Be A Voice

In this episode of Be A Voice, we sit down with Carla Sofronski, Director of the Pennsylvania Harm Reduction Network, to talk about the life-saving work being done to combat the overdose crisis, support people who use drugs, and dismantle stigma. Carla shares the mission behind PAHRN, the power of harm reduction in building healthier communities, and the urgent policy changes needed to protect our most vulnerable neighbors. This powerful conversation shines a light on compassion, advocacy, and the importance of meeting people where they are. If you care about public health, social justice, and making a real difference, this episode is for you.

In this inspiring episode of Be A Voice, host Britt Carpenter sits down with Tim Galloway, the heart and hands behind Good Werks — a small business built on big values. Tim shares how Good Werks goes beyond just selling products by building community through monthly giveaways, supporting grassroots nonprofits through raffles, and making consistent donations a core part of the business. From handwritten thank-you notes in every order to uplifting local changemakers with free gear, Tim is proving that purpose and profit can grow hand in hand. If you’ve ever wanted to see how one person can turn a small business into a movement for good — this conversation is for you. 🎁 Nominate someone in your community for next month’s “free shit” 🎟️ Enter raffles that directly benefit small, impact-driven nonprofits 🛍️ Learn how your purchases can create ripples of gratitude and support Be a part of the good. Be a voice. Be inspired.Don’t settle. Not for a job you hate.Not for a life that drains you. You weren’t born to just survive the week. You were made to build something that lights you up. Take the risk.Make the move.Start small — but start. You don’t owe the world comfort.You owe yourself happiness. Create the life you want.Before someone convinces you to live theirs.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Tony LaCerra, a man who is six years into active recovery and living proof that true strength comes from facing your emotions, not hiding them. Now a sponsor to two others, Tony reflects on the profound impact of his own sponsor—who has become one of his closest friends—and how that relationship helped shape his path. In honor of Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, Tony opens up about embracing spirituality, navigating the emotional struggles often stigmatized in men, and redefining what it means to be strong. From recovery to personal growth, this conversation is a raw and inspiring reminder that healing starts when we allow ourselves to feel. 🔊 Tune in and hear how Tony is not just staying sober—but thriving, evolving, and giving back.

In this powerful and inspiring episode, we sit down with James Sherman, a dedicated advocate, educator, and Substance Use Navigator whose personal journey from homelessness and active drug use in Philadelphia to becoming a core team member at The Everywhere Project is nothing short of remarkable. James shares how receiving life-saving materials from the very organization he now serves helped him survive — and how he now pays it forward through education on overdose reversal, harm reduction tools like testing strips, and fighting stigma around substance use. We explore the impact of compassionate drug policies, real-world statistics, and the power of lived experience in shaping better support systems. Tune in for a conversation about resilience, purpose, and the human side of harm reduction.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Chris Willis, co-founder of Restore & Recover LLC, to explore how one organization is transforming lives through safe, structured, and affordable sober living in Philadelphia. With eight residences across Harrowgate and Germantown, Restore & Recover is more than just a housing solution — it's a community-driven pathway to healing. Chris shares his personal journey, the philosophy behind their evidence-based approach, and how Restore & Recover empowers individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity, stability, and hope. Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or passionate about grassroots change, this episode is a must-listen.

In this deeply moving episode of Be A Voice, Philadelphia photographer Loren Berckey shares his personal journey through depression, the day he nearly ended his life on the Ben Franklin Bridge, and how he found the strength to keep going. Known for rarely leaving home without his camera, Loren opens up about losing — and rediscovering — his creative spark, the healing power of photography, and what it means to truly see life again. This episode is a testament to the courage it takes to ask for help and a reminder that recovery is possible. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that you’re not alone. Help is available. Mental Health Resources: National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988 — available 24/7 Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741 NAMI HelpLine: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or visit nami.org/help

In this insightful episode, Britt is joined by two dedicated community leaders, Carla Sofronski & Jen Shinefeld, who are making a difference in the lives of individuals battling substance abuse in Philadelphia. Together, they share their personal stories and discuss the vital community service they provide to help those affected by addiction. Throughout the conversation, they delve into their backgrounds, detailing the paths that led them to this important work and the challenges they face on a daily basis. They also open up about how they maintain their mental health while providing support and care to some of the most vulnerable individuals in the city. This episode offers a powerful look at the resilience, dedication, and empathy required to support people on their journey to recovery, as well as the impact of community-driven efforts in the fight against substance abuse. Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking discussion on mental health, addiction, and the power of service.

