Big Huntsville Podcast

🚀 In this heartwarming episode of the Big Huntsville Podcast, host Carl Thomas sits down with Fran Fluhler, the beloved Director of Manna House, a volunteer-led food distribution program serving thousands across Huntsville. Under her leadership, Manna House has become more than a food pantry. Fran shares her incredible journey of faith, community, and purpose — from leading hundreds of volunteers to running a hydroponic lettuce garden that feeds thousands. Hear her inspiring message about finding purpose through service, the beauty of diversity in volunteering, and how small acts of kindness can change an entire city.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest: 🏡 Fran Fluhler – Director of Manna HouseFran Fluhler is the founder of Manna House, a Huntsville nonprofit dedicated to feeding and supporting those in need. What began as a small act of kindness grew into a vital community resource, serving thousands each week. Through Manna House, she has created a place of generosity, dignity, and hope for all.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ The story and mission behind Manna House

✔️ How volunteers of all ages and backgrounds come together to serve

✔️ The impact of faith and compassion in leadership

✔️ How the hydroponic garden produces thousands of fresh heads of lettuce each month

✔️ The simple act of saying “yes” to service — and how it transforms lives

🎵 Whether you’re a Huntsville native or new to the community, this episode will inspire you to say “yes” to service and find purpose through giving.

💼 Connect with Fran Fluhler:

🌐 Website → https://www.mymannahouse.com/

📸 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/mymannahouse

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas – The Big Huntsville Podcast:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

🚀 In this episode of The Big Huntsville Podcast, host Carl Thomas sits down with Pastor Meghan Watson, Lead Care Pastor at Refuge Church and Campus Pastor at the Refuge Hope Campus located at First Stop in Huntsville. Meghan shares her journey from licensed social worker to pastor, and how her work brings holistic care—spiritual, emotional, and physical—to Huntsville’s homeless community. Learn how hope, collaboration, and service are transforming lives across the city.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest: 🏡 Meghan Watson – Lead Care Pastor at Refuge Church & Campus Pastor at Refuge Hope CampusMeghan Watson is the Connections & Care Pastor at Refuge Church, where she helps people connect with the church family and oversees care ministries. She holds a B.S. in Social Work from the University of Alabama and has over ten years of nonprofit experience in mental health, foster care, hospice care, and leadership. A Licensed Medical Social Worker, she has also served on several local and state boards. Meghan has been part of Refuge Church for five years and enjoys time with her family, friends, and church community.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ How Refuge Church integrates social work and ministry to serve the community

✔️ Why Hope Campus was launched at First Stop to reach Huntsville’s homeless

✔️ The importance of holistic care: physical, emotional, and spiritual needs

✔️ Common misconceptions about homelessness—and how to help effectively

✔️ Opportunities for volunteering and partnering with Refuge & First Stop

🎵 Whether you’re a Huntsville local, a community leader, or simply passionate about service, this episode offers powerful insights into faith-driven outreach.

💼 Connect with Pastor Meghan Watson & Refuge Church:

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-watson-bsw-lbsw-88078891/

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas – The Big Huntsville Podcast:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

🚀 In this episode of The Big Huntsville Podcast, host Carl Thomas welcomes Davina Patterson, Executive Director of the Disability Resource Network. Davina shares her journey from a 20-year career in healthcare to leading a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities. From the history of the Independent Living Movement to modern challenges in disability rights, Davina highlights the importance of inclusion, advocacy, and access to resources.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest: 🏡 Davina Patterson – Executive Director, Disability Resource Network

Davina Patterson is a dedicated advocate and community leader with the Huntsville Disability Network, where she works to empower individuals with disabilities through access to resources, support services, and inclusive opportunities. Based in Huntsville, Alabama, Davina brings a strong commitment to accessibility and equity, helping bridge gaps between local agencies and the people they serve.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ The mission and services of the Disability Resource Network

✔️ The history of Centers for Independent Living and the Independent Living Movement

