Stuck in traffic, spilled coffee on your shirt, or dealing with something much bigger? Mental toughness coach Chris Dorris says the problem isn’t what happened. It’s the story we tell ourselves about it.

In this episode of the Today’s the Day Changemakers podcast, Jodi Grinwald sits down with Chris Dorris, a former Atlantic City social worker turned mental toughness coach. He has worked with elite athletes, Fortune 500 sales teams, and leaders around the world. Chris shares the one tool he’d teach if he could only teach one thing, explains why changing your mindset isn’t about faking happiness, and tells how two simple questions launched his career with one of the top college golf programs in the country.

What You’ll Learn

• Why Chris decides every morning that it’s going to be “the best damn day of my life,” and why that’s a discipline, not wishful thinking
• Catch, Own, Replace: a simple 3-step tool to stop negative thinking
• The “O-Line”: the three ways we interpret everything that happens to us
• Why pain is inevitable but suffering is optional
• The two questions that can open doors you never thought you could walk through
• How small daily “reps” with little annoyances build the mental strength to handle life’s big challenges
• Why a shattered leg in Sea Isle turned out to be “the best damn thing that could have happened”
• How leaders can bring mental toughness training to their teams

Memorable Quotes

• “Create the state, don’t wait.”
• “This sucks... unless it doesn’t.”
• “Ain’t bad, just is.” (Chris calls it the Jersey version of Hamlet)
• “Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.”
• “How quickly are you willing to get to creation during circumstances where you’re not getting what you want?” (Chris quoting Steve Chandler)

Free Gift for Our Listeners

Get Chris’s Emotional Mastery 101 Bundle: christopherdorris.com/jodi

Learn More About Chris Dorris

• Website: christopherdorris.com
• Daily Dose: Mental Toughness Tips in 30 Seconds or Less (free daily email): christopherdorris.com/dd
• Books on Amazon: Leadership Unlocked: 11 Mental Toughness Disciplines to Get the Best Out of Your People and The Book of Mental Toughness Mantras

Also Mentioned

• Loving What Is by Byron Katie
• Steve Chandler and Jason Goldberg, coaches and friends of the show

About Chris Dorris

Chris Dorris is a mental toughness coach who helps people close the gap between how their lives are and how they want them to be. He began his career as a social worker in Atlantic City and went on to coach elite athletes, including 10 years with Arizona State University’s men’s golf program. Today he coaches top sales teams and leaders at companies including Salesforce, ServiceNow, Genesys, and Wolters Kluwer.

Connect With Today’s the Day Changemakers

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit
Subscribe to the Today’s the Day Changemakers YouTube channel so you never miss an episode.

Get Jodi’s Book

Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact brings together 31 changemakers from California to Uganda who share what became possible when they stepped beyond their comfort zones.

Available in hardcover, softcover, and eBook on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and wherever books are sold.

Help Keep This Podcast Going

Today’s the Day Changemakers is listened to in more than 143 countries and territories, and we’d love your help keeping these conversations going. Support the show with a donation, and we’ll thank you by name on the next episode - email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com to learn more.

Today is the day. You cannot go back to yesterday, and you do not yet own tomorrow. What step will you take today to get closer to your goals?

#MentalToughness #MindsetShift #ChrisDorris #PositiveMindset #Leadership #TodayIsTheDayChangemakers #TodayIsTheDayLiveIt 

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What does it take to build a life of peace when you grew up believing fear was normal?

In recognition of October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I’m bringing you two special episodes of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast this week. Following my conversation with Liz Graham of 180 Turning Lives Around, I welcome author and domestic violence advocate Kathleen Albertson for an honest conversation about survival, healing, and breaking the cycle.

Kathleen’s book, Beautifully Broken, shares her journey through abuse, loss, and hardship, and the work it took to reclaim her voice and recognize her own worth.

Growing up in Northeast Philadelphia in a home affected by alcoholism and abuse, Kathleen believed that what she experienced was normal. As a teenager struggling with severe anxiety, a therapist named Jean became the first person to help her understand that she was not the problem. Kathleen shares why hearing that validation mattered—and why it took years to truly believe it.

She speaks openly about the abusive relationship she experienced as a young woman, including control, isolation, physical violence, and the gifts that followed the abuse. She also explains the meaning behind the burning red rose on her book’s cover.

Our conversation explores why leaving an abusive relationship can be complicated. Kathleen describes the emotional ties, financial concerns, and worries about her child that shaped her experience. She asks listeners to approach survivors with patience and compassion, recognizing that we cannot understand someone’s circumstances simply by looking from the outside.

We also talk about rebuilding. After leaving high school at 16, Kathleen returned to night school, earned her diploma, and went to college while raising four children. Today, she is an author, advocate, mother, and grandmother who describes herself as being at peace—and proud of the life she has worked to build.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The importance of validation and having someone who listens.
• Control, jealousy, and the cycle of abuse.
• Why leaving and healing are rarely simple.
• Supporting survivors without blame or judgment.
• Returning to education and rebuilding confidence.
• Teaching children about healthy relationships and boundaries.
• How advocacy and writing helped Kathleen share her story and support others.

Kathleen’s story is a reminder that healing takes time, support matters, and another chapter is possible.

Connect with Kathleen through her Facebook book page, Kathleen Albertson Beautifully Broken, and explore her book, Beautifully Broken. (4) Facebook

About your host

Jodi Hope Grinwald is a Leadership, Growth & Connection Strategist, corporate trainer, speaker, and founder of Today is the Day LLC. Through coaching, consulting, corporate training, and workforce development instruction, she helps individuals and organizations strengthen communication, build trust, develop leadership skills, and create opportunities for growth.

Her training includes emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, time management, team building, customer service, and professional communication, with an emphasis on practical skills participants can apply in their work and lives.

Jodi is also the author and curator of LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact, featuring 31 voices sharing experiences and perspectives on moving beyond comfort toward meaningful impact.

Learn more about the book, speaking engagements, coaching, and training at https://todayisthedayliveit.com.

Stay connected

Follow Facebook and Instagram @todayisthedayliveit.
Subscribe to Today is the Day Changemakers on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform.

If this episode resonates with you, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share the conversation with someone who could benefit. Your support helps these stories reach more people.

Today is the day. You cannot go back to yesterday, and you do not yet own tomorrow. What small or large step will you take today to get closer to your goals?

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At 19, Liz Graham turned to 180 Turning Lives Around for help. Today, she leads the very organization that supported her when she needed it most.

In recognition of October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast features a deeply personal conversation with Liz Graham, Chief Executive Officer of 180 Turning Lives Around.

Liz shares what it was like to walk into a courthouse alone seeking a restraining order, afraid to tell her loving family what had happened. An advocate from 180 encouraged her to reach out to them so she wouldn’t have to face the experience alone. That moment helped shape her desire to make sure others could find support, too.

We explore the realities of domestic violence, including experiences that can remain hidden behind a successful career, a seemingly happy family, or a confident public presence. Our conversation addresses emotional and psychological abuse, financial control, isolation from friends and family, and the ways fear and shame can make it difficult to ask for help.

Liz explains why “Why don’t they just leave?” overlooks the circumstances survivors face, and why listening without judgment, respecting someone’s pace, and helping them access support matters. We also discuss safety planning and how friends and family can seek guidance on supporting someone they care about.

I share parts of my own experience as a survivor, including the disconnect between appearing put together publicly and feeling afraid privately. Together, we talk about the importance of being believed—and how speaking openly can help someone else feel less alone.

Liz also shares how her experience informs her leadership. Through 180’s safe housing, counseling, 24-hour hotlines, youth programs, and other services, the organization supports survivors as they consider their next steps. We discuss the thoughtful design of its 45-bed safe house, including accommodations for survivors with their children and pets, and the importance of teaching young people about boundaries, consent, and healthy relationships.

This episode is for survivors, people who care about them, and anyone who wants to better understand how to offer meaningful support.

Learn more about 180 Turning Lives Around at https://180nj.org. The domestic violence hotline shared in this episode is 732-264-4111.

The Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast brings you conversations with changemakers, inspirers, and people disrupting the status quo in the best way possible. Hosted by Jodi Hope Grinwald, the podcast explores the experiences, decisions, and connections that shape lives and create impact.

For more stories of courage, growth, and stepping beyond what feels familiar, explore my book, LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact, featuring 31 voices sharing their experiences and perspectives. Visit https://todayisthedayliveit.com to learn more about the book, the podcast, and my coaching, speaking, and consulting work.

Follow Today is the Day Live It on Facebook and Instagram @todayisthedayliveit, and subscribe to Today is the Day Changemakers on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform.

If this conversation resonates with you, please like, leave a comment or review, and share it with someone who could benefit. Your support helps these conversations reach more people.

Today is the day. You cannot go back to yesterday, and you do not yet own tomorrow. What small or large step will you take today to get closer to your goals?

#domesticviolenceawarenessmonth #domesticviolencesurvivor #dvam #Todayistheday #changemakers #speakout 

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What do you do when you’ve spent your life building businesses—and suddenly, you’re told you may have only weeks to live?

In this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast, host Jodi Hope Grinwald welcomes entrepreneurs and Smilo Foundation co-founders Mike and Bethany Smilovich for a deeply personal conversation about cancer, advocacy, partnership, and finding hope when the future feels uncertain.

Mike’s business experience spans healthcare, wellness, and consumer brands, including European Wax Center franchise locations, VIO Med Spa, and Bang Cookies. But a stage 4 melanoma diagnosis brought an entirely different challenge into his and Bethany’s lives as parents of two young children.

Mike was also diagnosed with leptomeningeal disease, which they describe as cancer spreading into his cerebrospinal fluid—the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. During the interview, they recount being told that the average lifespan associated with his prognosis was eight weeks.

Bethany stepped into the role of caregiver and advocate, researching treatment options, seeking additional opinions, and connecting with doctors and scientists. Together, they describe navigating major medical institutions, gathering information, and bringing what they learned back to Mike’s care team.

Their search eventually took them to Germany for T-cell therapy. Mike and Bethany share their experience with that treatment, the results they reported at the time of our conversation, and the questions they continued to explore.

Throughout their journey, hope gave them motivation to take the next step. Hearing stories of people who had survived difficult diagnoses helped them believe other possibilities existed—and encouraged them to keep reaching out, learning, and asking questions.

Their experience also revealed how difficult it can be to find relevant treatment information, even with resources, business experience, and an extensive network. That realization helped inspire the Smilo Foundation.

Through the foundation, Mike and Bethany are working to connect patients and caregivers with information about cancer research, treatment options, and advocacy resources. They also discuss their plans for Smilo Compass, a tool intended to help patients identify potential treatment options to discuss with their doctors, with expert human review included in the process.

This conversation explores the connections between entrepreneurship and advocacy, the emotional realities of caregiving, raising young children through uncertainty, and creating a mission to help others from a life-changing personal experience.

Learn more about the Smilo Foundation, its mission, and opportunities to support its work:
smilofoundation.org

Follow the foundation on Instagram: @thesmilofoundation

Please share this episode with someone who would value hearing Mike and Bethany’s story. Their discussion reflects their personal experience; treatment decisions should be made with your medical care team.

ABOUT TODAY IS THE DAY

The Today is the Day Changemakers podcast features conversations with changemakers, inspirers, and people disrupting the status quo in the best way possible. With more than 200 episodes and downloads in 143 countries and territories and over 1,400 cities, the podcast brings together voices whose experiences encourage us to think differently, connect more deeply, and take action.

Host Jodi Hope Grinwald is the founder of Today is the Day LLC and creator of Connection Is the Work™. Through coaching, consulting, speaking, and training, she helps leaders, teams, and organizations strengthen connection and create sustainable growth.

EXPLORE LIVE IT!

Jodi’s book, LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact, brings together 31 voices sharing experiences and perspectives on moving beyond comfort and creating impact. Learn more about the book and Jodi’s work at todayisthedayliveit.com.

STAY CONNECTED

Subscribe to Today is the Day Changemakers on YouTube and follow the podcast on your favorite listening platform.

Follow Jodi on Facebook and Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

Facebook: facebook.com/todayisthedayliveit

Instagram: instagram.com/todayisthedayliveit

Website: todayisthedayliveit.com

Today is the day. You cannot go back to yesterday, and you do not yet own tomorrow. What small or large step will you take today to get closer to your goal?

#entrepreneur #cancersurvivor #melanoma #BangCookies #wellness #medspa #nonprofit #cure #changemakers #todayistheday

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This is such an incredible Today is the Day Changemakers episode! You won't want to miss this conversation...

What does a career spent covering everything from Hollywood’s biggest nights to some of the country’s most difficult breaking news stories teach you about people?

Bill Cunningham is an independent, award-winning producer of thousands of stories and live shots in 12 countries, broadcast on network, cable and syndicated television in North America and Britain with viewing audiences in the millions.

Based in Los Angeles, Bill brings decades of experience collaborating with television anchors, correspondents, celebrity contributors, producers, directors, writers, bookers, photographers, editors and engineers around the world.

For 21 years, Bill produced stories for Good Morning America. His career has taken him backstage at the Grammys and Oscars, inside the Vatican, to George Lucas’ Skywalker Ranch and into coverage of the O.J. Simpson trials. His behind-the-scenes work has also included Dancing with the Stars, Comic-Con International, Pixar Animation Studios and so much more.

Bill's story goes far beyond his impressive credits.

Bill shares what it took to get a story on the air under intense pressure, the career mistakes he still remembers, lessons learned from decades in television, and why kindness, curiosity and staying connected truly matter.

One of the most powerful moments in our conversation comes when Bill shares how staying connected helped change the trajectory of his career. After moving to Los Angeles without a job lined up, he reached out to a former television executive he had intentionally stayed in touch with over the years. That connection ultimately helped open the door to ABC and what became a 21-year career with Good Morning America.

That moment speaks directly to something I believe deeply: Connection Is the Work™. We never really know where one genuine relationship, one note, one conversation or one act of kindness may lead.

There is also a very personal connection woven into this episode.

My special co-host, Fred C. Wasiak, M.S., CPC, has known Bill for more than 40 years — but you’ll have to listen to find out exactly how they know each other.

Even after all those years, Fred heard stories from Bill during this conversation that he had never heard before.

I first met Bill at our Los Angeles LIVE IT! Book Launch, and I am so grateful that he took the time to share not only stories from an extraordinary career, but also the personal lessons that came with them.

And toward the end of our conversation, Bill leaves us with another simple but powerful thought:

“And to be curious about other people. That can be a gift.” — Bill Cunningham

The Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast features conversations with people who are making a difference in their corner of the world and beyond.

With more than 200 episodes and listeners in 143 countries and territories, the podcast brings together leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofit changemakers, authors, creatives, educators and people using their experiences to create meaningful impact.

Because Connection Is the Work™.

Subscribe and follow so you don’t miss an episode.

YouTube: Today is the Day Changemakers
Facebook & Instagram: Today is the Day Live It
Website: todayisthedayliveit.com

Read Today is the Day. LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact

LIVE IT! brings together 31 powerful voices sharing personal stories about moving beyond comfort, making courageous choices and creating impact.

And coming Spring 2027:

Today is the Day. OWN IT!

A new collection of voices exploring what happens when we take ownership of our choices, our direction and the life we are creating.

Your life. Your choices. Your call.

Learn more about the books, upcoming events, speaking, coaching and the Today is the Day community at todayisthedayliveit.com.

If this conversation resonates with you, please subscribe, follow, share the episode and send it to someone who needs to hear it.

Every share creates another opportunity for connection.

#TodayIsTheDayChangemakers #BillCunningham #GoodMorningAmerica #Storytelling #TelevisionProducer #ConnectionIsTheWork #Changemakers #LIVEIT #OWNIT #CareerLessons #Podcast

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What becomes possible when you listen to those who believe in you—and allow their belief to help shape your journey as you grow into the leader you are meant to become?

In this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Patrick F. Leahy, president of Monmouth University and Chair of the Board of the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music.

Patrick shares how his professional journey began in a completely different industry before leading him into higher education. Along the way, mentors and others who believed in him helped him recognize new possibilities, take unexpected steps, and grow into the university leader he is today.

You will also hear how deeply he believes in Monmouth University’s students—and in creating the access, support, and opportunities that empower them to recognize their potential and achieve more than they imagined possible.

We also go behind the scenes of an extraordinary undertaking years in the making: his work with Bruce Springsteen and others to transform a bold vision into the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music—a $50 million, 30,000-square-foot destination dedicated to preserving Bruce’s legacy while celebrating the diverse history of American music.

This conversation is about more than becoming a university president or helping to bring a world-class cultural center to life. It is about the people who recognize something in us before we fully recognize it in ourselves, the relationships that open unexpected doors, and the responsibility leaders have to create opportunities for others.

This is an inspiring conversation about mentorship, leadership, education, music, legacy—and what becomes possible when vision is put into motion.

FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE

Follow @todayisthedayliveit on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to the Today Is the Day Changemakers channel on YouTube.

Please like, follow, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear its message.

CONNECT WITH TODAY IS THE DAY

If you would like to be considered as a featured guest or explore partnership opportunities to promote your business, organization, or nonprofit through the Today Is the Day ecosystem, contact Jodi at:

jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

#PatrickLeahy #MonmouthUniversity #BruceSpringsteen #BruceSpringsteenCenterForAmericanMusic #AmericanMusic #HigherEducation #UniversityLeadership #LeadershipJourney #LeadershipDevelopment #MentorshipMatters #Mentorship #Changemakers #PodcastInterview #LeadershipPodcast #TodayIsTheDayChangemakers 

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What if changing your relationship with fear could change your entire life?

In this deeply honest episode of the Today Is the Day Changemakers Podcast, Jodi Hope Grinwald sits down with Liz Svatek—transformational coach, speaker, healer, author, podcast host, and Founder of the Warrior Woman Movement.

Liz shares what it was like growing up in a volatile home and living in “two worlds”—the life others saw and the painful reality behind closed doors. She explains how those experiences created hypervigilance that followed her into adulthood and why writing her book, Finding Your Diamonds, allowed her to finally validate the experiences she had hidden and minimized for years.

Liz also introduces the idea that changed everything for her: radical personal responsibility. This does not mean blaming yourself for what happened. It means owning the choices you make next so you can become the driver of your own life.

Together, Jodi and Liz explore:

• Creating boundaries within complicated family relationships
• Accepting people for who they are—not who we need them to become
• How healing yourself can create a ripple effect in others
• Reinventing your identity when you know there is more for you
• The difference between actual danger and the fear that accompanies growth
• Why fear may be a green light rather than a stop sign
• How one decision can completely change the trajectory of your life

Liz works with women who feel exhausted, overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or as though they have been silently drowning while caring for everyone around them. Her work helps women awaken, remember who they are, reclaim their voices, and return to the expanded, powerful, and deeply alive women they were always meant to be.

Liz reminds us, “You can’t really change another person, but you can be the ripple effect.” And for anyone wondering whether life holds something more, her message is clear: “If you think there is more, there is.”

EVOLVE WITH LIZ—FREE LIVE CLASS

Join Liz September 14–16 for EVOLVE, a free live class designed to help you evolve your relationships, your parenting, and—most importantly—YOURSELF.

Register here:
https://www.lizsvatek.com/evolve-experience

BECOME LIMITLESS

Liz’s LIMITLESS program is a 12-week online, deeply connective experience that can change your life. Jodi has personally participated in LIMITLESS and highly recommends it to any woman who is ready to grow, heal, break free from old patterns, and discover what is possible in her next chapter. It was a gamechanger for Jodi and can be for you as well. 

As Liz says, “All it takes is 12 weeks to change your life, your legacy, and the woman staring back in the mirror.”

Learn more at Warrior Women Inc.:
https://www.lizsvatek.com/

Liz’s book, Finding Your Diamonds, is available now on Amazon. She is also the host of The Liz Svatek Show and will be a featured author in the upcoming collaborative book that Jodi is curating titled, Today Is the Day. OWN IT!, coming in late spring 2027.

This is not only Liz’s story. It may be the beginning of yours.

FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE

Follow @todayisthedayliveit on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to the Today Is the Day Changemakers channel on YouTube.

Please like, follow, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear its message.

CONNECT WITH TODAY IS THE DAY

If you would like to be considered as a featured guest or explore partnership opportunities to promote your business, organization, or nonprofit through the Today Is the Day ecosystem, contact Jodi at:

jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

#connection

#changemakers

#evolve

#limitless

#awaken

#coaching

#womenleaders

#leadership

#womeninbusiness

#TodayistheDay

#changemakers

#overcomingfear

#trauma

#family

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What does it take to build a 38-year career, lead a company through 20 years of growth and adversity, and stand up for the things you believe in—even when doing so isn’t easy?

In this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I sit down with Philip “Phil” Brilliant, founder and owner of Brilliant Environmental Services, LLC, a full-service environmental consulting firm celebrating 20 years in business.

Phil has dedicated more than 38 years to environmental science, helping protect the water people drink, the air they breathe, and the communities where they live. During his career, he helped grow an environmental company from four employees and $400,000 in annual revenue to 68 employees, four offices, and more than $9 million in revenue.

His leadership extends far beyond his business. Phil is a longtime community advocate, frequent lecturer on environmental remediation, original member of the New Jersey Site Remediation Professional Licensing Board, and host of the Simply Brilliant Podcast. He continues to speak up, step forward, and stand behind the issues he believes matter—even when doing so makes him a target.

But to understand the leader Phil became, you also have to understand where he came from.

Raised by a single mother with limited resources, Phil learned about sacrifice, perseverance, and generosity at an early age. His mother raised two children, later returned to school, and earned her college degree at 50.

When Phil was eight or nine years old, he tried to help her pay the bills. He found what he believed were postage stamps, licked them, and carefully placed them on the envelopes. He soon discovered that they were actually the family’s food stamps for the week.

His mother also taught him the power of making people feel seen. She kept gifts in the trunk of her car because she believed you should never arrive at someone’s home empty-handed. She would even give a gift to a stranger celebrating a birthday in a restaurant. Today, Phil honors her legacy through a scholarship that helps high school seniors continue their education.

Phil also speaks candidly about one of the most difficult chapters of his professional journey. After discovering his company was losing money on every job, he faced approximately $700,000 in bills with only about $100,000 coming in. He reduced his staff from 45 employees to 10 and ultimately filed for bankruptcy.

Through honesty, resilience, and the willingness to ask for help, Phil rebuilt his business without losing a client or vendor. His advice to entrepreneurs is something every leader needs to hear: You may know something, but you do not know everything. Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you in the areas where you need support.

This is a conversation about business success, leadership, family, community advocacy, bankruptcy, rebuilding, and having the courage to use your voice.

Stories like Phil’s are at the heart of my book, LIVE IT! From the Edge of Comfort to the Center of Impact. Through real and deeply personal stories, the authors share how they moved beyond judgment, uncertainty, fear, and challenge to create lives of greater purpose and impact. The book is available in paperback and Kindle wherever books are sold.

