Pod 4 Good

Join us as we sit down with Lauren Sivak, Executive Director of the Opportunity Project, to unravel the challenges and triumphs of providing quality afterschool programs for Tulsa's youth. Listen in as we discuss the ripple effects of recent federal funding cuts on enrichment initiatives and share insights into the impactful work of after-school programs. Our chat not only covers the essential role these programs play in youth development but also touches on the city's unexpectedly smooth traffic and spacious parking—a lighthearted contrast to the serious topic at hand.Venture into the world of after-school enrichment as we reflect on the surprising cultural shift from voluntary to paid programming for educators in Tulsa. With Lauren's guidance, we explore the emotional and financial investment in after-school programs, highlighting the generous support for teachers and the essential need for diverse and inclusive opportunities for students. From cooking clubs to robotics, every activity holds educational value. Amidst the backdrop of our own high school memories and club aspirations, we underscore the challenges non-profits face in sustaining these valuable programs, especially in today's financial climate.Cap off this enlightening conversation with a look at the big dreams for Tulsa's afterschool scene, including the need for data-driven decision-making and tracking to ensure the safety and success of these programs. We stand up for the importance of social and emotional learning in the face of skepticism, affirming that fostering a sense of safety and inclusion is fundamental for learning. As we navigate the contentious educational landscape, we reaffirm our belief in the power of a well-educated populace to sustain a functioning democracy. So tune in, get involved, and see how you can be a part of empowering the next generation.And don't forget to go to their fundraiser, Data on Draft on April 25th! Register here: Data on Draft — The Opportunity ProjectWe also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Unlock the potential of data to drive social change as we sit down with Aaron Bean and Jess England from Asemio, leading voices in the field of data for good. Their insights shed light on the intricate dance between numbers and narratives, illustrating how nonprofits can harness data for impactful storytelling while meeting the stringent reporting requirements of entities like the United Way. We navigate the challenges of limited resources in the nonprofit sector, demonstrating the critical role that well-presented data plays in painting a powerful picture of change and need.Data sharing emerges as a crucial, yet complex, endeavor in our quest to solve pressing social issues. Aaron and Jess take us through the pioneering work being done in Tulsa, where anonymization techniques have enabled a secure environment for integrating datasets from multiple sources. This not only safeguards personal information but also fosters a collaborative approach to problem-solving, revolutionizing how organizations manage sensitive data for the greater good. We explore the nitty-gritty of maintaining data integrity, validating its accuracy, and fostering data literacy—vital steps toward impactful analysis and reporting.As we wrap up our enriching conversation, the spotlight turns to technology's expanding role in amplifying nonprofit missions, with a specific look at the evolving landscape of AI and the ethical frameworks that guide its development. Aaron and Jess highlight the significance of setting clear objectives for AI, addressing inherent biases, and including a diversity of perspectives when setting ethical guidelines. We celebrate the real-world impacts of our guests' initiatives, from bolstering Women in Recovery to Tulsa's broader community advancements, showcasing the powerful fusion of data and technology in creating social impact that resonates both locally and globally.

In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of Oklahoma's legislative landscape, focusing on women's health, economic development, and some truly unconventional bills. Tommy Yap of Metriarch shares his insights on how policies are affecting women's autonomy, economic mobility, and much more.**Key Topics Discussed:**- Women's health and economic development in Oklahoma- The challenges of childcare access and its impact on family economics- The Choosing Childbirth Act and why its funds are underutilized- The surge of legislative efforts to address domestic violence and concerns over over-criminalization- Odd and unconventional bills in Oklahoma's legislature and their implications- The lack of public input in the legislative process and how it affects policymaking- A humanizing look at Oklahoma's legislators and the importance of engaging with them**Chapter Summaries:**- **(0:00:01) Women's Health and Economic Development:** Tommy Yap discusses his work with Metriarch, the challenges women face in Oklahoma, and the need for policies that respect women's autonomy and promote economic mobility.- **(0:13:39) Childcare and Trans Healthcare in Oklahoma:** The chapter addresses the critical issue of childcare access and the struggles faced by single mothers, as well as the importance of inclusive gender-affirming healthcare.- **(0:19:09) Legislative Focus:** Tommy provides insights into the Choosing Childbirth Act, legislative trends, and the delicate balance of justice for victims of domestic violence.- **(0:23:06) Insane Bills in Oklahoma Legislative Process:** A discussion on the more bizarre bills proposed in Oklahoma, including Bigfoot hunting licenses and the 'furry bill', as well as the unique quirks of the legislative process.- **(0:28:22) Limited Public Input in Oklahoma Legislature:** An exploration of the supermajority's disconnect from the state's political leanings and the challenges posed by a limited legislative session.- **(0:39:22) Legislators as People:** Tommy shares experiences that showcase legislators as accessible individuals who can find common ground with constituents.

