareness for patient families facing any of the more than 7,000 rare diseases.
One of Daniel’s stories about Lucas won the 2015 Rare Patient Story Award from Global Genes. His award winning 12 minute documentary on Menkes Syndrome is narrated by Oscar nominee Mary McDonnell. In 2008 he founded that Ballston Spa Film Festival. He was a pioneer of original content online (now called web series) and co-wrote and co-produced the internet’s first animated series.
He has created videos and marketing materials for American Cinematographer, PBS, RightRace, bio-techs. Hospitals, most major movie studios, TNT’s “The Closer” and HBOs “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, among others. Daniel currently works as Global Gene’s Director of Community Engagement.
Daniel is here to today to share his powerful personal story.
The Disorder Channel
DISORDER: The Rare Disease Film Festival
Follow @disorderrarediseasefilms on Instagram!
As an entrepreneurial mother of 3, Robiar Smith was inspired to blaze the trail for women of color in a lucrative yet male-dominated industry. Combining her passion and advocacy for public health beginning in the home with her innate resourceful mentality, Smith launched the most successful Black woman-owned extermination company, R.B Pest Solutions.
Beyond her company, as a visionary and mentor that desires to leave a legacy, through her example and advocacy, Robiar has been able to inspire women throughout underserved communities like Southside Chicago to create new and innovative opportunities for them and their families.
Robiar is a former Woman in Tech and University business Professor who is continuing to break barriers now in a multi-million dollar male dominated industry. She is here to share with us how she has used her own trials to propel her forward and how legacy is not just what you do, it’s what you do for others who are following behind you.
Learn more: R.B. Pest Solutions
Follow: R.B. Pest Solutions on Instagram
Mary Alice Monroe is the New York Times bestselling author of 27 books, including her latest instant best seller “The Summer Of Lost and Found”.
Nearly 8 million copies of her books have been published worldwide, and she’s earned numerous accolades and awards. Including induction into the South Carolina Academy of Author’s Hall of Fame.
Through her novels and the research and volunteer work she immerses herself in prior to writing, Mary Alice Monroe works to champion the fragility of the earth’s wild habitat. The coastal southern landscape, in particular, has become a strong and important focus of many of her novels.
Sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, monarch butterflies, and shorebirds are among the species she has worked with and woven into her novels. Monroe is an active conservationist and volunteer serving on several boards working to protect wildlife.
Mary Alice is here to share with us more about her inspiring passion for the work that she does and the impact she hopes to make through her writing.
Learn more about Mary Alice Monroe
Purchase her books
Check out Mary Alice's upcoming events
Follow @Maryalicemonroe on Instagram
Michael Holt is the founder of Savage and Saint Consultancy. He is a guide in vitality and consciousness to some of the most elite performers in the world. His extensive background in meditation, martial arts, western psychology, health and wellness, and exercise science combine to form a unique mind-body teaching method that is trusted by executives, founders, athletes, artists, and entertainers committed to excellence in all areas of their lives.
He resides in Venice, California, where he devotes his time outside of his private practice and group facilitation to meditation, martial arts and wellness study, writing, and shamanic training.
He is a longtime friend of mine from high school who has an absolute heart of gold, an outside the box type of mentality that I truly admire, and a genuine passion for helping others. He’s here to share with us more about his own personal growth journey and all the ways he is working to support others through his unique teaching methods.
Learn more about Michael, his work, and his services HERE
Follow Savage and Saint on Instagram
Tarik Kitson is a health care administrator at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and President/ Co-Founder of Active Plus. Tarik has been working in the health care arena since 2014. He obtained his Bachelors of Art from SUNY Geneseo and Masters of Public Health from Columbia University.
Tarik was a four-year collegiate basketball star while also receiving educational accolades and community activism awards. In 2013 Tarik co-founded Active Plus after learning about the lack of resources available while volunteering at a school in East Harlem. Tarik is here to share with us how his intense dedication to end the obesity epidemic fueled his drive to fight for his community and all the powerful work he is doing now with his Active Plus programs.
Learn More About Active Plus
Follow Active Plus on Instagram
DONATE
Dr. Hava Rose says that ‘The journey to a higher quality of life does not stop with physical self-care. It takes a cumulation of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual healing to create that higher vibration daily.” Hava learned this after years of “perfecting” her physical care through exercise, diet and preventative physical measure such as chiropractic work. But when she hit a pivotal point in her life where she was left with nothing but those physical assets, she realized there was much greater work that had to be done in order to sustain a high quality of life.
This is when the inner work began for Hava, she began reading empowering books, writing her every thought and allowing space to feel emotions and watch them evolve. She realized how vital this process was and how so many people never get a chance to do this for themselves. Hava knew that in order to create a better world to live in, more individuals need to create a better internal environment.
She has taken her patient and human care to the next level by infusing all her own life lessons and assisting others in navigating their own. Through her physical chiropractic work, her nourishing meals made from love, her listening ear, her guided journal workshops and community The Write Echo and her thought-provoking words, she is able to reach deeper healing levels in those that surround her. Hava prides herself in being a light of reflection to others who are stuck in their own tunnel. She hopes to leave this world just a little brighter and with a whole lot more love for self, others and Mother Earth. She is here to share a wealth of wisdom and self-care tips with us.
Learn more about Dr. Hava Rose
Follow hava.rose on Instagram
More info on Write Echo Workshops
Carlos Aponte is the Founder, Executive Director and Lead Instructor of a non profit called We Love Philly. We Love Philly is a program designed by Carlos that teaches volunteerism, entrepreneurship, mindfulness, and content creation to youth left behind by mainstream institutions.
