cityCURRENT Radio Show

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Stephen Bell, Director of State Operations with the Tennessee Department of Veteran Services, who discusses the department's mission and a new initiative, the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program. Bell explains that the department advocates for veterans, informs the public about benefits, and honors veterans through state cemeteries. He highlights their new program called the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program, which aims to support service members, veterans, and their families by recognizing businesses that recruit, hire, and retain them. The program is free and open to businesses of all sizes, regardless of whether they are veteran-owned. Bell explains that companies can participate by answering questions online, with the bronze level requiring only 4 questions. The program seeks to showcase the value of veterans in the workforce and provide resources for companies to better support veteran employees.Bell discusses the importance of networking and collaboration in helping businesses become "veteran ready" and connect with veterans seeking employment. He emphasizes the need for businesses to provide tools and support for veteran hiring and onboarding, while also highlighting the challenges veterans face with the VA system and the solutions the Tennessee Department of Veteran Services is seeking to provide in collaborative support. He shares an example of a Nashville company that successfully integrated veteran employees into their program, allowing them to access benefits during work hours with the help of various organizations. Bell discusses upcoming symposiums where businesses can network and share best practices for hiring and supporting veterans.Bell then discusses the economic impact of veterans in Tennessee, highlighting that veterans contribute over $32 billion annually to the state through compensation, median income, housing, and education assistance. He encourages viewers to explore the Tennessee Veterans Economic Impact Map on the state's website to see detailed data at the county level.Visit https://www.tn.gov/veteran.html or call 615-741-2345 to learn more about the Tennessee Department of Veteran Services, the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program, and the Economic Impact of Veterans in Tennessee.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Captain Jack Becker, a former U.S. Navy F-18 fighter pilot, instructor and coach, and keynote speaker, who highlights his upcoming book and shares a recap of his recent keynote presentation on leadership and teamwork from the cityCURRENT signature speaker series event in Nashville, Tennessee. Becker shares his experience using lessons from his military career to inspire business audiences, emphasizing themes of collaboration, attention to detail, and the importance of debriefing to improve performance. He discusses his upcoming book, "Supersonic Success," scheduled for release in February 2026, and offers insights into his coaching and leadership training services. The conversation highlights Becker's approach to creating a culture of openness and trust within teams, where sharing mistakes is seen as a path to success.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Debbie Radish-Respess, CEO and Alignment Alchemist of Invisible Horizons Coaching and Consulting, who shares her extensive background in corporate America and explains how her diverse experience led her to become a certified executive coach. She discusses her synergy strategy for aligning people with organizational purpose and improving execution, emphasizing the importance of empowering employees and building agility into processes. Debbie covers her BoardEX Ready leadership accelerator and her Executive HR Peer Advisory Group then discusses three major HR leadership trends, while highlighting the value of executive coaching in addressing leadership challenges and the importance of self-awareness in leadership development.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Christy Gilmour, Principal and Owner of Gilmour Consulting, who highlights her work with nonprofits in strategic planning, fundraising, and communications. Christy shares her background and explains her consulting approach, emphasizing the importance of early involvement in projects and tailoring strategies to each organization's unique needs. She discusses current trends in fundraising, including the availability of funding and the need for strategic communication with different audiences. Christy highlights the importance of authentic storytelling and being proactive in communication, especially during holiday seasons when engagement may drop. She also shares success stories from her work with organizations like Contemporary Arts Memphis and Madonna Learning Center. The conversation concludes with Christy expressing optimism about new developments in Memphis, including the new Museum of Art and the Metal Museum's move to Overton Park, as well as the arrival of new leadership in local nonprofits. Christy invites listeners to connect with her through LinkedIn and her website, www.cgilmourconsulting.com, for those seeking support in the nonprofit sector.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Judy Capps, Founder and President of the Board, along with Regina Glass, Executive Director of Hope Ministries of Northeast Texas, who both highlight the Mt. Pleasant, Texas-based nonprofit organization focused on empowering single mothers through a holistic, multi-generational approach to poverty alleviation. The organization serves 32 families at a time, providing comprehensive support that addresses financial needs, personal healing, and spiritual growth over a 4-5 year period. Through education, mentorship, and practical assistance, Hope Ministries has helped transform lives, with graduates achieving success in various fields including law enforcement, social work, and business. The ministry has expanded its impact by training other cities to implement its Hope model, including locations in New York, Tennessee, and Brazil, while also maintaining sustainability through facility rentals and community partnerships. The program's success is demonstrated by its ability to transform not just individual lives but entire communities, with each graduate potentially saving taxpayers $60,000 annually by moving from welfare to self-sufficiency.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Bob Nardo, Executive Director and Founding Head of Libertas School of Memphis, who discusses the school's growth and recent achievements. Nardo highlights the transformation of Brookmeade School into Libertas, a public Montessori school serving children from infancy through adolescence in the Fraser community of North Memphis. He details the school's success, including being named a Tennessee Rewards School, and the opening of a new state-of-the-art middle school facility. Nardo spotlights the importance of the Montessori approach, which emphasizes hands-on learning and individualized instruction. He also discusses the school's partnerships with various organizations and individuals, including Southwest Tennessee Community College, philanthropists, and local leaders. The episode concludes with Nardo inviting listeners to get involved with Libertas School of Memphis by volunteering, mentoring, or tutoring, and encouraging them to visit the school's website or contact them directly to learn more.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Caroline Norris, Chief Volunteer at Volunteer Odyssey, who discusses how her nonprofit organization serves as Memphis's volunteer center by matching individuals and corporations with hundreds of nonprofits across diverse causes, from housing and hunger to arts and environment, while providing capacity-building support to smaller organizations that lack staff to manage volunteers. She emphasizes that Volunteer Odyssey is partnering with United Way of the Mid-South and Leadership Memphis for MLK Days of Service from January 16-19, 2026, offering 15-16 service opportunities that honor Dr. King's legacy by asking "what are you doing for others." Caroline encourages people to use MLK weekend as a launching pad for year-round volunteerism, noting that the organization's website at volunteerOdyssey.com makes it easy to find opportunities that match individual schedules and passions while tracking volunteer hours and impact across the community.Find your pathway to purpose and learn more about MLK Days of Service by visiting https://volunteerodyssey.com.

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with cityCURRENT Nashville Market President, Kelly Meyers, who highlights cityCURRENT and the organization's mission and efforts to connect businesses with the community to power the GOOD through events, media, and philanthropy.During the interview, Kelly talks about the partners and programs in Nashville, discussing their approach to relationship building and community engagement to help businesses both grow and make a difference. Kelly shares insights on the importance of building trust through community involvement and philanthropy, emphasizing that giving back creates valuable opportunities to create purpose-driven relationships and trust, enhance leadership skills, build a culture of teamwork and caring, and more.She highlights some meaningful events from 2025, including presentations by Tom Koulopoulos on AI and Juan Bendaña on confidence. Looking ahead to 2026, Kelly outlines upcoming events such as the signature speaker series event in Nashville on February 6, hosted by KCS, and featuring Brink Fidler, founder of Defend Systems and former law enforcement veterans, who will be sharing security measures and practical techniques to save lives. Kelly also highlights the annual Kids Dental Day with Delta Dental of Tennessee and the Nashville Sounds, along with a shoe distribution at a local school later this year.Kelly wraps up by encouraging business and community leaders to get engaged with cityCURRENT by attending upcoming events, being a guest on the positive media, or participating in volunteer experiences, like the shoe distributions.Visit www.cityCURRENT.com to learn more and get involved.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Happiness Researcher, Author, Keynote Speaker, and founder and CEO of Nonprofit Leadership LLC, Elle Benson, who shares her research on the science of happiness, emphasizing the importance of novelty, gratitude, and relationships in enhancing well-being. She discusses her approach of incorporating novel experiences into daily life to increase presence and joy, citing her own two-year experiment of engaging in 1,500 new activities. Elle explains how this concept applies to nonprofit leadership, fostering innovation, team-building, and sustainability. She highlights the power of gratitude as a quick route to happiness and the significance of human connections in long-term well-being. The conversation also touches on Elle's work as a keynote speaker and her upcoming book on translating novelty into routine. The conversation concludes with Elle inviting listeners to learn more about her work through her websites, ellebenson.com and nonprofit-leadership.com, and to engage with her nonprofit mastermind groups.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Chima Onwuka, Founder and President of Grind City Cares, along with his wife, Monica Onwuka, Vice President, who both highlight the nonprofit organization's mission and efforts to impact as many lives as possible by providing essential resources, creating solutions to pervasive social issues, and establishing opportunities for aid to both individuals and families. Chima explains that Grind City Cares was founded as a nonprofit to support community work separate from his business, Grind City Kicks. In 2026, Grind City Cares is dedicated to bringing awareness to perinatal care. This focus was inspired by the personal journey of the Onwuka family and their premature twins. Monica talks about their experience and the challenge of their twin daughter requiring continuous, dependent care through a feeding tube for 80 days. She shares how the support their family received from healthcare professionals, family, and friends motivated them to extend that same encouragement and aid to others.Monica and Chima share their experiences with the NICU, highlighting the crucial support they received from nurses who provided essential advice and directed them to financial assistance and community resources. They emphasized the importance of education and awareness about available support for families with premature babies, including the specific needs of fathers and the emotional challenges faced by families. The discussion underscores the need to raise awareness about these resources and the gaps that exist in support systems for families in such situations. Grind City Cares aims to provide support, education, and resources to families facing similar challenges in the Memphis area and beyond.Chima discusses plans for the Grind City Cares Mid-South Race for Perinatal Awareness event scheduled for June 6th at Shelby Farms Park / Hyde Lake. The event will be a 5K walk/run focused on raising awareness and providing education about perinatal issues, with resources and support from community organizations. Monica emphasizes the goal of building trust in the Memphis birth community and connecting participants with available support networks, while also celebrating the beauty of birth and postpartum support.Chima discusses the event's details, including sponsorships, partnerships, and activities like bounce houses, face painting, and the race. He emphasizes the importance of community support and highlighted a custom shoe collaboration with Grind City Kicks, priced at $80, with proceeds benefiting the cause.Visit https://www.grindcitycares.com to learn more and to get involved with Grind City Cares.

Jeremy C. Park interviews Katie Spencer, founder and CEO of Zipline Consulting, who discusses her work with nonprofits and her background in nonprofit management and consulting. Katie and Jeremy explore topics including board engagement, strategic focus, and the evolving landscape of the nonprofit sector, with Katie emphasizing the importance of clear vision, effective communication, and making tough strategic decisions. Katie shares various ways people can connect with her to access valuable insights for nonprofit leaders, and they highlight the upcoming free cityCURRENT GET ON BOARD webinar Katie is leading on January 16, 2026, focused on sharing "The Blueprint for a Highly-Engaged Board."

On this episode of The cityCURRENT Show, Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Keith Windsor, whose journey is a powerful testament to redemption, resilience, and purpose.After nearly 20 years of addiction, incarceration across multiple states, and repeated attempts at recovery, Keith reached a turning point that would change everything. What followed was not just sobriety—but a calling. Keith became the first certified forensic peer support specialist in the state of Mississippi, helping to shape and train peer recovery programs that now serve justice-involved individuals across Mississippi and Tennessee.Today, Keith manages multiple outpatient clinics treating gambling addiction, works with families impacted by addiction, trains peers with lived experience, and is pursuing a Master of Social Work—all while advocating for stigma-free recovery. In this candid and deeply human conversation, Keith shares why lived experience is often the missing link in recovery, how gambling addiction hides in plain sight, and why recovery works best when people know they are not alone.This episode is a reminder that a past does not define a person—and that sometimes, the very thing we’re ashamed of becomes our greatest asset in helping others heal.Learn more: https://thegamblingclinic.com/ 

On this episode of The cityCURRENT Show, host Jeremy C. Park sits down with Andrew Bartolotta, Director of Digital Media at cityCURRENT, for a forward-looking conversation on technology, storytelling, and how artificial intelligence can be used for good.Andrew reflects on key lessons from 2025, including the importance of amplifying empathy, reclaiming purpose, and using digital media as a connector—not a distraction. From large-scale volunteer initiatives and nonprofit storytelling to behind-the-scenes media production, Andrew shares how cityCURRENT continues to spotlight everyday people doing extraordinary things across Memphis, Nashville, and beyond.The conversation dives deep into AI for Good, breaking down practical tools—like NotebookLM, ChatGPT, wearable AI technology, and automation platforms—that nonprofits, businesses, and individuals can use to save time, enhance creativity, and increase impact without losing human connection. Andrew also explores ethical stewardship, accessibility, and how emerging technologies can help reduce barriers for families, communities, and organizations.This episode is both inspiring and actionable, offering real-world examples of how technology can strengthen—not replace—empathy, storytelling, and service. It’s a powerful reminder that when used intentionally, innovation can help us all power the good in 2026 and beyond.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Derek Patterson, affectionately known as "Patt," Executive Director of Contemporary Arts Memphis (CAM), who highlights the nonprofit organization focused on building community through arts education and developing young artists through direct engagement with visual art. Founded by visual artist Derek Fordjour, CAM offers no cost visual arts programming to high schoolers, including a Summer Fellowship, a Summer Intensive, Teen Art Lab, and Teacher Professional Development. The organization provides comprehensive art instruction across multiple disciplines while helping students develop portfolios for college scholarships and career opportunities. Through its community-focused initiatives and supportive environment, CAM has successfully transformed lives by providing artistic expression and mentorship, while also fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Memphis.SummaryOrigins of Contemporary Arts Memphis (CAM) - Derek Patterson (known as "Patt"), Executive Director of Contemporary Arts Memphis (CAM), discusses the nonprofit organization's origins. Patt explains that CAM was founded by Derek Fordjour, an internationally-renowned visual artist from Memphis, who attended Central High School and wanted to give back to his community. What began as a four-week summer experience for 25 high school students has now grown into an ongoing, year-round program with several with several components, including a Summer Fellowship Program, Teen Art Lab, and Artist Mentoring Programs.Summer Fellowship for High School Artists - CAM offers a four-week summer fellowship for rising juniors and seniors, focusing on portfolio development for high school artists. The organization provides a dedicated space at 652 Marshall Avenue in the Edge Medical District, where students can create portfolios equivalent to ACT scores for college scholarships. The facility offers a wide range of art classes and workshops, including oil painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, and ceramics, with additional opportunities for students through the Teen Art Lab and Open Studio sessions on weekends and weekdays.Art Program Success Stories - Patt shares some success stories of young artists participating in their program. He highlights how the program helps overcome societal fears about pursuing art as a career and provides mentorship and guidance. Derek shares specific examples, including a student who changed his career path from mechanics to painting and sold several large paintings at their inaugural art sale. They also mentioned that their college readiness program has helped students secure over $500,000 in scholarships.Art as Therapy for Youth - Patt emphasizes the power of art to build community and importance of art as a form of expression and therapy for young people, highlighting its role in providing a supportive environment for those who might not have one elsewhere. He notes that while not all students will pursue careers in art, there are numerous related jobs and the creative process itself can be therapeutic. Patt also stresses the need for parents and teachers to understand and support artistic expression.Flagship Summer Art Fellowship Program - Patt describes their flagship Summer Fellowship program, which selects 25 young artists through a competitive 4-round process including portfolio review and interviews with parents. The program includes a 3-week immersive experience at St. Columba, where participants focus on artwork without cell phone distractions, followed by visits to Memphis art locations and a trip to New York where they see exhibitions and learn about the art business from Derek Fordjour.Community Art Programs and Initiatives - Patt explains how CAM offers art programs including printmaking, sculpture, and art history, and provides 6 college credit hours at no cost to young people. He emphasizes the importance of community support, inviting people to visit the facility, talk to participants, and consider donations. Derek also highlights CAM's initiatives, such as trips to New York and college application assistance, and mentioned their annual "Deck the Walls" event where participants' artwork is showcased for purchase.Transforming Lives Through Arts - Patt discusses the positive impact of Contemporary Arts Memphis on the community, highlighting how the program transforms lives, provides scholarship opportunities, and fosters a vibrant city. He shares feedback from teachers, parents, and donors, emphasizing how the program changes classroom culture, shifts parental mindsets about art's importance, and enables young people to pursue higher education, including prestigious institutions like Yale. He also mentions removing barriers such as transportation by providing Ubers. The conversation concludes with information on how to learn more and get involved, including Instagram and the website contemporaryartsmemphis.org.So, visit https://contemporaryartsmemphis.org/ to get involved.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews the artist, Bandy, who shares their personal journey and involvement with Daybreak Arts, a Nashville, Tennessee-based nonprofit organization that provides art opportunities for people experiencing homelessness, and discusses how the organization has supported their artistic career and mental health. Bandy details their upcoming solo art show titled "Liminoid AI: An Experimental Exhibition introducing Multimedia Techno-Whimsy" at c615 Gallery in East Nashville on May 16, 2026, which will feature sculptures and commentary on the tech industry while exploring environmental impacts and fostering community interaction. Bandy also discusses the exhibition's preparation and plans for an interactive experience with limited tickets, encouraging fans to follow Daybreak Arts at https://daybreakarts.org and Bandy Co. Inc. through various social media platforms.SummaryArt and Recovery Journey - Jeremy and Bandy discuss Bandy's personal journey and involvement with Daybreak Arts, a nonprofit organization that provides art opportunities for people experiencing homelessness. Bandy shares their experience moving from New York to Nashville, facing mental health and drug dependency issues, and finding support through family and government assistance like TennCare. They highlight the importance of Daybreak Arts in offering them opportunities to pursue their artistic career, which they had struggled to do in New York without a strong art school background or connections to galleries.Artistic Growth with Daybreak Arts - Bandy discusses their artistic journey and the support they received from Daybreak Arts, which helped them explore new concepts in their work. They explain how the organization has provided them with opportunities to grow as an artist and connect with others who understand their struggles. Bandy also describes how Daybreak Arts supports their idea for a conceptual art project, which led to them receiving a grant to expand the project further.The "Liminoid AI" Show - Bandy discusses their upcoming solo art show titled "Liminoid AI: An Experimental Exhibition introducing Multimedia Techno-Whimsy," which will include physical art, sculptures made from old computer parts, and a satirical commentary on the tech industry. The show aims to subvert expectations about AI and corporate culture, using humor and irony to engage the audience. Bandy plans to use the exhibit as a platform to explore the environmental impact of AI and data centers, as well as to foster face-to-face interactions within the art community.Techno-Whimsy Show at c615 Gallery - Bandy discusses the evolution and preparation of their upcoming exhibition at the c615 Gallery in East Nashville, aiming to create a space with an Apple Store-like feel. The show, themed around "techno-whimsy," aims to bring back a sense of fun in a challenging world. Bandy emphasizes the need for flexibility due to the fast-changing situation while preparing for the set date at the venue.C615 Gallery Exhibition Plans - Bandy highlights the upcoming solo exhibition at c615 Gallery on May 16, 2026, and shares how fans can follow Daybreak Arts and Bandy Co. Inc. through Instagram, YouTube, and the website daybreakarts.org. Bandy explained that while the exhibition will be free, tickets will be limited, and they plan to integrate ARG elements with prizes and souvenirs for participants.Visit https://daybreakarts.org/ to learn more and get involved with Daybreak Arts.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Jenny Koltnow, Executive Director of the Campbell Clinic Foundation, who shares the organization's history and mission of advancing orthopaedic care through education, research, and community outreach in partnership with Campbell Clinic. The foundation's efforts in training healthcare providers and conducting clinical research have led to significant advancements in orthopaedic medicine, including innovative surgical procedures and educational programs for students. Through various initiatives and outreach programs, the foundation continues to make a meaningful impact in Memphis and beyond, with opportunities for community involvement and community support.SummaryCampbell Clinic Foundation's Impact on Orthopaedics - Jenny Koltnow, Executive Director of the Campbell Clinic Foundation, discusses the nonprofit organization's history and how the Foundation exists to support medical education, orthopaedic research and patient care and outreach. The organization is affiliated with Campbell Clinic Orthopaedics, an internationally-recognized pioneer in orthopaedic surgery and group of orthopaedic physicians, researchers and allied health professionals located in the Mid-South region. The Foundation facilitates surgeon education through medical residency and fellowship programs as well as leading-edge orthopaedic research, and is committed to lifelong bone and joint health for all through diverse community outreach programs.Jenny shares a personal story about a patient who had successful hip replacements, highlighting the importance of research in improving patient outcomes and the Foundation's commitment to "moving lives" through both physical movement and enhancing quality of life. The Foundation's efforts in training healthcare providers and conducting research have enabled advancements in orthopaedic care, such as outpatient hip replacements, which have significantly improved patient recovery and reduced costs.Memphis Orthopaedic Leadership and Innovation - Jenny discusses Memphis's role as a global epicenter of orthopaedic medicine, highlighting the pioneering contributions of Dr. Campbell and the Campbell Clinic Foundation. She emphasizes the clinic's historical significance, including the establishment of the first orthopaedic training program in the South and the production of "Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics," a leading textbook in the field. Jenny also describes their educational initiatives, such as Orthopaedic Exploration Day, which provides high school students with hands-on experience in orthopaedic surgery and encourages them to pursue careers in the field.Medical Outreach and Education Programs - Jenny discusses various educational and outreach programs hosted by the Campbell Clinic Foundation. She highlights an orthopaedic summer internship, and capstone programs for medical students. She also details their outreach efforts, including a program called "Our Hearts to Your Soles" that provides foot and nail care to the homeless in Memphis. Additionally, she mentions a recent mission trip to Guatemala led by Dr. Paul Greenfield, which is inspiring other residents to participate in future outreach efforts.Supporting the Campbell Clinic Foundation - Jenny discusses the importance of supporting the Campbell Clinic Foundation, highlighting its unique programs, such as care for children with cerebral palsy, and its role in providing comprehensive orthopaedic care. Jeremy emphasizes the need to support educational programs due to an aging population and a shortage of medical specialists. Jenny provides various ways to get involved, including visiting the website, following social media accounts, and contacting the foundation via email or phone.Visit https://campbell-foundation.org/ to learn more and to get involved with the Campbell Clinic Foundation.

Chuck discusses Gray Line Tennessee's initiatives supporting education, veterans, and diabetes awareness, while explaining the American Diabetes Association's mission and its impact in Tennessee. Chuck serves as the 2025 State of Diabetes Chair for the American Diabetes Association, and shares why and how he personally got involved in supporting the organization that focuses on preventing and curing diabetes and improving the lives of all people affected by diabetes. Chuck discusses their work in funding research, driving advocacy, providing education and building connections and networks of support. The conversation concludes with details about Camp Sugar Falls, a diabetes camp for children, and various association events focused on fundraising, education, and community involvement.SummaryGray Line Tennessee's Community Support Initiatives - Chuck Abbott, President and CEO of Gray Line Tennessee discusses the company's community-focused values and its partnership with the American Diabetes Association. Chuck explained that Gray Line Tennessee, a 52-year-old sightseeing and motor coach company with over 320 employees and 250 vehicles, prioritizes employee health and education, particularly regarding diabetes awareness. The company's involvement with the American Diabetes Association aligns with its mission to educate employees about maintaining a healthy, balanced life, especially given the sedentary nature of many of their roles.Chuck also discusses the company's involvement with PENCIL, an organization supporting Metro Nashville Public Schools, and Operation Stan Down Tennessee, which helps veterans transition to civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and supporting education and veterans, noting that employees are encouraged to promote their preferred charities within the organization, as well..American Diabetes Association Overview - Chuck provides an overview of the American Diabetes Association's mission to prevent and cure diabetes, improve lives of those affected, and advocate for policy changes. He highlights that the organization, celebrating 85 years, has over 500,000 volunteers and funds critical research, including at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. In Tennessee, diabetes affects over 820,000 people, with significant healthcare and productivity impacts, and Chuck shares his personal connection to the cause through his granddaughter's diagnosis.Understanding Diabetes: Types and Treatments - Chuck and Jeremy discuss the personal impact of diabetes, with Chuck explaining the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Chuck describes type 1 as an autoimmune condition where the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells, while type 2 involves the body's inability to effectively use insulin. They discuss advancements in technology and research for diabetes treatment, including potential future developments like an artificial pancreas. Both express optimism about ongoing research and the hope for a cure.Diabetes Camp Volunteer Experience - Chuck shares his experience volunteering at Camp Sugar Falls, a diabetes camp for children aged 6 to 15, where he first became involved when his granddaughter, who was diagnosed with Type 1 in 2016, was too young to attend but could go with a family member. Chuck, who was the counselor in charge of 6- and 7-year-old campers during his first year, describes the camp as a welcoming environment where children learn to manage their diabetes while forming lasting friendships. He highlights the involvement of medical professionals from Vanderbilt and counselors from Belmont School of Pharmacy, and notes that the camp, founded in 1982, provides not only diabetes management education but also a supportive community for families dealing with the condition.American Diabetes Association Initiatives - Chuck discusses various events and initiatives organized by the American Diabetes Association, including the Step Out Walk, State of Diabetes, and Camp Sugar Falls, highlighting their focus on fundraising, education, and awareness. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement and volunteering, noting that the association efficiently manages funds to support research and aid individuals with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.Resources for Diabetes AwarenessVisit diabetes.org to learn more about the American Diabetes Association and to access resources, information and upcoming events.Visit graylinetn.com to learn more about Gray Line Tennessee and their community initiatives and focus on customer service.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Debra Sunderland, CEO of Sunderland Coaching, who shares her personal journey from competitive cycling to executive coaching, emphasizing the importance of conscious leadership and self-awareness in driving transformation. She discusses her work in transforming organizations through communication and leadership, using various tools and techniques to help individuals and teams achieve personal and professional growth. The conversation concludes with Debra sharing her approach to leadership, focusing on positive aspects and relationships, and inviting listeners to connect with her through her podcast and website, https://www.sunderlandcoaching.com.SummaryJourney to Conscious Leadership - Debra Sunderland, CEO of Sunderland Coaching, shares her personal journey from a competitive cyclist to an executive coach, highlighting her transformation after a life-threatening accident. She emphasizes the importance of conscious leadership and the need to become aware of one's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to drive change. Debra explains that while people often try to change outcomes directly, the key to transformation lies in addressing the underlying patterns and thoughts that lead to those outcomes. She concludes by discussing the role of the unconscious mind in resisting change and the power of self-awareness in personal and organizational development.Transformative Communication and Leadership Strategies - Debra discusses her work in transforming organizations through communication and leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. She explains her use of tools like the Enneagram, breathing exercises, and cognitive reframing to help individuals and teams break free from limiting patterns and achieve personal and professional growth. Debra highlights the power of feeling emotions fully to gain wisdom and overcome cognitive looping, which can lead to new opportunities and possibilities.Leadership Through Positive Mindset - Debra shares her approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of giving people grace and focusing on positive aspects rather than negative assumptions. She discusses how this mindset can improve relationships and lead to better outcomes. The conversation concludes with Debra providing her contact information and inviting listeners to connect with her through her podcast "Shut Up and Thrive" and website for Sunderland Coaching, https://www.sunderlandcoaching.com.

Discovery Park CEO Discusses Memphis - Jeremy C. Park interviews R. Scott Williams, author of "Town Mania: Marcus Winchester and the Making of Memphis," and President and CEO of Discovery Park of America. Scott discusses his background as a Memphian and his role at Discovery Park of America, which inspires visitors through exhibits on history, science, and technology. He mentions the park's upcoming focus on America 250 and Tennessee's celebration in 2026, which ties into the themes of his book.Marcus Winchester's Early Life and Legacy - Scott discusses his research and writing process for his book about Marcus Winchester, a key figure in the early development of Memphis. He explains how Winchester's connection with David Crockett, whom he funded in congressional campaigns after a financial setback, piqued his interest. The book begins with Winchester as a 17-year-old prisoner of war, detailing his early life and the challenges he faced. Scott highlights Winchester's role in establishing Memphis and his journey from a prisoner of war to a prominent figure in the city's development.Interracial Marriage and Social Struggles - Scott and Jeremy discuss the complexities of Marcus Winchester's life, focusing on his marriage to a woman of mixed racial heritage and the challenges they faced due to societal racism. Winchester, despite his contributions to building the city, was forced to move outside the city limits after laws prohibiting interracial marriage became stricter. The couple had eight biracial children, and their relationship was later portrayed negatively, with evidence of their marriage being erased or misconstrued over time.Marcus Winchester's Legacy in Memphis - Scott discusses his ancestors' lives in Haywood County and the impact of slavery on their community. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how slavery affected individuals like Marcus Winchester, highlighting the legal restrictions on freeing slaves and the dangers faced by free African Americans. Scott also describes Marcus as a visionary in logistics, business, and commerce, particularly in the development of Memphis. He notes Marcus's contributions to transportation, entertainment, hotels, and tourism, as well as his role as the first mayor and the founder of the city's first charged ferry service.Marcus Winchester Historical Research Challenges - Scott discusses the challenges of researching and writing about Marcus Winchester, noting the difficulty of piecing together an accurate story from limited historical records and making necessary assumptions. He highlights Winchester's community-focused actions, such as requesting vaccines during an outbreak and seeking permission to use wood during a harsh winter, to illustrate Winchester's character. Scott emphasizes the importance of including relevant historical context to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of early Memphis and its settlers.Preserving Memphis's Historical Legacy - Scott discusses his hopes for readers of his book about Memphis, emphasizing a deeper appreciation for the city's history and the importance of preserving historical sites. He highlights the story of the Winchester Cemetery, which was neglected and desecrated, to illustrate why historical preservation matters. Scott expresses hope that readers would understand the significance of preserving Memphis's historical buildings and the contributions of previous historians and researchers.Marcus Winchester's Historical Legacy - Scott discusses the historical significance of Marcus Winchester and the role of transportation in shaping Memphis. He highlights the upcoming anniversary events in 2026, including the bicentennial of Memphis's incorporation and the 230th anniversary of Marcus Winchester's birth, which he hopes will spark public interest in history.Visit https://rscottwilliams.info/ to learn more about Scott Williams and visit https://discoveryparkofamerica.com to learn more about Discovery Park of America.

Host Jeremy C. Park interviews R. Scott Williams, President and CEO of Discovery Park of America, who discusses his new book about Marcus Winchester, a key figure in the early development of Memphis, Tennessee, and his role in establishing the city's logistics and commerce. The conversation explores Marcus Winchester's personal challenges, including his inter-racial marriage and societal racism, while highlighting his significant contributions to Memphis's development as a transportation hub, mayor, and community leader. Scott shares his hopes for readers to gain a deeper appreciation of Memphis's history and the importance of preserving historical sites, particularly in light of upcoming anniversary events in 2026. The book, "Townmania: Marcus Winchester and the Making of Memphis" is available on Amazon.com, in the gift shop at Discovery Park of America, or at local booksellers in Memphis, like Novel.