Dr. Moody talks with a familiar guest of the podcast, Ms. Joni Hendee, Director of Marketing & Public Relations at the Dumas Wesley Community Center (DWCC). Ms. Hendee once again discusses the continuing efforts of community engagement offered by DWCC, such as their Transitional Housing programs, After School Achievement program, The Joseph Project Community Food Pantry, and the 50th Anniversary of their Annual Toy Store, which provides eligible families the opportunity to purchase new toys at a fraction of the cost during the holiday season—exemplifying their “hand up versus hand out” philosophy of community engagement. Whether you wish to make donations or volunteer your time towards any of the numerous programs offered by DWCC, you can reach them at the following address, 126 Mobile Street, Mobile, AL 36607; by phone at 251-479-0649; or through their website at dumaswesley.org.

Dr. Moody talks with Mr. Todd Shriver, teacher and instructional coach at North White Middle-High School in Monon, Indiana. Mr. Shriver is the current Director of the North White Guest Speakers program, which was originally formed to bring “icons of the 80s” into the classroom, but has grown to include historical figures, various plebeian elite, and contemporary artists to directly mentor and counsel students. Todd’s optimistic tale is a product of his personal and academic interests in 80’s history and the sincere role he plays in teaching his students about being resilient in the classroom, as well as life. Also joining the conversation are North White Middle-High School’s Band Director and Assistant Band Director, Mr. Leander Hoover and Mr. Brian Malone, respectively.

Dr. Moody talks with Mary Judd, co-founder and Honorary Director of SongwritingWith: Soldiers (SW:S), a non-profit organization that uses collaborative songwriting as a catalyst for positive change by offering veteran participants a unique way to tell their stories, rebuild trust, release pain, and forge new bonds. Mary’s optimistic tale is reflected in her personal mission to connect professional songwriters with military veterans to build Creativity, Connections and Strengths. Also joining the conversation are two U.S. Air Force veteran participants of the SW:S Retreat program: AnnMarie Halterman, co-founder of the non-profit organization, unitingus.org and co-writer of the song, Square Wheels; and Richard Erikson (BGen, retired), co-writer of the song, Born to Bless the Fallen—both songs were written and performed during participation in an SW:S weekend retreat session. DISCLAIMER: This episode contains discussion of suicide and combat related situations; please take care when listening. If you’re struggling, help is available, 24/7, by calling or texting 988.