We Love Philly teaches students how to navigate complex emotional stressors, equips them with essential life skills, arranges volunteer experiences to promote community, connects students with local entrepreneurs and business owners to gain expertise and lastly helps students to create their own brand.
Carlos is here to tell us more about the incredible work he is doing for the youth here in Philly and about the impact they are working to make together.
Learn more about We Love Philly
Follow We Love Philly on Instagram
Angela Monaco is the owner of a charming and ethical boutique jewelry store in Philadelphia, Angela Monaco Jewelry. Angela designs and produces everything locally on Philadelphia’s historic Jeweler’s Row and uses ethically sourced gem stones.
Angela says that her company sees sustainability as a holistic and authentic strategy woven into the core of the brand – "a continuous journey of learning and celebrating the collective beauty of what we do and who we are." The intentionality and care that Angela takes in every step of her business is evident in all that she produces, from her beautiful website, gorgeous storefront and most especially her timeless & beautiful designs.
Angela is here to share more with us about her authentic approach to a local, sustainable, and ethical business model and her genuine, passion driven, approach to creating more good in the world.
Visit AngelaMonacoJewelry to learn more!
Follow on Instagram
Donate to her GoFund Me
When she was 37 years old, Tiffany Job – a wife, mom, and nurse was blindsided by her diagnosis with advanced non small cell lung cancer. Statistically this prognosis is grim, but Tiffany says that over the past year she has responded well to molecular targeted therapy, a relatively new field of treatment that is typically more effective than chemo and provides a much better quality of life.
Soon after her diagnosis Tiffany says she told her husband Nick that she refused to leave this world without making an impact. Since then, having learned more about the magnitude of cancer’s reach, a disease that takes nearly 10 million lives per year, Tiffany says that despite massive progress in recent years, there is still much more that can be done.
In response, Tiffany and Nick created a non profit called Ten For Ten Million which seeks to promote recurring donations in the fixed amount of $10 per month for the 10 million people who pass from cancer each year. Tiffany and her husband Nick are here to tell us more about their amazing mission and their goals to support the vitally important research being done at The MD Anderson Cancer Center.
DONATE $10 per month! ----> TenForTenMillion.org
Learn More
Follow on IG!
Hakeem Ruiz is the Vice President of an organization called The Block Gives Back. The Block Gives back is a non profit organization that aims to promote community involvement and engagement by targeting issues within the community and devising a plan to recruit local volunteers, businesses, organizations and community leaders to help in working towards a solution.
Created by a group of friends from high school, this organization is showing up for communities all over the city of Philadelphia in a big way to give back and promote community involvement and support. Their mission has caught the attention of The Rachel Ray Show and other major media outlets, as well as a guest appearance and support from comedian Kevin Hart who came to town to collaborate with The Block Gives Back and support the block he grew up on here in Philly.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast, Hakeem is here to share with us the incredible work this organization is doing and all the ways that you can get involved and support this amazing mission.
To DONATE
To learn more
Follow The Block Gives Back on Instagram
Julie Andersen is the CEO of a global organization called Plastic Oceans International. This non profit organization’s goal is to end plastic pollution and to foster sustainable communities worldwide. They operate on the belief that we can and must act locally in order to create change globally.
Julie’s career has focused on communicating new means to improve and safeguard human health and the environment from the negative effects of industrial development. She has worked in public health and non profit management internationally for the past 15 years, including the U.S., Japan, Hong Kong and Thailand. Julie’s Plastic Oceans work combines her career protecting human and environmental health, life sciences, education and love for the ocean.
Julie is here today to tell us more about how this international organization came about and all the incredible work they are doing to make an impact.
Donate
Learn More
Social Media
Brad Kaplan is the Director of Development for an organization called The Richmond Cycling Corps. The mission of The Richmond Cycling Corps is to educate and empower the lives of Richmond youth living in the heart of the East End of Richmond, with a purpose to change the lives of youth who are living there in the public housing projects.
What starts on a bike does not end with a race or a ride. This organization aims to develop the whole person as they work with the youth they serve. They say that cycling is their platform for change. They laugh, they teach, they learn and they have a passion for being a positive impact on the kids in the heart of public housing. Brad is here today to tell us more about the incredible work this organization is doing and all that they hope to achieve.
Donate
More Info
Social Media
Jessica Patay is the founder and President of a nonprofit organization called We Are Brave Together. We Are Brave Together is an organization that provides community and mentoring for mothers caring for children of any age with disabilities, special needs, or other medical or mental health challenges.
As a mom of a child with special needs herself, Jessica knows first-hand just how necessary and powerful it is to know that you are not alone. This passion carries over as she gathers women to encourage them, mentor them, inspire them and validate their intense and precious journeys.
Jessica is here to share with us her own journey to create this organization and the powerfully positive support she is working to offer all those who gather in this community.
Donate
Instagram
Podcast
More Info
Dr. Sheena C. Howard is a Professor of Communications. She is an award winning author, filmmaker, and scholar. In 2014, Sheena became the first black woman to win an Eisner Award for her first book, “Black Comics: Politics of Race and Representation”. She is also the author of several critically acclaimed books and comic books on a range of different topics.
Sheena is a writer and image activist, with a passion for telling stories, through various mediums, that encourage audiences to consider narratives that are different than their own.
In 2014, Sheena published Black Queer Identity Matrix and Critical Articulations of Race, Gender and Sexual Orientation. Sheena is the author/editor of the award winning book “Encyclopedia of Black Comics and the co-writer of the comic book “Superb” about a teenage superhero with down syndrome.