In this powerful episode of Be A Voice, we sit down with Harry Cunnane, a man who transformed his life from the depths of opiate addiction to becoming a voice of hope and change. Harry shares his personal story of struggle and resilience, reflecting on how the birth of his first child sparked a life-altering journey towards recovery. As an author of Under Our Roof, Harry offers deep insights into his experience and the lessons learned along the way. Today, as the director of Ghost Pepper - Bold Purpose, Big Impact, Harry works tirelessly to help organizations make a meaningful difference. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, finding purpose, and creating lasting impact.

In this powerful episode of the Be A Voice podcast, we sit down with Michael Worthy, the Director of Philly Unknown, who shares his incredible story of survival, redemption, and transformation. Michael reflects on his early years of moving from the South to Philadelphia, where he faced the harsh realities of city life. Struggling to find his place and avoid falling into the gang lifestyle, he chose a dangerous path of running guns and drugs for protection. His troubled journey led him to addiction, as he fell into the grip of crack cocaine. But Michael's story doesn't end there—after hitting rock bottom, he turned his life around and has been clean and sober for 17 years. Today, he uses his experiences to lead the Philly Unknown Project, dedicated to empowering others and creating positive change in the community. Tune in to hear Michael's candid reflections on overcoming adversity, the lessons he’s learned, and his mission to help others avoid the same pitfalls. A true testament to the power of transformation, Michael’s story is one of hope, resilience, and the power of second chances.

In this episode of Be A Voice, we sit down with Margaux Murphy, the visionary founder of The Sunday Love Project, a nonprofit dedicated to providing food for vulnerable Philadelphians. For over eight years, Margaux has been serving her community, offering hundreds of thousands of sit-down meals and launching the Greater Goods Grocery Store to further her mission. Before her work with The Sunday Love Project, Margaux spent two decades running a successful house cleaning service. Her dedication to uplifting others earned her the prestigious 2021 Philadelphia Award and a generous donation of $250,000 from Tyler Perry. Join us as Margaux shares her journey of service, community building, and the power of giving back.

In this powerful episode of Be a Voice, Britt sits down with Elizabeth Morrison, a woman whose journey through addiction and recovery is nothing short of inspiring. Starting at the age of 15, Elizabeth battled multiple addictions, but through determination and support, she transformed her life. Now, as the Project Manager at Penn Medicine’s Center for Medicine, she is helping others find the recovery and compassion they need. Tune in for a conversation that highlights resilience, hope, and the power of giving back. Another unforgettable episode of strength and healing!

In this deeply moving episode, John Bair opens up about the heartbreaking losses of his brother to suicide and his cousin to muscular dystrophy. He shares his struggles growing up in a challenging home environment and how it shaped his journey toward healing. Through his story, John found the strength to build Bair Knuckle Strength, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals to make transformative changes, both mentally and physically. John also introduces his powerful mental health initiative, I Am Not OK (check it out at iamnotok.com), offering a safe space for people to be truthful with themselves, confront their struggles, and begin the healing process. This episode is an honest exploration of grief, resilience, and the power of finding your voice—not just for yourself, but for others too. Tune in to hear how vulnerability, strength, and truth can help us heal together.

In this powerful episode of Be A Voice, host Britt Carpenter sits down with Pat Dooley, a man who is 13 years sober and now dedicates his life to helping others break free from addiction. Pat shares his journey of overcoming addiction and the lessons he's learned along the way, including how controlling one addiction can lead to the development of new ones. The key takeaway? To be able to help others, you must first take care of yourself. Pat also highlights the importance of Philadelphia's recovery support groups and how they empower individuals to not only heal but also engage as active members of their communities. This episode is a testament to resilience, self-care, and the power of community in the recovery process.

Operation Save Our City's Roz Pichardo stops by to discuss her organization that helps the community of Philadelphia. Through the discussion, both Britt and Roz reflect back on their history, present and future. Throughout the interview, Roz discusses the vital role that organizations like Operation Save Our City play in providing resources, compassion, and community for those affected by addiction. She also highlights the importance of reducing stigma, promoting empathy, and offering practical support in the healing process. Whether you're someone seeking help, a family member supporting a loved one, or simply interested in learning more about addiction recovery, this conversation is sure to offer valuable insights and inspiration.

In this heartfelt episode of Be A Voice, Britt Carpenter sits down with Dan Gilman, President of Who Can We Help, to explore the inspiring work they’re doing to empower children and families in need. From providing vital support through family shelters and children's hospitals to collaborating with local community organizations, Who Can We Help is making a real difference in the Philadelphia area and beyond. Tune in to hear how this incredible organization is fostering hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging for those facing difficult circumstances. Thanks to the dedication of people like Dan and Britt, the world is a brighter place. Visit Who Can We Help to learn more. #BeAVoice #WhoCanWeHelp #CommunitySupport #Empowerment #Hope #Philadelphia #Charity #NonProfit #MakingADifference #FamilySupport #Volunteer #GiveBack

After nearly a year-long hiatus, Britt Carpenter returns with a powerful new season of Be A Voice. In this episode, Britt sits down with Philadelphia-native photographer John Cruice, who shares his journey of discovering his true passion and calling behind the lens. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about purpose, passion, and the power of following your dreams.

Welcome to a vibrant episode of "Be a Voice" on the Usala Media Network! Join our talented host, Britt Carpenter, in a captivating conversation with Alloyius Mcilwaine, a self-taught artist and the visionary behind Cultures Clothing Company. Hailing from the heart of Philadelphia, Alloyius discovered his love for art at the tender age of three, when he began to replicate comic book images. His artistic journey evolved as he explored various forms of art, including traditional art, graffiti, abstract, and comic book art. In the year 2000, Alloyius founded Cultures Clothing Company, initially a t-shirt company featuring hand-painted, customized designs. What started as a side hustle during his time at Neumann University transformed into a profound love for fashion design. As Alloyius delved into the world of fashion, his clothing line expanded beyond its roots. Embracing diverse influences, from high fashion to urban styles, Alloyius transformed Cultures Clothing into a dynamic and eclectic brand that reflects his artistic vision. Beyond fashion, Alloyius is also known for his experimentation with freestyle abstract art, a form of spontaneous creation influenced by his mood and emotion. In this episode, Alloyius shares his artistic evolution, from the inception of Cultures Clothing to his latest series of paintings. Focused on the beauty of women, his paintings seamlessly blend graffiti, street art, comic book art, traditional art, and abstract art, creating a unique and visually stunning collection. Immerse yourself in the world of Alloyius Mcilwaine, where art becomes a canvas for self-discovery and creative expression. Hit that "Subscribe" button, click the notification bell, and embark on a journey through the artistic landscape of Cultures Clothing Company. Guest Bio: Alloyius Mcilwaine, a Philadelphia native, is a self-taught artist and the founder of Cultures Clothing Company. His artistic journey spans various forms, from traditional to abstract, graffiti, and comic book art. With a love for fashion design, Alloyius has transformed his clothing line into a diverse and dynamic brand. Explore his latest series of paintings, a fusion of influences that redefine artistic boundaries.

