Find Your Kind: Recent Episodes
Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network
The Find Your Kind podcast is a student-run podcast that aims to prove to its listeners that kindness doesn’t have to be thought of as a “random act”. Instead, it can be a collective mindset that you can use every day. Join podcast host, Delaney Janks, as she discusses the ways young individuals can bring kindness towards their communities.
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode #9: “The Simplicity of Kindness”“Hello and welcome back! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “The Simplicity of Kindness”, I’ll be wrapping up everything I’ve talked about in my previous episodes and discuss some final “kind acts” you can do in your everyday life. Segment 1: ImportanceOne of the best ways to increase our own happiness is to do things that make other people happy. Generosity and compassion have been linked to greater life satisfaction, better mental and physical health, stronger bonds, and generous people even live longer. The happiness people derive from expressing kindness to others creates a positive feedback loop: with the more positive feelings you feel after showing kindness, you’ll have the urge to continue that kindness. When you are kind to someone else, they’ll be more likely to pass that kindness along to others. Just because we have the capacity for kindness and clearly reap real benefits from it, doesn’t mean that we always act with kindness. Think of kindness as a muscle that can be strengthened through repeated use. Segment 2: Things You Can DoWith a little creativity, the areas where you can exert kindness are endless. So here are a few “random” ideas that can be done whenever: Think about helping a stranger. It’s often the smallest actions that have the biggest impact. Try smiling more at strangers. How does it feel when someone smiles at you? In most cases, it makes you happier and you probably smile back. It’s harder to be upset when you’re smiling. Simply using manners is a way to express kindness. When you say “please” when you ask for something, maybe to a waiter, cashier, or stranger, it changes the tone of request and instead of making a demand, you’re being courteous. This also makes them more likely to want to help you. You can always try letting someone go ahead of you in line. If you notice the person behind you has less items than you, your cart is full, and you’re not rushing anywhere, why not let them go ahead? It will save them time, and they’ll also be surprised by your kindness. You can also try sending real greeting cards to people rather than contacting them through your phone or social media. You can also consider sending more random cards letting someone know you’re thinking of them and miss them.. Instead of holding onto it and possibly forgetting it, why not make someone’s day? You can put it in a collection tin you see in a store, in tip jars, and even in parking meters. Even though kindness can be an action, it can also be the absence of an action. When you don’t fall for wrong actions knowingly, like gossip that deals with bullying or complaining about rude behavior, you are being kind to someone. Segment 3: Wrap UpKindness is being friendly, considerate, generous and good, not only to others, but also to the world and to yourself. Kindness is not weakness. It’s simplicity considering others and also thinking how you’d want to be treated in situations. When it comes to being kind, the main thing to always consider is to open your eyes and stay active when you see people in need. You should never be kind with the expectation of receiving something in return. Ingrid Newkirk: “The wonderful thing is that it’s so incredibly easy to be kind”. Music Credits: Creek Whistle by Steve Adams Reasons to Hope by Reed Mathis Tropic by Anno Domini Beats Subscribe to our PodcastApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Stitcher https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07e_nBHLyc_nyvjF6z-DVg...
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode #7: “The Art of Self Love”“Hello and welcome back! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students come together to publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “The Art of Self Love”, my goal is to talk about how we can begin the journey of being kinder to ourselves by shifting our mindset to one of self-compassion, and forgiveness. Segment 1: ImportancePrevious episodes focused on kindness in all other aspects but towards ourselves; I want to change that. Derived from Buddhist psychology, self-compassion entails treating yourself with kindness and care like we would treat a dear friend. Self-kindness can vary from taking a self-care day to acting in a kind and understanding way towards yourself. Sometimes we get so caught up in being kind to others, that we forget the importance of being kind to ourselves as well. It's hard to forgive yourself for your own mistakes, disappointments, etc, but perhaps because we were never taught how to. Segment 2: What You Can DoBeing kinder to ourselves may require a little effort and time on our part. We can apply techniques such as self-reflection, self-care, appreciating simple joys and even journaling to our daily lives to remind us to be kind to ourselves. Others ways to practice self-kindness: Self-compassion letter Write a self-compassionate letter where you identify something about yourself that makes you feel ashamed, insecure, or not good enough. Then, express understanding, acceptance, and compassion for that part of yourself that you dislike. Read the letter later. Take care of your physical health When