✔️ Key disability rights milestones like the ADA and Rehab Act

✔️ The importance of accessibility, inclusion, and advocacy

✔️ How the upcoming State of Disability event with Maria Town will impact the community

🎵 Whether you’re a caregiver, advocate, or community leader, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

💼 Connect with Davina Patterson & DRN:

🌐 Website → https://www.drn256.org/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/davina.welborn/

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas – The Big Huntsville Podcast:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

🚀 In this episode of The Big Huntsville Podcast, Carl Thomas sits down with Dr. Tiffany Schwasinger-Schmidt, a leading force behind Huntsville's medical education and clinical research advancement. As a faculty member at UAB’s Huntsville Regional Medical Campus, she shares how her team is training future doctors, expanding access to healthcare, and launching community-driven clinical trials—particularly in mental health. This is a must-watch for anyone curious about Huntsville’s growing healthcare landscape.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest:

🏡 Dr. Tiffany Schwasinger-Schmidt – UAB Faculty, Physician & Clinical Research Leader

Dr. Tiffany Schwasinger-Schmidt, MD, PhD, FACP is a key figure in North Alabama’s healthcare evolution. As a faculty member at UAB Heersink School of Medicine’s Huntsville Regional Medical Campus, she mentors medical students and residents, expanding access to internal medicine training. Her work ensures Huntsville’s healthcare system keeps up with the city’s growth—by training the very doctors who will serve it.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ How UAB trains future doctors to serve Huntsville’s growing population

✔️ The value of local clinical trials and how the public can participate

✔️ Addressing mental health gaps through research and care

✔️ Why community engagement is vital to medical education

✔️ The impact of clinical trials on individuals and future generations

🎵 Whether you're a local resident, aspiring doctor, or just curious about Huntsville’s growth—this episode is for you!

💼 Connect with Dr. Tiffany Schwasinger-Schmidt:

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-schwasinger-00ba002a9/

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas – The Big Huntsville Podcast:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

🚀 In this heartfelt episode of The Big Huntsville Podcast, host Carl Thomas sits down with Sarita Edwards, founder and CEO of The E.WE Foundation. What began as a personal journey through grief and advocacy for her son Elijah, who was born with Trisomy 18, has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit supporting families navigating rare diseases. Sarita shares how her family’s experience shaped a mission that now reaches into education, healthcare policy, and grassroots support for families across the country.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest: 🏡 Sarita Edwards 

Sarita Edwards, MHA is the President and Chief Executive Officer of The E.WE Foundation, a nonprofit based in Huntsville, Alabama, dedicated to supporting families impacted by Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome) and other rare diseases. With over twenty years of experience in health systems leadership, she holds a Master’s in Healthcare Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, and national certification as a Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor. A licensed minister and award-winning advocate, Sarita is recognized globally as a patient expert, serves on multiple executive advisory boards and coalitions related to healthcare and rare disease policy, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Health Sciences.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ What Trisomy 18 is—and how Sarita’s family faced the diagnosis

✔️ Why advocacy in the healthcare system starts with asking questions

✔️ How families can become empowered, not overwhelmed

✔️ The power of grassroots organizing in changing policy and care

✔️ How grief became a platform for creating systemic impact

🎵 Whether you're a parent, professional, or policy advocate—this episode delivers compassion, clarity, and a call to action.

💼 Connect with Sarita Edwards & The E.WE Foundation:

🌐 Website → https://theewefoundation.org/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/saritakedwards

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas – The Big Huntsville Podcast:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this Big Huntsville podcast episode, Kemsley Wilton, Middle Gifts Officer at the Downtown Rescue Mission, shares how donations between $1,000–$5,000 support shelter, food, and recovery programs for the homeless. He emphasizes community involvement, the mission’s values of hope and dignity, and stories of transformation. Kemsley Wilton also reflects on gratitude and the mission’s impact.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest:

🏡 Kemsley Wilton – Realtor, Creative Marketer, and Industry Trailblazer

Kemsley Wilton serves as the Middle Gifts Officer at the Huntsville Downtown Rescue Mission, where her passion for community impact and heart for service shine through in everything she does. Known for her compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the Mission’s values, Kemsley plays a vital role in building meaningful relationships with donors and supporters — helping connect generosity with life-changing impact.