Listen to the full episode, subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, and please like and share this conversation so more people can hear Phil’s story.

Follow @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt on Facebook and Instagram for more conversations with leaders, changemakers, entrepreneurs, and people creating meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Would your company or organization benefit from reaching an audience of leaders, business owners, nonprofit professionals, and changemakers? Customized podcast sponsorship opportunities are available, providing meaningful visibility while supporting the real stories and conversations that inspire people to take action.

Visit todayisthedayliveit.com or contact Jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com to learn more about the podcast, Leadership & Business Growth Strategy services, purchase LIVE IT!, or explore sponsorship, and partnership opportunities.

#Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Resilience #StandUpForWhatYouBelieveIn #LeadershipLessons #EnvironmentalLeadership #SmallBusiness #CommunityLeadership #OvercomingAdversity #PurposeDrivenLeadership #Changemakers #Podcast #TodayIsTheDayChangemakers #LiveIt

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How is ZanaAfrica transforming menstrual health, girls’ education, reproductive health, and gender equality in Kenya?

In this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, host Jodi Hope Grinwald speaks with Megan Mukuria—founder of ZanaAfrica, Ashoka Fellow, Harvard University graduate, and award-winning social entrepreneur.

Megan grew up in Connecticut and attended Harvard University. But after working with girls in Kenya, she recognized a truth that changed her life: poverty is a lack of opportunity—not a lack of talent. In 2001, she purchased a one-way ticket to Kenya and followed a calling she could no longer deny.

Megan later founded ZanaAfrica after witnessing how period poverty, limited access to sanitary pads, and a lack of trusted reproductive health education affected girls’ health, safety, dignity, and education.

Today, ZanaAfrica provides menstrual products to more than 100,000 users and works with 250 teachers and 50,000 students—with the goal of helping bring its health curriculum to 13 million students across Kenya.

In this conversation, Megan shares:

•  How her Connecticut upbringing and Harvard education influenced her journey 
•  Why she left the United States for Kenya 
•  How ZanaAfrica is advancing menstrual health and girls’ education 
•  What she learned after six years without funding 
•  Why menstrual products and health education must work together 
•  How courage, purpose, and persistence can create systems change 
•  Why everyone—not only founders—can contribute to social impact 

If you are interested in Megan Mukuria, ZanaAfrica, Harvard alumni creating social change, menstrual health in Kenya, period poverty, girls’ education, gender equality, women’s health, nonprofit leadership, or social entrepreneurship, this episode is for you.

Watch and listen:

• YouTube
• Spotify
• Apple Podcasts
•  Search Today is the Day Changemakers wherever you stream podcasts. 

Learn more about Megan Mukuria and support ZanaAfrica at ZanaAfrica.org.

Learn more about Jodi Hope Grinwald, the podcast, books, leadership programs, and the Today is the Day Changemakers ecosystem at TodayIsTheDayLiveIt.com.

Subscribe, follow, review, and share this episode to help more people discover Megan’s work.

#MeganMukuria #ZanaAfrica #HarvardUniversity #HarvardAlumni #Connecticut #Kenya #MenstrualHealth #PeriodPoverty #MenstrualEquity #GirlsEducation #GenderEquality #WomensHealth #SocialEntrepreneurship #NonprofitLeadership #GlobalHealth #SocialImpact #Changemakers #TodayIsTheDayChangemakers

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I’m Jodi Hope Grinwald, host of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. In this episode, special guest co-host Fred Wasiak, Principal Owner of Humanics Consulting, and we sit down with motivational keynote speaker, author and improv comedian Avish Parashar for a powerful and refreshingly honest conversation about navigating change, moving beyond apathy and replacing “yes, but” with “yes, and.”

Avish reminds us that life isn’t scripted—it is the ultimate improvisation. We are constantly facing unexpected changes, challenging conversations and circumstances we cannot control. The question is: Will we resist what is happening, or will we adapt and explore what could be possible?

One of my favorite insights from Avish’s book, Say “Yes, And!” to Change, is:

“Yes, but” is a brake.
“Yes, and” is an accelerator.

When someone presents an idea and the response is, “Yes, but that won’t work,” the idea can be shut down in seconds. But responding with, “Yes, and what if we also…” can open the door to creativity, collaboration and entirely new possibilities.

Avish explains how changing our default response from “yes, but” to “yes, and” can help us:

• Adapt more effectively to change
• Strengthen communication and teamwork
• Move beyond resistance and complacency
• Unlock creativity and innovation
• Become more comfortable with uncertainty
• Say “yes, and” to ourselves and the possibilities we may be dismissing

Our conversation also takes an unexpectedly honest turn when Avish shares his unusual personal theme: to become more “bored, awkward and rejected.”

Why would anyone choose that?

Because boredom creates space for imagination. Awkwardness can mean we are stretching beyond what feels comfortable. Rejection means we had the courage to try. Avish explains that when we stop immediately escaping discomfort through distraction, we give ourselves the space to create, grow and achieve better results.

We also explore approval-seeking and how easy it is to focus on the one person who did not like what we did—even when 100 others did. Avish openly discusses his own desire for approval, the vulnerability behind performing and why being honest about what we are experiencing allows others the opportunity to support us.

Avish also challenges the belief that every goal must feel achievable. While SMART goals have value, he believes we also need an “impossible goal”—one that makes us think, “I have no idea how I’m going to accomplish that.”

An impossible goal requires us to experiment, learn, collaborate and use our creativity. When individuals or teams pursue an ambitious goal they genuinely care about, that renewed engagement can begin to replace apathy.

Most importantly, Avish reminds us that bringing “yes, and” into our workplaces, relationships and communities must begin with saying “yes, and” to ourselves. How many times have you thought, “I want to do that,” only to immediately answer yourself with, “Yes, but I don’t have the time,” “Yes, but I might fail” or “Yes, but I’m not ready”?

This episode invites us to change that response.

If you are navigating change, leading a team, pursuing a goal that feels beyond your reach or struggling to move past your own “yes, but,” this conversation is for you.

Listen to From “Yes, But” to “Yes, And”: Turning Change Into Possibility with Avish Parashar.

CONNECT WITH AVISH PARASHAR

Learn more about Avish:
https://www.avishparashar.com

Learn more about Say “Yes, And!” to Change:
https://www.sayyesandtochange.com

CONNECT WITH TODAY IS THE DAY

Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and join a global community committed to creating meaningful change.

Learn more about me and the work of Today is the Day:
https://www.todayisthedayliveit.com

#leadership  #changemanagement  #yesand  #TodayIsTheDayChangemakers #AvishParashar #leadershipdevelopment  #adaptability  #personalgrowth  #teamengagement  #creativity  #innovation  #growthmindset  #workplaceculture  #communicationskills  #podcast 

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One Small Act of Kindness Can Change Everything: A Conversation with Karen Olson

What if one small act of kindness could change the course of your life—and ultimately impact millions of others?

On this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, host Jodi Hope Grinwald sits down with Karen Olson, founder and CEO emeritus of Family Promise, for an inspiring conversation about kindness, compassion, purpose, and the extraordinary impact one person can create.

Karen’s desire to help others began early in life. After losing her mother as a child, she experienced a depth of hurt that made her want to protect others from feeling the same kind of pain. Although she once dreamed of becoming a nurse, her life took her in a different direction, and she built a successful career as a marketing executive at Warner-Lambert.

Then, one encounter outside Grand Central Station changed everything. On her way to a business meeting, Karen stopped to help an unhoused woman named Millie. She offered her a sandwich and orange juice—and, even more importantly, took the time to sit with her, listen, and learn her story.

That single decision opened Karen’s eyes and heart in a new way. It led her to begin volunteering, learn more about family homelessness, and bring communities together to create meaningful solutions.

Karen eventually founded what would become Family Promise, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping families experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity achieve lasting independence. Through the power of compassion, community, and human connection, she rallied more than one million volunteers and helped build a movement that has served more than one million children and adults.

In this deeply personal conversation, Karen opens up about childhood loss, depression, unexpected roadblocks, her transition from corporate leadership to nonprofit service, and the life-altering health crisis she later faced. She also shares how volunteerism transformed her own life and why compassion has the power to heal both the person receiving kindness and the person offering it.

Karen’s journey reminds us that purpose does not always arrive through one grand plan. Sometimes, it begins by noticing the person in front of us, listening to our hearts, and choosing to take one small step.

Karen’s memoir, Meant for More: Following Your Heart and Finding Your Purpose, chronicles her journey from personal tragedy to a life of compassion, service, and national impact. The book is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookshop.org.

Learn more about Karen at KarenOlsonAuthor.com and about Family Promise at FamilyPromise.org.

About the Host

Jodi Hope Grinwald is a Leadership & Connection Strategist, author, collaborative publishing strategist, and host of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. She partners with companies, nonprofits, leaders, and professionals through leadership and team development, career transition coaching, nonprofit fundraising strategy, and organizational consulting.

Through her Connection Is the Work™ methodology, Jodi helps companies and nonprofits turn meaningful human connection into measurable organizational outcomes—including stronger leadership, more effective teams, improved workplace culture, greater employee and client engagement, increased retention, sustainable fundraising, and long-term growth.

Jodi is also the creator and lead author of Today is the Day. LIVE IT!—Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact, featuring the stories and insights of 31 changemakers. She is currently curating the second collaborative book in the series, Today is the Day. OWN IT!, scheduled for release in Spring 2027.

Today is the Day. LIVE IT! is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Target, and other major online booksellers.

Learn more about Jodi’s consulting, coaching, speaking, podcast, and books at TodayIsTheDayLiveIt.com.

#homelessness

#nonprofit

#Princeton

#Florida

#Author

#CEO

#cryotherapy

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On July 31, 2025, we released an episode about what humor means and how it is a true connector.  Today, we’re honored to share it again. In this episode I am joined by Lenny Dave, Kermit Cole, and special guest co-host, Michael Gershe. 

Humor connects people. Humor heals people. Humor is much more than telling a joke. Listen in the hear more about what humor means to us as a society.

Last month, we said goodbye to our dear friend, Lenny Dave who is one of the guest's in this episode. His passing leaves an incredible void, but his voice, wisdom, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire all of us who had the privilege of knowing him.

Lenny was also a featured author in LIVE IT!, where his Chapter 8, “Lost and Found,” captures the resilience, perspective, and joy that defined his life. One of his unforgettable lessons? “Life is a gravy sandwich.” It was quintessential Lenny—finding light even in life’s most difficult moments.

As the co-founder of Humor Camp, Lenny understood that humor wasn’t about telling jokes. It was about creating connection. He had a remarkable gift for helping people feel seen, welcomed, and part of something bigger than themselves. That gift transformed countless lives and built a community that will forever carry his legacy forward.

His absence will be deeply felt at this fall’s Humor Camp and throughout both the Humor Camp and Today is the Day Changemakers communities.

As we mark one year since this episode first aired, we invite you to listen—or listen again—and celebrate a man who showed us that laughter can heal, connection can change lives, and the way we make people feel is often the greatest gift we leave behind.

Thank you, Lenny. Your legacy lives on.

Click to purchase the book and learn more about Lenny in Chapter 8 of Today is the Day. LIVE IT! 

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What happens when one moment changes the direction of your life—and you must decide how you are going to move forward?

On July 20, 2017, Matthew Fumo dove into shallow water while swimming with friends near the Longport Bridge in Ocean City, New Jersey. He struck his head on the bottom, sustained a C4 spinal cord injury, and was paralyzed from the shoulders down. He was told he could remain on a breathing tube for up to three years and would never move anything below his neck again.

But Matt’s story did not end with what he was told.

In today’s episode, Matt and his sister, Julia Fumo, share the realities of that day, the long and continuing road of recovery, and what the experience taught their entire family about resilience, hope, support, and moving forward.

Today, Matt is president of Unbroken Motion, and Julia serves as secretary. Together, they are building a community to support individuals living with spinal cord injuries and the families walking beside them.

Learn more, get involved, or support their mission at UnbrokenMotion.org, and follow @UnbrokenMotion on Facebook and Instagram.

Before we begin, please download and follow the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts, and subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel.

You can also follow Today is the Day Live It on Facebook and Instagram. Please like, comment, and share. Every interaction helps us bring these powerful stories to more people around the world.

Today is the Day. LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact, is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and Target online. If you are sitting at the edge of a decision or unsure how to move forward read what 31 authors from across the U.S. and Uganda have to share.

#spinalcord #spinalcordinjury #motion #TodayistheDay #Changemakers #ocean #surfing #watersafety #family #community #healing #mindset #connection

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. Today’s guest is Whitney Buchmann, Founder of Illustra Impact, joined by co-host Fred Wasiak, Founder of Humanics Consulting.

Whitney believes we’re at our best when we’re locally rooted, globally minded. In this inspiring conversation, she shares how embracing new perspectives, cultures, and experiences expands our thinking, strengthens our leadership, and equips us to create greater impact right where we live. You’ll walk away challenged to think differently about community, connection, and why some of our greatest lessons come from people and places far beyond our own backyard.

At Today is the Day, we believe Connection is the Work™. Every conversation is rooted in the idea that intentional human connection isn’t just a soft skill—it’s the foundation for measurable organizational outcomes. Through Connection is the Work™, organizations strengthen leadership, build stronger cultures, improve collaboration, deepen customer and donor relationships, increase retention, and create lasting impact.

If you enjoy today’s episode, please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt.

You can continue your own changemaker journey with Today is the Day. LIVE IT!, a collection of leadership insights and personal stories from 31 extraordinary changemakers. The book is available wherever books are sold online.

This book also represents the enduring legacy of our dear friend and contributing author, Lenny Dave. His recent passing has been deeply felt by everyone who knew and loved him. Through his chapter, “Lost and Found,” and his unforgettable reminder that “Life is a gravy sandwich,” Lenny continues to inspire others to find hope, gratitude, and purpose no matter the circumstances.

By purchasing Today is the Day. LIVE IT!, you’re helping us continue to share Lenny’s message and honor the legacy of a remarkable changemaker whose voice will continue to make a difference for years to come.

And now… let’s meet today’s changemaker.

I'd love to leave you with this one question:
What belief do you hold with complete confidence today that might simply be the result of never having stood somewhere else?

For more information on being a guest, a client, or to learn more about the next book coming out May 2027, please email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com. 

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What if the biggest challenge facing our communities isn't a lack of ideas... but our willingness to act?

In this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I sit down with Catherine Wilson, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Newark for one of the most honest conversations I've had about leadership, community, and creating meaningful change.

We begin with an unexpected question inspired by the excitement surrounding the Knicks:

If complete strangers can unite around a basketball team, why can't we unite around strengthening our communities?

That one question opened the door to a conversation about what happens when we stop talking and start making intentional decisions.

Together, we explore:

• Why Catherine believes we need to stop talking about issues and start looking at what the data is actually telling us so we can make informed, courageous decisions.

• The growing leadership crisis in the nonprofit sector, including burnout, compensation, succession planning, and why organizations must stop trying to be everything to everyone if they want to build sustainable futures.

• Why the conversation around paid nonprofit sabbaticals isn't about taking a vacation—it's about investing in leaders so they can continue serving others without sacrificing themselves.

• Why preparing for leadership starts long before you're given the title by showing up, asking questions, observing, listening, and learning.

• Why your degree or résumé may open a door, but your character, curiosity, relationships, and willingness to grow determine the leader you become.

• Why board service should never be about prestige or filling a seat, but about passion, engagement, and opening doors that create lasting impact.

• How one investment in one individual can create a ripple effect that strengthens families, neighborhoods, and entire communities.

• Why authentic leadership requires making difficult decisions, including scaling back in one area to strengthen another instead of trying to do everything.

• The importance of civic engagement and Catherine's powerful reminder: "I don't care who you vote for—I need you to vote." Participation creates possibility, and hope begins when we choose to engage instead of giving up.

If you've followed my journey, you know I believe Connection Is the Work™.

This conversation is exactly why.

Connection isn't a soft skill. It's how trust is built, leaders are developed, boards become stronger, organizations thrive, and communities move from conversation to action.

It's also the heartbeat behind my bestselling collaborative book, Today is the Day. LIVE IT! – Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact, where 31 voices remind us that one decision, one connection, and one courageous action can change the trajectory of a life.

As you listen, I invite you to reflect:

Where have I been talking instead of acting?

Am I preparing for the leader I hope to become?

What action can I take today to create meaningful impact in my family, my organization, or my community?

Because change doesn't begin when everyone agrees.

It begins when someone decides to act.

I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway in the comments. If this episode speaks to you, please share it with someone who believes leadership is about serving others, subscribe to the YouTube channel, and join us as we continue proving that Connection Is the Work™.

Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram @Today is the Day Live It. 

We are given only one day at a time—how are you living it today?

#nonprofit #vote #connection #TodayistheDay #burnout #podcast #takeaction 

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What if success isn't just measured by what we build—but by how we impact the people around us?

This week on the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I sit down with Ed DeAngelis, Founder and CEO of EDA Contractors, whose journey from selling newspapers as a young boy to leading a company of more than 400+ employees challenges much of what we think we know about success, leadership, and what truly drives high-performing organizations.

In an industry often known for projects, productivity, and performance, Ed is championing something different: the belief that trust, kindness, vulnerability, accountability, and genuine human connection are not distractions from success—they're the foundation of it.

As someone whose own work is centered around Connection Is the Work™, I found myself deeply aligned with Ed's philosophy of Humanity as a Strategy. In fact, we probably could have spoken for hours about the power of putting people first and the impact intentional connection can have on individuals, teams, organizations, and communities.

Ed shares the experiences that shaped him, the leap of faith that led him to build his own company, and the moment success forced him to ask a difficult question: Is there another way to lead?

What followed was a deeply personal journey—one that challenged him to rethink not only how he defined success, but how he showed up for the people around him. Through his philosophy of Humanity as a Strategy, Ed makes a compelling case that people-first leadership isn't just good for culture—it's good for business.

Before we jump into today's episode, I'd like to ask a favor. If you're enjoying the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who could benefit from this conversation.

And if you're looking for inspiration to take your own leap of faith, pick up a copy of Today is the Day. LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact. Featuring 31 inspiring voices and stories of courage, resilience, leadership, and transformation, it's available through Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram @todayisthedaychangemakers for episode highlights, behind-the-scenes content, upcoming events, and daily inspiration.

And we'd love to hear from you. What resonated most with you from today's conversation? What questions do you have? What topics would you like us to explore in future episodes?

Now, let's meet today's changemaker, Ed DeAngelis.

#Changemakers #Contractors #Ceo #Humanity #Strategy #Leadership #Entrepreneurship

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What if the life you've built no longer feels aligned with the life you're meant to live?

In this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, Jodi sits down with artist, coach, and entrepreneur Marc Scheff for a powerful conversation about reinvention, creativity, purpose, and the courage to embrace change.

Many of us spend years building careers, relationships, routines, and identities that look successful from the outside. But what happens when something inside tells us there may be another path waiting to be explored?

Marc shares his personal journey of transition and discovery, offering insight into how our experiences, passions, challenges, and successes often reveal a common thread that has been guiding us all along. Together, Jodi and Marc explore what it means to trust yourself, navigate uncertainty, and create a life that feels more aligned with who you truly are.

Whether you're considering a career change, entering a new season of life, pursuing a creative passion, or simply asking yourself, "What's next?" this episode will challenge you to reflect on the possibilities that may be waiting beyond your comfort zone.

In this episode, you'll discover:
• How to recognize the common thread connecting your life experiences
• Why disruption can become an opportunity for growth and transformation
• The role creativity plays in personal and professional fulfillment
• How to move forward even when the path ahead isn't fully clear
• Why meaningful change often begins with a single decision

At Today is the Day, we believe one decision can change everything.

🎙️ Enjoying the podcast? We'd love to hear from you!

⭐ Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast on YouTube.
⭐ Leave a review and help us reach more changemakers around the world.
⭐ Share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
⭐ What questions do you have?
⭐ What topics would you like us to explore in future episodes?

Follow us on:
Facebook: @todayisthedayliveit
Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

Learn more at TodayIsTheDayLiveIt.com

📖 Get your copy of Today is the Day. LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact, featuring 31 inspiring voices sharing stories of courage, resilience, and transformation. Available online through Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble.

Remember: The choices we make today shape the life we live tomorrow.

Today is the Day. LIVE IT!

#TodayistheDay

#Changemakers

#LIVEIT

#MarcScheff

#Coach

#Resilience

#Livethelifeyouwant

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From Adversity to Impact: Tisha Janigian's Journey of Hope, Leadership & Empowerment

What happens when one woman refuses to let her circumstances define her future?

In this inspiring episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, host Jodi sits down with Tisha Janigian, founder and president of SHE IS HOPE LA, owner of SHE IS HOPE REALTY, and contributing author in the newly released book Today is the Day. LIVE IT! – From Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact.

Tisha's story is one of extraordinary resilience, courage, and purpose.

After navigating divorce and finding herself with no money, no credit, and no assets, Tisha made a life-changing decision: she would not allow her challenges to define her future. Instead, she transformed her experience into a mission to help other women rise.

Today, through SHE IS HOPE LA, Tisha empowers single mothers and women by providing education, resources, support, and opportunities that help create lasting stability and independence. Her work has impacted countless lives by helping women recognize their value, build confidence, and believe that a brighter future is possible.

In this episode, Tisha shares:

✨ Her personal journey from hardship to hope
 ✨ The inspiration behind founding She Is Hope LA
 ✨ How empowering women creates stronger families and communities
 ✨ The lessons she learned while rebuilding her life from the ground up
 ✨ Why hope is more than a feeling—it's a strategy for moving forward
 ✨ The power of sharing our stories to help others heal and grow
 ✨ Her experience as a featured author in Today is the Day. LIVE IT!

Tisha's impact extends far beyond real estate or nonprofit work. She is helping women reclaim their confidence, rewrite their stories, and recognize that their current circumstances do not determine their future potential.

Her message is clear:

You may not control what happens to you, but you can decide what happens next.

📚 Featured Book: Today is the Day. LIVE IT! – From Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact

Tisha is proud to be one of 31 contributing authors sharing powerful stories of courage, resilience, leadership, and transformation.

The book reminds us that one decision can change everything—and that our voices, experiences, and stories have the power to inspire others to take their next step.

Available now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and other major retailers.

🌎 Connect with Today's the Day

Follow for inspiring conversations, leadership insights, and stories of people making a difference in their corner of the world and beyond.

📱 Facebook & Instagram: @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt

🎥 Subscribe on YouTube for more inspiring episodes.

🎙️ Listen, share, and help us amplify voices that remind us that hope is stronger than circumstance.

Because connection is the work.

#TodayIsTheDayLiveIT #TishaJanigian #SheIsHopeLA #TodayIsTheDayLIVEIT #WomenEmpoweringWomen #SingleMothers #Leadership #Resilience #Hope #ConnectionIsTheWork #AuthorSpotlight #PodcastInterview #EdgeOfComfortToCenterOfImpact #OneDecisionCanChangeEverything

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What does it take to leave your home country as a teenager, move to New York with nothing but a dream, dance your way through the entertainment industry alongside icons like Prince and Liza Minnelli… survive a life-altering health crisis… and then completely reinvent your life to help others heal from the inside out?

On today’s episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, we welcome Monique Mannen — Cellular Health Educator with decades of experience in entertainment — helping bridge science, wellness, and real-life transformation.

From winning a dance competition in the Netherlands that brought her to New York… to earning scholarships at Alvin Ailey, Joffrey Ballet, and Martha Graham… to appearing in over 50 music videos, more than 100 national commercials, film, television, and iconic projects alongside some of entertainment’s most recognizable names — Monique’s story is one of fearless determination, reinvention, resilience, and purpose.

But perhaps her greatest transformation happened off stage.

After battling years of undiagnosed health struggles that forced her to step away from the career that defined her identity, Monique found herself rebuilding not only her health… but herself. Today, she uses her voice, experience, and passion to educate others about cellular health, activation science, and what it truly means to advocate for your own well-being while protecting your peace, your purpose, and your joy.

This conversation is powerful, honest, inspiring, and deeply human.

Thank you so much for tuning in to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. If today’s episode inspired you, moved you, or reminded you of the power of reinvention, resilience, and connection, stay connected with us.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It, and subscribe to our YouTube channel, Today is the Day Changemakers, for more inspiring conversations with voices creating impact around the world.

And if you haven’t gotten your copy yet of Today is the Day. LIVE IT! — featuring courageous stories of leadership, transformation, resilience, and human connection — you can purchase it online through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Target, and other retailers.

Because sometimes the most extraordinary transformations begin with one fearless decision to bet on yourself.

Today is the day. How are you going to LIVE IT?

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What happens when the person responsible for managing some of the hardest realities inside the prison system goes home carrying the weight of leadership… while also trying to raise children as a single father?

In this deeply honest episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, Jodi Hope Grinwald and cohost Fred Wasiak, Principal Owner, Humanics Consulting sit down with Timothy Rougeux, Court-Appointed Monitor | Transforming Correctional Healthcare Systems for a conversation about leadership, humanity, pressure, parenting, and what it means to stay true to yourself in environments that can harden people.

Tim opens up about his role working within the prison system — navigating intense situations, difficult personalities, emotional stress, and environments where strength is often defined by toughness instead of humanity.

But behind the title and responsibility was something even more personal:
A father trying to hold everything together.

In this conversation, Tim shares:
▪️ The emotional reality of being a single parent
▪️ The guilt, pressure, and exhaustion that come with trying to “do it all”
▪️ Working in a system that can challenge your values and identity
▪️ What it feels like to constantly be expected to be tougher, harder, less emotional
▪️ Why he refused to lose his humanity despite the environments around him
▪️ The struggle of balancing leadership, parenting, work stress, and personal identity
▪️ Friendship, resilience, sports, humor, and the moments that helped him keep going
▪️ How staying grounded in his values became more important than fitting expectations

This episode is raw, relatable, and deeply human.

It’s about the invisible pressure people carry.
The parts of leadership no one talks about.
And the reality that sometimes the strongest thing a person can do… is remain themselves.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by responsibility…
If you’ve ever tried to stay strong for everyone else…
If you’ve ever struggled to balance work, parenting, identity, and emotional survival…

This conversation will stay with you.

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. To find out more about working with Jodi as a leadership and connection strategist or to become a guest and share your story email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com or go to our website. 

#Podcast #Leadership #SingleParent #PrisonSystem #MentalHealth #Resilience #Authenticity #Humanity #PersonalGrowth #Parenting #Changemakers #TodayIsTheDay #LeadershipDevelopment #Mindset #LifeLessons 

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In this episode, Jodi sits down with filmmaker, director, writer, and producer Monique Impagliazzo, whose work spans film, television, documentaries, music videos, and commercials—and whose passion for storytelling is rooted in connection, courage, and impact.

With over 15 years in the industry, Monique has built an incredible career, including directing the award-winning comedy Turkey’s Done starring Cheri Oteri, which earned Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Comedy at festivals across the U.S. and Canada. She has also collaborated with industry legend Barbra Streisand at Barwood Films, contributing to projects including The Guilt Trip, international concert tours, and Grammy-nominated albums.

Most recently, Monique directed two music videos—Which Way to Go featuring Malek Hanna and The Look of Love / The Island starring Roslyn Kind—and is currently developing multiple projects, including:

• Agency, a series following a determined female sports agent navigating a male-dominated industry 
• Back to December, a feature film awarded $100,000 through the Montana Big Sky Grant Program 
•  And Pinky Swear, a deeply powerful short film about a woman who meets her 7-year-old self—and together, they begin to heal what was never meant to be carried alone 

In this conversation, Monique shares what it really takes to pursue a creative path, move through fear, and take bold steps—even when there’s no clear roadmap.

Together, Jodi and Monique explore:

•  What it means to take a chance on yourself—even before you feel ready 
•  How one decision can change the trajectory of your life 
•  The role of connection, community, and support in navigating uncertainty 
•  And how storytelling can become a vehicle for healing—not just for ourselves, but for others 

This is a conversation about courage, creativity, and the power of your voice—especially when you choose to use it. 

🎧 Listen in and ask yourself:
What decision might be waiting for you right now?

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit
Subscribe to the Today Is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel for more conversations that inspire action, connection, and impact.

📚 Get the Book:

Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! is available online at:
Amazon | Target | Walmart |

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What if one of the most prestigious programs in the world didn’t give her what you’d expect…

…and what she actually walked away with is the reason everything works today?

In this episode, I sit down with Theresa Hummel-Krallinger—and this conversation goes way beyond career paths.

We start talking, and within minutes, it’s clear—this isn’t just an interview.
 It’s one of those conversations where you’re finishing each other’s thoughts because you get it.

Especially when we get into how we work.

The piles.
 The open tabs.
 The constant movement between ideas.
 The challenge of finishing something… while also managing a hundred things at once.

And also—the gift of it.

Because while it doesn’t always look neat behind the scenes, it’s exactly what allows us to build, connect, and create at the level we do.

That same energy shows up in everything Teresa has built.

Her book Make Waves breaks your career down into four parts—but the one she lights up about?

“The motor is your professional network. It’s people who know you, who will connect you with opportunities…”

And she doesn’t just talk about it—she uses it.

In real time.

She shares how she reached out to her network for one person… and within hours, people said yes to helping someone they didn’t even know.

She says it simply:

“By and large, people want to help.”

And you see that belief in everything she’s created—from her consulting work, to her book, to Meet the Authors, which started small and grew into one of the top networking experiences in Philadelphia.

And then there’s the moment that really hits.

Even with all of this… all the experience, all the relationships, all the impact…

She still says:

“Who am I to have these people in my life?”

That’s the part people don’t talk about enough.

This conversation is about what it really looks like to build something meaningful over time.

To use what you already have.
 To trust the way your mind works.
 To keep showing up—even when you question yourself.

And to recognize that maybe the thing you’ve been overlooking…
 is actually the thing moving everything forward.

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

Get the book: Today Is the Day: LIVE IT! – Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact
Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, and more.

If you’re looking to strengthen connection within your team, your work, or your life—this is the work I do every day through coaching, consulting, and speaking.

#leadership

#Wharton

#ADHD

#Author

#author

#makingwaves

#connection

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CNN Hero. Featured on HBO Max’s Somewhat Familiar with Pedro Andrade. A national advocate transforming the lives of children in foster care.

In this powerful episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, host, connection strategist, and author Jodi Hope Grinwald sits down with Rob Scheer, founder of Comfort Cases.

Rob’s story begins with a painful reality experienced by far too many children entering the foster care system—arriving at a new home carrying their belongings in a trash bag. Having grown up in foster care himself, Rob transformed that experience into a powerful national movement dedicated to restoring dignity, compassion, and hope for children entering the system.

Through Comfort Cases, Rob and his family are helping change the foster care experience for thousands of children by replacing trash bags with backpacks filled with essential items and comfort objects—ensuring that every child feels valued and supported during a difficult transition.

In this meaningful conversation, Jodi and Rob discuss:

• Rob’s journey growing up in foster care
 • The moment that inspired the creation of Comfort Cases
 • Why dignity and compassion must be part of the foster care system
 • Turning adversity into advocacy and lasting impact
 • The power of connection in creating meaningful change

Rob’s work has earned national recognition, including being named a CNN Hero, and his family’s mission was recently featured on HBO Max’s series Somewhat Familiar with Pedro Andrade, helping bring international awareness to the importance of supporting children in foster care.

About the Host

Jodi Hope Grinwald is a connection strategist, speaker, consultant, and author of Today Is the Day. LIVE IT!. Through her platform Today is the Day, Jodi works with leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and organizations to strengthen relationships, align purpose with action, and build meaningful impact through connection.

Her book Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! brings together inspiring voices who stepped beyond the edge of comfort and into the center of impact—reminding readers that one decision, one conversation, and one moment of courage can change everything.

Stay Connected

Follow Today is the Day for more inspiring changemaker conversations and stories of impact:

Facebook & Instagram
 @todayisthedayliveit

#cnnhero 

#fostercare

#nonprofit

#comfortcases

#HBOMax

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Welcome to another episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

What if access isn’t just opportunity…but a lifeline?
For some children, creative expression isn’t extracurricular.

It’s regulation.
It’s belonging.
It’s confidence.
It’s therapy for a mind that needs a safe place to land.

And when access is missing, something deeper is lost.

Some things are simply too important to be reserved for those who can afford them.
It was out of reach for my dad as a child —and by the time he found his voice later in life, he carried the weight of what access might have changed.

A deathbed regret over not having the opportunity to fully step into what you love?

That’s not acceptable.
That’s why Applaud Our Kids was born.

Today, I’m joined by Melissa Grinwald — President and Co-Founder — along with members of our advisory committee - Phil De Rita, Nick Ditri, Chris Maltese, and Elena Lanza — as we take you inside a nonprofit here in New Jersey that is doing something different. 

The Applaud Our Kids Foundation provides sustained, customized access for children of all abilities — because when access is present, creative expression becomes more than art.

It becomes stability.
It becomes identity.
It becomes a lifeline.

And if this conversation resonates with you — if you believe connection changes lives — I invite you to stay connected beyond this episode.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today Is the Day Live It and Applaud Our Kids to witness the impact in real time.

Do you love to read stories of inspiration, resilience, courage, leadership? My book, Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! — available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble — shares 31 powerful personal journeys of how everyday changemakers are building their own tables as they go to the edge of their comfort zone. When you take that chance and believe in yourself you may find yourself in the center of creating incredible impact.

If you’re looking to grow your business in ways you may never have imagined — by connecting with your clients and customers in deeper, more meaningful ways that elevate both your impact and your bottom line — I would love to connect with you.

I offer keynote speaking, interactive seminars, and customized workshops where I share my signature T.A.B.L.E.™ Method and teach how to use connection as a strategy — not just a value — to strengthen culture, deepen client relationships, increase loyalty, and drive sustainable growth.
Because when connection is intentional, it stops being a soft skill and becomes a growth strategy.

You can reach me directly at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com to learn more.

#performingarts #todayistheday #access #music #changemakers #soiree  #fundraiser #lifeline 

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What if the words “life is long” meant something deeper?

In this powerful and important episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, Jodi Hope Grinwald sits down with:

• Tom Peregrin, Founder of Life Is Long
• Liz Menges, Chief Operating Officer, Ocean Partnership for Children
• Jess Pepe, Development Coordinator, Ocean Partnership for Children

Together, they have an honest, courageous conversation about suicide prevention, mental health, warning signs, stigma, and why connection is one of the strongest protective factors we have.

Tom shares the heartbreaking story of losing his best friend to suicide and how that loss inspired him to create Life Is Long — a mission-driven apparel brand raising awareness and donating 17% of proceeds to youth mental health services in his friend’s honor.

Liz and Jess provide clinical insight into:
 • Warning signs of suicide
 • The danger of dismissing comments as “just for attention”
 • Anxiety and depression as major risk factors
 • The importance of monitoring social media
 • Why talking about suicide does not cause suicide
• What actually happens when someone seeks help

One powerful statistic shared in this episode: Over 49,000 people in the U.S. died  by suicide in 2023.
In Ocean County alone, over 350 youth currently being served have experienced suicidal ideation or risk.

This conversation is not meant to create fear. It is meant to create awareness.
And most importantly — connection.

If you are a parent, friend, teacher, coach, mentor, or someone quietly struggling — this episode is for you.

💛 If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

For immediate support in the United States:

📞 Call or Text 988
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, confidential)

📱 Text HOME to 741741
Connect with a live crisis counselor via text.

For families in New Jersey seeking youth services:

📞 PerformCare: 1-877-652-7624
Access care management services in all NJ counties.

Ocean Partnership for Children serves Ocean County families directly.

Learn more about Life Is Long:
 Instagram: @LifeIsLongSo

A Message from Jodi

Connection is not a throwaway word.
 It is a lifeline.

You never know who needs the phone call, the text message, the conversation, or the safe space.

Today is the day to reach out.

⚠️ Content Note

This episode discusses suicide and mental health. Listener discretion advised. Resources are listed above for support.

💬 About the Host

Jodi Hope Grinwald is a Leadership & Connection Strategist, Certified Professional Coach, Speaker, and Author of Today is the Day. LIVE IT!

Her book — available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble — is a powerful collection of voices centered on courage, resilience, leadership, and motivation. It invites readers to move from the edge of comfort to the center of impact by embracing authentic connection and bold action.

Through keynotes, workshops, consulting, and executive coaching, Jodi helps:

• Organizations strengthen internal culture through connection
 • Teams navigate burnout and transition
 • Leaders communicate with courage and clarity
 • Businesses better connect to clients and customers
 • Individuals find their voice and build their own table

To inquire about speaking engagements, workshops, or coaching services:
 📧 jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

📲 Stay Connected

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

Support the show

Welcome to Season 6 of the Today Is the Day Changemakers Podcast — part 2 of a special multi-part series featuring authors from the soon to be released book:

Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact

The book is currently ready for pre-orders online on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart to name a few sites.

In this episode, I’m joined by nine incredible author-voices:

• Heather Mistretta - Writer/Former Reuters Journalist; President, Women & Girls Education International; Board Member, Native American International Caucus; Certified Health Coach
• Fred Wasiak - Owner/Founder, Humanics Consulting and Creator of Outdoors with Papa
• Catherine Curry-Williams - Cofounder, She Angels Foundation; Founder, Shane’s Inspiration; TEDx Speaker & Best-selling Author 
• Debra Rizzi - President & Partner, Rizco
• Deborah Baker - CEO, Beyond the Uniform, LLC; U.S. Air Force Veteran; CEO Women Operating in Overflow
• Janet Kotsakis - Chief People Officer, Food Bank of South Jersey 
• Mohan Metla - Founder & Owner, Mohan Group LLC
• Steve Cohen - Author of Leading from Within; Cofounder & Chair, Meditation4Leadership
• Terese Rolke - Former Executive Director, Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce, Entrepreneur

What unfolds is a living, breathing conversation with nine contributing authors.

This episode explores:

• Why numbers, titles, and followers do not define impact
• How one decision—starting a podcast—created a ripple effect leading to a book, a forum, and a growing ecosystem
• What it means to lead with humanity, courage, trust, and vulnerability
• Why change doesn’t require permission—it requires alignment
• How kindness, collaboration, and presence create lasting transformation

Each author shares:

• Why they said yes to this project
• What inspired their chapter
• What they hope readers take away
• One word describing how it feels to become a published author

You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how the book is structured:

• Each chapter opens with a personal dedication and original quote
• Each chapter closes with “Embrace the Moment” reflection questions—inviting readers to pause, reflect, and take action
• The book is designed not just to be read, but to be shared, discussed, and lived

📌 Follow along and connect with the authors:
Instagram & Facebook: @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt
Website: todayisthedayliveit.com

🎧 Available on YouTube and all major streaming platforms.

About the Host

Jodi Hope Grinwald is an Integrative Success & Leadership Connection Strategist, coach, speaker, and author with over two decades of experience working with leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and mission-driven organizations. She specializes in helping individuals and teams navigate career transition, leadership growth, and team development while strengthening culture and alignment at every level of an organization.

 📩 Now booking speaking engagements, author talks & signings, and coaching opportunities.

Learn more at todayisthedayliveit.com.

Support the show

Welcome to Season 6 of the Today Is the Day Changemakers Podcast — and our first episode of 2026.

This episode kicks off a special multi-part series featuring authors from the soon to be released book:

Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact

The book is currently ready for pre-orders online on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart to name a few sites.

This conversation brings together leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofit founders, creatives, and visionaries — from California to Uganda — who each share how one decision, one moment at the edge of comfort, created a ripple of impact far beyond themselves.

In this first episode, I’m joined by five incredible author-voices:

• Lenny Dave – Comedy historian and speaker bringing joy and human connection to senior audiences
• Charlene Gorzela – Former CEO turned executive coach helping leaders listen to their inner nudge
• Amy Delman – Publicist and entrepreneur sharing the courage it takes to take risks while afraid
• Sarah Jakle – Advocate, nonprofit founder, and resilience researcher redefining hope and self-compassion
• Chaya Pamula – Tech CEO and nonprofit founder transforming ideas into action through purpose-driven leadership

Together, we talk about:

• What it really means to step into visibility
• Why connection — not titles — creates impact
• How ideas become action when we stop waiting for permission
• And why none of this happens alone

This book — and this podcast — are not about ego, trends, or perfection. They’re about voices, belief, and the power of building an ecosystem where people rise together.

As we begin Season 6, I invite you to listen not just for inspiration — but for the small step you might be ready to take.

Because today is the day.

📌 Follow along and connect with the authors:
Instagram & Facebook: @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt
Website: todayisthedayliveit.com

🎧 Available on YouTube and all major streaming platforms.

About the Host

Jodi Hope Grinwald is an Integrative Success & Leadership Connection Strategist, coach, speaker, and author with over two decades of experience working with leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and mission-driven organizations. She specializes in helping individuals and teams navigate career transition, leadership growth, and team development while strengthening culture and alignment at every level of an organization.

Jodi's approach centers on integrative success: aligning values, communication, and leadership behavior with organizational goals so teams operate more effectively, reduce internal friction, and stay focused on the bottom line.

Jodi is the creator of the Today is the Day ecosystem, which includes a globally streamed podcast, a national speaking platform, leadership programming, and a collaborative forum that brings together business and nonprofit leaders during times of change. She is also the author of Today is the Day. LIVE IT! — featuring stories from leaders and changemakers from California to Uganda.

 📩 Now booking speaking engagements, author talks & signings, and coaching opportunities.

Learn more at todayisthedayliveit.com.

#authors

#changemakers

#courage

#entrepreneurs

#leaders

#Fear

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast and the final episode of 2025!

Five years ago, in the middle of a major life transition I had an idea I had carried for years:
What if meaningful conversations with those making a difference in their corner of the world and beyond could help people feel less alone—and more hopeful about what’s possible?

On December 30, Today is the Day Changemakers officially celebrates five years, and this final episode of 2025 is one of my favorites—the year-end recap.

Yes, I share some stats (and they’re incredible).
 But this episode is really about perspective.

Over the last five years, I’ve had conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofit founders, artists, advocates, actors, military leaders, and everyday changemakers from around the world. What I’ve learned is simple—and powerful:

👉 Numbers don’t define us.
 👉 Titles don’t define us.
 👉 Popularity doesn’t define impact.

After leading organizations, launching a podcast, hosting an international forum, and preparing to release a book in just a few weeks, I recently asked to be a guest on another podcast. The first question I was asked wasn’t about the work—it was, “How many Instagram followers do you have?” 

That moment further validated my original thought that so many see titles, financials, and followers - metrics as a way to showcase who is worthy, who is valid, and who matters. That is the furthest thing from the truth and that isolates people even if they are doing incredible work.

Today is the Day Changemakers—and the entire Today is the Day ecosystem—has never been about metrics. It’s about humanity. Conversation. Courage. Trust. Determination. And showing up even when there’s no external validation. Every guest is invited to share their journey and story because they have meaning. Each and every guest over the last five years is heart-centered. 

If one conversation helps one person take one step forward, the work matters.

🎧 Join me for this special episode as I reflect on five years of conversations, growth, and transformation—and why I’m more committed than ever to creating spaces where people are seen, heard, and valued.

Because real impact isn’t measured by numbers. It’s measured by connection.

Do you have a changemaking story to share? Is there a lesson you have learned that will help those who are listening around the globe? Reach out to me at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Today is the Day. LIVE IT! - our upcoming book is launching on January 20. You can pre-order the book on Amazon for the Kindle version and Barnes & Noble for the paperback. 

As a Certified Professional Coach, I focus on career transition, leadership and team development. Learn more. 

Cheers to 2026. What is your word of the year? Mine is BRAVE! 

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This week on the Today is the Day Podcast, I’m joined by actor, speaker, and public speaking coach Brian LaFontaine, whose journey is a powerful reminder that one conversation can change everything.

Brian grew up in Rhode Island and later attended college in North Carolina on a golf scholarship, fully expecting his future to be on the course. After his first year, he was told he would no longer be able to remain in the program. What could have ended a dream became the beginning of a new one. One conversation led to stand-up comedy, then acting—and ultimately a decades-long career on stage and screen. Brian remained in North Carolina, where that unexpected pivot reshaped his life and career.

Brian has appeared in Stranger Things, Ozark, Nashville, The Vampire Diaries, and Outer Banks, among many others. Today, he brings that experience into his work helping people communicate with clarity, presence, and impact—whether they’re pitching an idea, leading a team, stepping onto a stage, or finding their voice in a moment that matters. Through his Speak Easy experience and coaching practice, Brian helps people learn how to truly be seen, heard, and remembered through storytelling.

I’m your host, Jodi Hope Grinwald—a career and leadership coach and consultant who works with professionals, leaders, entrepreneurs, organizations, and teams across the country. Through my coaching and consulting work, I help individuals gain career path clarity, help leaders become more effective and aligned, and help teams develop from the inside out—strengthening communication, trust, and collaboration in ways that lead to stronger, more dedicated clients and customers.

I’m also the founder of the Today is the Day ecosystem, which includes this podcast, a global forum, and my upcoming book, Today is the Day. Live It!—a global mosaic of voices sharing what becomes possible when we step to the edge of comfort and into meaningful impact.

This podcast exists to amplify stories, ideas, and people doing changemaking work. If you are building something meaningful—whether in business, leadership, community, or service and believe in the power of connection, I want to share your work through this platform. The Today is the Day Podcast is heard in over 130 countries, and sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals and organizations who want their voice heard by a global, purpose-driven audience.

