The Bright Side: Recent Episodes
Dr. Joel C. Hunter, Dr. Joel D. Hunter
A show co-hosted by Dr. Joel C. Hunter and his son, Joel D. Hunter, MD. Each episode has the same goal: to entertain and educate on topics that could help you learn how to help others better.
In this episode, the Drs. Hunter's continue a discussion on the healthy mind. What makes for good mental health and how do we attain/maintain it? They have some solid ideas and suggestions.
Mental health is at the forefront in our national conversations. This episode is part one of a two-part series about the healthy mind. The discussion touches on both the physical and spiritual aspects of a healthy mind.
The Drs. Hunter continue with and conclude their conversation about gun violence in this episode. They discuss why it seem like things in our world are getting worse when in reality so much is better than it has ever been. How do values, political correctness, and personal perspectives intersect with mental health, the law, and guns? There is a lot of really fascinating information in their philosophical and practical discussion.
The Drs. Hunter look at the pervasive problem of gun violence from their unique perspectives. The doctor and the preacher bring a great breadth of knowledge to this conversation. This is the first episode of two on this important topic.
In this third episode in the series, "What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger," the Drs. Hunter dive deep. They talk about the practical ways hormesis and hormetic stress impact our bodies. Don't know what hormesis and hormetic stress is? You will after you listen to this podcast!
Your body actually changes with discomfort. Who knew irritations can be helpful? Apparently, the Drs. Hunter know it! The Drs. continue their conversation on the topic "What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger."
Life stressors are okay. Don't run from discomfort, seek it because that's how you grow your mind and character. Even stress, injury, and trauma can be helpful in our maturing and the Drs. Hunter discuss that truth. Join them for the first episode of this three-part series, "What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger."
In this second episode of their two-part series on procrastination, the Drs. Hunter talk about the part distraction plays in our procrastination. It's a fascinating conversation that introduces the big differences between our monkey brain (that makes us reach for instant gratification) and our developed brain (that allows us to stay focused on our goals).
Is procrastination an issue for you or more likely, for someone you know? In this first episode of this two-part series on procrastination, the Drs. Hunter talk about the reasons so many of us put off the things we know we need to do.
Did you know there is a way to use stress to your advantage? In the third and final segment of their series on stress you will learn how! The Drs. Hunter and their drop-in guest, Siri, shed some great insights on stress in this episode! You'll be glad you listened.
There are practical ways to deal with stress physically, mentally, and emotionally. Wouldn't you love to know what they are? Well here you go! The Drs. Hunter suggest several stress-relieving techniques in part two of their three-part series on stress.
Welcome to part one of a three-part series on stress. The Drs. Hunter tackle the topic of stress with their medical and spiritual expertise... and they speak in easy to understand terms.
In this final segment of a three-part series on homelessness, the Drs. Hunter look at the kinds of efforts that are needed to and the variety of organizations, faith communities and government agencies that are needed to work together.
The Drs. Hunter discuss some practical ways we can address the issue of chronic homelessness in this second episode of a three-part series on homelessness. How do we address the homeless person who can't do anything about their situation due to physical, mental or emotional disability.
Seven out of 10 Americans are one paycheck away from being homeless. In this first episode of a three-part series, the Drs. Hunter look at homelessness from the 30,000 foot level and at the impact this issue is having on all of us and the efforts being made to meet this aspect of poverty.
Is goodness getting popular? The Hunters believe that it is and have good reasons for that. This is a fun and encouraging episode of The Bright Side!
Dwight Bain, Strategic Change Expert, joins the Hunters to talk about what it means to have “A Heart for the Community.”
Jim Coffin, Executive Director of The Interfaith Council of Central Florida joins the Hunters for a fascinating discussion on "Why and How it Benefits the Community when Religions can Work Together."
"A Fresh Start" really is possible and may be the best way to continue to make progress. The Hunters have an intriguing discussion about what it means to look at the present as the beginning.
From ‘Wall-E’ to ‘The Jeffersons’; robotics has had a major impact on our culture, society, and communities. Join the Hunters with guest Michael Walker on this riveting discussion into the world of robotics.