we’re feeling down, our bodies tend to hang on to all of that pent-up energy and emotion. A great way to clear that energy is through physical exercise. Have a “Self-Care Day” Draw yourself a bath, cook your favorite food, or choose to stay in for a movie night. You can also buy yourself flowers—There is a great power in treating yourself in the same manner as you would treat someone you loved. “You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserved your own love and affection.” Don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings There is no shame in asking for help, which is why when it comes to emotional and mental health, seeking out professional help is a major win and a great way to be kind to yourself. Try Meditation Trying mediation is also a wonderful practice of tuning into your mental state teaching yourself how to be self-compassionate. Stop Tolerating What/Who Doesn’t Serve You Well Sometimes practicing self-kindness is about cutting the cords of what no longer brings you joy in life. This can be a routine, an idea, or a person. It’s okay to talk away from something that brings you down. Segment 3: Wrap UpBenefits of self-compassion Greater life satisfaction, motivation, better relationships and physical health, and less anxiety and depression. Gain a sense of resilience that helps you cope with stressful life events. When practicing self-kindness, we release Oxytocin, a feel-good hormone that reduces feelings of adrenaline, stress, and anxiety. Many people fear self-compassion is really just a form of self-pity. However, self-compassion is actually an antidote to self-pity. Research shows that self-compassionate people are more likely to engage in perspective taking and less likely to think about how bad things are, which is one of the reasons self-compassionate people have better mental health. Quote by Ruth Fishel: “It is a beautiful experience being with ourselves at a level of complete acceptance. When that begins to happen, when you give up resistance and
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode #8: “You Got A Friend In Me”“Hello and welcome back! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students come together to publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “The Art of Self Love”, my goal is to talk about how we can begin the journey of being kinder to ourselves by shifting our mindset to one of self-compassion, and forgiveness. Segment 1: ImportanceThere’s an emphasis on having romantic relationships and finding that “ideal person” who will make us happy and fulfilled, but studies have actually shown that having good friends is even more important to our psychological welfare. Friends bring more happiness into our lives than virtually anything else Friends can relieve stress, prevents loneliness, and provides us with a source of comfort and support. The purpose of this episode is to discuss ways to maintain friendships because making close friends doesn’t “just happen” and it’s common for us to struggle when it comes to developing real, quality connections with people. Introduce this episode’s guest: Jacky Sun Segment 2: Q & AHow did we meet? In what ways do we comfort each other? Do we ever get jealous of each other and how do we handle it? Are we good at listening to each other? Do we ever feel left out? If so, how do we make each other feel included? How do we support each other’s insecurities? Do we ever get angry at each other and what do we do in those situations? Segment 3: Wrap UpEmphasizing the importance of the famous Beatles lyrics: “I get by with a little help from my friends” Friends are the ones that make us feel comfortable and also know our shortcomings but still love us anyway You should be the best version of yourself when surrounded by your friends You get what you give in a true friendship Friendship needs nurturing— You can’t plant seeds, forget about them, then hope that something will grow someday without any effort from you Music Credits: Creek Whistle by Steve Adams Reasons to Hope by Reed Mathis Tropic by Anno Domini Beats Subscribe to our PodcastApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Stitcher https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07e_nBHLyc_nyvjF6z-DVg (YouTube) Connect with us on Social Mediahttps://twitter.com/thehvspn?lang=en (@theHVSPN)
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode #6: Everyday Should Be Like Christmas!“Hello and welcome back! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students come together to publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “Everyday Should Be Like Christmas”, I’ll be talking about how Christmas isn’t only about receiving gifts, it’s about giving back not only to your loved ones, but also to those who need it most. Segment 1: ImportanceThe holidays are upon us…but do we get too wrapped up in receiving gifts? Starting new traditions that put others first The holidays are also about sharing, and spreading joy not just for your family, but for others too Let’s work on moderating our wants, being thankful for what we have, and giving to others this holiday season Segment 2: What Can We Do?Implementing meaningful Christmas traditions that focus on making a difference in the lives of others in need Simple and easy ideas to brighten others holiday: Leave a gift for your mail carrier Put a small gift in your mailbox with a thank you note for all that they do! Write thank you notes to the people who go all out to decorate their homes for the holidays Shovel snow for a neighbor Buying locally—from family-owned businesses or freelancers Try “candy cane bombing” a parking lot where you go around sticking candy canes with a note wrapped around them on car windshield for people to discover Things to do for others that might take a bit more time: Fill a box for https://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/?utm_source=Ggl&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=m_YGOC-B21V&utm_content=OCCHomepageSitelink&gclid=Cj0KCQiAweaNBhDEARIsAJ5hwbcgCvfOCuJ9a0Z8QBPCLLE3V3m5YQKCyGjOiSsBX5JFYpkt1q_JeRQaAnFlEALw_wcB (Operation Christmas Child) Operation Christmas Child is a hands-on opportunity to select gifts for a child, pack them in a box, and send the box to a child whose life will be touched by your kindness Downloading a coloring sheet from the website https://colorasmile.org/about_us/ (Color a Smile) Pick a coloring sheet, print it, color it, and mail it to the attached address where it'll be sent to any U.S. troop worldwide. Donate to the program https://give.salvationarmyusa.org/give/164006/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAweaNBhDEARIsAJ5hwbdWM6fhzkX_Uew3omKAE7XNKtYypwqkoqmdE3XwxMDlmPGygZ6KgEEaArMzEALw_wcB#!/donation/checkout&pid=cpc:edonation_eastern_brand:::eastern_eastern:holiday:promotions&utm_source=google_lerma&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=edonation_eastern_brand&utm_content=text&utm_term=holiday (Angel Tree) run by the Salvation Army Through this program, certain families enroll for donations of new clothing. Then you sign up by selecting a child by gender and clothing size, and from there, provide new clothing for the child in need. Segment 3: Wrap UpGiving back during the holidays can be a really rewarding experience for all those involved The true spirit of the season comes from giving thanks for what we have and lending kindness towards others There’s a remarkable power of the holiday season in terms of spreading generosity— it brings people together, boosts happiness, and acknowledges our shared humanity Wishing listeners a happy holiday season Music Credits: We Wish You A Merry Christmas by E’s Jammy Jams Cannon and Variation by Twin Musicom Subscribe to our PodcastApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Stitcher https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07e_nBHLyc_nyvjF6z-DVg (YouTube) Connect with us on Social Mediahttps://twitter.com/thehvspn?lang=en (@theHVSPN)
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode #4: Cyber-KindHello and welcome back! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students come together to publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “Cyber-Kind”, I’ll be discussing ways you can be kind on the internet and how to promote an overall more positive digital atmosphere. Segment 1: ImportanceThe internet and its bad reputation The internet/social media don’t have to be a place full of negativity Everytime you log on, you have the power to impact people all around the world It’s easy to be kind in real life, but it can be even easier to be kind on social media Segment 2: What can you do Our attachment to social media Being off of social media is harder than we think Allows us to make connections with people we can’t otherwise communicate with You feel like you’re missing out Great things about social media: Allows us to listen to and express different perspectives on things and become more open-minded thinkers Gives us access to so many forms of education Connects us with people Being online can also be quite toxic and is for a lot people detrimental to their mental health There’s a place where users forget that the people you’re interacting with or talking about on social media are actual humans too For public figures, a lot of people think it's “fair game” to be brutal with them Brutal comments on happy/innocent content Everyone is flawed and even well intentioned people make mistakes Before you bash someone online for something, first think about what you’re doing, why you’re doing it, is it going to help in any way, and are you just doing it to make yourself feel better about something? Respectfully and privately calling others out when they might be wrong What are some things we can do to be kinder on social media? Think before you comment Don’t like or retweet mean comments If you do make a mistake online, just own up to it and apologize Use your social media platform more as a means to spread positivity Compliment others on social media/make kind comments Segment 3: Wrap UpIt’s not enough to simply avoid being negative and cruel online; It’s also important to spread kindness People think that acts of kindness are only for everyday life, but you can just as easily bring kindness online too When you practice kindness online, you not only spread joy to others, but also create an overall more positive atmosphere on the internet Make a person on the other side of the screen smile today!! Music Credits: Creek Whistle by Steve Adams Reasons to Hope by Reed Mathis Tropic by Anno Domini Beats Subscribe to our PodcastApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Stitcher https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07e_nBHLyc_nyvjF6z-DVg (YouTube) Connect with us on Social Mediahttps://twitter.com/thehvspn?lang=en (@theHVSPN)
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode #5: Getting GlobalHello and welcome back! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students come together to publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “Getting Global”, I’ll be talking about how we can extend our kindness globally into communities all around the world. Segment 1: ImportanceIntroduction to my Peru trip Reasons why you should think about extending your kindness abroad: You’ll gain a better perspective on the world A Lot of us are sheltered to the bigger issues in the world Immersing yourself in a culture is completely different than learning about it online Volunteer abroad programs can give you a great perspective on life at a young age You’ll travel with a positive impact Your parents or guardian will most likely be more lenient to letting you travel alone if you’re heading off with a group whose dedicated to giving back to society You’ll be helping others and making a difference The main reason to volunteer is to help make a difference in the world By volunteering abroad at a young age and heading out into the world through volunteer programs, you can actually see first-hand what your efforts can do outside of your community Segment 2: My Experience/Good Programs Elaborating on the travel abroad experience I went on in Peru ARCC program and what makes them unique What we did to help out the community What I took away from the experience Read a few of my journal entries from my trip Day 4: First day of building the greenhouse Day 5: Playing with little girl named Lis/second day of building the greenhouse Day 8: First day of teaching at the school Day 9: Second day of teaching at the school/llama baptism and hike Alternative options to helping global communities that doesn’t involve going abroad Look through international projects and pick one that speaks to your values and then work to raise funds or conduct drives on behalf of that cause or project Check out website: https://www.globalgiving.org (Global Giving) Organizations who help global communities that you can also support internationally: http://www.care.org (Care International)- Supports women and girls in developing countries https://www.peacecorps.gov (PeaceCorps Member Projects)- Support PeaceCorps member projects directly in developing countries https://www.msichoices.org (Marie Stopes International (MSI))- Provides family planning and reproductive health care services in some of World’s poorest countries http://www.mercycorps.org (Mercy Corps)- Helps countries after disasters with both immediate help and sustainability projects https://themayhew.org/international/- (Mayhew International)- Helps stay, neglected, and abused animals in countries such as Afghanistan, Romania, and India Segment 3: Wrap UpCommon phrase tossed around the conversation of volunteering abroad: “simply being there helps”. This is not always true. There are benefits for communities abroad to host international volunteers, but you have to do more than show up. You have to stay committed and bring a skill or willingness to work. Make sure you're volunteering with a reputable organization and that you're invested in your project It is not only possible to volunteer around your community– you can extend your kindness globally! Music Credits: Creek Whistle by Steve Adams Reasons to Hope by Reed Mathis Tropic by Anno Domini Beats Subscribe to our PodcastApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Stitcher https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07e_nBHLyc_nyvjF6z-DVg (YouTube) Connect with us on Social...
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode 2: Give a Little, Get a LotEpisode 2 of “Find Your Kind” the podcast is out for you to listen to, where you’ll learn about how to become a better person through kindness! This episode covers ways you can give to those in need and why you should consider doing so. “Hello and welcome back! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students come together to publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “Give a Little, Get a Lot”, I’ll be discussing the importance of giving and what YOU can do to help those in need. Segment 1: Why it’s ImportantWhy does one give? Giving is an experience threaded into the daily lives of everyone Giving is hard-wired into who we are as human beings Why people like receiving vs. why people like giving Giving in terms of donations; social impact organizations How you can make a difference Segment 2: Organizations to talk about that people can get connected with Ways to donate to charity through donations First way: monetary donations How to raise money as a teen Second way: clothes, shoes, and bags donations Where/how to donate them Third way: donating books Fourth way: donating unwanted food to pantries and shelters Hopewell Valley Mobile Food Pantry Final way: buying products from organizations supporting charities you care about Newman’s Own, Tom’s, and Bombas Brief discussion about English class project and partnering with Team Rubicon What is Team Rubicon? What is happening in Afghanistan? What are we doing to help? Segment 3: Wrap UpWhy we SHOULD give The first reason: it helps people who need it We have a responsibility The next reason: it can improve your OWN wellbeing You can make a massive difference in the lives of others while simultaneously benefiting yourself Final reason: it introduces the importance of generosity to those around you and encourages them to do the same Emphasis on getting to action Just by giving a little, you can get a lot in return Music Credits:Creek Whistle by Steve Adams Reasons to Hope by Reed Mathis Tropic by Anno Domini Beats Subscribe to our PodcastApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Stitcher https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07e_nBHLyc_nyvjF6z-DVg (YouTube) Connect with us on Social Mediahttps://twitter.com/thehvspn?lang=en (@theHVSPN)
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode Title 3: Respect your Mother “Hello and welcome back! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students come together to publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “Respect Your Mother”, I’ll be discussing things we can implement in our everyday lives to better the environment and why action must be taken to not only protect our planet but our future. Segment 1: ImportanceKindness towards our planet, Earth Need for mass participation in helping our environment Threats of global warming/climate change Survival of humanity depends on our environment’s well-being Acts of kindness environmentally focused can literally take just a few minutes to complete Introduction of guest speakers: Sonya Mykytyn and Harriet Strunk Why they’ve been brought on the show Segment 2: What can you do to help the environment? Youth Environmental Society (YESS) Club What is it? What’s its purpose? Harriet’s actions towards aiding the environment through her Girl Scouts troop Nature hikes Lantern fly traps Ways to aid in waste reduction Reusable water bottles/coffee cups Reusable baggies (non-plastic) “Stasher” brand Reusable masks What to do with disposable masks Reusable shopping bags What to do with plastic shopping bags Reusing small jam/yogurt jars and cups Ideas for what you can do with them Vegetarian/vegan lifestyle * Written disclaimer: We understand making a switch to a diet like this isn’t possible for everyone, whether that be due to religious, medical, dietary, monetary, or any other personal reasons. By no means are we trying to force upon/ make anyone feel bad for eating meat in any way. We’re simply exploring the ways this lifestyle benefits our environment. One of best things you can do to stop climate change Danger of greenhouse gas emissions and their relation to livestock farming Environmental damage caused by livestock farming Overgrazing, soil erosion, deforestation and greenhouse emissions Shifting into a vegetarian diet requires more than just a hasty decision; slow process Adopting a meatless day a week Cutting serving sizes of meat Feeling better and improving heart health Eating less red meat Allows you to make small changes in the world that benefit the environment “Earthlings” documentary Helps preserve original animal life Other ways to be kinder to the environment Switching off the lights before leaving a room Trying sustainable fashion Conduct a trash cleanup with your friends Plant a tree You don’t need to be all grown up to establish change! Segment 3: Wrap UpChanging our daily habits Taking action where we can goes a long way in creating kindness Protecting our environment is really about protecting our future Quote by Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has” Music Credits: Creek Whistle by Steve Adams Reasons to Hope by Reed Mathis Tropic by Anno Domini Beats Subscribe to our PodcastApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Stitcher https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07e_nBHLyc_nyvjF6z-DVg (YouTube) Connect with us on Social Mediahttps://twitter.com/thehvspn?lang=en (@theHVSPN)
Find Your Kind The Find Your Kind podcast is a student-run podcast that aims to prove to its listeners that kindness doesn’t have to be thought of as a “random act”. Instead, it can be a collective mindset that you can use every day. Join podcast host, Delaney Janks, as she discusses the ways young individuals can bring kindness towards their communities. Where to Find Us:Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/thehvspn (@theHVSPN) Website: https://my.captivate.fm/www.hvspn.com (www.hvspn.com)
Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network Show Name: Find Your KindEpisode 1: More Gratitude Less AttitudeTake a listen to the first episode of “Find Your Kind” the podcast where you’ll learn how to become a better person through kindness. This episode covers ways to express kindness and gratitude towards your loved ones and why it’s important to do so! “Hello! You are listening to Find Your Kind the podcast with your host Delaney Janks. You’re currently listening to this podcast on the Hopewell Valley Student Publications Network where students come together to publish content to share with the world. Please note that the opinions expressed in this episode are mine, and mine alone. In this episode, “More Gratitude, Less Attitude, I’ll be discussing: the importance of showing kindness towards your loved ones and what you can do to achieve this! Segment 1: ImportanceWhy spread kindness to your loved ones? Small acts of kindness mean the most What practicing kindness within households teaches How kindness relates to lessons passed down from parents Personal story about my grandfather How my grandfather influenced my mom with his kindness Dictionary definition of kindness and what it means to me Segment 2: What I did for my familyGoing grocery shopping Cooking a meal for my family Process won’t always be easy; you’ll get frustrated! Talking with my family about the dinner and getting a chance to sit down together Impact your acts of kindness have on your siblings Writing a letter to my mom’s birth mom; brief story Driving my brother places for my parents Segment 3: Wrap upExpansion on the definition of kind What kindness does to the relationships with you and your loved ones Three rhetorical questions to get listeners thinking about what kindness means to them Emphasis on practicing kindness Music Credits: Creek Whistle by Steve Adams Reasons to Hope by Reed Mathis Tropic by Anno Domini Beats Subscribe to our PodcastApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Stitcher https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07e_nBHLyc_nyvjF6z-DVg (YouTube) Connect with us on Social Mediahttps://twitter.com/thehvspn?lang=en (@theHVSPN)