🎙️ In this episode, we explore:

• How unexpected setbacks can become career-defining pivots
• Why communication is a leadership skill, not a performance
• How one decision—or one conversation—can change everything

📘 Today is the Day. Live It! (coming soon)
🌐 todayisthedayliveit.com
📲 Follow @todayisthedayliveit on Facebook & Instagram

#speaker, #coach, #golf, #publicspeaking, #actor, #StrangerThings, #Ozark, #Nashville, #TV, #Film, #stage

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On this week's episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast my guest is someone whose story will stay with you long after the episode ends: Luke Mickelson, founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace. 

Luke’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
 He didn’t create a nonprofit — he sparked a national movement.

Featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family, NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, and recognized as a Top 10 CNN Hero, Luke has been sharing a truth most people never even consider:

There is a crisis happening in America that we don’t talk about.

Not every child has a bed.

Since 2012, over 250,000 children have received brand-new beds because of Sleep in Heavenly Peace and its army of volunteers. Yet the need continues to grow.

We talk about hunger.
We talk about clothing.
But we rarely talk about the child sleeping on a cold floor…
or a blanket in the backseat of a car…
or a couch they share with siblings.

Luke has seen those children.
He has delivered beds to those families.
And he has witnessed the look on a child’s face when they receive something many of us take for granted — a safe, warm, comfortable place to sleep. A moment that restores dignity, hope, and childhood itself.

And here’s what makes this story even more powerful:

Luke didn’t seek out this mission — it found him.

A simple act.
A moment of paying attention.
A heart that refused to look away.
That is all it took to ignite a movement.

Today, with national partners like Lowe’s and DeWALT, SHP has chapters across the country — but many communities still have none. The need is everywhere. Which is why Luke speaks so passionately about starting new chapters in towns, cities, and states nationwide.

In this unforgettable episode, we discuss:

·         The moment that changed Luke’s life — and thousands of others

·         The emotional reality of child bedlessness in America

·         What it feels like to hand a child their very first bed

·         Why heart health — emotional and physical — is intertwined with service

·         How YOU can start a Sleep in Heavenly Peace chapter and help change lives

This isn’t just a story — it’s a wake-up call.
A reminder that one act of service can ripple into something life-changing.

Let’s make sure no child sleeps on the floor in our towns — or any town.

#TodayIsTheDayPodcast #LukeMickelson #SleepInHeavenlyPeace #Changemakers #Service #Leadership #NonprofitImpact #EveryChildDeservesABed #CommunityAction #BeTheChange #Sleep #Bedlessness #Community #Volunteers #Lowes #DeWalt

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This week on the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I welcome Tanya Newbould. This is a story of courage, advocacy, and transformation. 

I’m honored to welcome Tanya Newbould — Life Transformation Strategist, ACC/ICF Certified Coach, speaker, entrepreneur, author, and founder of DelPozzo Jewelry and SOZO Heart. Tanya’s journey includes being adopted in the U.K., moving to Los Angeles becoming an actor, producer, surviving postpartum depression, and transforming her pain into purpose. Her openness about her own experience helped ignite global awareness when she co-produced the award-winning documentary When the Bough Breaks, narrated by Brooke Shields.

Her work not only gave countless women a voice, but also shifted the public conversation around maternal mental health. And through her coaching, storytelling, and creative ventures, Tanya now empowers others to rise from their most challenging moments and reclaim their lives with clarity, courage, and connection.

Today we’ll talk about what healing really looks like, the power of sharing your story, and how Tanya's positive and courageous outlook has helped her turn adversity into a life of service and transformation.

To learn more about Today is the Day and the global Changemakers who share their stories on this platform, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. Stay connected to upcoming episodes, the International Changemakers Forum, and the work we do to amplify voices around the world. 

As a Certified Professional Coach, I help leaders lead more effectively, support entrepreneurs in growing their businesses, and equip teams to strengthen communication, alignment, and performance all while ensuring bottom-line sustainability and growth. 

Across every platform, I champion one essential truth: connection drives everything in our lives — how we lead, how we communicate, and how we create meaningful impact. 

Click to learn more about all that Today is the Day has to offer. 

#lifestrategist

#postpartum

#postpartumdepression

#Coach

#entrepreneur

#actor

#producer

#TodayistheDay

#Changemakers

#Jewelry

#Candles

#Wellness

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This week on the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I sit down with someone whose story will stay with you long after you finish listening.
His name is Charles Allen Reed, and his journey is one of the most honest, heartbreaking, and ultimately hope-filled conversations I’ve had on this show.

Charles grew up surrounded by challenges most adults would struggle to handle, let alone a child. His mother courageously lived with MS, his home life carried deep emotional strain, and by the age of 13, Charles had already begun down a path of alcohol and drug addiction. His teenage years and early adulthood became a fast-moving spiral — one filled with rebellion, pain, and choices that pulled him further away from the person he truly was.

He speaks openly about the moments that broke him, the toxic patterns he witnessed at home, the addiction that consumed him, and the consequences that followed — including the moment he became a father while still trapped in the darkest parts of his disease.

But here’s where Charles’ story becomes extraordinary.

Because just when it seemed like all hope was gone…something happened.

Something he didn’t expect, wasn't looking for and something that changed everything — instantly.

And that moment led him to where he is today: sober, present, connected to his family, rebuilding his life, and helping others find their way forward through his work in the community, recovery organizations, and beyond.

I won’t give away what happened — you need to hear it in his own words.
Trust me, it’s powerful. 

Charles is a husband, present father, sober, and sharing his story to help others. 

If you or someone you love has ever felt hopeless, lost in addiction, or unsure whether change is possible, this episode is an absolute must-listen. Charles reminds us that even in the darkest places, transformation can begin in a single moment.

Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast on our YouTube channel, or stream on all popular platforms.

And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It for updates, inspiration, and guest highlights.

If you or your organization are looking to deepen connection, strengthen client and customer relationships, unify executive and sales teams, or bring more alignment and purpose to nonprofit professionals, I’d love to partner with you. Through coaching, trainings, and collaborative strategy work, I help teams reconnect to each other, their mission, and the people they serve. 

Let’s work together to make meaningful connection a cornerstone of your culture.

#addiction

#addictionrecovery

#Father

#Parent

#resilience

#sobriety

#connection

#todayistheday

#changemaker

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What does it look like to turn adversity into opportunity—and then use it to change millions of lives?

This week's guest is Ryan Sahlin, Founder & Executive Director of Greater Than The Game, a New Jersey–based 501(c)(3) media nonprofit dedicated to sharing uplifting, inspirational stories from the world of sports and empowering youth to build mental strength and resilience.

 In this episode, Ryan shares the mantras that shaped him—“get up,” “keep pounding,” and “rented belief”—and how living with cerebral palsy and dyslexia fueled his passion to tell stories that spark hope. We talk about consistency, going viral, the power of perspective, and why his mission to spread the good in sports has reached millions of people worldwide.

Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast on our YouTube channel, or stream on all popular platforms.

And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It for updates, inspiration, and guest highlights.

If you or your organization are looking to deepen connection, strengthen client and customer relationships, unify executive and sales teams, or bring more alignment and purpose to nonprofit professionals, I’d love to partner with you. Through coaching, trainings, and collaborative strategy work, I help teams reconnect to each other, their mission, and the people they serve.

Let’s work together to make meaningful connection a cornerstone of your culture.

#nonprofit #sports #sport #dyslexia #cerebralpalsy #TodayistheDay #Changemakers #getup #rentedbelief #consistency #mentalstrength #mentalhealth

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What happens when a community truly wraps around a child and family?

In this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I sit down with three leaders from Ocean Partnership For Children (OPC)—a care management organization serving youth across Ocean County, NJ—to talk about support, safety, and hope during Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond.

Guests Include:
Jessica Pepe — Development Coordinator (OPC)
Katie Colhoun — Director of Community Resources & Advocacy (OPC)
Maureen DeSantis — Director of Care Management (OPC)

We cover:
What domestic violence really looks like (it’s not only physical) and how sometimes shame stops those who need help the most. There is so much support out there. 
How OPC’s free, family-centered wraparound services stabilize crises and help kids thrive—from care management to youth groups and specialized supports.
The impact of social media on mental health—and practical ways families can set healthy limits.

Why one caring adult can be a powerful protective factor for a child.
Concrete ways to help OPC: donations, wish lists, events, and spreading the word.
Resources mentioned (U.S. & NJ):

National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
NJ Coalition Against DV / NJ Helpline: 1-800-572-SAFE (7233)
NJ PerformCare (24/7 children’s system access): 1-877-652-7624
Ocean County: Providence House (via Catholic Charities)

 
 🌐 Ocean Partnership for Children: oceanpartnership.org
If you or someone you love needs help, you’re not alone. There is support, there is safety, and there is a path forward.

Please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast: 

Also, learn more about how you can share your voice and impact on the podcast by going to TodayistheDayLiveIt.com

#DomesticViolenceAwarenessMonth

#DomesticViolenceAwareness

#Family

#Empowerment

#SocialMedia

#Survivorship

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In this Today is the Day Changemakers episode, Jodi Hope Grinwald sits down with Gokan Alkanat, Associate Provost for International Education and Chief International Officer at Rowan University. Born in Turkey and educated across continents, Gokhan shares the culture shocks that shaped him—from Istanbul to Alabama to New Jersey—and how those experiences fuel his mission to support 1,500+ international students from 53 countries.

Gokhan opens a window into Rowan’s student-first model: clear guidance through U.S. visa processes, extended orientations that teach international students everyday cultural norms and expectations, welcome packages that make day one feel human, and campus-wide town halls that meet fear with facts and care. He also reflects on advocacy moments that matter—like helping women from restrictive environments continue their studies safely—and why “opportunity” is the difference between potential and impact.

This conversation is a testament to leadership grounded in service, belonging, and contribution—living life in the most meaningful way by lifting others.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How culture shock became Gokhan’s leadership training ground
• What Rowan does beyond compliance to ensure safety, belonging, and success
• Real talk on visas, travel uncertainty, and communicating with families abroad
• Why small acts (like a pillow and blanket on arrival) signal big dignity
• Stories of students who turned barriers into breakthroughs
• The call to “live it”: contribute to your community, family, and the people you’ll never meet

About our guest
Gokhan Alkanat leads International Education at Rowan University, overseeing international student & scholar services, education abroad, partnerships, and the English Language Program.

Listen + share
If this episode resonates, pass it on to a student, parent, or educator navigating international education—and remember Jodi’s sign-off: Today is the day. You can’t go back to yesterday, and you don’t yet own tomorrow. So, what step will you take today?

🌍✨ On October 23, the Today is the Day International Changemakers Forum will feature six powerful conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit professionals on resilience, purpose, entrepreneurship, fundraising, and embracing change.

🖥️ Register now at todayisthedayliveit.com
to be part of this transformative day.

🎙️ And don’t forget — stream and subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast for inspiring stories every week.

👉 Follow along on Facebook & Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

#TodayIsTheDay #ChangemakersForum #Leadership #Connection #Resilience

#education

#studyabroad

#internationalstudents

#collegeeducation

#RowanUniversity

#GokhanAlkanat

#college

#borders

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What does it really take to go from being seen by the world to finally being heard—to stop living for expectations and start celebrating your own success?

This week's Today is the Day Changemakers podcast guest is the incredible Gwendolyn Osborne—actor, model, CEO, podcast host, and wellness speaker.

You may know her from seeing her when she was on The Price Is Right with both Bob Barker and Drew Carey or from her powerful presence in Wonder Woman 1984 and Tyler Perry’s All the Queen’s Men. But beyond the spotlight, Gwendolyn’s story is one of resilience, rediscovery, and redefining success on her own terms.

In this episode, Gwendolyn shares her journey from growing up between Bath, England and Miami, to breaking into modeling and acting, to finding her voice after years of being “seen but not heard.”

She talks about training as an Amazonian with six-hour days of stunt and fitness work on wonder woman 1984 to, becoming a meditation coach and the transformational moment when she finally looked in the mirror and said, "I see me".

She opens up about being a teen mom navigating the entertainment industry, raising three incredible children, and her passion for helping single mothers through She Is Hope LA.

And you’ll hear her powerful idea of “success parties”—celebrating our wins so we never forget who we are and what we’ve accomplished.

This conversation is about finding your happy, honoring your inner child, and giving yourself permission to play, create, and thrive.

To connect with Gwendolyn, visit gwendolynosborne.com, follow her on Instagram at @itsgwendolyn, and check out her podcast, Tea with Gwen, where she highlights the Wonder Women of our time and their wellness journeys.

Gwendolyn Osborne will be one of the three keynote speakers at the International Changemakers Forum on October 23rd. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience meeting her during this virtual, but very interactive Forum event —free tickets are available now at todayisthedayliveit.com.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It for the latest updates and inspiration.

And a heartfelt thank you to all of you tuning in from 131 countries and over 1,140 cities around the globe—your support is what keeps this community growing.

#WonderWoman, #TodayistheDay, #Changemakers, #PriceisRight, #DrewCarey, #Mediation, #Wellness

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What does it mean to lead with authenticity when life throws you the unthinkable? For this week's podcast guest, Andrew Stadelberger, founder of the award-winning consultancy d, that question has defined his journey.

At 15, Andrew lost his father on 9/11. That heartbreak could have closed him off. Instead, it ignited a drive to keep showing up, to keep saying “Yes, And”—a principle he learned through improv that became a philosophy for life and business.

From sitting inside a major newsroom on the night of the 2008 Presidential Election, to steering a global music licensing company, to launching his own agency from the ground up, Andrew has never stopped building. Player Coach was born from that spirit—an agency where leadership means rolling up your sleeves, working alongside your team, and never asking anyone to do what you wouldn’t do yourself.

In this deeply human and business-driven conversation, Andrew shares:

·         How “Yes, And” fuels creativity, leadership, and problem-solving

·         Why the Player Coach mindset is changing how teams grow and collaborate

·         What it takes to leave behind the safety of a big brand and build your own

·         The raw truth of entrepreneurship—the doubt, the hustle, and the breakthroughs

·         Why authenticity is the most valuable currency in business today

Andrew’s story is both inspiring and instructive—a reminder that leadership isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about having the courage to create, adapt, and keep moving forward.

On October 23, Today is the Day is hosting the International Changemakers Forum. This free virtual event brings together visionaries, entrepreneurs, nonprofit professionals, leaders, and everyday changemakers from around the globe. Through inspiring keynotes, global networking, and interactive breakout sessions, you'll gain practical tools and meaningful connections to help you embrace change and take bold action.

Reserve your complimentary spot today and be part of a global community that believes in the power of connection and courageous leadership. Register for FREE!

Please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayistheDayLiveIt. Be one of our brand gladiators and help us expand our reach!

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What if money talk didn’t feel intimidating or off-limits—what if it could actually become one of the most powerful tools you have to shape your future?

In this episode of Today is the Day Changemakers, host Jodi Grinwald welcomes Nik Agharkar, a financial concierge, attorney, and advisor who has spent nearly two decades guiding individuals, families, and business owners through the complexities of wealth, taxes, and legacy planning.

Nik is known simplifying financial strategies and connecting with clients on a deeply human level. Instead of jargon, he brings clarity and empowerment—helping people turn uncertainty into confidence.

Together, Jodi and Nick dive into:

• Why talking about money often feels taboo—and how to change that mindset.
• The biggest gaps in financial education and why it’s hurting adults and kids alike.
• Practical ways to approach taxes, debt, and wealth with less fear and more clarity.
• How to turn financial decisions into intentional actions that align with your goals.
• Nik’s personal journey—from learning to do taxes as a teenager to building and selling a law practice, and ultimately becoming a trusted financial concierge.

Nik believes that education is the key to transformation—because when people understand how money works, they can build security, create legacy, and open the door to bigger opportunities.

✨ Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or someone just trying to make sense of your finances, this episode will help you see that money talk isn’t something to avoid—it’s a toolkit waiting to be used.

📌 Connect with Nik Agharkar:

crownepointtax.com

Follow Today is the Day Changemakers via Facebook and Instagram @TodayistheDayLiveIt

Learn more about all the programs Today is the Day LLC offers by going to
https://todayisthedayliveit.com.  

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In this week's episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, Jodi speaks to - Racer Mom – Lisa Clark on Family, Ferraris, and Fearlessness 🚦

Racing wasn’t something Lisa Clark ever planned—in fact, she never even thought about it. After raising her family and building a career in real estate, she stepped boldly into her second act as an amateur Ferrari racecar driver competing on international circuits.

Learn more about how a by chance interaction led to this path. 

When a devastating crash left her hospitalized, her daughter said, “You’re done.” Lisa’s answer was written in ink: a tattoo on her wrist that reads “Keep Going.”

You will hear about a very touching moment that she shares with her Dad. He was the one who opened the door to cars and car racing to her in Arizona - their home state. They used to speak about the dream of owning a Ford GT. Coming from humble beginnings that seemed to be out of reach, but when you follow an unexpected path anything is possible. Listen in to hear about Lisa pulling up to her father's home in their dream car.

Since then, her story has reached far beyond the racetrack. Featured in Forbes.com, on Netflix’s Fastest Car, and across other platforms, Lisa is inspiring women everywhere to push past fear and step into spaces they never imagined for themselves. She is especially passionate about mentoring younger female drivers, making sure they feel confident and supported on the track. She also wants anyone to know at any age anything is possible if you want it bad enough.

Her journey is more than about cars—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and fearlessness. Lisa Clark reminds us all: no matter the setback, your next lap could be your best one yet. 🏎️✨

Please follow Today is the Day on Facebook and Instagram at TodayistheDayLiveIt and for more information about all of our programming, please go to https://todayisthedayliveit.com. 

#ferrari

#racing

#racecar

#femaleracecaredriver

#realestate

#careerchange

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In this week's episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I sit down with Lisa Allen—Coach, Strategist, Global Systems Consultant, Philanthropist, and Advocate for Healing and Innovation.

Lisa’s story begins in the 1970s, when as a young child she was placed in foster care. Daily abuse, isolation, and neglect could have silenced her, but instead she taught herself to read by the age of three and leaned on resilience to survive.

Despite unimaginable hardship, Lisa went on to graduate with a Master's Degree in social work. She has led human service programs for more than two decades.

Today, Lisa is the CEO and President of Those Eyes Can Heal, a nonprofit organization. She’s also the cohost of the “Journey to Divine Intervention” radio show and the creator of Journey to My Cup, a transformative platform. 

In our conversation, Lisa shares: 

• How childhood trauma fueled her purpose to help others thrive.
• The importance of early intervention and nurturing in childhood development.
• Her five-year plan that she transformed into a five-month reality.

Lisa’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of trauma and injustice, it is possible to rebuild a life filled with dignity, purpose, and service to others.

Please follow Today is the Day on Facebook and Instagram at TodayistheDayLiveIt and for more information about all of our programming, please go to https://todayisthedayliveit.com. 

#fostercare

#resilience

#changemakers

#TodayistheDay

#Journey

#nonprofit

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What if your daily coffee run was about more than just caffeine?

In this heartfelt bonus episode of Today is the Day Changemakers, I sit down with Roylene Matthews, manager of the Barnegat Starbucks, and Corinne Laboy assistant manager, to explore how they create meaningful moments of connection—one cup at a time.

For me, Starbucks has become much more than a coffee stop. It’s the place where my dog, Cello, earned his very first pup cup at just two months old—and still runs to the door at the word “Starbucks.” It’s where baristas know my name, my order (a decaf mocha, nonfat, no whip), and even write Cello’s name on his cup. It’s where vacations and daily life stories are shared across the counter. And it’s where my stepdaughter looks forward to her favorite Frappuccinos when she visits.

Roylene and Corinne share how they cultivate this kind of community, remembering regulars’ orders, offering smiles that turn mornings around, and making every customer feel like more than just a transaction. Starbucks, as they remind us, isn’t only about a great cup of coffee—it’s about connection, joy, and the little rituals that bring people together.

If you’ve ever wondered why we willingly pay a little more for that daily coffee, this episode shows how the true value comes not just in the taste, but in the experience of being seen, remembered, and welcomed.

☕ Tune in and be reminded that sometimes the smallest interactions can brew the biggest connections.

True changemakers prove that impact isn't measured by position or popularity, but by the way they brighten lives and bring people together. 

✨ Don’t forget to subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @TodayisTheDayLiveIt.

🌍 Today is the Day is more than a podcast—Jodi provides ongoing coaching and consulting for nonprofits, for-profits, executives, and more. To learn about all of our services and the upcoming Today is the Day International Changemakers Forum on October 23, visit todayisthedayliveit.com.

#starbucks 
#starbuckscoffee 
#starbucksfrappuccino 
#pupcup 
#starbucksbarista 
#changemakers 
#todayistheday 
#connection 
#podcast 
#changemakers 
#barista 

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This week on the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with the amazing Debra Rizzi — award-winning entrepreneur, mentor, breast cancer survivor, and all-around inspiration. She’s also the President and Co-Founder of Rizco, a woman-owned business delivering brand-led marketing that is designed to matter.

Our conversation felt more like two friends over coffee than a podcast interview — filled with laughter, honesty, and real talk. Together we opened up about how imposter syndrome still shows up, no matter how many accolades line the shelves, and what it means to keep moving forward even when that inner voice whispers “not enough.”

Deb shared her powerful journey of resilience through breast cancer, the importance of treating yourself like a client, and how choosing to rise — even when life knocks you down — is the ultimate form of strength.

This episode is for anyone who has ever felt the weight of doubt despite their accomplishments, carried the quiet battle of imposter syndrome, or wondered if resilience could carry them through their hardest seasons.

The truth is this: when you hustle for everyone else — your job, your family, your responsibilities — you run yourself empty. Energy drains. Health suffers. Joy disappears. Healing the Hustle isn’t optional, it’s essential. Today is the Day to step off cruise control and choose living over existing — because if you don’t, life may pass you by before you ever realize you didn’t live it fully.

And here’s a little hint to listen closely at the end of this conversation 👀 — Deb is part of something exciting coming soon that brings together 30 voices from around the world. You won’t want to miss it.

🌍 Don’t forget — head to todayisthedayliveit.com to register for the Annual International Changemakers Forum. This year’s theme is Embracing Change: Transformational Moments, Brave Shifts, Powerful Outcomes. The event is free to attend, open to all, and we’re aiming for global participation. Incredible speakers will be announced next week!

📺 Be sure to subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel, where every episode is available to watch.

🎧 Stream this podcast on all major platforms.

📲 Like and follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

📩 Want to join our mailing list? Email me directly at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week!

#Resilience

#BreastCancer

#Enterpreneur

#womenowned

#hustle

#ImposterSyndrome

#FriendsChatting

#Success

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Today’s caffeine shot is about the social media rollercoaster.