Pamela Kancher & Mitch Bloomer from the "Holocaust Center" join the Hunters to discuss the impact of everything from prison camps to bullying. The conversation focuses on what each of us can do to make all of us feel like we belong... that we matter... that we have worth. You won't want to miss this fascinating episode of The Bright Side.
Peggy Choudhry, District 1 Commissioner in Osceola County discusses the unique approaches to housing and health needs that she believes are possible. She highlights a Center for the "Needy" and "Homeless Housing Possibilities"... The Hunters are all ears as she elaborates on creative solutions to a massive problems.
A brand new year begins and the Hunters talk about the adventures and opportunities that lie ahead for each of us. What will you do with the brand new year that lies ahead?
"Jobs" is the focus of the Hunter's discussion on this episode of The Bright Side. What kinds of work are "out there?" How can you make a living wage? And how can you eventually be working at something you really enjoy doing? These are among the many questions the Hunters ponder aloud. They are convinced that work is critical to the health and welfare not only of the individual and the community at large.
Gary Tester of "Catholic Charities" is the Hunters guest in this fascinating and inspiring episode of The Bright Side. Few of us have any idea how very much is being done through this incredible organization. And it's not only Catholics helping Catholics, it's Catholics helping whomever, whenever and wherever there is a need.
"Managing Change" is something the Hunters do very well. And they share some great tips that will help you manage change better than you have in the past. It's an important topic and one that intimidates most. Listen and apply what you learn and you won't let change intimidate you!
"Communities of the Future" are beyond our imagining, but the Hunters look to the future and offer some ideas based on constantly advancing technology and the hopes for peace worldwide.
"Communicating Beyond Words" is a challenging topic for a radio program, but that doesn't stop the Hunters from discussing what it means when tone, facial expressions and actions carry the day.
"How to Create a Culture and Not Just Fix Problems" is the heartbeat of the Hunters' day-to-day hope. You just may walk away from this episode ready to do something more impactful than fixing problems.
Dale Brill , Senior Vice President & Community Foundation for Orlando Economic Partnership takes facts, figures, and statistics and makes them count for improving people's lives. It's a fascinating and enlightening discussion with the Hunters.
Lynette Fields, a staff member from St. Luke's UMC discusses her passion and progress in "Community Transformation" with the Hunters.
The 100th episode of 'The Bright Side'!! "Getting Through the Holidays" is a description people often use in the season that begins with Thanksgiving and ends on New Year's Day. The Hunters have a lot to say that can help you "get through" those weeks.
Becky Hunter, aka "the research department" for The Bright Side joins her husband and son, the Drs. Joel Hunter, to discuss "Research" and the importance of facts, statistics and stories when it comes to helping you help others.
Vanessa Echols, an Emmy winning news broadcaster, shares with the Hunters some of her amazing work beyond her news desk. She talks with them about two initiatives she founded recently: the "Colorblind: Race Across Generations " podcast and also "The Do Good Challenge" YouTube Channel.
Dee Coleman, Executive Director of Samaritan Village joins the Hunters to talk about the beneficial efforts being made to help formerly sexually trafficked victims heal from their trauma and live fulfilling and productive lives.
Nathan and Stacey Ecelbarger, CEO and President of the Freedom Learning Group, sit down with the Hunters to talk about their fascinating adventure into online learning via their founding of the Freedom Learning Group. This amazing couple has managed to make a connection among military wives, universities, and those struggling in poverty that benefits all!
The Hunters discuss everything from fun facts, to history, to their own personal Thanksgiving memories.
This conversation looks at the difference in results when individuals and organizations are willing to work together on issues and when they are not. Vernon is gifted at connecting people for good works and shares ideas that will help you become good at it, too!
"Mental Illness" touches not only those who personally struggle with various issues, but also it impacts those in their sphere of influence. The Hunters tackle the topic with compassion and helpful insights.
"Bedside Manner" isn't limited to doctor and patient relationship. All of us have an important role in encouraging or discouraging, in bringing clarity or confusion at significant points in the lives of others. The Hunters have a combined expertise of more than 60 years of bringing encouragement and clarity to "the bedside."