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Kemsley was personally chosen by the board to represent the spirit of the organization, a testament to the deep respect she has earned from both leadership and the community. She embodies the Mission’s core values of hope, dignity, and restoration, serving not only as a team member but as a heartfelt ambassador for those the organization supports. She continues to inspire others through her work, carrying forward the Mission’s legacy of compassion and service in Huntsville and beyond.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ How to build trust through authentic storytelling

✔️ The power of niche branding and media exposure

✔️ Kemsley’s approach to personal and professional growth

✔️ Mindset lessons from early challenges

✔️ Tips for agents starting in competitive markets

📇 Connect with Kemsley Wilton:

🌐 Website → https://www.downtownrescuemission.org/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemsley-wilton-67ba0b305/

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas – The Big Huntsville Podcast:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode of The Big Huntsville Podcast, host Carl Thomas talks to Susan McDougal about her incredible work in the community, from running the Alabama State and Madison County Spelling Bees to owning a travel advisory business. Susan shares her passion for supporting students, helping children excel through educational programs, and giving back to the community through her involvement with the Kiwanis Club of Huntsville.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest: 🏡 Susan McDougal – Nonprofit Leader, Community Advocate, Travel Consultant

Susan McDougal is a dedicated nonprofit leader and community advocate based in Huntsville, Alabama. She serves as the Executive Director of both the Alabama State Spelling Bee and the Madison County Spelling Bee, programs affiliated with the Scripps National Spelling Bee and sponsored by the Alabama Kiwanis Foundation. 

A past president and current board member of the Kiwanis Club of Huntsville, McDougal has been instrumental in expanding the reach of the Alabama Spelling Bee program. Under her leadership, more than 750 schools across the state have registered for participation, with many local Kiwanis clubs providing support through funding, volunteerism, and event coordination.

Beyond her work with spelling bees, McDougal owns and operates Suzqz Travels, a travel advisory business that also supports community initiatives. Her commitment to education and community service continues to inspire and impact countless young individuals across the state.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ How the Alabama Spelling Bee program impacts students' futures

✔️ The role of the Kiwanis Club in supporting youth programs

✔️ How to get involved in the community and support local initiatives

✔️ Insights into the travel advisory business and providing unique experiences

✔️ The importance of giving back to create long-lasting change

📇 Connect with Susan McDougal:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/SuzqzTravels

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-thomas-mcdougal

🌐 Website → https://www.suzqztravels.com/

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas – The Big Huntsville Podcast:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells
⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode of The Huntsville Podcast, host Carl Thomas interviews Dr. Kevin Dieckilman about the rich history and future significance of Israel. Dr. Kevin shares his personal journey, from leading tours in Israel to uncovering archaeological artifacts that validate biblical history. They discuss Israel's cultural, spiritual, and political impact on the world and explore ways to support and understand the nation.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest: 🏡 Dr. Kevin Dieckilman – Archaeologist, Tour Guide, Ministry Leader

Dr. Kevin Dieckilman is a pastor, archaeologist, and educator dedicated to exploring biblical history. He is the founder of Imagine Ministries and CEO of One Heart for Israel, where he leads immersive tours and educational experiences that connect people to the Scriptures through archaeology and firsthand exploration of the Holy Land.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ The importance of Israel in biblical and modern history

✔️ Archaeological discoveries that support scripture

✔️ Israel’s role in global politics and technology

✔️ How to experience Israel through virtual tours

✔️ Why supporting Israel matters

📇 Connect with Dr. Kevin Dieckilman:

🌐 Website → http://oneheartforisrael.com

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/kevin.dieckilman.5/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/dieckilman/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-dieckilman-ph-d-90172412/

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas – The Huntsville Podcast:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells

📺 YouTube → The Huntsville Podcast

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode of The Big Huntsville Podcast, host Daniel welcomes Raven Perry Beach, a dedicated attorney, kidney donor, and passionate community advocate. Raven shares her incredible journey from founding Beach Law Practice to becoming a living kidney donor for her brother. As the 2025 Alabama Kidney Walk honorary patient chair, Raven is committed to raising awareness about kidney disease and supporting those in need. She also highlights her role as the 2023 Female Entrepreneur of the Year and discusses her work in supporting veterans and those in need through her legal expertise. Raven’s heart for service and advocacy makes her a true inspiration.

🎧 Hosted by: Daniel

👤 Guest: Raven Perry Beach – Founder of Beach Law Practice

Raven Perry-Beach, Esq. is a dedicated attorney, kidney donor, and founder of The Beach Law Firm. In 2025, she was appointed as the Huntsville Kidney Patient Chair by the Alabama Kidney Foundation (AKF), coinciding with the organization's 50th anniversary. 

Her personal journey as a living kidney donor has fueled her commitment to kidney health advocacy. Through her leadership, she aims to enhance support for kidney patients and raise awareness about kidney disease. 

Perry-Beach's unique blend of legal expertise and personal experience positions her as a passionate advocate for kidney health in Alabama

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ The difference between active and passive income in real estate

✔️ How Raven became a living kidney donor and the impact it has had on her life

✔️ How to get involved with the Alabama Kidney Walk and support kidney disease awareness

✔️ Why supporting your community with pro bono work is essential for creating positive change

✔️ Raven’s personal journey of overcoming challenges to become a leader in Huntsville’s legal and social community

✔️ How Raven helps veterans through specialized legal support

🎬 Tune in to hear how Raven's passion for law and service has transformed lives in Huntsville.

🎧 Don't forget to follow Raven’s work at Beach Law Practice and stay tuned for her regular legal advice column in Speaking Out News.

📇 Connect with Raven Perry-Beach

🌎 Website → https://www.beachlawpractice.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/LawOfficeOfRavenPerryBeach/🔗 LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/raven-perry-beach-0b787926/

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells
💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate

In this episode of the Big Huntsville Podcast, host Carl Thomas talks with Brad Davis, an Army veteran from Huntsville, Alabama, who courageously shares his personal journey navigating PTSD, depression, and suicidal ideation. Brad opens up about the realities many veterans face, the power of community support, and how golf and organizations like PGA Hope have helped him find healing and purpose. He also discusses his mission to raise awareness and help other veterans through advocacy and connection. This inspiring conversation sheds light on mental health, resilience, and the strength found in shared experiences.

🎧 Hosted by: Carl Thomas

👤 Guest: Brad Davis – Army Veteran, Mental Health Advocate, PGA Hope Participant

Brad Davis is an Army veteran from Huntsville, Alabama, who has been open about his struggles with PTSD, depression, and suicidal ideation. As an advocate, he uses his experiences to help others. Brad believes strongly in the power of community support and credits golf, along with organizations like PGA HOPE, for helping him find purpose and healing.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ The realities of living with PTSD and depression as a veteran

✔️ How community and activities like golf aid in healing

✔️ The importance of suicide awareness and how to support veterans

✔️ How trauma rewires the brain and impacts mental health

✔️ Brad’s personal journey from struggle to advocacy and hope

🎬 Whether you're a veteran, family member, or simply interested in mental health and community healing, this episode offers valuable insights on resilience and the power of connection — tune in and be inspired!

📇 Connect with Brad Davis

🌎 Email → [email protected]

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/brad.davis.14661

🎙 Follow Carl Thomas

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/people/Carl-Thomas/100078056746511/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/carl_thomas_huntsville/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-thomas-sells

💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate