Giving Back Podcast

Welcome to the 96th episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing Facebook Community Leadership Program. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy! Key Takeaways: A few months ago, my friend and great coach Kate Schell sent me an application for the Facebook Community Leadership Program. Awarding $50,000 for Fellows and $1 Million for Residents, the Facebook Community Leadership Program (FCLP) addresses the needs identified by community leaders. This global initiative gives over 100 participants from around the world the support, tools, funding and the belief in themselves that they need to best lead their communities. With the help of my friend Jamie Moran, we brainstormed over dim sum and put together my application. Here are the Fellows and Residents: https://communities.f

CJ McClanahan is a Business Keynote Speaker and Sales and Leadership Coach with more than 25 years of executive leadership experience.  He helps organizations achieve their financial goals as well as connect them with a bigger purpose - giving back. Find out more about CJ and his mission to serve others and support amazing charities along the way on this week’s show!    Key Takeaways: [3:05] What is the Two Rule Foundation about?  [5:35] No matter the amount of money CJ’s coaching clients made or goals they had achieved, they still found themselves unhappy and unsatisfied. [7:15] What is our purpose in life? It’s always to give back! [9:45] How is it possible that humans were able to survive all these years? It’s because we banded and worked together in tribes. [14:10] Let’s be clear, we’re all a little bit selfish, but giving back to make yourself (and others) happy, that’s the good kind of selfish.  [16:00] On the fence about giving back? Try it yourself and see how it goes. [16:40] How does CJ help high-ac

Welcome to the 95th episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing Acts of Courage. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy! Key Takeaways: Dr. Brene Brown’s TedxHouston Talk “The Power of Vulnerability” has been viewed over 36 million times.  She talks about connection and struggles and discovering what people who have a strong sense of worthiness have in common.  What she found is that people who have a strong sense of love and belonging, who believe they’re worthy of love and belonging, embrace their vulnerability.  They have the courage to do something when there are no guarantees. Dr. Brene Brown’s TedxHouston Talk “The Power of Vulnerability” https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability?language=en Reflecting his own fears, failures, and missed opportunities

Joey Powell is the Executive Director at Me Fine Foundation, a foundation that provides assistance and resources to families with children facing life-threatening illnesses.  Seeing firsthand how much an unexpected illness can take an entire family by surprise, Joey is incredibly passionate to be serving his community and providing families with peace of mind while parents care for their children. Find out more about Joey and the work he does today!    Key Takeaways: [4:45] How does the Me Fine Foundation help children?  [7:50] There are a lot of ‘little’ pieces that happen when you’re dealing with a sick family member that you don’t think about until you’re in the throes of it all.  [8:35] Money gets tight when a parent has to give up a job to care for their child.  [11:35] Me Fine also helps parents pay for funerals. Often times, parents simply can’t afford it after they’ve spent so much treating their child. [12:50] How did the Me Fine Foundation get started? [20:35] How did Joey get started in Me Fine? [2

Welcome to the 94th episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing A Glimpse Of My Future. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy! Key Takeaways: Hello, it’s great to be back!  I hope you enjoyed Tony and Jia’s talks, I found their stories to be touching and insightful and hope you found something both useful and joyful in their presentations.  A picture of my beautiful wife in Saint Maarten is on the cover of today’s show. We had a wonderful vacation in the Southern Caribbean and I found that the time in a different environment was helpful for me to see things from a different perspective. Opening up or seeing things with fresh eyes are probably better descriptions.  For one, seeing the difference between lifestyles from the US to the islands. Wow.  It’s not just about ma

Tamara Hunter met her lifelong friend, Martha, in a chemo room when they were both undergoing treatments for cancer. That experience changed Tamara, because she had a buddy to laugh with, carpool with, and cry with during her tough moments. However, Tamara found out that many patients go through chemo alone and without a support system, which is why she and Martha created Chemo Buddies 4Life as way to help cancer patients through tough challenges...together!    Key Takeaways: [3:45] How did Chemo Buddies 4Life get started? [6:45] How did Tamara meet her chemo buddy, Martha? [12:00] Think of how many people we know who have heard the words, “You have cancer.” [14:20] So many people keep cancer a secret. So many people isolate themselves, and it hinders their healing process. [16:10] Tamara shares how Chemo Buddies 4Life helps people. [20:25] Tamara is also supporting parents who have children with cancer.  [21:05] How does Chemo Buddies 4Life work? How can people get connected to each other?  [26:55] What kind

Welcome to the 93rd episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing What I learned from 100 days of rejection. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy! Key Takeaways: Week two of my vacation!  I’m looking forward to seeing everyone soon, this is the second episode that I’ve lined up good stories told by the people who’ve lived them.  Today is a Tedx Talk, Jia Jiang: What I learned from 100 days of rejection Jia’s journey to conquer fear https://www.ted.com/talks/jia_jiang_what_i_learned_from_100_days_of_rejection?language=en Over 6.1 million views Starts out with an AWFUL childhood memory.  An important lesson: Stop running away! Not like a little kid anymore Olympic rings: 5.7 million views! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ax2CsVbrX0 Magic word: why? Planting a flower in C

Vivien Hoexter is the Principal for H2Growth Strategies LLC and the author of Big Impact: Insights & Stories from America's Non-Profit Leaders. On today’s show, Vivien shares inspirational stories about nonprofits, what makes an amazing non-profit leader successful in their mission, and the steps it takes to really bring change and impact into an underserved sector in the community.    Key Takeaways: [4:40] Vivien interviewed 47 non-profit leaders for her book and shares the 7 principles she discovered. [6:30] Emotional intelligence and self-awareness are among the most important characteristics of a really successful leader. [8:45] These non-profit leaders have mentors throughout their professional and personal lives. [10:45] How do leaders find talented people to join their organization?  [15:30] Everyone wants to be able to work for and contribute to something of purpose and meaning.  [17:25] Vivien shares an example of CEO Richard Shadyac and how he built meaning and engagement for St. Jude Children’s

Welcome to the 92nd episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing The Secret of Living is Giving. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy! Key Takeaways: Going on vacation and I’m planning on bringing back presents for everyone!  In the meantime, I thought you’d like to hear a couple of good stories told by the people who’ve lived them.  First up: a short one from Tony Robbins. Big Tony remembers the exact day he became wealthy.  If you look close, you can see the tears in his eyes.  It’s kind of a big deal to him, and there’s a powerful lesson for all of us.  There’s something about Tony’s presence when he tells his own stories that I find compelling.  ‘Nuff said, enjoy! Tony Robbins: The Secret of Living is Giving https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_h6cII9uA-I  Remember: Alw

Tim Combs is the Executive Director and Founder of Americans for Independent Living (AFIL).  Although not a veteran himself, Tim is dedicated to providing comfortable housing for our disabled veterans and for those who are at risk of being homeless. Founded in 2015, AFIL has seen a ton of success and growth within the community as Tim continues to be an advocate for better healthcare services for those who have served our country.    Key Takeaways: [3:00] What is Americans for Independent Living all about?  [6:45] When we have services from the VA (Veteran Affairs), why are non-profits like Tim’s so important?  [9:30] What types of services does Tim provide for the veterans that use his services?  [12:40] Families often get frustrated with the process of modifying their home because it’s not always clear cut what someone with disabilities might need.   [13:35] What happens when the VA approves the services for a veteran after Tim has already modified their home? [15:40] Tim has had a difficult time working wi

Welcome to the 91st episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing Strong Communities. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy! Key Takeaways: Received my 501(c)(3) approval from the IRS! Mission: strengthen communities by promoting mental, physical, and financial well-being. A coalition of nonprofits working in collaboration instead of competition to improve the lives of people in their communities Funding: Grants: a comprehensive approach to problem-solving complex social problems using the services of each organization Example, Veterans: housing, PTSD, VA benefits, workforce training, job placement, social isolation, relationship building, chronic pain. Harnessing the power of real estate to strengthen and rebuild communities across America FUN-raising   Focus on buil

Bennie Jean Muliere and special guest Melanie share their story of why Service Dogs of New Mexico is so important to their community. There are so many veterans and special needs children who need service dogs, but can not afford it, and yet, there are so many unwanted dogs sitting in the pound. Why not combine both? Bennie explains her matching process and why she felt compelled to do something about it.    Key Takeaways: [3:40] So many veterans are suffering alone with their PTSD.  [5:05] Service animals can make such a big difference and fill your heart with so much love. [9:15] Service Dogs of New Mexico is not just for veterans. They help children as well.  [10:25] A dog, a little four-legged animal, can literally change someone’s life. [10:40] Bennie shares her story and how she discovered this new path. [15:10] So many people, including Bennie, have survivor's guilt.  [18:10] By having a dog that’s catered to their disabilities, so many people are able to become independent and leave their house withou

Welcome to the 90th episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing my wonderful family bond. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy!   Key Takeaways: Father and sons: the biggest, most important thing our father did for me was to love me unconditionally, without reservation, not based on what others or even he himself thought would be best for me.  As I re-enter Tom’s world, I want to share our father’s example with him. To love him and encourage him and let him know that no matter what he chooses to do, I’m here for him. For all of our faults and shortcomings, it was always our natural inclination to want to help people.   Me, Tom and Dad, each of us are givers. And as givers, sometimes we think that we need to DO SOMETHING in order to help.  My mission is to remember that

Buddy Teaster, the CEO of Soles4Souls and the author of Shoestrings, is back for another episode of the Giving Back Podcast! Buddy has delivered over 30 million shoes to impoverished areas all over the world. Through Buddy’s shoe program, he is helping impoverished people transform their lives in a sustainable way that carries over to the next generation. All from just a pair of shoes!   Key Takeaways: [3:15] This is Buddy’s second guest appearance! [5:00] Buddy gives a quick recap of what Soles4Souls does. [8:15] You might not know it yet, but we can create such a personal connection to our shoes.  [9:10] Buddy shares an example of how the shoe program helps people. [12:40] One penny goes a long way for Soles4Souls. [16:55] Going on mission trips or volunteer and charity trips is more for you than it is for the people you’re helping. You need to be honest with yourself.  [23:20] Why did Buddy decide to write a book?  [30:35] What kind of eye-opening moments did Buddy learn about while interviewing people for

Welcome to the 89th episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing my reunite with my brother. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy!   Key Takeaways: A few months ago I was at the Tuesday meeting of Downtown Streets Team, soaking up the success stories of our unsheltered neighbors making progress in their lives and listening to members share the love with their fellow team members to keep hope alive.  These “revivals without religion” as Joan from Dolby calls them are a source of inspiration and strength for me, a reminder of how much I have and how much a hand up, rather than a handout, can do. This is where I heard two members from an organization called Miracle Messages.  This group has a simple and powerful mission: Help your neighbors experiencing homelessness reunit

Blake Canterbury is a social innovator, philanthropist, and social media expert. He is also the founder of Purposity, a text messaging service that allows you to give back to those who truly need it the most. On today’s episode, Blake discusses Purposity, how it helps our neighbours in need, and why it’s so easy (and addicting) to use.  Key Takeaways: [3:45] Why did Blake decide to create Purposity?  [7:20] With a simple click of a button, people can effortlessly help a charity and an organization out with their needs.  [8:45] It’s tough for a nonprofit because instead of working together, a lot of time they’re forced to compete with other nonprofits due to lack of resources.  [10:10] The beauty of Purposity is that you can see where your dollars go and how it directly impacts and helps an organization. [15:35] If you want a movement to have impact, it has to belong to the people who join it. [17:00] What happens if Purposity isn’t in your town or city currently? [19:35] Blake’s next step is to attract people

Welcome to the 88th episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing the Evangelist. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy!   Key Takeaways: Alannah Avelin See some of her amazing photography work at http://www.alannahvision.com    She’s also a world-class branding expert and someone who’s in my heart for all the right reasons. She sees me. She sees beyond who I am now into the best possibility of myself. And knowing my purpose and what I can achieve, she pushes me. Relentlessly. Is the vision big enough? Am I spreading my wings? Am I using my talents and experience to the fullest capability? Am I using my unique, unfair advantage to the service of others? I respect her opinion and I was kinda nervous about coming back from Vegas to tell her my vision. Luckily, it’s big eno

David Dachinger was diagnosed with stage IV cancer and it suddenly fell on Tamara Green to be the sole caregiver for the household. Tamara, a licensed Certified Social Worker, used meditation practices to help David remain calm during such a scary time.  After David’s amazing recovery, he and Tamara wrote a book, Live Calm with Cancer, to share simple practices anybody can use while they face illness and disease. They are also the co-founders of Loving Meditations, an online meditation app that is catered to caregivers and cancer patients. Find out more about David and Tamara’s amazing love story and journey on today’s show!    Key Takeaways: [3:10] Today, we have an amazing power couple on the show!  [5:15] David is so grateful he had Tamara by his side while he had stage IV cancer.   [7:40] Tamara believes that it’s so important to just be present during someone’s difficult times.  [11:05] In the beginning, it was very tough for Tamara. Within the span of one week, she found out David had cancer and her son

Welcome to the 87th episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m discussing The Language of Love. Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy! Key Takeaways: Lynne Gordon Moquete is the Executive Director of @UnaVidaDR and the Human Interaction Teacher at Casa Grande High School. She’s an incredible community champion and dedicated student advocate in Petaluma.  She recently posted a meme on Facebook about love that I found so insightful I’m sharing it today.  See if this resonates with you: People don’t always say “I love you.” Sometimes it sounds more like: Did you eat? Call me when you get home. Be safe. I made you this. All these different ways to say “I love you.”  She posted this in reference to the book “The 5 Love Languages” by Gary Chapman.  I’d never heard of the book and Ly

Maggie Kane opened A Place at the Table cafe in January this year, and it has a unique pay-what-you-can system. People believe it’s a cafe just for the homeless, but it’s not! Anyone can go and contribute. Although the cafe was recently opened, this project has been four years in the making, because, as Maggie says, special things take time to build! Maggie explains how her cafe helps people, the volunteers that work for her, and what the face of poverty really looks like.    Key Takeaways: [3:10] Maggie started a pay-what-you-can cafe and explains how it all works.  [6:10] Maggie has been building this for the last four years, but the cafe has only been open this year.  [7:30] It takes time to build a community! You have to build it one relationship at a time.  [9:20] Maggie had no experience with entrepreneurship or creating a non-profit, but was able to find really good people to help make this cafe a reality.  [13:25] The menu does have a suggested price, but often people want to pay more because they wan