Dr. David Swanson, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Orlando and Chairman of the Central Florida Commission on Homelessness, joins the Hunters for an in-depth look at the progress made and the challenges that remain as the fight to make homelessness, brief, rare and one time in Central Florida continues.
Howard Dayton, founder of Crown Ministries and CEO of Compass - finances God's way discusses legacy with The Hunters. Dayton, whose been named among the Top 20 CEOs of Christian Organizations, and whose ministry was recognized as one of the “Best Christian Workplaces” teaches people worldwide how to handle money and operate businesses God's way.
"Unity vs. Division" - there’s more that unites us than divides us" is a deeply held belief of both of the Hunters. In this episode, they back up their suppositions with some great evidence.
"Timing Help" is an important aspect of really helping. The Hunters echo the words of Mr. Rogers "look for the helpers" as they consider the various ways people really can make a difference for others.
"Stress" is the topic the Hunters tackle in this episode of The Bright Side--what it is, what it does and what we can do about it.
Michael Dippy, Executive Director of iDignity discusses with the Hunters the importance of having legal documentation to confirm individual identity and the challenges so many homeless and poverty stricken folks have retaining those documents. iDignity exists to help them get proper ID--and more than 20,000 individuals can attest to the impact of their efforts.
"Timing Help" is an important aspect of really helping. The Hunters echo the words of Mr. Rogers "look for the helpers" as they consider the many and various ways people really can make a difference for others.
Joshua Vickery, founder and executive director of Central Florida Community Arts joins the Hunters for a fascinating discussion on "How the Arts Matter to a Healthy Community."
A requirement for making progress in life, but it takes wisdom to know when a risk is worth the taking. The Hunters discuss some things to think about before taking the chances that come our way.
"How to Have Helpful Conversations about Controversial Topics" is something the Hunters are really good at. They share ways they have found to take the heat out of important but difficult conversations.
"Tyranny of the Urgent" slows down intended progress and its something the Hunters, like most of us, have to deal with daily. They have some great insights on the subject.
"Renewable Energy" has a greater impact on the marginalized population than most of us would imagine. The Hunters take a look at ways it matters to all of us.
"Things that Hold us Back from Serving Others" is the topic the Hunters tackle in this episode.
Glenton Gilzean, President and CEO Urban League of Central Florida joins the Hunters to discuss the efforts of the Urban League, a leading social service provider that helps empower Central Floridians to achieve social and economic success for the betterment of the entire Central Florida region.
Martha Are, Executive Director, Homeless Services Network of Central Florida joins the Hunters to talk about a comprehensive and integrated system of services in Central Florida designed to ensure that any experience of homelessness is brief and rare.
Tomas Lares, founder and CEO of Florida Abolitionist joins the Hunters to talk about this and what can be done to stop human trafficking, and specifically to stop sex trafficking. This is a battle that can be won and Tomas shares why and how!
It's fun to listen to what the Hunters have to say in this inspiring episode. They believe there are many ways it is getting better, and they have stats to prove it!
"Understanding Poverty" is the topic of conversation between the Hunters. They dive into many of the ideas Ruby Payne shared in her 1995 book by the same name and talk about the experiences they have had in working with people fighting the challenges of poverty.
"Can Government and Religion be Friends?" is the question the Hunters tackle. They are brave.
Daryl Tol, CEO of AdventHealth, formerly known as Florida Hospital system, talks with the Hunters about education measures concerning wellness.
Kyle Johnson, V P, Chief Sustainability Officer for Lighthouse Central Florida and Lighthouse Works discusses, with the Hunters, the services, training and opportunities available to blind and sight impaired individuals.
"Team Building" is something for which the Hunters share a passion. A good team is critical to reaching the goal and a good team makes the journey lots more fun.
"The Dangers of Cynicism" is the topic of conversation between the Hunters. They look at ways to avoid being cynical and ways to deal with those who are.
Dean Leroy Pernell of FAMU talks with the Hunters about what it takes to be a "Rattler for Justice". Dean Pernell is the longest serving African American Dean in the United States. His personal story is compelling and his creative efforts to help students make a difference in their communities are inspiring.
Jeanne Allert, founder of The Samaritan Women, discusses, with the Hunters, her efforts to stop human trafficking through TSW and the value of partnerships when it comes to tackling such an overwhelming issue.
The Hunters dive into the deep end with a conversation on "Raising Servant-Hearted Kids"
Edward Johnson, CEO of LYNX Transportaition in Orlando, discusses "The Role of Transportation in Building a Great Community" with the Hunters.
This "Labor Day Special" is filled with lots of insights about the history of this unique holiday. The Hunters have a good time talking about celebrating work.
Todd Harper discusses "Living a Generous Life" with The Hunters. Generosity has the potential to impact a lot more than the recipient's cause!
Linda Chapin, former Orange County Mayor discusses "All Things Orlando" with The Hunters. The City Beautiful has changed a lot in recent decades and there's so many facets to its beauty!
Eddy Moratin, CEO of Lift Orlando, tackles "Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Through Neighborhood Revitalization" with the Hunters.
"Like a Phoenix" is the inspiring rise-again topic is one of the Hunter's favorite things to talk about. Defeat is not permanent. There are secrets to resilience!
Jerry Ross, of J. Ross Enterprises, offers a glimpse of the efforts of the National Entrepreneur Center. The Hunters have plenty of great questions about this unique endeavor.
The Hunters tackle a fascinating topic: "The Advantages that Come with Education and Training". So if you or someone you know is wondering if college is worth it or if technical training is the way to go; listen in.
Jeff Hayward is the President and CEO of The Heart of Florida United Way. The Hunters are amazed by all that gets done because of the United Way. Heart of Florida United Way fights for the education, health and financial stability of every person in Central Florida. Find out how they do it and how you can help.
Shelley Lauten is the CEO of "The Central Florida Commission on Homelessness" and she is on a mission to make homelessness, brief, rare and one time. Her conversation with the Hunters is filled with inspiring stories and solid facts.
Spencer Pfleiderer knows all the ins and outs of "Dealing with Addictions" and spends his life helping men be free of them. His conversation with the Hunters is filled with helpful information that you or someone you know will find extremely helpful.
Dr. Sharon Spano's forte is "Impactful Leadership". Whether you are responsible for an organization or just want to be a good neighbor, this conversation with the Hunters includes lots of practical information about what it takes to lead.
Eddie Kaufholz, of The New Activist podcast fame, is a welcome guest of the Hunters as he gives great insight into the work of International Justice Mission and their magnificent efforts to end slavery worldwide.
George Diaz, Orlando Sentinel journalist shares stand-out stories, with the Hunters, from his life of travel and interviewing famous sports stars.
Mark Brewer, President and CEO of the Central Florida Foundation offers the Hunters a fascinating look into the kind of philanthropic giving that produces the greatest and most long lasting impact.
"How to Get Along with People" is the focus of this episode of The Bright Side and it should be a focus for a person's life as well. Getting along with others is the deal breaker in relationships and the Hunters share lots of great tips on how to do it.
Is there a day that goes by that doesn't include a problem to be solved? Nope. Learn how the Hunters tackle problems big and small and you just may find the next problem that you face easier to solve.
"Finding What Keeps You Energized" is worth your effort! The Hunters come at this from various angles -- psychology, physiology, and downright practical ways to stay motivated.
"Things About Life Everyone Should Learn" is the topic of this fun and funny episode. The Hunters offer a myriad of inspiring and practical thoughts that, taken to heart, can make anyone's life better for everyone.
"Success and Failure" is the topic. The Hunters have a light-hearted conversation about various cultural and personal definitions of the highs and lows in life and why the way we handle them matters to all.
"Narcissism" is the topic. The Hunters discuss the psychological issues and the practical implications of dealing with anyone whose core belief is that everything is all about themselves.
The Hunters do their best to eliminate any confusion between what is freely given and what is forced. History has proved this to be a vital clarification.
Barbara Poma, founder of "onePULSE" and previous owner of PULSE nightclub is the Hunter's guest. Their encouraging conversation focuses on the good that has come to the community since the evil of the PULSE Nightclub massacre in Orlando and how this tragic event has shaped Barbara's life.
Pam Landwirth, CEO of "Give Kids the World" joins the The Hunters to discuss the amazing blessing Give Kids the World is for terminally ill children. Everyone needs to know about this miraculous place and what happens there.
John Crossman, CEO of Crossman & Co. is the Hunter's guest on this episode. John is nationally known for his passion for diversity and his work with college students. Racial reconciliation is the topic of a great discussion among the three men.
Christian Lenty talks with the Hunters about what it takes to help people in the most difficult situations. Christian spends his days in Bangkok, Thailand helping men who frequent the red light districts have a change of heart.
The Hunters' "4th of July Special" is filled with fascinating true tidbits and meaningful stories that you likely haven't heard.
Rogue Gallart, president of the Central Florida Disability Chamber of Commerce joins the Hunters for a fascinating discussion about the encouraging progress being made both in social awareness and technological advancements impacting those who struggle with various disabilities.
Ken & Cindy LaRoe, MD join the Hunters to discuss a lifetime of unique adventures and challenges that include Ken's effort for the enviroment through his founding of First Green Bank to Cindy's traumatic brain injury and her recovery from resulting endless siezures using medical marijuana.
"The Copernican Revolution" draws the Hunters attention to issues of science and faith. What does make for war between these two important entities? Pastor Joel and his son, physician Joel, have some great insights from two very different perspectives.
Eric Gray, Executive Director of United Against Poverty, joins the Hunters for a discussion about the opportunities and challenges of being the busiest single-site social service agency in Florida.
What it takes to have a fulfilling life is a topic the Hunters tackle with perspectives from their professional expertise and personal disciplines.
A Father's Day special edition of The Bright Side. The Drs. Hunter talk about the important role of fathers and even mention a few childhood memories of their own dads.
Dan Wilcox, President of the Central Florida YMCA joins the Hunters for a discussion about all things YMCA. This international organization offers thousands of programs through its 27 locations in Central Florida.
Dr. Sandy Shugart, President of Valencia College, joins the Hunters for a conversation on education and the importance of student involvement in the community.
Friendship is the topic on this week's episode of The Bright Side. What makes a friend a good friend, and why should we care?
The Hunters weigh in on all things nutrition - touching on everything from the scientific data about fats and carbs to the social impact of "food deserts".
From helping the homeless to building community gardens in local food deserts, Kay Rawlins, co-founder of Orlando City Soccer Club and vice president of community relations, has made her mark on Orlando. Her conversation with the Hunters is inspiring.
This episode dives into churches taking on some new "old" forms. Chad Turnbull, executive director of Slingshot (a micro-church incubator) talks about his life as a gentleman farmer and his ministry work with new forms of church.
The Hunters spend some time with a business leader who takes into consideration the importance of bettering the community. Tony Jenkins, CEO of Florida Blue, shares his insights on the opportunities and challenges of his role.
The Hunters turn their attention to the Pygmalion Effect, looking at the powerful impact words and expectations have on others. Is it true that positive expectations produce more positive results and negative expectations become self-fulfilling prophecies?
A Memorial Day Special, in which the Hunters discuss the history and the sacrifices that have given all of us in the United States of America the opportunities for a beautiful life.
John Rivers, of 4 Rivers Smokehouse fame, joins the Hunters for an inspiring discussion on seeing business and a means to community betterment. There is much to be done in any community and there are people who are making a positive difference. John Rivers is a master at bringing dreams to reality even in places where dreams are hard to find.
Technology and empathy aren’t subjects that one generally thinks about going together, but the Hunter’s guest, Danya "Shea" Glenny, co-founder of Fervorworks thinks about them together nearly every day. This episode highlights long-term thinkers who crave short-term results.
An upbeat episode filled with laughter as the Hunters dive into the topic of humor and it’s impact on helping, compassion, serving, and encouraging. They discuss humor's role as something that thrives between man's aspirations and his limitations.
Exploring the difference hope makes, the Hunters discuss what it takes to see light in the darkness and why it's so tempting to seek it in ways that aren't always helpful. Hope is a blessing to anyone but it is one of the main ingredients in getting people unstuck from poverty and homelessness.
The Hunters go in-depth about the problems and solutions in the area of children and families who need assistance. The role of government and private organizations in helping the vulnerable is covered. Expert guest Leonard Jackson, a lawyer who specializes in the legal work involved in providing aid to these families, offers a lot of insight on the subject.
Scott Maxwell, a community activist, columnist for the Orlando Sentinel, and annually named as one of Orlando's 50 most powerful, joins the Hunters for a riveting conversation about what everyone should know about local and state politics.
The Hunters take a fascinating glimpse at the people, resources and organization it takes to consistently get food distributed to those who need it most. Dave Krepcho, President and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank is the Drs. Hunter's guest and his passion for this work, from the training of volunteers to the engagement of the community to be a blessing to nearly a million people is inspiring.
The Hunters touch on myriad topics as they move from one to three episodes of The Bright Side each week.
The Hunters discuss ways to help people find employment and upward mobility in situations where neither is easy. The expert guest, Andrae Bailey, is a leader in this field and spends his time organizing people and businesses who want to help others. This episode covers Andrae’s wide-ranging advisory roles for private businesses all the way through municipal and state level government programs. He’s charismatic and passionate about what he does, and it’s fascinating to hear about it.
The first call-in episode of The Bright Side! This episode centers around solutions for the current problem of less houses being available than there are people who need housing. Discussing creative solutions from across the country, the Hunters try to tackle ways to help that may not have been thought of before.
The Hunters touch on a wide range of topics including Facebook, how bots work, the future of Uber, and the minds of polymaths. This episode is a pretty entertaining look at how much more helpful it is to be discerning about the world rather than cynical.
The Hunters have a wide-ranging conversation about Easter, the anniversary of the death of MLK Jr., and the differences between the generations in how to solve problems. As a father and son from the boomer generation and the “xennial” generation, respectively, they discuss how people might learn to better come together to solve shared problems despite dissimilar backgrounds.
The Hunters talk through ways government can advocate for children with their guest, Dick Batchelor. Dick is a former member of the Florida House of Representatives and has lived an impressive life built around helping others. This episode is filled with entertaining stories of his life in international and local public service, and specifically what he’s working on currently to help children in Orlando who really need help.
The Hunters ponder the question, "Where in the world is John Morgan?" while they focus in on the topic of medical marijuana. This whole episode is spent waiting for special guest John Morgan, and ends up a lot like the play Waiting for Godot, but with a lot more education about the physiologic and pharmacologic effects of cannabis on the human body. What’s the best way to help when it comes to choosing between legalization or stigmatization of marijuana.
The Hunters talk with their guest, Mariana Bichette, wife of former big-league baseball player Dante Bichette and mom of current pro baseball players Dante Jr. And Bo Bichette. Mariana talks about the life of a major league family and about using their means to help others. Her work with an outreach to the homeless population in St. Petersburg, FL called “Serve St. Pete” is discussed. This episode highlights how one of the key ways to help is to be dependable in relationships with people. And sometimes that means just bringing pizza.
The Hunters address the topic of the culture of guns and violence with their guest, James Sang Lee, owner of Alexander Security and Protection, and world champion martial artist. This episode is an entertaining discussion on security, gun control, and James’ work on movie sets to help actors learn how to handle guns.
The Hunters discuss addiction. Dr. Hunter (the son) explains how addiction works from a medical perspective. Dr. Hunter (the father) explains the societal impact and solutions. Their guest is Spencer Pfleiderer, President and CEO of Central Care Mission, a place that helps addicts become healthy and go on to live their best life.
The Hunters focus on family homelessness and what we can do together to make it a thing of the past. Since that seems heavy and depressing, this episode purposefully casts the problem and solutions in a much cheerier more hopeful way. Their guest is Dawn Haynes, CEO of Community Resource Network, a 501c3 network aimed at eradicating homelessness. There are solutions to these problems, and those solutions turned into a surprisingly fun and entertaining discussion. Plus, as a bonus, Dawn has a charming British accent.
The very first hour of The Bright Side. Co-hosts, Dr. Joel C. Hunter and Dr. Joel D. Hunter, talk about the general idea and goals of the show. This episode has some info on the background of the Hunters, and why The Bright Side seemed like a good name for a show centered around helping people to help other people.