Imagine opening your door each day, not to a home, but to uncertainty. In our heartfelt discussion with Maggie Hoey, the beacon of hope at Lindsey House, we journey through the stories of women and children taking brave steps towards stability. This episode peels back the layers of hardship, from the sting of domestic violence to the struggle against substance abuse, revealing the unspoken trials and triumphs of those fighting for a fresh start. We celebrate the successes that warm our hearts and confront the sobering truth of limited resources in the face of overwhelming demand.Money—it's not just currency; it's an emotional tapestry woven from our past. As we unravel our own interwoven fears and behaviors around spending, we transition to a broader canvas, painting the stark realities of homelessness. This candid conversation not only reflects on the developmental scars it inflicts on children but also shines a light on how organizations like Lindsay House are striving to stitch together a community where dignity and stable housing are accessible to everyone. Through the lens of our shared experiences, we uncover the layers of community effort and the impediments faced in creating a spectrum of housing opportunities.We close with a critical examination of the housing crisis, questioning how we can cultivate fertile ground for affordable living in a world where policy and practicality often clash. Maggie shares insights into the uphill battle for those transitioning from places like Lindsay House, hoping to plant roots in a place they can call their own. And as we highlight collaborations with groups such as Habitat for Humanity, we're reminded that it's not just about the physical structures we erect, but about cultivating a society that values each of its members, providing more than just shelter, but a chance to thrive. Join us for a conversation that's as much about building homes as it is about laying the foundation for societal change.We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Are you looking for ways to make a difference in your community? We've got you covered! Join us as we engage in an enlightening conversation with Moises Echeverria, the dynamic President and CEO of the Foundation for Tulsa Schools. Learn how this transformative organization is building a stronger community by supporting public education in Tulsa. Moises walks us through the foundation's impactful initiatives, from funding programs within regulatory constraints to coordinating with companies for in-kind donations. He reveals how the foundation serves as a crucial link, connecting the district's needs with potential donors.Moises not only shares his valuable insights but also his inspiring experiences. Hear the stirring story of a valedictorian who, through the foundation, received a full-ride scholarship. Discover how the foundation is fostering stronger relationships with local universities, creating more opportunities for students. Moises underscores the significance of everyone's contribution, big or small, in shaping the future of our students. This episode will inspire you to play your part in supporting public education and making a lasting impact on your community. Tune in and witness the power of collective action in transforming lives!Donate here: Donation Form (donorperfect.net)

On this engaging podcast episode, join us as we sit down with Victor, author of the recently released book 'Built From the Fire'. Victor walks us through the narrative he has built around the Goodwin family, owners of the Oklahoma Eagle in Greenwood since 1914. We explore how the Goodwin family and the Greenwood District have experienced white supremacy and Jim Crow laws, and how the community was rebuilt following the Tulsa Race Massacre. Victor shares the unique tools and processes he used to create a narrative spanning over a hundred years, painting Greenwood as a microcosm of the Black American experience.Our conversation takes a fascinating turn as we discuss Victor's motivations behind writing his book and how he challenges the depiction of black history in pop culture. We dive into the dynamic between true-to-life Greenwood figures and their lack of involvement in the production of multiple depictions of the Massacre in popular culture and discuss the historical role of the KKK and their influence on the Black community. Victor also shares his perspective on race relations in the US, which has evolved since writing his book, and some of the inspiring stories and individuals he encountered during his research.Lastly, we touch upon the influence of technology and media on urban renewal, discussing the impact of the Oklahoma Eagle newspaper and the government's role in the Greenwood area's development. We uncover the hidden stories of Greenwood entrepreneurs and business owners, like AJ Smitherman, Lula Williams, and Alfonso Williams. Towards the end, we talk about Victor's upcoming book-related events and his views on the intersection of Greenwood's history with pop culture. Tune in to learn more about Victor's fascinating insights into the Greenwood District's history and the stories that have shaped it.

Welcome to a brand new episode of our podcast! In this episode, we discuss the current accreditation crisis facing Tulsa Public Schools (TPS) with Ana Barros, a seventh-grade geography teacher at Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences and an active leader of the Protect TPS movement.Key points discussed in this episode include:- An in-depth look at the complex issues surrounding the accreditation of Tulsa Public Schools (0:00:15). Anna explains the different levels of accreditation, the potential implications of losing it, and how the accreditation status of a school is not directly connected to the quality of education provided.- Ways you can support TPS and help protect its future (0:12:04). This includes writing emails to legislators, signing the Protect TPS petition, and attending a student-led town hall.- The significance of local leaders, business leaders, and elected officials in shaping the future of Tulsa's school district (0:19:53). We also explore the consequences of a state takeover of a school district and discuss the power of the Protect TPS movement.- Anna shares her experiences teaching seventh-grade geography and the unique challenges it presents (0:27:06). We also delve into the developmental stages of preteens and how it affects their learning.- A deep dive into the profound impact of language and the role of names in shaping our worldviews (0:31:21). We discuss the confusion of spelling and pronouncing countries in different languages and the implications of colonizers giving countries their names.- A light-hearted discussion about the recent McDonald's ice cream crisis and the fascinating history behind the location of state capitals (0:41:16).Remember to follow Protect TPS on Instagram or visit www.protecttps.com for more information on how you can support Tulsa Public Schools. Be sure to attend the student-led town hall on Saturday and reach out to state board members before the state board meeting on August 24th.Stay tuned for more enlightening and engaging episodes!

Prepare to unlock the wonders of nature education as we take a fascinating exploration into the outdoors with our special guest, Margaritte Arthrell-Knezek, the innovative founder and executive director of Under the Canopy. She’s passionate about bringing the natural world to students across Tulsa Public School campuses. We'll wander the paths of this nature explorer program, skimming across their homeschool and summer camps initiatives, and the engaging activities that range from circle times to free play, all tailored to pique the students' interests.We'll also meander through the broader landscape of outdoor education, examining its expansive benefits and the relaxed learning environment it fosters. Margaritte will guide us through the thicket of sustainability, unearthing strategies for teaching children to love and protect their planet. We'll also venture into the urban jungle, discussing how we can use natural resources more wisely to nurture our city-bred kids.Our journey won't stop there. We'll forge ahead to the heart of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, home to the newly opened Vanguard Academy. Here, students enjoy a rich blend of STEAM education and outdoor learning, mastering ancestral skills and creating art from old landfill items. It's a vibrant testament to Margaritte's vision of eco-education, and you'll even get a peek into the complex process of starting a charter school. So, if you're keen to discover the untapped potential of nature education for our future generations, grab your hiking boots, and let's hit the trail together.We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Imagine a world where every child in foster care has a dedicated advocate to fight for their permanency, a world where all foster children have a voice. This episode brings you a compelling discussion with Elizabeth Fisher and Comfort Keidel, key members of the Tulsa CASA team, who give us an inside look into this world where they tirelessly work to make a difference in children's lives every day. We delve into the life of a court-appointed special advocate, exploring the rigorous training they undergo, the challenges they face, and the indomitable spirit that keeps them going. The role of CASAs in the child welfare system is undeniably crucial and we talk about the profound impact they make on the lives of the children they are assigned to. A heartwarming tale of an advocate named Bill, who successfully reunites a child with their mother, is just one testament of how rewarding this journey can be.The episode takes an unexpected turn as we unite over our shared love for Sci-Fi fantasy books, discuss the importance of taking care of our environment, and eventually circle back to the importance of volunteering and donating to support the Tulsa Casa team. There's a special emphasis on male volunteers and we encourage listeners to take action. This episode isn't just a conversation, it's an invitation for you to join us in making a difference in the lives of countless children. Tune in, get inspired, and let's transform lives together!

In this episode of the Pod 4 Good podcast, Dwayne Sheridan, the community engagement education manager for the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, discusses the work of the food bank and its efforts to address food insecurity. He highlights the organization's focus on serving rural communities, providing volunteer opportunities, and partnering with various organizations to distribute fresh food. He emphasizes the importance of education and outreach programs to break down the stigma surrounding food insecurity.The Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma serves 24 counties in the eastern part of the state and collaborates with about 700 different partners to ensure food reaches those in need. The organization purchases fresh produce and frozen foods, with a significant portion (40%) of their efforts dedicated to providing fresh food. They also work closely with the Oklahoma Farm to Table program, supporting local farmers by purchasing their produce at a near-market price.We discuss the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing fresh food, as well as the difficulties people face in urban areas, where grocery stores may be far away or transportation is limited. The conversation emphasized the interconnectedness of all individuals and the importance of delivering food directly to where people are, particularly in light of the pandemic.The Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma focuses on education and outreach programs to combat the stigma surrounding food insecurity. They offer workshops and seminars in schools, corporations, and other groups to raise awareness and create a supportive network. The podcast also encouraged individuals and corporations to donate food or money, volunteer their time, and explore team-building opportunities with the food bank's programs.Volunteer, Donate and learn more at: Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma (okfoodbank.org)We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

In one of our most high level conversations, we talked to Cecilia Wessinger, Director for Global Community for the Global Entrepreneurship Network about ecosystem building, rainforest verse plantations, and why you should join her for some soup. By soup we mean join us at Tulsa Soup on May 23rd.Tulsa SOUP is a microfunding initiative that supports local community projects and helps bring them to life. We believe that small ideas can lead to big change, and we're here to help make that happen. Find out more on their website Tulsa Soup.We are planning to do another episode with Cecilia to get more into the nitty gritty of these topics, so if you have questions for her, please let us know!

Dr. Jabraan Pasha, Vice President of Health Equity and Tulsa Market Medical Director for Juno Medical, recently joined the hosts of Pod 4 Good to discuss Juno's unique care model, the importance of health equity, and building trust with marginalized groups in the community.In between multiple rants from both Jesse and Chris on how frustrating it is to go to your doctor and how opaque our current healthcare system is, Dr. Pasha explains that Juno's model prioritizes patient relationships, preventative care, and technology to improve patient outcomes. The company wants to provide convenient and excellent care while ensuring that patients are heard and respected. They avoid the inconvenience associated with traditional healthcare and keep everything under one roof whenever possible. Juno Medical hopes to open their new clinic in the late spring/early summer of 2023. The clinic will be located next to Greenwood Rising on Greenwood in the 21 North Greenwood building.We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Chris and Jesse are joined by Crystal Patrick and Jenni Yoder from Global Gardens. Global Gardens is a local nonprofit that works in public elementary and middle schools to use a garden as a vehicle to teach science, peace, and to empower students to become agents of change in their communities. Through the gardens, students learn to work with their peers and think critically in order to solve problems and make changes. The program also encourages students to take ownership of their own learning and to take charge in their own lives. Global Gardens also provides tangible education, giving students a chance to get their hands dirty and be involved in the learning process. Finally, the program emphasizes the importance of sustainability and provides students with the tools to understand the environment and how to make it better.On top of that, Chris and Jesse make jokes about being outdoorsmen, Dragonfruit, about the story of when Jesse destroyed his dad's garden.To find out more about Global-Gardens check them out on the web: About | Global Gardens (global-gardens.org)We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Jesse and Chris are joined by the Podmother herself, Marcia Bruno-Todd. We talk about how we should normalize the word "gestating" as Marcia approaches the birth of her next child, how many issues we are facing in America today about who feels seen or who does not, and what does leadership look like in our new hybrid work environment.Make sure to stay up to date on Leadership Tulsa as they celebrate their 50th birthday this September!We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Jesse and Chris "sit-down" with Katie Dilks, ED of the Oklahoma Access to Justice Foundation. She talks about the whole universe of the justice system that is commonly ignored, the Civil Law side. We discuss the fact that lack of information, lack of representation, and America's adversarial legal system mix to create a whole side of our justice system that ends up hurting those that need justice the most.We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Jesse and Chris are joined by Trey Thaxton, Owner of Goldmill Co. and Greenwood Ave. We gush over their new magazine, Greenwood Ave, discuss why it is more important to talk about the people of Greenwood instead of what happened to them, and how does one celebrate the resiliency of Greenwood.We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Jesse and Chris are joined by Nehemiah Frank. We talk about all that has happened since the last time we spoke (June of 2020), whether America's battle against racism is getting better or worse, we have to talk about Ye (Kayne) Kyrie Irving and racism among oppressed groups, and we talk about what we think will happen in 2023.We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Chris and Jesse are joined by one of their favorite guests, the former city councilor for District 4, Kara Joy McKee. They discuss the lessons learned from her time in office, her memories of the constituents who cared the loudest at her, and the difference between being nice and being kind.We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Chris and Jesse are joined by the executive director of Techlahoma Emily Harden. They try to answer the question of what even is a Tech job these days, will AI ever make good websites, and how a D&D Dr. Who campaign would be amazing. They also talk about what Techlahoma does.Go support Techlahoma on their website, https://www.techlahoma.org/We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com

Chris and Jesse are very excited to be joined by Kian Kamas, executive director of Partner Tulsa. We discuss the vast benefits of the merging of all of the entities that are now Partner Tulsa, how to do development with community input and a whole parking lot worth of talk about parking, the economic issues about parking lots versus parking garages and all of your parking questions.We also want to recognize Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, as they are the newest corporate partners with Rant9 Productions. We look forward to continuing our podcast network with their support, and we appreciate their efforts in creating a unique and necessary community service in estate planning today. Learn more about Tallgrass Estate Planning LLP, check out www.tallgrassestateplanning.com or check out their Facebook, www.facebook.com/tallgrassestateplanning.Please subscribe to Pod4Good wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re not sure where, check out www.Pod4Good.com