In this episode of Be A Voice, Britt steps out of the studio and stops in to Bean 2 Bean Cafe at 5th and Oxford St in N. Philly. Coffee roasting and sales are in the family blood. You can hear the passion they have for this cafe. Kick back with a cup of Joe. Head to their website, subscribe and get 15% off. https://www.bean2bean.com/

Welcome to a profoundly inspiring episode of "Be a Voice" on the Usala Media Network! In this special edition, our compassionate host, Britt Carpenter, engages in a heartfelt conversation with Rachel Hechtman, a remarkable influencer who has harnessed the power of social media, specifically Instagram, to fuel her journey to recovery. 🎤 Join us as we explore Rachel's courageous journey, from the depths of addiction to the radiant path of recovery. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformation that is possible through determination and community support. 💪 In this remarkable episode, Rachel opens up about her life as a recovering addict and how she discovered a source of unwavering inspiration through Instagram. She shares her candid experiences, the hurdles she's surmounted, and the incredible healing power of connecting with others who have faced similar struggles. 🌳 Drawing strength from her own journey, Rachel Hechtman is now known as an influential figure in the recovery community on Instagram. Through her raw authenticity, she has not only inspired others but also built a supportive digital sanctuary where countless individuals find hope and a sense of belonging. 👣 Britt and Rachel's conversation delves deep into the healing potential of social media, the importance of community, and the role of personal storytelling in the recovery journey. Prepare to be moved, educated, and inspired. 🔥 Don't miss this chance to connect with a beacon of hope, recovery, and the power of Instagram as a tool for transformation. Hit that "Subscribe" button, click the notification bell, and join us for a profoundly moving conversation. Guest Bio: Rachel Hechtman is a courageous influencer, a beacon of recovery, and an advocate for using social media to foster healing and hope. Through her journey, she has become an inspiration for countless individuals seeking recovery and support. Rachel's dedication to her community shines brightly in every post and message she shares. Join us on this transformative journey and become part of a movement dedicated to healing and connection.

Welcome to Be A Voice, the captivating talk show where host Brit Carpenter invites extraordinary individuals to share their inspiring journeys. In this episode, we are thrilled to introduce you to the talented Felicia Fullwood, a Michigan-based travel photographer, YouTuber, blogger, and a true adventurer who finds her bliss in the great outdoors, documenting her breathtaking escapades through mesmerizing photos and videos. Join us as Felicia recounts her life-changing decision to break free from the corporate world in 2017 to follow her heart and pursue her passion for travel photography full-time. Since then, she has never looked back, embarking on a thrilling journey that has taken her to fascinating destinations and unforgettable experiences. Discover how Felicia's insatiable wanderlust led her to buy a van, transforming it into a mini home on wheels, enabling her to traverse the United States, capturing the essence of diverse landscapes, cultures, and untold stories. Her lens becomes a window to the world, inspiring countless viewers and readers to embrace adventure and explore the beauty that surrounds them. Through her exceptional visual storytelling skills, Felicia collaborates with tourism boards and adventure-minded brands, creating captivating digital assets that showcase the spirit of each destination. Her talent, work ethic, and creativity shine through in every project she undertakes, leaving her clients amazed and delighted with the results. Hear firsthand testimonials from satisfied partners who have worked with Felicia, witnessing her ability to immerse herself in the essence of every place she visits, crafting authentic and engaging content that resonates with audiences worldwide. As one testimonial highlights, "From the very beginning, Felicia was responsive, asking the right questions, and was genuinely great to work with. She delivered exactly what we asked for and then some. She has great work ethic, drive, creativity, and is very nice!" In this episode of Be A Voice, Felicia Fullwood shares her passion for storytelling through visual artistry, offering insights into how she keeps her content both professional and authentic, connecting with her audience on a profound level. Her inspiring tale is a testament to the power of following one's dreams, embracing the unknown, and cherishing the wonders that our planet has to offer. Subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to join us in this captivating episode of Be A Voice: Unleashing Wanderlust with Felicia Fullwood | Capturing Adventures One Frame at a Time. Prepare to be inspired and encouraged to find your own path of exploration and creativity.