Followers. Subscribers. Views. It feels like a never-ending popularity contest — and let’s be honest, sometimes people even pay to boost numbers that aren’t even real. What have we signed up for?

We get stuck in the noise, measuring ourselves against metrics that don’t actually tell the full story. Some days it feels like no one’s watching. But here’s what I’ve learned: people are watching — even when they don’t hit like, comment, or subscribe. I’ve had people I don't know come up to me at events and say, “I know you. I follow your work.”

Here’s the reminder: authenticity will always outlast algorithms. Don't be fake just to fit in. Don't go silent because you feel unseen. Keep showing up as you. 

Because even when it feels like no one's listening - your work matters.

☕ That’s your caffeine shot for today.

#socialmedia

#Instagram

#Facebook

#LinkedIn

#X

#YouTube

#scroll

#authenticity

#marketing

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Welcome to the very first On My Way to Being Caffeinated - a new mini-series under Today is the Day. Think of these as your quick shot of inspiration (like a quick shot of caffeine) to fuel your day in between our full-length podcast conversations. 

For this first shot, I'm diving into Imposter Syndrome. In my recent interview, retired Four-Star General Stanley McChrystal admitted he felt imposter syndrome every time he stepped into the Oval Office. I've felt it too - especially as someone who never finished college, yet found myself in leadership roles as Executive Director, Vice-President of Development, CEO, podcast host interviewing Changemakers from around the globe and soon to be author (dreams can come true!). 

Imposter syndrome can creep in no matter where you are on your journey. But it doesn't get the final say - you do!

If you’ve ever felt like an imposter, let’s work together to reframe that story.

📺 Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel for more insights and inspiration.

🌐 Learn more about my coaching and consulting at Today Is The Day - Non-Profit Consulting, Coaching.

Take this as your shot of confidence today—then go make your impact.

#inspiration

#caffeine

#OnMyWayToBeingCaffeinated

#TodayistheDayChangemakers

#ImposterSyndrome

#PersonalGrowth

#Mindset

#BonusEpisode

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

General Stanley McChrystal, retired four-star general, leadership expert, and bestselling author - has appeared on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, Face the Nation, Amanpour and Company on PBS, and countless other news programs. In this exclusive conversation, he shares his biggest leadership lesson: why character over credentials should be the standard in how we lead, hire, and live. His new book is called On Character: Choices That Define a Life.

We talk about:

Why character matters more than your resume—and how it can transform teams, organizations, and communities.

How even the most accomplished leaders wrestle with imposter syndrome.

The role of kindness and warmth in building trust and influence.

What happened when his military career ended and the challenges of losing the title that had defined him.

How his wife’s unwavering support helped him navigate that life-changing chapter.

The moment he discovered who his true friends were.

His deep love for his granddaughters and the lessons they inspire.

This isn’t just a conversation - it’s a master class on character, delivered by a leader who has lived it at the highest levels and through the most defining moments of his life.

I am so very grateful to Stan for sharing his time with me and his insight with our listeners in over 110 countries and 1090 cities.

📌 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChTpwqeDDJ9wUfg43eiBC1A

Subscribe to our newsletter to learn more about upcoming guests, our annual International Changemakers Forum, and join a community committed to meaningful connection and bold action - https://todayisthedayliveit.com.

Have a great week everyone! 

#leadership
#character 
#motivation 
#masterclass 
#StanleyMcChrystal
#characterovercredentials 
#family 
#OnCharacter
#author 
#militaryleadership 
#veteran 
#jonstewart 
#pbs 
#changemakers 
#podcast

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast. 
In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Ready, a licensed mental health counselor and founder of Ready to Empower a nonprofit organization. Also joining us is Jasmeet Singh, a dedicated board member of Ready to Empower, and Director of Strategy and Operations for Johnson and Johnson. 

Amanda has spent over a decade creating space for women around the world to heal emotionally, mentally, and financially by building access to mental health support, education, and job training. Jasmeet brings her leadership and insight to the mission in a way that is both grounding and inspiring. 

We talk honestly about what it means to give yourself grace on the days when you’re not okay, the kind of connection that helps you keep going, and why mental health conversations can’t be optional anymore—they have to be part of how we lead, support, and live.

I teared up during this one—because when someone is truly aligned with their purpose, you feel it. Amanda’s work doesn’t just empower women—it reminds all of us that real change starts with compassion, courage, and consistency.

Don’t forget to please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel and please follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It.

More than a podcast – this is a movement to help people globally connect. Go to todayisthedayliveit.com and learn more about how you can share your story and be part of this connective community. 

Let’s get into it.

#womenshealth, #women, #makingadifference, #therapy, #selfhelp, #psychotherapist, #CostaRica, #createchange, #connection, #womenhelpingwomen, #jobsupport, #educationfor women, #grace

#makingadifference

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemaker Podcast.

You know that feeling when laughter fills a room - the kind that draws people closer? That’s what this episode is all about. Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week, I’m joined by my special guest cohost, Michael Gershe - speaker, comedian, photographer, and author of The Magic of Life: A Son’s Story of Hope After Tragedy, Grief, and a Speedo. He is also a senior advisor at Kent State University’s Professional Pilot Program, and if you missed his full story on a previous episode, be sure to go back and listen—it’s powerful.

Together, Michael and I explore the incredible backgrounds of Lenny Dave and Kermit Cole, co-founders of the upcoming Humor Camp 2025.

🎭 Lenny Dave is a nationally recognized comedy historian and speaker who’s spent decades studying how laughter shapes culture, connection, and healing.

🧠 Kermit Cole is a marriage and family therapist with degrees in both psychology and philosophy—bringing a unique lens to how humor impacts human relationships, vulnerability, and emotional well-being.

In this episode, we unpack how humor has influenced their personal and professional journeys, and how it’s become a tool for transformation—not just relief. We talk about the difference between comedy and humor, and why that distinction matters more than most people realize.

And of course, we dive into the heart behind Humor Camp 2025—an upcoming event this October designed not to teach you how to be funny, but how to bring humor into your work with purpose.

Whether you’re a therapist, coach, teacher, clinician, or creative—this camp is for professionals who want to engage more authentically, deepen human connection, and maybe even earn some continuing education credits while they’re at it.

Because humor isn’t just about laughs—it’s about lightening what’s heavy, and creating space for truth, connection, and growth. 

Before we dive in, don’t forget to subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayIsTheDayLive

Today is the Day is more than this podcast—

It’s a movement rooted in clarity, courage, connection, and impact.

Through coaching and consulting, I help individuals and teams find clarity of focus, the courage to move forward, and the connections that lead to growth. Whether you’re leading a mission, launching a vision, or navigating change, I help you build the kind of network that lifts you up—and supports the impact you’re meant to create.

And be sure to save the date for the Today is the Day Changemakers International Forum, where global voices come together to embrace transformation and inspire action. Go to our website with more information. 

Lastly, if this episode or any prior episodes have helped you to feel connected, inspired, empowered or just seen a little more consider giving back. Your contribution, no matter the size, helps keep these stories alive and accessible to all. Today is the Day is not just a podcast. It includes an International Forum and soon to be a new Changemakers Connective. Help us keep growing this connective movement. Today is the Day Changemakers (Today is the Day Changemakers Support)

Let’s get into this incredible conversation.

Because today is the day - Live It!

Have a great week!

#humor, #comedy, #lucilleball, #nationalcomedymuseum, #connection, #laughter, #findinghappiness, #overcomingdepression, #professionaldevelopment

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast. 

What happens when a game becomes more than just strategy and competition and instead becomes a pathway to purpose, growth, and real-world change?

On this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast, I’m joined by Aston Roberts, a nationally ranked U.S. Chess Federation Expert and founder of Checkmate to a Better Future, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to transforming lives through chess. And the most incredible part? He’s just 17 years old. Aston’s work spans classrooms, communities, and even the Essex County Juvenile Detention Center, where he’s pioneered a chess-based curriculum focused on foresight, behavior, and life skills.

Also joining us is his Dad, Adrian Roberts. Adrian is a driving force of support behind Aston’s journey. Together, we’ll explore how one teen’s passion for chess is creating ripples of impact far beyond the board.

Checkmate to a Better Future is having their inaugural Livingston, NJ Summer Chess Tournament and Fundraiser on Saturday, August 9. Go to Home to learn more. 

Before we dive in, don’t forget to subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayIsTheDayLive

Today is the Day is more than this podcast—

It’s a movement rooted in clarity, courage, connection, and impact.

Through coaching and consulting, I help individuals and teams find clarity of focus, the courage to move forward, and the connections that lead to growth. Whether you’re leading a mission, launching a vision, or navigating change, I help you build the kind of network that lifts you up—and supports the impact you’re meant to create.

And be sure to save the date for the Today is the Day Changemakers International Forum, where global voices come together to embrace transformation and inspire action. Go to our website with more information. 

Lastly, if this episode or any prior episodes have helped you to feel connected, inspired, empowered or just seen a little more consider giving back. Your contribution, no matter the size, helps keep these stories alive and accessible to all. Today is the Day is not just a podcast. It includes an International Forum and soon to be a new Changemakers Connective. Help us keep growing this connective movement. Today is the Day Changemakers (Today is the Day Changemakers Support)

Let’s get into this incredible conversation.

Because today is the day.

Have a great week!

#chess, #chessplayer, #chessforbetterfuture, #NewJersey, #emergingchangemaker, #changemakers, #todayistheday, #makingadifference

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

How can speaking with true intention toward ourselves and others not only calm the ego, but nourish the spirit?

Today on Today is the Day Changemakers, I’m joined by Kalyani Pardeshi, a multi award-winning author, TEDx speaker, and Canada’s only certified Flowcess Trainer. Kalyani helps people embrace their true selves by identifying and dissolving two often-ignored causes of burnout: self-bullying and living outside their intrinsic motivators.

Her powerful book, Beyond the Inner Critic: Understanding and Conquering Your Conscious and Unconscious Bullies, won the International Impact Award for Self-Help within four months of publication. She’s been featured on CTV Morning Live, Global News Calgary, and QR Calgary Radio, and continues to inspire schools, organizations, and communities across North America.

Today’s episode dives into how seemingly harmless jokes or offhand comments—especially when directed inward—can do lasting harm. Kalyani shares how both external bullying and the inner critic shaped her journey, and how presence, self-awareness, and accountability can become tools for personal and collective healing.

Before we dive in, don’t forget to subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayIsTheDayLive

Today is the Day is more than this podcast—

It’s a movement rooted in clarity, courage, connection, and impact.

Through coaching and consulting, I help individuals and teams find clarity of focus, the courage to move forward, and the connections that lead to growth. Whether you’re leading a mission, launching a vision, or navigating change, I help you build the kind of network that lifts you up—and supports the impact you’re meant to create.

And be sure to save the date for the Today is the Day Changemakers International Forum, where global voices come together to embrace transformation and inspire action. Go to our website with more information. 

Lastly, if this episode or any prior episodes have helped you to feel connected, inspired, empowered or just seen a little more consider giving back. Your contribution, no matter the size, helps keep these stories alive and accessible to all. Today is the Day is not just a podcast. It includes an International Forum and soon to be a new Changemakers Connective. Help us keep growing this connective movement. Today is the Day Changemakers (Today is the Day Changemakers Support)

Let’s get into this incredible conversation.

Because today is the day.

#innercritic

#TodayistheDay

#Changemakers

#Bullying

#innerbully

#overcomingobstacles

#clarity

#courage

#impact

#connection

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

In this episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast we talk about the power of deficits, discipline and dedication. 

Today, we’re honored to welcome back a powerhouse changemaker — M. Quentin Williams, founder and CEO of Dedication to Community (D2C), and newly named to the WORTHY 100 by Worth Magazine for his extraordinary leadership in social impact and justice reform.

Q is an attorney, an educator, and a national voice for change. He’s a former FBI agent, federal prosecutor, and has held senior roles with the NFL, and NBA.  He’s also a guest instructor at the FBI National Academy. 

But what sets this conversation apart is the depth of it.

If you’re ready to hear what it looks like when a person turns deficits into discipline, and discipline into legacy — you are absolutely in the right place

This is not just another interview — it’s a masterclass in resilience, purpose, and walking your mission out loud. From poverty and a reading comprehension deficit to having the discipline to get through law school and so much more. There is too much to summarize in this very dynamic and important conversation. Take a listen and let us know if anything you hear resonates or inspires you. 

🌀 And remember — Today is the Day Changemakers is not just a podcast. It’s a reminder.

If today you woke up feeling stuck…

Disconnected from your purpose…

Like you’ve checked all the boxes but still wonder, Is this really it?

Or maybe you’re leading a team that’s lost momentum, where collaboration feels hard and the mission feels blurry, or the goals are a struggle to meet...

It may be time to talk to someone who can help you — or your organization — realign, reconnect, and move forward with intention.

That’s the work I do.

Know that when your why is greater than your how, the path forward starts to reveal itself — if this speaks to you reach out to jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com for more information or Click Here. 

Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt. 

Let’s dive in.

#Changemaker

#CEO

#LearningDisability

#NewYork

#Yonkers

#Dedication

#Community

#Author

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This week on the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast, I interview an incredible fearless woman. Sharla Brown is the inspiring founder of One Woman, a global social enterprise on a mission to help women and girls around the world live their dreams and reach their full potential. A Canadian social entrepreneur, philanthropist, and humanitarian, Sharla has dedicated her life to empowering others through education, skills development, and entrepreneurship.

Her journey began in 2015 during a life-changing trip to Ecuador, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by women and girls in underserved communities. This experience became the spark that ignited the creation of One Woman and One Girl — initiatives that provide the tools, support, and opportunities needed to break barriers and create ripples of positive impact.

Since then, Sharla has hosted over 200 Women Fearless events across Canada, the USA, and beyond. Through these powerful conferences, she mentors, teaches, and inspires women to embrace their gifts, step into their leadership potential, and build purpose-driven lives they love. Sharla believes that each person’s gift is like a pebble tossed into water, creating endless ripples that touch lives far and wide.

Her fearless leadership continues to uplift and unite women globally, reminding us all that when women rise, entire communities rise with them.

Sharla has been dealing with a personal illness and even through this illness she is doing all she can to keep the organization growing. She empowers woman to take on the role of leading these events in their community. Connecting women around the globe to learn from each other and support each other is not only commendable, it is essential for building a more empowered and compassionate world. 

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. If you're ready to break through barriers, build authentic connections, or create the table where you truly belong - let's connect. 

Through coaching, consulting, and this platform, I'm here to help you take meaningful action toward your goals. Learn more at TodayistheDayLiveIt.com.

#fearlesswoman, #fearless, #survivingcancer, #summit, #conference, #women, #woman, #helpingwomen, #womenleaders, #speaker, #coaches, #todayistheday, #changemakers, #changemaker

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

On this episode I’m joined by Nicole Nicola, Director of Economic and Demographic Research at the New Jersey Department of Labor, adjunct professor of business statistics, sought-after speaker, and leadership coach.

Nicole shares how data is at the core of what drives meaningful decisions — not just in the workplace, but in our everyday lives. Whether we’re counting miles walked, dollars spent, or calories consumed, we’re constantly collecting information that shapes our path. Through her leadership program, Nicole helps others tap into that insight by encouraging them to map their leadership journey, create a personal tagline, and define their own “10 Commandments” for how they want to lead and live.

And of course, we have a little fun chatting about her love of chocolate.

If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt.

And remember — Today is the Day is more than just a podcast. Through my work, I provide sales training, leadership development, executive coaching, and support for entrepreneurs and organizations looking to connect more deeply with their clients, customers, and internal teams. I also work with individuals and organizations to help them connect more fully with their goals — and in turn, create extraordinary fulfillment by aligning with all they want to do, achieve, and become.

Let’s connect and explore how I can help you, your team, or your organization take that next step toward authentic growth and meaningful connection.

#data, #statistics, #changemakers, #TodayistheDay, #chocolate, #leadership, #personaltagline, #tagline, #coach, #leadershipcoach, #NJBIA, #NewJersey, 

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

In this powerful continuation, Jodi sits down with author Arman Kaymakcian to dive deeper into his memoir, He Calls Me Redeemed. Arman opens up about living with the echoes of past trauma, how his experiences have shaped his reactions and relationships, and the everyday courage it takes to move forward. Central to his journey is his deep and personal connection to God. His faith has been a guiding force—helping him navigate pain, find healing, and embrace redemption. With the unwavering support of his wife and a strong foundation in his belief in a higher power, Arman continues to walk his path with purpose.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast on YouTube, and be sure to like, review, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt. Learn more about all the programs that Today is the Day offers businesses, entrepreneurs, Changemakers, and more. Coming soon the Changemakers Connective movement www.TodayIsTheDayLive.com.

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What happens when you finally stop resisting — and start listening to the signs?

Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

In this emotional and courageous episode, poet and author Armen Kaymakcian shares part one of his powerful personal story — a journey of hardship, recovery, and purpose.

Growing up in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Armen lived through life-altering events that shaped his path in unimaginable ways. His memoir, He Calls Me Redeemed, was written in rooms instead of chapters as his family owned a hotel - those rooms were filled with stories of both struggle and strength. 

At just 12 years old he was sexually assaulted by a trusted friend of the family. That went on for some time and the trauma from that experience began to shape Armen in a way that was hard for him to come back from.

In his early adult years, Armen faced challenges that led him down a dark path. That path included selling drugs, drug addiction, stealing, and trouble with the law. But at one of the lowest moments of his life, he began listening — to his inner voice, to the signs around him, and to something greater. A spiritual shift and a reconnection to faith sparked a transformation that helped him begin again. 

Today, Armen is a husband, a father of three, and an advocate for healing and redemption through storytelling. Armen's book is a must-read for  anyone anywhere who is dealing with overcoming hurdles or has over-come them already. It is a story of strength, resiliency, and courage. There is so much to be learned from him sharing his very private story. 

🎙️ This is Part One of his journey.

📅 Part Two airs on June 11

Hosted by Jodi Grinwald, certified professional coach, consultant, and founder of the Today is the Day movement. Jodi works with entrepreneurs, leaders, nonprofits, and organizations to deepen authentic connection, drive growth, and align purpose with impact — helping people and teams thrive both personally and professionally. Learn more on our website: Today Is The Day

📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @todaysdayliveit

🎧 Subscribe on YouTube: Today is the Day Changemakers

Today is the Day is more than a podcast — it’s a global movement that amplifies real stories of resilience, connection, and purpose to inspire change worldwide.

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Today is the Day Changemakers, Jodi Grinwald speaks with Melanie Paticoff Grossman—founder, author, and editor of Hearing Our Way magazine.

Melanie’s changemaker journey began with a deeply personal story: her cousin, who she was incredibly close to, started to experience hearing loss at a very young age. When her cousin moved away, it felt like a profound loss—one that shaped Melanie’s early understanding of distance, connection, and identity. But when her cousin returned years later, that relationship—and the awareness it sparked—set Melanie on a mission: to help other kids with hearing loss feel seen, understood, and empowered.

She began by writing Sophie’s Tales, a children’s book that uses storytelling to bridge understanding. But she didn’t stop there. Wanting to create something sustainable and ongoing, Melanie founded Hearing Our Way—a vibrant national magazine now in its 10th year, reaching schools, doctors’ offices, and homes across the country. The publication gives kids with hearing loss (and their peers) a place to belong and a way to connect.

In this episode, Melanie opens up about her passion for representation, the power of personal stories, the surprising role ADHD plays in professional life, and why she believes “finding your people” brings freedom and joy.

This is more than a story about hearing loss—it’s a story about purpose, resilience, and what happens when one person decides to turn personal loss into collective impact.

Listen on the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel or on all major podcast platforms.

Please subscribe and follow:

Instagram + Facebook: @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt

Website: TodayIsTheDayLiveIt.com

#TodayIsTheDay #ChangemakersPodcast #HearingOurWay #InclusionMatters #Sophie’sTales #HearingLossAwareness #ADHDAwareness #DisabilityAdvocacy #PurposeDriven #RepresentationMatters

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Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast featuring Adam Glinn, CEO, JCC of Middlesex County.

In this powerful episode, Adam Glinn shares his unique journey from practicing law to discovering his true calling—nonprofit leadership. Although the legal profession shaped part of his path, it was never where his heart truly lived. Raised by parents who modeled service and community commitment—serving on boards and giving back in meaningful ways—Adam developed an early understanding of what it meant to be of service to others.

Now, as the CEO of the JCC of Middlesex County, Adam leads with purpose, compassion, and a clear focus on meeting the ever-evolving needs of the community. Under his leadership, the JCC has launched a transformative capital campaign and pivoted from simply referring mental health needs to becoming a first-line provider of mental health services. They’ve also expanded their programming to include occupational and physical therapy, a move many would not have expected from a traditional JCC—but one that speaks to their commitment to supporting the whole person and entire family.

Adam also reveals a surprising reality: Of the approximately 170 Jewish Community Centers across North America, more than 70% have memberships where over half the members are not Jewish. At the JCC in Edison, NJ, the reach is just as broad. Members speak 37 different languages, and of the 150 preschoolers they serve, 90% are not Jewish. The center has become a place for all people—welcoming, supportive, and mission-driven.

With a heart for his team, a vision for the future, and a deep desire to serve, Adam Glinn is redefining what it means to lead a community organization in today’s world.

Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel or stream all episodes on all major platforms Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayistheDayLiveIt.

To learn more about upcoming Changemakers Connective events, workshops, keynote speaking, 1:1 coaching, team leadership development, and transformational consulting, visit TodayistheDayLiveIt.com.

Jodi Grinwald is a sought-after speaker, award-winning transformational architect, and certified professional coach who works with nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and leaders seeking to connect to their “why” and create greater impact.

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#todayistheday

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast!

What happens when you stop waiting for validation and start giving yourself permission to grow, speak, and lead?

In this powerful episode of Today is the Day Changemakers, I sit down with book coach, author, permission expert, and visionary Kim O’Hara. From confronting the silence around sexual abuse to stepping into her truth as a bestselling author and extraordinary book coach, Kim shares her deeply personal journey of healing, self-actualization, and creative leadership.

We talk about:

• The real story behind writing No Longer Denying Sexual Abuse
• Becoming a single Mom and working at Trader Joe's
• Purchasing a home for the first time and how that changed her life
• How permission became the catalyst for her growth
• Why clarity and organization are non-negotiables for aspiring authors
• What it means to create impact-driven content in today’s world

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a writer, or someone standing at a crossroads, Kim’s insights will help you get honest with your story—and finally give yourself the green light to tell it.

Connect with Kim: 

Website: KIM O'HARA | Write a Good Book

Facebook: @Kim O'Hara 

Instagram: @kimoharacoach

Weekly Column: Give Yourself Permission | Kim O'Hara | Substack

Take Action:

Subscribe, stream, rate, and share if this conversation resonates with you. You never know who’s waiting for permission to begin.

Subscribe for information on more Today is the Day events and opportunities to network

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

Today is the Day LLC empowers nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and corporate teams through customized coaching, leadership development, and executive consulting. With a global sphere of influence and a deep commitment to connection, we help clients build stronger teams, grow their impact, and align their work with purpose—locally and worldwide. To book a introductory appointment and learn more email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com or visit our website.

Have a great week everyone! 

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast. 

This is part two of the conversation with DemocraShe, Executive Director and Founder, Sarah Jakle, as we continue to explore how the organization is transforming leadership opportunities for young women across the country.

In this episode, we’re joined by two powerful new voices—Hanna and Makaela, high school students who are part of the DemocraShe program. They share how being involved has helped them discover their “inner best friend,” build confidence, and begin shaping what it looks like to step into leadership as young women in politics.

Through the program, they are developing key skills like empathy, compassion, and civic engagement, while preparing to use their voices in college and beyond to create meaningful change. Their stories reflect how DemocraShe isn’t just raising awareness—it’s raising the floor for an entire generation.

Available online and across multiple U.S. states, DemocraShe also offers stipends to its participants, removing financial barriers and making civic leadership more accessible than ever.

This conversation is heartfelt, empowering, and exactly what the world needs right now.

Visit www.democracyshe.org to learn more and share this opportunity with a future changemaker.

About Today is the Day:

Today is the Day is more than just a podcast—it’s a global platform that connects, supports, and amplifies changemakers from around the world. Founded and hosted by Jodi Grinwald, an award-winning leadership strategist, speaker, transformational architect, and nonprofit CEO, the platform is rooted in authentic connection and continuous growth.

Through her work, Jodi supports entrepreneurs, nonprofit professionals, executives, and teams in aligning with their purpose, reaching financial, professional, and personal goals, navigating imposter syndrome, and mastering public speaking, and much more. Her personalized coaching and consulting model helps individuals and organizations reconnect to what matters most—leading with clarity, confidence, and creating real and sustainable impact.

Jodi also provides sales training through a connection-first approach—because we’re not just selling a product, service, or mission. We’re sharing our authentic connection to it. That’s what truly resonates and drives action. Her fundraising strategy is grounded in “friend-raising”—cultivating relationships that lead to meaningful, long-term support.

Coming soon: The Changemakers Connective
A new membership experience designed for changemakers, leaders, nonprofit professionals, and entrepreneurs who want to grow through real connection. The Changemakers Connective will offer expert-led workshops, strategic support sessions, curated business and mission-building tools, visibility opportunities, and a powerful global network focused on collaboration and impact.

To learn more, visit todayisthedayliveit.com and follow us @todayisthedayliveit on Facebook and Instagram.

We’ve now been streamed in 913 cities and 76 countries—thank you for helping us bring these voices and missions to the world.

Have a great week!

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast!

In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Jakle, the visionary founder of DemocraShe, a national non-profit organization on a mission to empower high school girls to see themselves as future political leaders and changemakers.

Sarah shares how DemocraShe actively recruits future leaders from historically underrepresented communities to flood our future with diverse, compassionate & confident women leaders in every sector - who know running for office is their birthright. 

DemocraShe is not only a free program, but they also pay their students stipends so that they can give young women the opportunity to receive mental health tools and leadership training regardless of background or income status. 

We also explore the transformative concept of finding your inner best friend. In our conversation, Sarah guides us through a powerful exercise designed to help you reconnect with your inner strength and compassion during challenging times.

With her rich background in the political arena, Sarah explains why high school is a pivotal time for cultivating leadership. She reveals how early support not only builds confidence but also sets the stage for girls to thrive as leaders in an era marked by unprecedented political challenges.

This is Part 1 of a 2-part series. Next week, join us for Part 2 when two remarkable young women who have done the DemocraShe training and are now part of a  Train-the-Trainer model—share how they’re now mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Takeaways from This Episode:

• Early Leadership: High school is a critical period for fostering the confidence and skills required for future leadership.

• Financial Empowerment: Providing stipends to girls removes barriers and reinforces their value and voice.

• Self-Compassion: Discover an exercise to help you reconnect with your inner best friend during tough times.

• Mentorship Impact: Learn how empowering young women through peer-to-peer mentorship creates lasting change.

• Next week’s follow-up episode featuring two inspiring young leaders

Work With Me 

Through Today is the Day, I offer coaching and consulting for individuals and organizations ready to grow, lead, and connect with purpose.

Training opportunities and coaching topics include, but are not limited to:

• The Table You’re Meant For: A transformational experience where career clarity, leadership, and fulfillment align—helping you find your place at the right table and build the future you envision.

• Sales Training – Reinventing the Conversation: A powerful, authentic approach that teaches your team to sell with genuine service. By focusing on connection and trust-building, this training not only elevates the customer experience—it drives increased sales and revenue by aligning solutions with real client needs.

• Changemaker Coaching: Based on the “When Your Why is Greater Than Your How” framework to help individuals, entrepreneurs, and teams reconnect with their mission and lead with clarity.

• Podcast Coaching: Personalized guidance to help you plan, launch, and grow a podcast that amplifies your unique voice and mission.

Let’s connect: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Visit: https://todayisthedayliveit.com/

Subscribe & Share

If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, like, and share the episode. Your support helps amplify the voices of changemakers around the globe.

Listen now on the Today is the Day YouTube channel or stream on all streaming platforms. 

Have a great week!

Jodi

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast. 

This week, my guest is Sarah Giberson—changemaker, community builder, and wellness advocate. Sarah wears many impactful hats and serves in roles that beautifully merge professional leadership with personal transformation.

She is the Director of Real Estate Development and Marketing for the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority (FMERA), playing a key role in reshaping a historic military base into a thriving hub for innovation, business, and healing. From future-forward projects like a new hospital specializing in renowned cancer treatment, to major partners like Netflix and local gems like breweries and social spaces—Sarah is helping breathe new life into this iconic space.

But her impact doesn’t stop there.

Sarah is also the owner of two Pink Moon Yoga & Wellness studios - one in Silverton and one in Brielle, New Jersey. She has created welcoming spaces for grounding, healing, and reconnection through yoga—a path she didn’t plan but felt deeply called to after a personal turning point. What started as a moment of reconnection in a yoga class became a mission to help others do the same.

In this episode, we talk about the power of duality—how one person can hold space for both business leadership and emotional wellness. Sarah reminds us that self-care isn’t just personal—it’s a professional imperative.

She also shares her thoughts on the importance of the arts in our communities and reflects on a lesson from one of her favorite books by Jay Shetty, Think Like a Monk. 

This is a conversation for anyone looking to reconnect with themselves, align with their purpose, and be reminded that it’s possible to lead with impact while still caring for your soul.

Stay Connected:

Subscribe to the Today’s the Day Changemakers YouTube channel, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@todayisthedayliveit). 

We’re also hosting live events with powerful changemakers from around the world—individuals you might never have the chance to meet otherwise. Visit todaysthedayliveit.com to learn more, join the movement, and explore how you can become part of our global community.

Have a great week, everyone—and remember: Today is the day. Live it!

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast!

Whether you are currently facing challenges or have overcome obstacles in your past, this episode is a powerful reminder that moments—both difficult and triumphant—are fleeting. The steps we take, no matter how small, can shape our path forward. Courage and resilience don’t always require grand gestures; sometimes, it’s the smallest steps that lead to the greatest change. And when we share our experiences, we don’t just grow ourselves—we inspire and lift others up along the way.

This week on Today’s the Day Changemakers, my special guest cohost Fred Wasiak, President & CEO of the Food Bank of South Jersey, and I sit down with the incredible Pastor Darlene Trappier, founder of Beacon of Hope Inc. in New Jersey.

Darlene’s journey is one of resilience and purpose. At just 19 years old, she found herself living in a park for three days with her infant son, unsure of what the future held. In that moment, she made a promise—if she could make it through, she would dedicate her life to helping others facing similar hardships. Today, through Beacon of Hope Inc., she provides food, clothing, and support to families in need, ensuring they have the essentials to stay together and move forward.

She also shares a beautiful story about how a simple treat placed in a child’s goodie bag can bring a moment of joy and a much-needed smile, reminding us that even in the toughest times, kindness makes a difference.

Now a board member of the Food Bank of South Jersey, Darlene once questioned whether she belonged at the table. But as Fred explains, her lived experience—both as someone who once needed these services and now as a leader providing them—is invaluable. Their organizations work in sync, creating real impact for those who need it most.

Darlene has been recognized with numerous awards for her incredible work, and her story will truly inspire you.

Please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @todayisthedayliveit.

Also, go to our website to learn more about upcoming events where you can interact and learn from our changemaker guests who have so much to share. 

Have a great week everyone!

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast. 

In this episode Jodi welcome Angela Calzone, President and CEO of Inroads to Opportunities. Angela shares the inspiring work her organization is doing to create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with different abilities.

Inroads to Opportunities is more than just a workforce development program—it’s a movement toward inclusivity, empowerment, and opportunity. From job coaching and skills training to direct job placement, the organization ensures that individuals with disabilities are not only prepared for the workforce but also supported every step of the way. Retail businesses, companies, and organizations are encouraged to open their doors to these determined, hardworking individuals—offering internships and employment opportunities backed by Inroads to Opportunities’ mentorship and coaching programs.

Angela also shares her personal journey—where she started, how she came to lead this incredible organization, and why she believes kindness should be at the core of humanity. That is at the core of who she is as a person.

She speaks passionately about the dedication, drive, and reliability of individuals in the program, proving that when given the opportunity, they thrive and contribute in impactful ways.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that when we create space for everyone to succeed, we all benefit. Get inspired, learn how you or your organization can make a difference, and visit https://inroadsto.org to take action.

Tune in now for an episode that will leave you motivated to champion inclusivity and kindness in your own life.

Today is the Day Changemakers has launched a workshop series. Coming up on March 25, 2025 join us for this free virtual event titled, How to Live a Fun, Healthy, & Fulfilling Life Into Your 90's and Beyond with Celebrity Trainer, Malin Svensson of Nordic Body. To register for this free virtual event go to bit.ly/TodayIsTheDayMoveForLife. 

Please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. 

Have a great week everyone! 

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Welcome to Today is the Day Changemakers podcast! 

This is part two of our two-part episode featuring Changemaker Bart Henderson. In this conversation, Bart shares what it takes to build a brand, invest boldly, and create a lasting impact.

We dive into the importance of prioritizing health mind, body, and spirit as well as the power of mentorship, must-read books for personal and professional growth, and so much more. Bart also shares his experience as part of the 4 AM Club, waking up early each day to focus on the multiple businesses he leads and invests in. His sharp focus and commitment keep his eye on the prize, driving both fulfillment and long-term success for himself and his family.

Tune in to Today is the Day Changemakers on our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @todayisthedayliveit. Sign up for our mailing list at todayisthedayliveit.com to stay updated on upcoming Changemaker events.

Thanks for listening, and have a great week!

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Welcome to another episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

This week, I’m excited to bring you Part One of a special two-part series with Barton Henderson—entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Henderson Promos and Agora Guild. Bart shared so much valuable insight that we had to break it into two episodes!

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or simply someone trying to navigate your career, this conversation is for you. Bart dives into the lessons he’s learned in business, including the concept of “headache businesses”—how to spot them, why more businesses are more trouble than they're worth, and the importance of focusing on the right opportunities instead of just any opportunity. He also shares the importance of recognizing what steals your energy and what truly infuses it, a game-changing perspective for anyone looking to build a sustainable and fulfilling career.

We also discuss the Agora Guild, where Bart is working with men to create what they truly want for their lives in a supportive and productive environment.

In Part Two, we shift the focus to Bart’s mission to live a healthy, balanced life, the habits he’s developed along the way, and how he stays aligned with his goals while juggling multiple ventures.

Don’t miss this powerful two-part series—and be sure to stay tuned for Part Two of the interview with Bart Henderson that launches on Wednesday, March 5 via the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and most streaming platforms. Please take a moment to subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel. 

Take a moment to learn more about Today is the Day and join our mailing list for upcoming virtual events with Changemakers, upcoming podcast episodes, and more. 

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It.

Have a great week! 

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

What if the key to less stress and more success was as simple as letting them... and letting yourself? Inspired by Mel Robbins' Let Them Theory, Let Me and the power of the 5-4-3-2-1 countdown, this episode dives deep into how we can release control, set boundaries, and focus on what truly matters.

I will also be sharing two exciting opportunities to continue this conversation:

Virtual Book Club (Starting February 13): Join me as we break down the Let Them Theory book and explore how to apply its lessons in our lives and careers. Book club begins at 6:00 p.m. eastern time. For more information email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Challenging the Concepts of Philanthropy with Catherine Curry-Williams (February 25 - a Virtual Event): Join bestselling author, TEDx speaker, nonprofit founder, and grant-maker, Catherine Curry-Williams as she shares unique insights into how anyone regardless of financial resources can make a powerful impact. All registrants will receive a copy of her book! This session is open to nonprofit professionals, board members, or anyone looking to give back in a meaningful way. Learn more and register!

Changemaker Insight Series for Professionals (Starting March 25): A four-part professional development series designed to help you overcome imposter syndrome, set boundaries professionally and personally, and stay connected to your true self- beyond your job title. Virtual meetings will be one hour a week for four-weeks on Tuesdays starting at 9:00 a.m. eastern time. 

If this message resonates with you, listen in and take action! To join the book club or the Changemaker Insight series email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com for more information. To register for Challenging the Concepts of Philanthropy with Catherine Curry-Williams register online at https://todayisthedayliveit.com.

It's time to let go, step up, and fully embrace the life and career you want. Today is the day!  It is so easy to put things off due to fear, what we think is lack of time because we are just so busy, and 100 other reasons why we can't do something. As much as we are committed to our professional goals and titles, we also need to remember to be committed to our own growth so that we can thrive as humans. This is not a dress rehearsal. 

Today is the day! You cannot go back to yesterday and you do not yet own tomorrow. What steps are you going to take today to get yourself closer to not only your professional goals, but your personal ones as well? 

I hope to connect with you. I hope to connect with you. If you have not already, please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel. It helps our message to be heard, and you never know who needs to hear that message. You can stream this podcast on all streaming platforms. Follow Today is the Day on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. 

Jodi Hope 

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

This week my guest is Dr. David Stout, a leader whose remarkable journey is defined by resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Dr. Stout began his career as a tutor and mentor at Brookdale Community College and rose to become its president, transforming not only his own life but also the lives of countless others along the ways.

In this episode, Dr. Stout shares his personal triumph over childhood social anxiety and explains how those early challenges forged the skills and mindset necessary for success. He speaks passionately about his groundbreaking work within the community college system and his mission to break barriers in higher education. His story is a powerful reminder that through perseverance and the right support, every obstacle can become a stepping-stone toward a brighter future.

Join us as we explore Dr. Stout's inspiring narrative and discover how his innovative approach continues to redefine what is possible in the realm of education and leadership.

If something in this episode resonated with you please share it. We are grateful to those who have listened to us in over 864 cities around the globe. Thank you!

Please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @todayisthedayliveit. Click to sign up for our newsletter and receive updates on upcoming events and episodes. 

Have a great week everyone!

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast with host Jodi Hope Grinwald. 

This week's guest is Catherine Curry Williams. What if $1.40 a day collectively could make such a difference in the lives of those running nonprofit organizations? 

The title of this week's episode is $1.40 a Day Movement: How Changemaker Catherine Curry-Williams is Transforming Philanthropy

In this inspiring episode of Today is the Day Changemakers, we welcome Catherine Curry-Williams, co-founder of She Angels Foundation and Inclusion Matters by Shane's Inspiration, a global nonprofit dedicated to building inclusive playgrounds for children of all abilities.

A TEDx Fargo speaker, bestselling author, and recipient of numerous accolades for her philanthropic work, Catherine has made an indelible impact on women-led nonprofits and inclusive initiatives. Through She Angels Foundation, she provides crucial funding and support to empower female entrepreneurs and social innovators, helping them bring their vision to life and create lasting change.

Her tireless dedication has earned her recognition with awards such as the Women in Business Leadership Award and Philanthropist of the Year, underscoring her powerful influence in shaping the future of giving.

Meet the Podcast Guest:
Join Today is the Day for a special LIVE virtual event and hear Catherine share her incredible journey and answer questions from the audience  Interact directly with  her and network with like-minded individuals from around the country and beyond. Join us on Tuesday, February 25 at 9:00 a.m. eastern via Zoom and connect with people outside your sphere, growing your professional circle and learning from those who share your passion for creating a meaningful impact. This event will help nonprofit professionals, board members, and anyone interested in helping make an impact look at nonprofit fundraising and overall development and recruitment in a different way. 

Don't miss this chance to learn from Catherine, expand your network, and become part of a community that is changing the world! Reserve your spot now at https://todayisthedayliveit.com/. Included in your registration is a copy of her book shipped directly to you. 

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. 

Tune in to the podcast and discover how even the smallest actions, like a $1.40 a day, can lead to something extraordinary.

Have a great week everyone! 

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🎭 In Part 2 of this deeply moving episode of Today’s the Day Changemakers…

My guest, the incredibly talented Ciarán Sheehan—known for delivering over 1,000 performances as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera—opens up about his powerful journey of healing and recovery.

Joined by special guest co-host Scott Chesney known as the Commander in Change, motivational speaker and life coach. Together we chat with Ciarán as he courageously shares his story of overcoming sexual abuse by a trusted adult, shedding light on his path to forgiveness, resilience, and hope.

We also dive into how meeting renowned spiritual medium James Van Praagh in 2009 introduced him to the transformative power of voice healing. Together, Ciarán and James have helped countless individuals, including through their work at the Omega Institute.

This episode is about courage, connection, and finding purpose in helping others. Don’t miss the chance to hear this inspiring and heart-centered conversation.

🎧 Listen now via the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel as well:
https://www.youtube.com/@Todayisthedaychangemakers

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. 

Have a great week!

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What does it take to turn pain into purpose, and how can moments of unexpected connection completely transform your life?

Join me and my special guest co-host, Scott Chesney, a renowned life coach and motivational speaker known as the “Commander in Change,” as we sit down with the incredibly talented actor and voice healer, Ciarán Sheehan. With over 1,000 performances as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, Ciarán shares his remarkable journey, which began with a chance meeting at a train station that changed the trajectory of his life.

Born in Dublin, Ciarán spent his childhood moving between Ireland and the United States, navigating challenges that included betrayal by a trusted adult and enduring abuse. He recounts how he actually repressed the painful memory of the sexual abuse as a child, describing it as the worst kind of betrayal. It wasn't until Hal Prince, the legendary director, told him he wasn't ready for a specific role because there was something deeper within himself he needed to uncover.  Those words brought Ciarán to his knees and forced him to look inward. He sought support and began the challenging process of remembering and working through the difficult memories he had buried for so long. This pivotal moment not only changed his personal life, but also opened the gateway for him to truly connect with his craft on a much deeper level.
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In this heartfelt conversation, he bravely recounts his experiences of resilience and healing.  

Scott Chesney also shares a deeply personal moment—watching The Four Phantoms on PBS before bed and being moved to tears by Ciarán’s voice. Knowing Ciarán personally, Scott speaks about how not only his extraordinary talent but also his genuine heart continues to leave a lasting impact on him.

Sometimes, one story can inspire someone to take steps to reach their goals, have faith in their own potential, and move forward through any uncertainty.

Part one of this episode is available now on the Today’s the Day Changemakers YouTube channel and all streaming platforms. Don’t miss this powerful conversation filled with inspiration and heartfelt moments. 

To join our mailing list and gain access to more information about the upcoming International Changemakers Collective and all Today is the Day services, please click here.  Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @todayisthedayliveit.

Have a great week everyone!

Jodi Hope Grinwald

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Welcome to Season 5, Episode 1 of Today’s the Day Changemakers! 

As we begin this new season, I (Jodi Grinwald), your host share a special message with our listeners.

Four years ago, this podcast began with a mission to spotlight changemakers worldwide. Now, with 152 interviews across 133 episodes, representing 12 countries and downloads in 855 cities, we’re embarking on an exciting new journey.

This season, I am so thrilled to continue to highlight changemakers who have powerful stories and invaluable inspiration to share. These conversations are designed to keep you motivated, connected, and inspired to take action in your personal and professional life. 

We're also expanding in exciting ways: launching a global Today is the Day membership community to foster ongoing connections, create opportunities for professionals to work together, master classes for people to learn from each other and more. We will also be publishing a book - compilation from Changemakers around the globe. One of the programs we will be introducing is the Impact Framework for entrepreneurs, along with a programs for nonprofit professionals, leaders, a mentorship program, and more. 

As we begin this year, remember to stay present. Time moves quickly, and finding perspective can make all the difference. Celebrate these highs, seek support in the lows, and stay connected to what inspires you. Let’s make an impact together!

Please follow us on FB and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. Also, don't forget to subscribe to our Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel.

Thank you for taking the time to listen to this podcast and being open to the messages that it may provide to you.

Join our mailing list to learn more about our programs and to connect with global changemakers.

Have a great week!

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Welcome to season 4, episode 11 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

In this episode Patty shares about some very challenging times in her life including when she was a stay at home Mom who was suddenly left by her then husband leaving her with two little girls and no income coming in . She talks about all the ways she lifted herself up to continue to ensure that her and her children were able to not just keep the lights on but thrive. She rejoined the workforce and after a few roles working for others, she opened an empanada shop and then with some support opened a restaurant. She found love 12 years ago and was married over a year ago. Now, she is thriving as a real estate agent working for nest seekers a game changing firm in the rapidly expanding global real estate marketplace. 

During Covid she started seeing a significant change in the way her youngest daughter was acting. From marijuana cards to much stronger drugs Patty has had to watch as her daughter struggled through some very difficult times always being there to support her with love, tough love, and honesty. 

Now, Patty is using her voice to share her experience with other parents who may be going through these same challenges. If you or someone you know is dealing with addiction there is help and ongoing support for you. Alcoholics Anonymous - aa.org, Narcotics Anonymous - usa.na.org or contact Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services hotline: 800-662-h-e-l-p. For those in need know that there is hope and help available.

Please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel and also please place a review on Apple Podcasts - we are streaming on most streaming platforms and episodes have been downloaded in 833 cities around the globe. 

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 

Have a great week everyone. 

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Welcome to season 4, episode 11 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

This week my guest is Nick Cucci, Executive Director, Recording Academy. 

It is not often you meet someone who has worked with the likes of David Bowie, Christina Aguilera, Jessica Simpson, Dixie Chicks, Soul Asylum, Harry Connick Jr, Kate Bush, KISS, and the list goes on and on. Nick Cucci started his career working for college radio in NJ. In this episode you will hear how Nick went from local college radio to being the Senior Executive Director for the New York Chapter of the Recording Academy. The Recording Academy does so much for the music industry – the one thing you may recognize is that the Recording Academy produces the Grammy Awards.  Before the Recording Academy he held senior positions at Rough Trade Records, Columbia Records, RCA Records and MTV.

Nick understands and has seen first-hand the impact that music has on all of our lives. It helps people through difficult times, we listen to it to celebrate milestones, and it is part of our everyday life. Nick has spent his career helping those whose passion and love of the music get their voices and instruments heard by the masses. This story truly is one that proves you really have no idea where your path will lead you and who you will meet along the way. What I loved most about this interview is that you can truly hear how much Nick loves the work he does. It is not just a job or career. Music is embedded in his soul. 

Please take a moment to follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. Also, we would love it if you would subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel. It helps our guest get their voices heard. 

At this time this podcast has been heard in 71 countries/territories and 829 cities around the globe. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

Have a great week everyone!

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Welcome to season 4, episode 9 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week I am joined by special guest co-host, Fred Wasiak, President & CEO of the Food Bank of South Jersey. Together they interview Megan LoBue, Grant Writing Specialist for the Food Bank of South Jersey. Megan was a guest in season 1, episode 15. 

We talk about Megan's new role at the Food Bank of South Jersey. It continues to be an amazing journey watching Changemaker podcast guests get to know each other and work together.

Megan and Fred share about food insecurity and how things have actually gotten worse since the pandemic.

We find out some things we all have in common. We also talk about the joy it is to surround yourself with like-minded people trying to make the world a better place.

I hope you find a nugget of information that you can take with you in your day.

Remember today is the day! You can't go back to yesterday and you do not yet own tomorrow. So, my question to you, the listener is - what steps small or large are you going to take today to get yourself closer to your goals.

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. To learn more about Today is the Day go to www.todayisthedayliveit.com. Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel. We hope you may consider leaving a review. 

Have a fabulous week!
 

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Welcome to season 4, episode 7 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week Jodi is joined by special guest co-host the inFredible (more than incredible) Fred Wasiak, President and CEO of the Food Bank of South Jersey. Together, they interview Richard Uniacke, President, Bridges Outreach.

Fred has now been on the podcast for four episodes. He is looking forward to being on one more time to receive the special Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast jacket.

Richard starts our conversation sharing about his love of the performing arts as a young child. We talk about his trajectory to becoming the President, of Bridges Outreach. It is an incredible story.

Bridges Outreach mission is to end homelessness through street outreach and intensive case management focusing on health, housing, and independence. Bridges forms relationships with those experiencing homelessness while meeting their most urgent needs. Their programming is so necessary and needed.

As we talk further, Richard shares a few very touching stories. One of them is about a woman who went from living in a domestic violence situation, to being shot by her husband, to finding herself homeless. It took a long time to get her to where she needed to be. Those in need don't always trust those who want to help. Trust needs to be formed. The numbers of those who are without shelter are staggering and Bridges Outreach needs your support as they support the masses.

Please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel or stream. Today is the Day continues to search across the world for Changemakers. if you are a Changemaker who wants to share what you are doing to make your corner of the world or beyond a better place, please email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It.

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Welcome to another episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week Jodi's guest is Jeff Massone. Jeff is the Founder of Prepared Leader Consulting. Take a listen to how Jeff started off on his journey thinking about being a veterinarian, moving into the pharmaceutical space, to now coaching emerging leaders on their journey. It proves the importance of listening to what drives you. Your trajectory is only determined by your motivation and determination. 

Now, Jeff is working to help those who want to move up the ladder to leadership positions by providing them with coaching that will help them to be the most effective leader in their role. Jeff shares that you want to be the one people call even when they don't need you. 

Take a listen to this episode as well via the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. 

Have a great week everyone!

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Welcome to season 4, episode 6 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

My next guest is Nicholas Marco.  From ICU nurse to Hand and Stone, Sweat440, and Drybar franchisee. 

Nick started out as a Penn State graduate, enrolling in a nursing program a week after. He is now credited with generating 28 million dollars of revenue in the last year and franchisee of 11 Hand and Stone NJ locations and 20 Ohio locations. 

At the age of 14 years old, Nick came up with the name Hand and Stone and shared the idea with his father, John Marco. For this, he received a special gift when he turned driving age - a new car!

 Beginning his journey as a registered nurse in the ICU, Nick acquired his love for the health industry and set out on his wellness path. He then realized he loves franchising and now has over 500 employees in his company. Despite being such a hard worker, Nick says he “never feels like he’s going to work” as he has maintained that the work he is doing always make him feel like he is making a difference. He continues to work on having a healthy work- life balance. 

In addition to all his amazing skills and leadership positions, Nick also just recently launched a podcast titled, The Opportunity Coach, which will be full of his wisdom and knowledge from his dynamic work experiences.

Nicholas Marco shares about surrounding yourself with the right people, the people that want to see you grow. He has made it his mission to do the same for others. He has much to give in the areas of coaching, business, and overall life advice.

Click here to listen to Nick's new podcast. The Opportunity Coach.

Please take a moment and subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel or stream on all streaming sites and if you can please leave a review. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It.

Have a great week everyone!

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

I am so excited to welcome Patricia McLoughlin, general manager of the Anthem Awards, and overall wonderful, passionate human. Her personal goal has always been to find solutions for creating equitable spaces and within this position she is accomplishing just that. 

The Anthem Awards is a global mission which was created to uplift and celebrate innovative work happening in the social impact space. This includes for- profits, non-profits, agencies, individual efforts, efforts of students, etc. Cause areas range from diversity, equity, inclusion, education, arts, culture, health, human and civil rights, humanitarian action, responsible technology, sustainability, climate and the environment. Each year over 2000 entries are received from all over the world from amazing individuals. 

The Anthem Awards will be opening up for their fourth season this year, with submissions being accepted starting April 9. Anyone can enter through the website, submitting either a link, document, or report. If anyone is considering applying, it is strongly recommended to reach out to Patricia McLoughlin as her professional standpoint will help categorize the submission to fit the Anthem Awards process. To learn more about the Anthem Awards, visit anthemawards.com or search @anthemawards on social media.
 
Please take a moment and subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel or stream on all streaming sites and if you can please leave a review. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It.

Have a great week everyone!

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Welcome to season 4, episode 4 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. Please take a moment to write a review and share this podcast episode if it resonates with you. 

This week's guests are Sylvia Allen, President, Allen Consulting and Founder of Sylvia's Children in Uganda, Africa. Joining us is Terese Rolke, Executive Director, Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Listen in to hear how Sylvia became the grandmother to many in this incredible school in Uganda.  Sylvia's Children is a non-profit founded to help the children at the Mbiriizi Advanced Primary and Day Care School in Mbiriizi, Uganda, Africa. The school is based on the British model and goes through Primary 7. After that the children go on to Secondary School (S-1 through S-6) and then can go to college and/or technical school.

The original objective was to teach the school how to be entrepreneurs so they would not be dependent on the charity. With the increase in enrollment (439 to 1080), the building of a 6,000 sq. ft. medical clinic, having a farm with 8,000 chicken, 42 pigs and 7 acres planted in corn and beans plus 100,000 coffee tree seedlings the school is capable of supporting itself. Thus,the initial mission was accomplished.

The mission of the organization has been expanded to include providing secondary school and advanced education to any orphan that wishes to go beyond P-7. As of January 1, 2023, they have 150 orphans in secondary school and 50 in college and/or technical school. They have already had 77 orphan graduates and another group will graduate summer 2023. These are the people that will change and improve the culture as they move into adulthood.

Sylvia invited Terese and others to take a trip to visit the school in Uganda in November 2023. Sylvia lives in NJ. Terese shares what an incredible experience it was to meet the children and provide them with gifts and trinkets during their holiday season. Included in the group of volunteers that took time out of their own busy schedules to have this incredible experience was a healthcare professional.  She checked in on the children to make sure they were doing well.
 
Terese, started as a volunteer for the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce, became a board member and the moved to a paid role as the full time, Executive Director. It is through her work there that she met Sylvia. Sylvia is a member of MRCC and has been honored through the organization with an Athena Award.

Terese described the experience of going to visit Sylvia's Children as “amazing”, saying the children “stole her heart” immediately.

To contribute to this cause or to learn more, visit https://allenconsulting.com/sylvias-c....

To learn more about the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce go to https://www.monmouthregionalchamber.com/.

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast! 

I am thrilled to welcome Floyd Jones onto this week’s episode, an activist, grassroots organizer, business coach, and outstanding human being. Floyd is the director of community and partnerships at Givebutter, the world’s first completely free end to end fundraising platform powering over 700 million in donations per year. In this position, he works in sponsoring, campaigning, and events. He has raised over 20 million for grassroots organizations and spoken at conferences across the country. Givebutter has gotten a huge amount of support and attention, being featured by ESPN, Afrotech, Linkedin, Variety magazine, and sponsored by Nike, Whole Foods, Visa, NBA2K and more. Floyd also has founded BackBlack, a collaborative campaign which has raised over 1.3 million for 770 black-led profits. He also works as a business coach for nonprofits and purpose-driven companies. Floyd is an extraordinarily dynamic human with amazing energy and a unique outlook on the world. 

Floyd discusses his formative years, involving his relationship with the arts as well as first experiences with entrepreneurship, starting with his family’s work in Sierra Leone. He explains that this viewpoint taught him that “you can do well and do good”. His father’s work inspired Floyd’s current passions for social justice and business, showing him that you can prosper while simultaneously making a positive impact on your community. Especially while working in the business world, Floyd recommends finding an artistic outlet, his being music, that will “always welcome you”. Floyd achieves an impressive balance of providing for the community and maintaining successful organizations, a feat accomplished through his ability to skillfully merge the entrepreneurial and nonprofit worlds in a way that benefits all. 
You can support BackBlack at backblackmovement.org, and get involved with Givebutter at givebutter.com. Floyd is an upbeat, upstanding, spirit and serves as a model for us all with his character, skill, and tireless work ethic. 

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It.  

Have a great week everyone!

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I am so excited to once again welcome the wonderful John Belizaire onto this week's episode. John is the CEO of Soluna Computing, which involves crypto currency, AI, and machine learning powered by renewable energy. John has an impressive background as a successful CEO, architect, and author.

John’s mission at Soluna is “to make renewable energy a primary source of energy in the world”. Soluna goes to great lengths to make sure renewable energy is used to its fullest capacity,  building specialized data centers to ensure all of the energy is put to use. In John’s first episode, he detailed his hopes for this process at Soluna and we are proud to join him in admiring how far he has come! John Belezaire is doing commendable work to ensure a brighter future for us all through use of renewable energy and embracing the versatility of technology. 

• To purchase John's new book: Keep Pushin': CEO Insights to Guide Your Journey to Mastery 
• Read John's CEO Playbook Blog
• Visit Soluna's website 

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. You can also stream this episode on all streaming sites. 

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Welcome to Season 4, Episode 1 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. I am so excited to be back interviewing the changemakers, inspirers, and those disrupting the status quo. 

This week I am excited to introduce the fantastic fab five food bank CEO's of New Jersey. These individuals, Fred Wasiak, Elizabeth McCarthy, Bernie Flynn, Triada Stampas, and Mark Valli are working together to feed New Jersey through each of their amazing organizations. Each of these incredible changemakers have found themselves working in public service, whether they knew from the start that they wished to pursue the nonprofit path or found it along the way, they have all come together with a common goal: to help the people of New Jersey. 

Fred Wasiak is the CEO and president of the Food Bank of South Jersey, serving 4 counties from urban, to suburban, to rural. Founded in 1985, the Food Bank of South Jersey focuses on health, nutrition, education, and awareness. Fred emphasizes that “the root cause is not hunger, it is poverty” when discussing ways to address the problem of food insecurity at its source. 

Elizabeth McCarthy, president and CEO of Community Food Bank of New Jersey shares a common goal as her recent focus has been job training programs to help people get on their feet. CFBNJ started with a woman named Kathleen DiChiara handing out meals out of her station wagon and now 49 years later they provide 90 million meals annually. Elizabeth describes her perspective as “food is medicine”, aiming to get heart healthy meals to those in need. 

Bernie Flynn is the full-time volunteer CEO of Mercer Street Friends, providing food bank services since 1958, focusing on family and education in Mercer County. He highlights the food banks’ partnership with the state as “providing tremendous support” throughout their public service endeavors. 

Triada Stampas is the CEO and president of Fulfill, a food bank serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties which sends 14 million meals to a network of 300 people. Fulfill began as a food bank 40 years ago and has now included toy and clothing drives as well to address larger issues within the population. Triada firmly believes, “it is a blessing to get help when you need it and it is a blessing to give help when others need it, that’s something that binds us as humans”. 

Mark Valli is the CEO of Norwescap, serving over 30,000 low-income families in the northwest corner of New Jersey. Founded in 1965, Norwescap started as a community action organization and has grown its role to include a food bank. He describes his work as, “a system to help government and private resources get channeled to people who need them”.  

By forming a coalition and meeting regularly to collaborate, these five food bankers of New Jersey have formed a strong group within the state to ensure impactful, judgment free, lasting aid to those in need. It is as Fred says, “when five food bankers of New Jersey get together, good things happen”.  

If you would like to help this cause, we encourage you to take advantage of the abundant volunteer opportunities provided by their organizations or make a monetary donation to help them to continue to serve nutritious food. You can also visit their websites, foodbanksj.org, cfbnj.org, mercerstreetfriends.org, fulfillnj.org, and norwescap.org to learn more about their work. 

Please follow Today is the Day on Facebook - Today is the Day Live It and Instagram @todayisthedayliveit.

Have a great week everyone!

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Hello everyone! 

Welcome to our last episode of 2023. 

This week I am introducing the outstanding Orville Morales onto the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. Orville has had 20 years experience working in activism and education, serving as campaign manager for the public goods project as well as working at Montclair State University as an adjunct professor. These experiences led him to open Morales and Associates, an organization meant to drive people-focused decision making in different organizations, with its slogan being “power to people”. 

Orville Morales’s life began in a state of dual immigration, as he spent some of his childhood in New Jersey and some in the Dominican Republic. During this time, he struggled with identity, he felt stuck in between two worlds and eventually he came out creating his own definition of his identity rather than simply accepting what others told him he was. 

His mission over the last 20 years has been to inspire people to realize that they matter. Morales “decided to become an educator to moderate discussions of others and create a runway for people to prepare themselves to get involved” with impacting government, becoming activists, advocating for change. This includes people who align with any and all backgrounds, political statuses, and beliefs. Within his experience, he has come across those who refuse to accept certain ways of being or ideas. On addressing those who are deemed closed minded, Orville states, “we have to be willing to accept human paradox”. He recommends giving those who disagree with you “grace” when entering a difficult conversation. 

Through his work at Morales and Associates, Orville aims to “help people get involved in the decision making, not just the reactions to the decisions” Morales references the heated political climate during covid as an example of what he works to prevent, seeking to direct individuals away from heated debates amongst each other and towards organizing in an attempt to enact lasting change. He lives by the idea, “voices should be felt rather than just heard”. 

However, Orville admits to the fact that his line of work can easily lead to burnout, and explains how he avoids this by training nonprofit leaders. By pouring his wisdom into others, he avoids burnout and creates a collaborative mission to “work with institutions to change them, not necessarily wait for the institutions to change”. Morales has seen hope more than anything throughout his years working in his practice. He has witnessed people of all ages be able to “envision a brighter future” through collaborating with organizations addressing health, housing, and food insecurity. Orville Morales can be found and contacted through his website, moralesandassociates.com, or on linkedin under his name. He recommends people to definitely get involved and engaged in the work of being a changemaker and he has proven through his excellent achievements that it is in fact a fulfilling and necessary position. 

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram @todayisthedayliveit. 
Have a great week everyone!

Jodi

Note: Views expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

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I am excited to introduce the incredible Ryan Charterina onto the Today is the Day Changemakers podcast for this week's episode. Ryan is the owner of the EOS- entrepreneurial operating system franchise here in New Jersey. 

Coming from a blue- collar family, Ryan Charterina is no stranger to the work ethic needed to make it in the rigorous working world. Having this mentality instilled in him from a young age, he was able to pursue mechanical engineering at Stevens University. While getting his degree, he participated in a work-study program, an opportunity which he highly recommends as it was a great way to get real experience while still in school. 

Out of school he was able to acquire a technical sales role, combining his passion for conversing with people and engineering, which exposed him to the realm of business. 

Ryan Charterina attributes his success to his team’s amazing startup mentality. They were very hard working, honest with themselves, and adopted a collaborative mindset, working only within the interest of the company as a whole. EOS works with leadership teams of businesses to instill discipline and accountability as well as organization. 

As someone in a leadership role himself, Ryan stresses the importance of transparency, in life and in business, as he strives to destigmatize the idea that saying “I don’t know” is a sign of weakness. He lives by the idea that open mindedness and being growth-oriented is the most important aspect of a business. 

Ryan stresses the importance of finding your passion. Towards this goal, he recommends spending time each day reflecting on what makes you happy, putting away a sum of money each month to allow yourself to take the risk to pursue it, and stresses the importance of working in your passion to maintain a work/life balance. He says, “You deserve the best life you can live.” 

You can find Ryan on EOSWorldWide.com as well as LinkedIn and Instagram!

Find out more about Today is the Day by going to https://todayisthedayliveit.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram Today is the Day Live It. 

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It is with great pleasure that I introduce the wonderful Veronica Maoli to end the brief hiatus within the Changemakers Podcast. Veronica is an Entrepreneur - Real Estate and Automotive Industry and Dealer Principal for Celebrity Ford of Toms River.

Growing up in Morris County, NJ, Veronica at a young age struggled with being bullied and had to deal with high school cliques. She always found herself wanting to surround herself with new people to learn from them. She began ballroom dancing at age 12 which helped her grow her confidence and focus on herself and her own personal growth. Her advice to those who similarly suffered from bullying in or out of school is, “you have to be okay with someone disliking you, the best thing that you can do is become comfortable and confident in who you are”. 

Veronica Maoli began her girlboss journey majoring in entrepreneurship at High Point University. It was there that she created a philosophy that would later become the backbone of Celebrity Ford, “every single employee is in it as a team”. She watched her dad grow his businesses, at first shying away from getting involved in the family business because she felt it confined her to one path. Veronica wanted to find her own way, and as a result she entered the realm of real estate, founding the Maoli Group. Eventually after exposure to the car business from her father, she was inspired by his work and took part in the family business. 

Veronica is an outstanding human who is unapologetically herself and a model of leadership within the business world and beyond. She exudes confidence and grace and her work ethic is beyond inspirational. As a woman entrepreneur and owner of multiple successful businesses within New Jersey, Veronica Maoli is a guiding light to all.

Please take a moment to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: Jodi Grinwald - Today is the Day Changemakers - YouTube. 

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Welcome to season 3, episode 15 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

I am delighted to welcome Sylvia Morrison once more on the podcast as our first repeated guest! Sylvia Morrison is a superhuman woman, her life and work embody the term humanitarian. She is the founder of Links Across Borders, a wonderful organization targeted towards providing for children in Ghana, West Africa. Her main focus is to expand their access to books and other school essentials that will further their education. 

Links Across Borders is a project that has been in gestation since 2003, when Morrison got the idea from a conversation with a friend at Christmastime. After being inspired by sending a few dollars to Ghana to host a Christmas party for children and hearing that many of them were not in school, she decided to begin fundraising herself. Three years later, Morrison began visiting “her children” and noticed they did not have books. She lives by the quote, “If you think someone should do something about that, remember that you are someone”, and as a result, she decided she would build the first library in the small village. 

Sylvia Morrison grew up in a village in Jamaica similar to that of the children in Ghana and she began to see her younger self in them. She cites the reason she noticed they were missing books as being because she was reminded of her own childhood, but was missing the image of a little girl sitting under a tree reading. As shown in her passion for Links Across Borders, Sylvia has a deep connection with reading and literature. When she was a girl, she was known to become so absorbed in her reading that she would interpret fictional vacations as her own, her deep appreciation for stories blurring the lines between fiction and reality. 

Sylvia Morrison expands on her admirable composure throughout her life's work by delving into her gratitude-centric mindset. She firmly believes that, “gratitude is the vibration on which all of the desires in our heart that we are looking to manifest are attracted into our lives”. She explains that if you are focused on problems, the universe will give you more but if you put your focus on what you want, you will attract what you want. Sylvia strongly encourages others to adopt a gratitude mindset because it reminds her that “challenges are there to help you grow” and when practicing gratitude “they don't feel as enormous”. Sylvia is a marvelous human and her unwavering altruism and everlasting gratitude are beyond compare. 

Please take a moment to follow and like us on social media. If you are interested in becoming a guest on the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, please email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
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Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

Have a great week everyone!

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Welcome to season 3, episode 14 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

In sharing this episode, I am overcome with excitement as I have had the amazing opportunity to interview outstanding activist Robt Martin Seda-Schreiber. I hold this man in high regards not only because of his groundbreaking work but also because he is my third cousin!

Robt has been at the forefront of the intersectional social justice movement in New Jersey for decades. He started as a middle school art teacher, working at the school he had previously attended for over 25 years and ended up forging the first gay-straight alliance in a New Jersey middle school. He is now the founder and chief activist of the Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice in Princeton, New Jersey. Robt is a wonderfully passionate individual and I am thrilled to share our conversation with the audience.

Robt was inspired by his family to pursue his journey, specifically his grandparents and his parents. Growing up being exposed to the love they shared for each other and the care they provided for others, he was born with an innate urge to promote love in all aspects of his life. He states that he was taught specifically to, “be careful not to speak for anyone, but with everyone”. He was brought up in a way that taught him to provide a safe space for everyone as his parents always had and eventually Robt ended up making this practice his career.

As a young child he was graced with an artistic nature which led to his comic book fixation. This eventually manifested into a career as an art teacher, starting at UC Berkeley. After being given the opportunity to work at his old middle school back in New Jersey, he dropped his sunny California life to bring his own sunny disposition into the community which he felt he must give back to. He did indeed give back everything and more, by implementing the first gay-straight alliance club at a middle school in New Jersey after being moved by a student who felt unseen in school. The club met multiple times a week, obtaining 40-50 participants.  After hearing that a child from another school did not feel safe or seen and did not have access to an alliance club, he invited the student to the club dance to give them a space to be themselves.

Eventually, Robt ended up having the school pay to send the child to his school in order to provide access to a more positive, safe environment which proved to give the student a place to grow and change as desired. It is evident the ideas instilled in him from birth have led him to his kind-hearted, activism-oriented path.

Following his revolutionary work as a teacher, Robt now serves as founder and chief activist of the Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice in Princeton, New Jersey. His motto in this position is to “always make things as meaningful and fabulous as possible”, which he certainly applied when organizing the first pride parade in Princeton 4 years ago. With only five weeks to prepare, they ended up drawing a crowd of 3,000 people in the streets and even had the governor show up!

This year’s Princeton pride is June 17th and will feature a variety of community members and allies alike coming together to celebrate pride month. In describing the beauty of intersectional justice and the work he does at the center, he states, “We can’t walk on the same path as each other but we can hold hands across the divide and make our journeys that much easier”.

Robt is a beacon of light for marginalized groups, who strongly believes in the power of passion and community. He is a testament to the power of those who chose love amidst it all.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit

Have a great week everyone!

Jodi

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Welcome to season 3, episode 13 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week my guest is Rebecaa Whitman. Rebecca is a beacon of light for women all over the world. Having graduated with honors from Princeton University, she is now an award-winning life coach, child acting recruiter, and certified empowered woman. 

Unfortunately, Rebecca thought she always felt like she had to perform for love and approval. She was playing national tennis at the age of 8 and ended up being recruited for Princeton’s team. After a tumultuous few years following her graduation from Princeton, she was able to pursue her childhood dream of becoming an actress in Los Angeles. As she became immersed in the industry, she found herself working in child acting enrollment, a job she has been involved in for the last twenty years.

In this episode Rebecca shares a very personal story about domestic violence during this episode. It is important to note that many women live in an unsafe situation and there is help out there.  If needed, please click this link for support: Domestic Violence Support | National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org)

Rebecca Whitman also has a podcast titled the “Balanced, Beautiful, and Abundant Show” which provides strategies for navigating life. She interviews inspirational individuals and shares advice to listeners through the stories shared. 

Rebecca calls herself the “magnetic abundance mentor” because she feels that women must remove themselves from environments which trigger their fight or flight mode and instead harness their “feminine energy” to attract abundance. Her “mission is to help overworked, overwhelmed women go from burnt out to balanced, beautiful and abundant.” She is a fountain of wisdom for those in need and women who are seeking advice are encouraged to follow her practice. She can be found on her website, instagram, twitter, and youtube under the name Rebecca Elizabeth Whitman. The fastest way to reach her is instagram and her DMs are always open.

Next week my guest is Robt Martin Seba- Shreiber. Robt has been at the forefront of intersectional social justice for decades first as a schoolteacher for over 25 years during which he forged the first Gay Straight Alliance in an NJ middle school & now as founder & Chief Activist of the Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice in Princeton wherein he has created innovative all-inclusive support programs & built a dedicated LGBTQIA safe-space for queer youth, families, & our elders that is open every day with trained volunteers to welcome all with the care & respect they need & deserve.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone!

Jodi

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 12 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

I am so excited to announce Tamara Sabatino, a successful leader and powerhouse healthcare provider. Having grown up in New Jersey, she always knew she wanted to be in the healthcare field, starting out at a local orthopedic practice. Tamara does it all, from operations business, patient care, to marketing, and dealing with the political aspects of advocating for insurance for patients. She is excellent at negotiating for her patients, specifically applying her skills to the mental health crisis. She credits herself as always having been a vocal person and continues to use her voice for others who need it the most. 

After being exposed to mental health struggles close to home, Tamara dedicated her practice to promoting the mental health of others. She explains that teachers and administration can only do so much, the system for monitoring children’s mental health is broken and by the time the problem is addressed it is almost always too late. Tamara shares her treacherous journey in getting her daughter the proper care she needed to remedy her situation. She found that insurance often got in the way of her child’s care, rather than helping it. She even emailed the CEO of United Health Care, who led her down another dead end. She explains that the school, therapist, insurance, and attorneys all proved unhelpful, citing this situation as the reason why children end up on bad paths. 

Tamara Sabatino is a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and she believes her purpose is to live through this situation so she is able to talk about it. She advises parents to go to the parents of the child that is bullying them directly if they are put in the situation and cannot receive help from the school. She also recommends parental controls on children's cell phones, explaining that social media addictions are a real and serious concern. She specifically uses apps such as Bark, which flags potentially dangerous messages on your child’s phone, and Life 360, which allows parents to track their children's whereabouts. To reach out directly to Tamara link in with her via Facebook at Tamara Sabatino or via Instagram @tamarasabatinorealtor.

Next week my guest is Rebecca Whitman. Rebecca is known as the Magnetic Abundance Mentor. She is an author of several books and hosts the top 5% globally ranked, "Balanced, Beautiful, and Abundant" podcast.  For more information go to https://linktr.ee/rebeccaewhitman.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone!

Jodi

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 11 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

We will be ending our brief interview hiatus in the wake of the wonderful Today is the Day Changemakers International Forum with an excellent kickstart. 

I am pleased to welcome the amazing author, editor, and health guru extraordinaire, Jared Seide onto this week's episode.

Jared Seide is the author of “Where Compassion Begins: Foundational Practices to Enhance Mindfulness, Attention and Listening from the Heart” and editor of "Leaving Prison Behind: A Council Before I Go.". He is also the founder of two highly successful health- focused organizations. Jared Seide does it all and we are tremendously excited to have him. 

Jared firmly believes in the power of council and rehabilitation. He is the executive director of the nonprofit Center for Council, which promotes social, emotional, and physical wellness through extensive training of those involved. Additionally, Jared has spearheaded specific training operations. One is geared towards promoting positive interactions regarding police officers titled POWER: Peace Officer Wellness, Empathy and Resiliency. Another is CARE: Compassion, Attunement, Resilience Education, which is aimed at those in the healthcare field. Jared has also worked with incarcerated individuals through the Council for Insight, Compassion, and Resilience as well as the Council Reentry Program. Within the highly impactful organizations Jared has created, there is a common theme of peace and love, which he exudes within his interview. Jared Seide truly wishes the best for all people on earth and it shows organically through his life’s work and his sunny disposition.

Next week my guest is Tamara Sabatino. She shares her personal story about being the mom of a child who has been bullied and needed ongoing mental health support to overcome the trauma. Tamara is now helping other mothers navigate advocating for their child's mental health and well-being when school leaders and others fall short.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone!

Jodi

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 10 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week’s changemaker is an outstanding individual whom I am delighted to announce. Benjamin (Jamie) Salka, co-founder and CEO of Story Pirates, a media company geared towards providing children with a voice and sparking their passions for writing. He also serves as the co-founder of Story Pirates Changemakers, the not-for-profit arm of the organization. 

Jamie dove head-first into the project, promising that as CEO he would either catapult Story Pirates into greatness or “die trying”. It is clear that he has kept his promise, as the company has seen substantial success. He describes Story Pirates as a “magic trick” in which kids’ perspectives on writing are shifted from that of a chore they are being made to do into an opportunity for creativity. Salka puts an emphasis on the realization of children that their writing can have an impact on their peers and motivate them to create entertaining, humorous material. His goal with Story Pirates is to help children understand the true purpose of writing rather than view it as an assignment for a grade. Jamie explains that he has “never felt so much conviction” towards anything as he had for Story Pirates. His relentless hard work and remarkable dedication are ever- inspiring to those of all ages. 

Listen in to hear how Lin Manuel Miranda and Jon Stewart helped to expand the reach of Story Pirates. 

In the next episode you will learn more about the upcoming International Changemakers Forum that will take place on Thursday, March 23, 2023. For information, speakers, and panel topics go to https://todayisthedayliveit.com. Prior attendees have shared that the experience has been life-changing.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone!

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 9 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week my guest is Katie Marra, a young changemaker, environmentalist, activist, and writer. Katie Marra is a member of several ocean-based environmental groups in New Jersey and additionally serves as editor in chief of The Captain’s Log. She is looking to pursue a career in environmental science conducting field research as well as environmental journalism. 

As her passion for the planet began at a young age throughout summertime family cross- country camping trips, Katie eventually gravitated towards environmental clubs and journalism classes in her school. As editor in chief of the school newspaper, she writes monthly articles on happenings pertaining to the environment in order to spread awareness among her peers. One of her most recent articles featured a project she has spearheaded with her school’s Green Team, in which she drew up a petition to remove plastic cutlery and trays in the cafeteria, gaining over 500 signatures from students and staff. Her efforts are proof that any student at any age can make a difference in their own communities. 

Katie has worked closely with environmental groups on and off campus, taking a position as a board member of Friends of Island Beach State Park in which she controls graphic design and social media. She also is a Clean Ocean Action Beach Captain, participating in the collection of pollutants along the New Jersey coastline and aiding in the crucial data analysis that follows the beach sweeps. In addition, she frequently attends climate protests in an attempt to spread awareness to the dire situation that climate change presents. She encourages all listeners (who are able) to attend the climate protest in New York City at 1pm this Friday, March 3 in addition to joining the cause of Fridays For Future, a student-led environmental organization which holds weekly peaceful protests as a reminder that the youth are aware of the climate crisis and will not tolerate a lack of action against it. Katie urges fellow young changemakers to explore environmental activism and volunteer opportunities within their own community as well as to keep in mind the power of the younger generations in fighting against environmental injustices and protecting our planet. 

Do you have your ticket to the Changemakers Forum? Interact with changemakers from around the globe on Thursday, March 23, 2023 as they share their expertise on (6) topics that matter and can help you significantly while you are on your personal and professional journey.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone!

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 8 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

This week my guest is the kindhearted, public- spirited, Meredith Lee. Meredith is the Program Director for the Russ Berrie Making a Difference award since 2017. The making a difference award is the signature program of the Russ Berrie Foundation and recognizes changemakers who are creating positive impact in New Jersey communities. The award is hosted by Ramapo College. 

Meredith has long since had a passion for philanthropic practices, as she had spent over 20 years working with social service and economic development organizations. Throughout her career, she has consistently asked herself the question “how can we be more welcoming?” and encourages others to do the same. She worked very closely with refugee resettlement, allowing her a unique perspective of economically and situationally disadvantaged individuals. Armed with this experience and a strong charitable drive, Meredith joined the Russ Berrie foundation feeling as if “a lot of things had come together”. 

With the power of the Russ Berrie foundation’s generous monetary awards, Meredith is able to give life to impactful projects, recognize great deeds, and change the course of people’s lives. The organization has given more than $3.9 million in cash awards to honorees, choosing 10-12 individuals yearly, with the top prize being $50,000. The requirements to be recognized include living in New Jersey and working to help people within New Jersey. There is no age cutoff, as she has distributed prizes from those of ages 9-90 years old. The accomplishments for which honorees are recognized varies. The core questions Meredith and her fellow board members ask when reviewing nominations are, how did the individual make a difference and how long have they been making a difference? For the lucky few who are chosen, there is an in- person ceremony at Ramapo College on May 5th. 

If you wish to send in a nomination next year, the window of opportunity opens on January first and ends February 15th.

Listen in to hear Meredith's answer to what lesson did you learn along the way that you want to share with a young or seasoned Changemaker?

Next week my guest is the incredible Young Changemaker Katie Marra. Katie is a high school senior on a mission to help increase awareness and actions to improve our environment. She is the Editor-in-Chief for her school newspaper, youngest to serve on a board of directors in the community, writes all the Today is the Day Changemakers verbiage to go with the podcast episodes, has been a star student athlete and so much more.

Do you have your ticket to the Changemakers Forum? Interact with changemakers from around the globe on Thursday, March 23, 2023 as they share their expertise on (6) topics that matter and can help you significantly while you are on your personal and professional journey.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone!

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 7 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week I am joined by a special guest co-host, the incredible Fred Wasiak, founder and president of The Food Bank of South Jersey as well as Inspire Change Honoree for the 2023 International Changemakers Forum.

Together, Fred and I interview Steven Cohen. Steven is the author of Leading FromWithin: A Guide to Maintaining Your Effectiveness Through Meditation as well as co-founder and chair of the board of Meditation4Leadership which brings the benefits of mindfulness and meditation practices to the workplace. Along with his zen practices, he has a very successful career as a lawyer, being Manager of the Global Emerging Business Technology Practice at Morgan, Lewis, & Bockius, LLP. 

 Steven traces his first experience practicing concentration back to playing team sports in his early years, though he had not yet explored meditation. He was first exposed to yoga in response to debilitating back problems for which he sought a cure. Steven described the experience as “a life problem disguised as a back problem”. He explains that though yoga helped his back problems, once he paid more attention to the minute of meditation in the beginning of the session, he began a new journey to mindfulness. This increased focus on meditation helped him stay present, rather than focusing too much on the past or future.  He states, “coming back to the breath can be a metaphor for coming back to what is important”. 

Steven is a firm believer in letting go of judgment in order to reap the full benefits of meditation. Once he was able to release his self judgements and doubts through practicing meditation, his legal practice tripled and has maintained its level since. He emphasizes that this did not occur because of meditation, but because of the benefits which came from meditation. Steven cites the reasons why people don't meditate as lack of exposure, if exposed, not resonating with the language used, and a fundamental misunderstanding of what meditation really is. If you wish to open your mind to a practice such as meditation, he suggests meditating not to become a better meditator, but to become a better version of yourself.

Learn more about how Meditation4Leadership is bringing the art of mindfulness and mediation to the workplace and helping staff teams at multiple large organizations.

Take a listen to Steven's answer to the question, what is a lesson you learned that you can share with both a young and seasoned changemaker.

Next week, I interview Meredith Lee, Program Director for the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone!

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 6 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

This week my guest is Abby Daly. Abby is the founder and executive director of the Bridge of Books Foundation, a nonprofit organization doing amazing work within New Jersey, enhancing access to literature among children in need. Abby was named a New Jersey Hero by the New Jersey Hero Initiative and has certainly lived up to the title. Throughout its 20 years in operation, Bridge of Books has distributed 1.3 million books to underprivileged children throughout New Jersey. 

Abby is a former attorney who, during her practice, pursued mental health and children’s rights cases. She represented individuals who were involuntarily admitted into psychiatric hospitals, protecting the rights of children and providing a voice for them during trying times. This profession introduced Abby to New Jersey’s population of disadvantaged youth and later allowed her to reach children in need through her nonprofit work with Bridge of Books.

Abby is deeply dedicated to her craft as she hand picks books based on reading levels and interests of children. Her mission is to “bring the world to children through books”. She aims to encourage development of literacy skills and love for reading. She has worked with food pantries, schools, and state prisons to reach the largest number of children. Though Bridge of Books has touched a great deal of lives, they still have much to do. To support the underprivileged youth of New Jersey, consider getting involved or donating by visiting Bridgeofbooksfoundation.org. Investing in this cause is investing in the future of New Jersey, and collectively, the future of country. 

Listen in to hear a lesson learned that Abby wants to share with young and seasoned changemakers. 

Next week I am joined by one of my favorite co-hosts, Fred Wasiak. Fred is the President & CEO of the South Jersey Food Bank. Together we interview, Steven Cohen, Author, Leading from Within: A Guide To Maximizing Your Effectiveness Through Meditation, Co-founder and Chair of the Board, Meditation4Leadership, Manager, Morgan Lewis & Bockius. 

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone! 

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 5 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

I am thrilled to announce this week’s lively, Emmy Award- winning, changemaker Kimberly Kravitz. She is a skilled journalist and producer, an expert go-getter, as well as an inspiration to all in the field.

Kimberly is deemed a local legend, representing both Brooklyn, NY and Freehold Township, NJ. Since childhood, she has  displayed the qualities of a true journalist, as she was always one to ask many questions. She capitalized on her natural talents by partaking in internships during her early days as a new journalist, which led her to become familiar with freelance work. She urges listeners to value the importance of making connections during your career path and taking as many internship opportunities as possible in order to learn what you have a passion for. 

Listen in to hear how Kimberly did not originally think of a profession in journalism and how someone in her life planted a seed that she nurtured to grow into what she is doing today. Also, listen in to hear how Kimberly listened to something her sister encouraged her to do that also helped her along her personal and professional path. 

As an award-winning producer, Kimberly is living proof of the idea that having experience in both producing and journalism go hand in hand and will give you the tools you need for success. Her dream of “being a journalist in every aspect” has come to life with her time in tv, print, radio, and producing. Having interviewed prominent figures such as Chris Christie and meeting several famous actors, she shares her experiences. Kimberly balances the thrilling aspects of these moments alongside the idea that famous people are human just like everyone else; she encourages aspiring journalists to keep this in mind as they go out into the world. 

Kimberly Kravitz’s awards and accolades are proof that she is a force to be reckoned with. Her New York Emmy Award was given as a result of her coverage on an eventful town hall meeting which discussed the topic of the heroin crisis. Along with this brilliant achievement, she is also an active volunteer with several organizations including the Empty Sky foundation to support those who have lost loved ones during 9/11, the ALS Awareness, and the Girl Scouts. Kravitz urges all those interested in the field of journalism to contact her via her website: www.kimberlyjkravitz.com or instagram: Kimberlykravitztv for mentorship and advice!

Next week my special co-host is Fred Wasiak, President & CEO of South Jersey Food Bank. Together, we interview Steven Cohen author of  Leading from Within: A Guide To Maximizing Your Effectiveness Through Meditation, co-founder and Chair of the Board of Meditation4Leadership, and manager of the global emerging business and technology practice at Morgan Lewis & Bockius, an AmLaw 50 law firm.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Have a great week everyone! 

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 4 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

It is with great excitement that I announce this week’s fast-fashion-fighting, powerhouse of a young changemaker Tiyasha Sarkar. Tiyasha is a high school junior in who is actively positively disrupting the status quo in order to expose the negative effects of the fast fashion industry. She is involved in a program at school that is focused on taking action against fast fashion by hosting highly successful thrift fairs  and engaging in outreach with a worker’s rights organization, Labor Behind the Label.

Tiyasha Sarkar aims to inform people on the effects of their choices by revealing the deeper impacts behind seemingly simple concepts such as shopping at clothing stores around the mall. She defines fast fashion as “the creation of low quality products in an imitation of high fashion products”, explaining that it is “built on exploitation of the environment, mental health, and labor rights”. Throughout the interview she calls out popular brands such as Zara for their role as the spitting image of a fast-fashion corporation. By outlining the true cost of our decisions regarding clothing, Tiyasha is able to arm the public with the knowledge and motivation to practice more conscious clothing consumption.

Tiyasha draws attention to several crucial issues surrounding the fast fashion industry such as its impact on mental health, specifically that of women, as it perpetuates the idea of a “perfect body”. This act of creating a box for all people to fit into excludes the majority of the population and contributes to unrealistic beauty standards. She brings light to the situation by suggesting increased diversity among the industry, specifically mannequins of different sizes and advertisement of groups such as the LGBTQ+ community. She then explains the environmental effects of fast fashion by commenting on our overconsumption and overproduction as well as the presence of microplastics in our waterways, following up with jaw-dropping statistics to back her claims. Tiyasha also directly addresses one of the most horrific aspects of the fast fashion industry which is the lack of labor rights among garment workers. She firmly declares, “clothes cannot be based on the exploitation of children”, a statement that we as consumers must not take lightly.

Tiyasha advises us not only to stay informed on the happenings of the fast fashion industry on a large scale but to take matters into our own hands through practicing mindful consumption, upcycling, and mending our clothes before buying new. To get involved with the movement directly, follow her Instagram @soleburyteach2serve and stay tuned and stay tuned for the next thrift fair coming up between the months of May and June.

Listen in to hear a lesson that Tiyasha has learned that she wants to share with both young and seasoned changemakers.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Next week Jodi interviews Kimberly Kravitz, Emmy Award Winning Journalist & Producer. 

Have a great week everyone! 

Support the show

Welcome to season 3, episode 3 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

I am delighted to welcome this week’s sensational guest, Wendy Liscow, a champion of the arts. Wendy is the executive director for Arts Ed NJ, providing a voice for artists in New Jersey, having taken the reins in April of 2022. She is nearly six months into her new position and with her excellent ability to nurture talent and foster creativity, the transition is natural. 

As a person who has gravitated towards art and nature since childhood, she is driven by experiences in her early years. Wendy grew up drawing inspiration from the Earth, often painting what she saw in nature, and even creating a business selling her art. She then developed a passion for the art of drama through writing, costumes, performing, and stage managing. Wendy describes theater as a way to create change, which led her to “pursue it with all her heart”. She committed herself to theater education following a directing internship which opened the door to her for not only directing but improv, producing and teaching. After spending 20 years as professional producer, director, and teacher of the arts, she has now come into her position with Arts Ed NJ. 

Wendy ensures everyone in New Jersey has access to a quality arts education through collaboration with teacher associations, administrators, superintendents, school boards, and nonprofits. She urges the next generation of artists to consider teaching as she wishes to support young people looking to create change and pass the torch in the world of artistry. Wendy's unique perspective allows her to view art as both a “flower” as well as a “tool”, as it is often inspired by nature yet it also can be used strategically to build confidence and skills. However you interpret art, it is wise to take a page from Wendy’s book and use it to help find yourself and create the change you wish to see in the world.

Listen in to hear a lesson Wendy has learned that she wants to share with both young and seasoned changemakers. 

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram

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Next week Jodi interviews young changemaker, Tiyasha Sarkar. Tiyasha is going to share her point of view on fast fashion and what she is doing to make a difference. 

Have a great week everyone! 

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Welcome to season 3, episode 2 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. 

As we enter the new year, I am pleased to welcome my first guest of 2023, groundbreaking author and changemaker Tony Brasunas. Tony has blazed a trail all his own in the world of journalism, oftentimes clashing with traditional media outlets. His story is one of integrity and bravery in the face of impediments to change and free thought. He exemplifies all a journalist should be and has so much to teach young journalists in our ever changing media landscape.  

From childhood, Tony has been accustomed to the act of going against societal standards, having grown up on a hippie commune in West Virginia, in which residents meditated in the forest and lived in tune with nature. He further expanded his perspective by living in China, and ended up producing a book from his unique experience. This continuous exposure to eccentric ways of living which incorporated mindfulness, meditation, free thinking, and introspective work allowed Tony to develop a heightened sense of awareness and direct it towards his observable world, specifically the media. 

Having experiences in which content within his articles were censored by both the San Francisco Chronicle as well as the Huffington Post, Brasunas began his journey as an independent journalist for his own political magazine in order to compare the ways in which the mass media is manipulating facts. In doing so, he is contributing to the ascendance of independent news sources, created by censorship in corporate mainstream media. He attributes this shift to the altercation of facts due to bias. In Red White and Blind, Tony defines three types of bias, innocent, systemic, and nefarious. He describes innocent bias as unintentional, systemic as bias used in the attempt to protect a job or corporation, and nefarious as groups looking to deliberately manipulate. Brasunas characterizes humans as “storytelling creatures”, explaining that we must have a “balanced media diet” in order to be able to tell our own stories and decide our opinions rather than allowing corporations to do so. By applying meditative concepts from his upbringing, Tony proposes the idea of "cultivating a media consciousness" which allows us to step back and look inwards to examine why we believe certain ways of thinking.

I encourage you to approach both this new year and Tony Brasunas's Red, White and Blind  with an open mind and a willingness to be inspired.

Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

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Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

Next week, Jodi interviews Wendy Liscow, Executive Director, Arts Ed NJ.

Have a great week everyone!