In 2016, through her company Nerdworks, Sheena directed, produced and wrote the documentary “Remixing Colorblind” which explores the ways the educational system shapes our perception of race and “others”.
On this episode of Be The Good Podcast Sheena shares her inspiring story from collegiate athlete, through her PhD and now as a professor, author, producer and Ted X Speaker on a mission to highlight social justice, diversity, representation and self empowerment.
Learn more about Sheena and her work at SheenaCHoward.com
Watch her TedX Talk: 3 Self Empowerment Truths That Will Set You Free
Purchase the author's books here.
Watch her documentary "Remixing Color Blind"
Jillian Morris is a marine biologist, shark conservationist, founder and president of the nonprofit Sharks4Kids, author to 2 children’s books, professional videographer and photographer, mom, wife, and avid diver.
She has filmed for numerous television shows and networks, has appeared on Shark Week, and is a PADI Ambassadiver. She was named Scuba Diving Magazine’s July 2016 Sea Hero, awarded the inaugural Shark Con Shark Hero award in 2017 and was the Go Blue Awards 2020 Blue Ambassador of The Year. She is also a member of the prestigious Ocean Artists Society.
This interview was so exciting for me, Jillian’s work is incredibly fascinating and she is here to share with us how her childhood passion carried through into a career and passion driven mission to make an impact. This episode is full of goodness and truly inspiring.
Donate
Learn More
YouTube Channel
Social Media:
IG
Jillian IG
Facebook
Legend and Amanda Tarver are the founders of 300 Letters, an organization focused on creating and maintaining the bond between recently released parents from incarceration and their children. The organization aims to provide support and resources for families as they recover and work to create stability after incarceration.
Amanda and Legend were incarcerated together during the most challenging time in their lives. Leaving behind their oldest son Dorian and soon thereafter learning that a new baby was on the way, just one month into Amanda’s incarceration. A family forcefully split and getting larger fueled this young couple to ensure that they stick together through the letters that they wrote.
The aftermath of their experience has inspired a passion driven mission in them both to help support families who are working through a similarly challenging circumstance. This interview is incredibly eye opening, informative, emotionally raw and inspiring. Legend and Amanda share with us their story and their mission to make an impact.
Donate
Learn More
Follow on Instagram
Sebastian Martin is a social entrepreneur and educator based in NYC. In 2013 he founded Cambio Coffee, an organic social enterprise company that operated in Shanghai for 5 years. Sebastian then moved to NYC in 2018 to run the Social Innovation Program at Avenues: The World School. He has now recently launched Cambio Labs, a non profit venture that creates educational apps and programs that transform students into social entrepreneurs, designers for impact, and community activists. Sebastian is here to tell us more about the inspiring and transformative work he is doing.
Cambio Labs
Instagram
www.ChristyMcCaffrey.com/podcast
Photo Start is a non profit team of photographers, artists and teachers providing opportunities for impoverished youth who might otherwise get left behind. At Photo Start they believe that talent is universal, opportunity is not and they are on a mission to change that. The Photo Start Program offers problem based, social emotional learning that leverages digital media arts, starting with photography.
Today we have with us Photo Start’s Director of Development and Partnerships Abby Lehman as well as Jeri Murchura, Photo Start’s Kenya Program Coordinator. Abby and Jeri are here to give us a more in depth look at the powerful work this organization is doing to make a difference in the lives of children in distressed areas.
Learn more about Photo Start HERE.
Donate
Follow on Instagram!
Kevin Shah is on a mission to make empathy a habit for all so that people understand one another. He is the co-founder and CEO of a company called Jaago. Jaago is primarily designed for HR and DEI leaders to enable their employees to build more empathy, but it is also an incredible tool that Kevin encourages us all to utilize as we work to strengthen our own empathy muscles. It is a mobile platform that makes empathy building a daily habit by creating spaces to watch, reflect, and measurably grow using crowdsourced short stories that facilitate understanding new perspectives.
Kevin is here to tell us more about how we can all work to harness the superpower of empathy!
To learn more and connect:
Jaago.life
Instagram
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit christymccaffrey.com/about
Christa Mantey is a mind, body, spirit wellness coach, she is a conscious parent and partner facilitator and a lactation educator as well. With years of experience in nutrition and wellness Christa added post partum and couples support to her work after walking the path of her own unique experience with childbirth and parenthood and she brings an incredibly inspiring perspective and light to the conversation of all things wellness.
Christa is here today to share more with us about her journey and the beautiful work she is doing to support others.
To connect and learn more follow @christamantey !
Evan LaRuffa is a creative problem solver and the founder of an organization called I Paint My Mind. I Paint My Mind is a non profit organization made up of curators, organizers and advocates for the arts. By working with local artists, partnering with companies that care, and providing arts resources to underserved communities, I Paint My Mind works to make the world a more connected and creative place.
Evan is here to tell us more about this creative driven mission to do good and foster more connections.
I Paint My Mind Website
Instagram
DONATE
Ray Nell Jones is a female empowerment speaker, activist and the founder of an organization called the Allignment Chapter. Ray Nell has been featured on The Ellen Show, Brawny initiative and the Top 50 smart Biz.
Ray Nell and her organization work to help low income single mothers throughout the United States. Ray Nell and her team work to provide the basic necessities needed to wash their children, brush their teeth and properly clean their clothes.
Inspired by her own challenging circumstances as a single mom since the age of 19, Ray Nell has gone on to create a movement to support thousands of other women and families. She is here today to share more with us about her story and the very important work she is doing.
To learn more about/connect with The Allignment Chapter please visit to following links:
Website
Donate
Instagram
Maxwell Poth is the founder of an organization called Project Contrast.
Project Contrast is a non profit organization created to help share the stories of, and give a voice to, LGBTQ+ youth across the country. In addition to raising awareness and lowering the amount of suicides among LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S., Project Contrast aims to create a platform for these youth to become advocates for each other and in their own communities.
Maxwell is here to help educate and explain further the incredible mission he and his team are on.
To connect with and learn more about Maxwell and Project Contrast:
Project Contrast Website
Instagram
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit www.ChristyMcCaffrey.com/about
Wendy Shew is the founder of a for-purpose organization, "Building Education", that serves to alleviate poverty in developing countries by inspiring, educating and empowering.
In collaborating with the government, partner organizations and local schools The Building Education Organization aims to transform rural villages into prosperous, dignified communities.
Building Education is a 501c3 organization that provides funding for education to children of developing countries in an effort to end poverty as well.
The vision is to "transform the lives that touch these projects, changing the way that we see ourselves in the world, creating leaders in the community and developing villages by uplifting the lives of others."
Wendy is here to tell us more about her own journey to this powerful and inspiring work and all that she hopes to achieve going forward.
Donate
Learn More
Follow on Social Media:
Building Education on Instagram
Wendy Shew on Instagram
Kevin Stickelman is the CEO of the National Ability Center, a non profit organization that is a leader in adaptive recreation, offering outdoor adventures that cater to those with a different ability or disability and programs designed with inclusion as a first priority.
The NAC rallies around the belief that our differences make us stronger and that recreating together can change our world. By including family and friends in their programming, the NAC strives to reinforce relationships and build support systems that exist beyond the initial program experience.
Kevin is here to share with us more about this amazing program and all the good that they are doing.
Donate
Learn More
Follow on Social Media
NAC on Instagram
Alex West is the founder of an organization called One More Wave. The mission at One More Wave is to provide wounded or injured veterans with customized surfboards, wet suits, stand up paddle boards and body surfing hand planes customized to their injuries.
At One More Wave it is their belief that ocean therapy will not only improve the lives of our veterans but also impact the veteran suicide rate of 22 a day.
Alex is here to tell us more about this incredible organization and all the amazing work they are doing.
Donate
Learn More
Follow on Social Media:
One More Wave on Instagram
Greg Cohen is one of the most inspiring people I know. I have known Greg for about 2 years now as we have worked together on several projects for my non profit Project Scleroderma. Greg suffers from the autoimmune disease, Scleroderma, which is a disease I lost my own mom to 11 years ago.
Scleroderma literally means “hard skin”, it causes a hardening of the connective tissue. Although the skin hardening is a major issue for many patients, scleroderma can also affect internal organs with life threatening consequences. This disease affects each patient differently but can be very debilitating. Which is why what Greg is doing is incredible. He is running marathons to raise awareness for the cause and to support scleroderma research. He has become an incredible example of strength and hope for all who suffer from this disease and he is here to talk with us today about a year long documentary project we have been working on together.
Greg is working tirelessly to not only to raise awareness but also to encourage support of the life saving research that is being done. Please take some time to learn more about Greg's fundraiser here.
And if you are able to, please considering making a donation to help Greg reach his fundraising goal! Donate here. Thank you!
Follow Greg on Instagram
Follow Greg on Facebook
Laurel Sims is the co-founder and CEO of a non profit called Urban Growers Collective. Rooted in growing food, the Urban Growers Collective works to cultivate nourishing environments which support health, economic development, healing and creativity through urban agriculture. The Urban Growers Collective currently has eight urban farms that operate on 11 acres of land, predominantly located on Chicago’s south side.
The organization also focuses on job readiness, training hundreds of teens, difficult to employ adults, and new farmers in the art of growing. Laurell is here to tell us more about the programs offered by The Urban Growers Collective and all the amazing work they are doing on the South Side of Chicago. The heart and mission of this non profit is guided by the incredible compassionate focus of Laurel and her team and with the intention to deliver more GOOD to this world. This organization is doing really inspiring work!
Learn more!
Make A Donation
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit: www.ChristyMcCaffrey.com
Robert Thornton is the founder of an organization called Cloud Covered Streets. Robert is on a mission to bring hope, compassion, kindness and needed supplies to those experiencing homelessness in the Phoenix, Arizona area.
Robert and his team work to provide new shirts, socks, toiletries and letters of encouragement to those in need. And they recently hit the streets with a brand new mobile trailer that provides showers, laundry services, haircuts and many other services to those experiencing homelessness.
Robert’s passionate, heart driven work is amazing and he is here to share more with us about what inspired him to create this organization and all that he hopes to achieve going forward.
Donate
Learn More
Follow on Social Media:
Cloud Covered Streets on Instagram
Destini McAlister is an author, wife, and mother of 3. She has a passion for advocating for vulnerable youth and adoptees. One of the ways she has recently accomplished this is by publishing her childhood memoir, “Set Free”, which outlines her turbulent childhood and shows readers what children from trauma need in order to become thriving adults.
Born into a family saturated with generational trauma, Destini’s case file with child protective services began when she was only 7 months old. In her own words and unique perspective Destini shares her vivid and detailed memories of her experience navigating child abuse, kinship care, foster care and finding a future despite the broken pieces of her past. Through all the secrets, confusion, twists and turns of her complex childhood, Destini’s story is one of hope for trauma survivors and she is here to share with us her story and her message of hope.
Learn more about Destini and her memoir "Set Free"
Purchase "Set Free"
Follow on Social Media:
Destini McAlister
Prince Brathwaite is the founder and owner of Trooper Fitness, based in Manhattan and currently offering Virtual Group Strength and HIIT Classes. He is not only a highly motivational coach to his clients and team but he’s also a very inspirational and empathetic person who encourages a “Stronger Together” type of mindset. He is someone who has dedicated his life’s work to building others up and unifying people in his own unique way.
I first learned of Prince when a friend of mine shared a video he had posted during the weeks that followed George Floyd’s death. I was so moved by his focus on empathy and his desire to bring people together.
Prince is here to tell us a little bit about his work with Trooper Fitness but also to dive deeper into our current state of racial tension, speaking specifically to how he feels we can be stronger together. He is a highly inspirational and motivational guy with a great message!
Trooper Fitness
Follow on Social Media:
Trooper Fitness Instagram
Prince Brathwaite
Valeria Kechichian is the co-founder and CEO of Longboard Girls Crew, an organization that put female long boarding on the map. In the beginning, Valeria and her crew successfully got some international media attention and started not only gaining recognition for women but achieving a bigger goal: getting thousands of women around the world into the sport and breaking social stereotypes while doing so.
Eight years later, Longboard Girls Crew has grown into the biggest community in the action sports industry and one of the biggest female communities in the world, acknowledged in more than 180 countries with official crews and ambassadors in more than 60.
Valeria is an Argentinian born bad ass who now travels the globe working relentlessly to support and promote women through action sports – reinforcing the female role in the industry and in society in general, changing the existing perception of women and more importantly their perception of themselves.
This conversation is full of empowerment and inspiration!
Donate
Learn More
Follow on Social Media:
Longboard Girls Crew
Longboard Women
Valeria Kechichian
Ryan Carroll is a Sayville, New York local and the CEO of Carroll’s Kitchen, a grass roots non profit charity. Ryan lost his job as a chef in NYC due to the closures of restaurants from Covid 19. Instead of staying home, Ryan sprung into action and assembled a team of over 30 of the best hospitality workers to help people across Long Island in a safe and organized manner. Ryan and his team have fed over 19,000 people in need since March of 2020. From front line workers, veterans, the elderly, children, police departments, fire departments and shelters.
Ryan and his team are not just donating meals they are also saving small businesses as well. Ryan is running the kitchen at Bistro25 East in Blue Point and donating a portion of the profits to different charities. He has worked with over 20 restaurants on the south shore of Long Island to help people during these difficult times.
Ryan is here with us to share more about the incredible and inspiring work he is doing!
Make A Donation
Learn More
Follow on Social:
Carroll's Kitchen
Chef Ryan Carroll
You may remember Karen (formerly Millsap, now Karen Allen), as she was the very first guest on this podcast! Karen gave us a major dose of inspiration in our first interview and that is exactly why I wanted to bring her back to help us kick off Season 3.
Karen is a resilience and mindset expert, motivational speaker, mom and author. As a growth and mindset speaker and coach, Karen is here to teach us how to pull ourselves out of unhealthy cycles to help us conquer both our personal and professional goals.
After tragically losing her husband Richard, Karen has turned her pain into purpose and is doing endless amounts of good as she helps so many others to reframe their mindsets.
Being that we are all living in a rather chaotic and stressful time right now, I know that Karen can help us reframe our own mindsets and give us the tools we need to try to stay focused on the positive while navigating all the stressors we are experiencing right now.
Karen is here to help us move from hopelessness and overwhelming stress towards a more positive and balanced way of living and she says it all starts with a mindset shift.
Get ready for a motivation and inspiration packed episode that will help give you all the tools you need to shift from stress to ease!
Pre Order "Stop and Shift"!
KarenAllen.co
Digital Detox
Big Life Journal
Jim Murray is the Co-Founder of the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House.
Born in West Philadelphia, he is a 1960 alumni of Villanova University. In 1969, Jim joined the Philadelphia Eagles’ public relations staff. Five years later, he was named general manager for the Eagles where he served for nine years and took the franchise to the first Super Bowl appearance against the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XV.
During his 14 years with the Eagles, Jim distinguished himself as a leader in a number of projects that served the community. In addition to co-founding the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, he helped start the Eagles Fly for Leukemia campaign. He also persuaded many of his peers in the NFL to become involved in the unique Ronald McDonald House concept across the country.
The Ronald McDonald House® programs provide temporary lodging, transportation, meals, and social services to families who travel to Philadelphia for pediatric care.
Jim joins me on this episode of Be The Good to discuss the flagship Ronald McDonald House here in Philadelphia as it works to support families of seriously ill children, creating a community of comfort and hope.
To learn more about The Ronald McDonald House Programs or to donate please visit: https://www.rmhc.org
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit: https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Steve Selfridge is a saxophonist, jazz musician, music teacher, and school band director in the Philadelphia area.
Steve is an active performer in various musical ensembles and venues in the greater Philadelphia area. In 2011, he performed at Carnegie Hall in NYC, as a featured soloist on stage with rock legend Steven Van Zandt and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Darlene Love. In his career, Steve has had the honor to share the stage with many music greats in both performance and educational settings.
Aside from performing, Steve maintains a deep commitment to teaching music and promoting music education in our schools and communities. He has been a band director in the Garnet Valley School District since 2001.
Steve is a graduate of Temple University and Rowan University, and most recently acquired his doctorate in Music Education from Temple University as well.
Steve also hosts his own YouTube Channel, “Dr. Selfridge Music” where he teaches students basic skills of all instruments. Once a week Steve hosts a live class, often teaching popular songs the kids are excited to learn. Steve currently has over 223,000 subscribers!
On this episode of "Be The Good" Steve shares with us his own journey into music, how his passion has grown and changed over the years and ultimately what he hopes to achieve with his work as an educator.
Steve's Website: https://www.drselfridgemusic.com
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/MrSelfridge
Instagram: @drselfridge
For more information about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit: https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Candi Bryan has a passion for women’s ministry. She has facilitated a national prayer group for 10 years that grew to become a non profit called RENEW. It stands for reaching every need for every woman.
In 2016, Candi was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. Following chemo, double mastectomy, radiation and reconstruction Candi turned the process into purpose by hosting and producing her own show called “Good Morning Ladies”, an inspirational podcast for women. She also just released her first women’s devotional called “PEACE AND HOPE in the midst of Cancer”.
In 2019 Candi stepped out of her comfort zone to compete in Ms. Corporate America and won 1st place. She has spent 18 successful years in corporate America with the same company, in sales and project management. And she says that the pageant has given her a platform to make an impact in the community.
She is co-founder of The Warriors Brunch, a breast cancer survivor event, a business coach at UCF and a women’s breast health advocate and speaker.
For more information about Candi and her work please visit: https://www.candibryan.com
To learn more about host, Christy Mccaffrey, please visit https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Lou Harris is the founder of the Rockaway NY Chapter of the Black Surfers Association. Lou says his program is for any kid in the rockaway area who wants to swim and surf but might not have the opportunity or means to do so.
The mission of the BSA of Rockaway is to “make a positive impact on the surrounding community by bringing everyone together as one and by empowering the youth in a positive way while being active.” The lessons, which are free, are open to any child ages 4 to 16. In addition to surf lessons Lou has expanded his programs to skateboarding and cooking lessons as well. He draws support from the major skateboarding brand Vans, who are eager to help support Lou’s mission. Vans regularly donates boxes of shoes which Lou gives out to his BSA kids and the homeless in his community.
Lou’s heart and passion for his community is truly contagious. On this episode of Be The Good, Lou shares with us what inspired him to do this work and how he hopes to expand his mission going forward.
Follow Lou and his work with the BSA on Instagram @black_surfing_rockaway
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit: https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Colleen Echohawk is the founder of the Coalition to End Urban Native Homelessness and the director of an organization called Native Works which aims to better Seattle’s homeless Native American community. By crafting authentic artwork and in partnership with it’s parent organization, The Chief Seattle Club, Native Works aims to honor Native tradition while fostering a healthier native future.
Named as one of Seattle’s most influential people by Seattle Magazine in 2019 and one of Seattle Met Magazine’s 50 most influential women in 2018, Colleen Echohawk is the recipient of multiple public service awards for her leadership and dedication to homeless advocacy.
In this interview Colleen shares with us what drives her passion for this work and all the ways that her organization is working to support the native homeless community.
To learn more about Native Works please visit: https://nativeworkscsc.org
To learn more about The Chief Seattle Club please visit: https://www.chiefseattleclub.org
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit: https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Gabriel Moreno is the founder of an organization called Game Changers Idaho. Before Game Changers was officially a non profit, it started as a small adaptive flag football program that offered an opportunity for kids with and without disabilities to play together. Since that time Game Changers has grown into offering a variety of sports, reaching more and more kids each season.
Of his program Gabriel says, “ We believe that every child, regardless of ability, should have every opportunity to play sports to their fullest potential. We want to be another source in the community where our participants are able to create friendships, to be included into team sports and to show what they are truly capable of doing. While playing sports we are also teaching kids of all abilities what it truly means to help another. We are able to teach everyone patience, empathy, and how to be leaders on and off the field. The first step is by being a genuine human being.”
Gabriel’s organization stands as a great example to us all of the impact we can make in our own communities and as a reminder of the importance of modeling inclusivity, kindness and empathy for our youth.
To learn more about Gabriel and Game Changers Idaho please visit: https://www.gamechangersidaho.com
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit: https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Monique Minahan is a San Diego based yoga teacher explaining and exploring grief in the body. She is also the author of a book called “The Grief Practice – Stories of Surviving Loss, and Practices For Supporting Loss”.
In her mid-twenties Monique suddenly lost her husband Nathan due to a complication with one of his chemotherapy drugs. Monique says of this loss, “With a long history of major depression, no embodied resources, and living in a society that stigmatized grief, I dropped into a deep and dark crevasse of isolation and complicated grief for many years.”
But now almost 18 years later, after exploring her own grief and discovering many useful healing practices, Monique says her work is focused on creating supportive containers for people to move with and through all kinds of loss safely. Whether it be through her yoga workshops, or her writing and poems, Monique offers support to those who are experiencing the same challenging emotions she faced with the loss of her husband.
To learn more about Monique and The Grief Practice please visit: https://www.thegriefpractice.com
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit: https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Ryan Williams Jenkins is a former Navy Football player, who graduated from The United States Naval Academy in 2015. Ryan currently works in player engagement and scouting in the NFL for the New York Giants and is the founder of the INAM initiative, which stand for “Its Not About Me”. The goal of the INAM initiative is to use athlete’s platforms to create change in underprivileged communities.
Having been a collegiate athlete himself, Ryan says that it was only after taking a step back from this role that he was able to truly see the influence he and his team members had and how much opportunity there is for athlete’s with a platform to do good and give back. Ryan is here to share with us today what inspired him to create this initiative and what his goals are moving forward with this mission.
To learn more about INAM please visit: https://www.inaminitiative.org/
To support INAM's ongoing efforts please visit: https://www.inaminitiative.org/takeaction
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit: https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Elementary School teacher Jenn Welby Gilbert wants her students to know that they are never too young to make a difference and that they have the ability to change the world. Since 2008, her students have done exactly that through their inspiring and service- oriented “Charity Project”, raising more than $60,000 for a variety of important causes and initiatives.
Students in Jenn’s class learn about various aspects of community and how people work together for the common good. They discuss the importance of helping others and the impact each person – no matter how young- can have on their community, both at the local and global levels. Jenn takes her students through the process of how to choose a charity or mission they want to support and how to successfully raise funds.
After years of implementing this program in her own classroom, and with a desire to make an impact in an even larger way, Jenn has gone on to create a non profit called “The Giving Project For Children”. Through this non profit Jenn is now sharing the curriculum she created with parents, teachers and administrators to incorporate the study of giving and philanthropy within the classroom.
On this episode of Be The Good, Jenn shares with us her passion and vision for this incredible project.
To learn more about "The Giving Project For Children" please visit: https://thegivingprojectforchildren.org
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, please visit: https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Bob Saget is an acclaimed actor, comedian, director, writer, and producer. He has starred in many successful television shows, including two of the most family-friendly shows network TV has ever produced (Full House and America’s Funniest Home Videos). For over thirty years, he also has been a stand-up comedian and earned a Grammy-nomination in 2014 for his stand-up special, That’s What I’m Talkin’ About.
Most importantly, he wrote and directed the film For Hope, chronicling his sister’s struggles with a disease called scleroderma. He joined the Scleroderma Research Foundation’s Board of Directors in 2002 and has been a key figure in organizing and producing the SRF’s annual signature event, Cool Comedy–Hot Cuisine.
Bob and I have known each other for almost 10 years now as we have a common passion for this cause. Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disease that causes a hardening of the body’s connective tissue. Scleroderma literally means “hard skin” however this disease can also affect internal organs with life threatening consequences. Unfortunately the common passion Bob and I have for this cause is that he lost his sister to this disease and I lost my mom to scleroderma as well.
My own personal loss led me to create a nonprofit called Project Scleroderma to raise awareness for this illness and together with Bob and the Scleroderma Research Foundation we have created several documentary videos to help shed light on this terrible disease and to help encourage support of more lifesaving research.
Through this work I have had the true pleasure of getting to know Bob and what I can tell you is that he is one the most genuine, kind and compassionate people I know. He has dedicated an incredible amount of time, energy and passion to this cause and ultimately his fundraisers have raised over 53 million dollars for scleroderma research.
Many of us grew up watching Bob as Danny Tanner on Full House or as the host of America’s Funniest Home Videos. He has been doing stand up for many years and produced many great projects, but what I am happy to shed light on today is the passion project he has been sincerely committed to for all these years as well.
To support The Scleroderma Research Foundation and their ongoing mission to find a cure for Scleroderma please visit: https://srfcure.org
For the latest information on Bob's stand up shows and other projects please visit: https://www.bobsaget.com
Kristina Hillstrom’s journey to advocating for vulnerable children began 15 years ago when she spent several months in the orphanages of Ecuador. Her time there opened her eyes to the tragedy of broken families and also the strength and innate goodness of children. Her experience ignited a desire inside of her to speak up and raise awareness for vulnerable children.
She has since gotten involved with and volunteers for several non-profit organizations who work tirelessly to fight for and support children in need. She started an Instagram page- Amity & Anthem in hopes of starting a conversation and raising awareness for children in foster care.
She is a wonderful example for us all of following your heart and passion to make a difference. She is a sweet and genuine soul with a mission to do good.
Listen as Christy and Kristina discuss the experience that initially sparked her passion for this cause and how she has taken steps to get more involved over the years. Kristina is here to help us all learn more about the great need to wrap our arms around those in the foster community!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Amity and Anthem Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityandanthem/
Amity and Anthem Website: http://www.amityandanthem.com
Dallas Ft.Worth Angels: https://www.dfwangels.org
CASA: https://casaforchildren.org/
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:
https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Pete Bombaci is the founder of The GenWell Project and he is proud to be leading a campaign that he truly believes can make the world a happier and healthier place. The campaign idea, in the making for over a decade, was inspired by the events that Pete witnessed during blackout back in 2003; Kindness, generosity, empathy and connection.
Pete says , “We live in a fast paced and distracted world and sometimes we just need a reminder or an excuse to take the time to do the thing that will make us and those around us happier and healthier.”
This interview is a breath of fresh air. A reminder of how important human connection really is, and how in today’s world we are so easily distracted from this very essential part of our health and well being.
Listen as Christy and Pete discuss what led him to create this movement and the positive and powerful impact human connection can have on our world!
View links discussed in this episode:
The GenWell Project: https://genwellproject.org/
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:
https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Alex Lewis started Car Window Poetry with the belief that words matter. Deeply invested in Colorado Springs' poetry community, Alex believed poems are more than just rhymes - they are words that can give hurting humans hope.
Initially inspired to simply share the poems of those in his local community, Alex created this platform to encourage others to share their own poems with a simple print out he offered on his website.
His idea has now been amplified by thousands. All across the country people have joined his mission and are sharing words of hope, encouragement, kindness and inspiration on car windows, in schools, and all throughout their communities.
Listen as Christy and Alex discuss his journey to poetry, how he was inspired to create Car Window Poetry, and how he hopes this mission will serve the people and communities it reaches.
A very inspiring conversation!
Visit the links mentioned in this episode:
Car Window Poetry https://www.carwindowpoetry.com/
CWP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carwindowpoetry/
Alex Lewis: https://www.instagram.com/lewisalex10/
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:
https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Hally Bayer is founder and owner of Thrive Pilates Studio in Philadelphia. She is a lululemon ambassador, a board member of The School Mindfulness Project, and a big sister with The Big Brothers/Big Sisters Program in Philadelphia.
On this episode of Be The Good, Hally shares with Christy her own journey into mindfullness and wellbeing and how she feels a mindfulness practice can help us all better navigate the stress of our daily lives. Hally also shares how she felt called to make a difference for others and how she ultimately found a way to make that happen.
This interview offers us a great set of tools to best access a more mindful approach to our lives and plenty of inspiration when it comes to finding our own unique ways to make a difference. A feel good conversation!
Visit links from this episode:
Philly Power Yoga and Thrive Pilates: https://www.yandpphilly.com
The School Mindfulness Project: https://www.schoolmindfulness.org
Big Brothers/ Big Sisters: https://www.independencebigs.org
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:
https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Michael Williams Stark is an improv comedian, public speaker, voice actor and musician who is the subject of the international-award-winning CBC radio documentary, "Making Faces". The documentary, also featured on National Public Radio in the U.S., bears the same name as the registered charity Michael founded to foster life skills through improvisation for children with facial differences.
On this episode of Be The Good, Christy and Michael discuss the emotionally heavy challenges and adversity that he faced as a child due to his own facial differences, and how he channelled this pain and used his own talents to help children who are battling the same type of circumstances he faced in his youth.
Michael's story and perspective offer us a host of inspirational moments in this interview as Michael helps shed light on how important it is that we accept those who seem different from us, and how our own differences can, in fact, be the greatest thing about us.
View links discussed in this episode:
Making Faces: http://www.makingfaces.ca
Donate to Making Faces: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/9743
Adam Bighill BC Lions/Making Faces YouTube video: https://youtu.be/LwkOakp3I7A
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:
https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Betty Esperanza is an artist and humanitarian, from Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founder of Skateboards For Hope, a charity that fosters leadership to empower children living in poverty worldwide.
Inspired by her own love for skateboarding and the skateboarding culture coupled with a desire to help kids escape the cycle of poverty, Betty has created her organization, Skateboards For Hope, to help introduce the sport of skateboarding to children in countries who otherwise would have no access.
Her team collects used parts and turns them into refurbished skateboards sending them to Skateboards for Hope Ambassadors all over the world to distribute. Betty has created a thriving community of skateboard enthusiasts often in the least likely of places. Her heart and her mission are so pure and kind and she is truly inspiring.
With or without an interest in skateboarding, everyone and anyone can connect to the compassionate work she is doing!
Listen as Christy and Betty discuss what initially inspired her to create this organization and all the good that she is doing.
View links discussed in this episode:
Skateboards For Hope: https://www.skateboardsforhope.com/
Betty Esperanza Ted X Talk: https://youtu.be/ia39GHeszkk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skateboardsforhope/
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:
https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
Joshua Santiago grew up in North Philadelphia, and due to his circumstances growing up was no stranger to the world of addiction and homelessness.
Following the lead of the only examples he knew, Joshua says he ended up in a lot of trouble. It wasn’t until he followed his passion and went to barbering school that he found his true calling and a desire to be of service.
Joshua’s experience with those close to him who struggled with addiction and homelessness in his youth turned out to be the greatest tool of inspiration for the incredible compassionate work he does now with the homeless community in Philadelphia.
Listen as Christy and Joshua discuss what ultimately led him to create "Empowering Cuts", his free haircutting service for the homeless, as well as his documentary videos.
Visit links discussed in this episode:Empowering Cuts Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/empoweringcuts_/
Empowering Cuts Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/EmpoweringcutsMobilebarbershop
To learn more about host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:
https://www.christymccaffrey.com/about
You won’t find someone who adores seniors like Katie Cheesman does.
She fell in love with her elderly patients, their endearing humor, and their incredible stories while serving them as a home health care nurse.
Katie quit her job to focus on The Listening Ear Project: A labor of love where she visits with elderly people from all walks of life to film and share their stories, timeless advice, and the occasional bit of humor.
Listen as Christy and Katie discuss all the ways that our society can benefit from this generation and how powerful and transformative it can be for us all if we commit to listening to each other more.
Visit the links discussed in this episode:
The Listening Ear Project: https://www.thelisteningearproject.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelisteningearproject/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheListeningEarProject/
To learn more about the host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:
https://www.christymccaffrey.com
Karen Millsap's story of resilience and determination to live life fully despite the unthinkable tragedy she endured is incredibly inspiring. She is a true light and example to us all as she learned to heal from her own pain and has since dedicated her life's work to helping others grow and flow with life's ups and downs.
In this interview with Karen, she helps us better understand how we can best show up for those around us who are grieving, how we can turn pain into power for the good, and how we can use our own tragedies or setbacks to make a difference in the world.
Listen as Christy and Karen have a real and honest conversation about learning to flow with life and how to show up for each other when we need it the most.
Visit the links mentioned in this episode:
Karen's Website: https://www.karenmillsap.com/
Supportal: https://www.meetsupportal.com/
Karen's Ted Talk: https://youtu.be/BypYSAzxyyY
For more information about the host, Christy McCaffrey, visit:https://www.christymccaffrey.com
A note from the host...
This podcast was inspired by my desire to shed light on all the goodness that is being done in our world right now. Often times this good work can be overlooked, but I feel there are so many amazing people out there doing good things all around us, every day. There are endless amounts of stories to be told and incredible examples of how we can each tap into our own capacity for compassion and be inspired to make a difference in the world.
And that is exactly what I am hoping to highlight here on this podcast. We will focus on a theme of compassion, highlighting a diverse group of guests, each who are working in their own unique way to make the world a better place.
Thank you for joining me here and I hope that you enjoy all the goodness and inspiration that this show has to offer!
- Christy McCaffrey