CASA FM

Welcome to today’s episode! We’re thrilled to have Bob Nelson with us. Bob is the Superintendent of Fresno Unified, California’s third-largest school district, serving over 72,000 students. With a rich career spanning roles from Teacher to Chief of Staff, Bob’s impact on education is profound. Before his current role, he was the Superintendent of Chawanakee Unified School District and served Fresno Unified in various capacities for 23 years.

Bob also brings academic expertise as a former lecturer at Fresno State and a recent doctorate graduate from USC in Organizational Change and Leadership. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob is a dedicated father of seven and a passionate advocate for foster children, children with special needs, and the use of social media in education.

Join us as we dive into Bob’s journey and insights on education and advocacy.

1. Transition to Academia
2. Reflecting on Your Career
3. Learning and Growth
4. Impact on the Community
5. Advice for Aspiring Leaders
6. Why CASA Matters
7. Supporting Foster Youth
8. Community Engagement
9. Personal Connection
10. Future Vision

Tune in today to learn more!

Bob Nelson Personal Podcast:
#MilitantPositivity Podcast

Militant Positivity Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/militantpositivity/ 

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
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LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Join us on the CASA F.A.M. Podcast as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Jené D’Ambrosio, a Fresno native, dedicated leader, and passionate philanthropist. Jené is the President and co-owner of D’Ambrosio Trading Inc., a textile recycling company, and the founder of Full Circle Thrift Inc., a nonprofit supporting disaster relief and domestic violence survivors.

In this episode, we explore:

• Jené's personal background and inspirations: 
• Her journey into the textile recycling industry and the rewarding moments with D’Ambrosio Trading Inc. 
• Personal background and inspirations
• We also delve into her business and community involvement
•  We also discuss her future goals and advice:
  
   

Closing the episode, Jené shares:

• Additional insights about her work, passions, and upcoming projects. 
• Where listeners can find more information about her businesses and the organizations she supports.

Tune in for an engaging and motivational episode that showcases Jené D’Ambrosio’s incredible contributions to her community and beyond. Don't miss it!

Schedule your JustPorchit pick up today and don't forget to select CASA!

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

 In this episode of the CASA F.A.M. Podcast, we delve into the inspiring story of Catrina Owens, a remarkable woman who has overcome immense challenges to find happiness and purpose after her experiences in the foster care system. Join us as Catrina shares her journey of resilience, from facing abuse and instability to becoming a devoted parent and author. Her story highlights the crucial role of support systems like CASA and offers hope and guidance to those navigating similar paths. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation about healing, growth, and the importance of advocacy.

Finding My Happiness Book:
Purchase Now!

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Welcome to the CASA FAM podcast, where we dive into conversations with influential leaders making a difference in our community. In this episode, we're honored to sit down with Darius Assemi, CEO of Granville Homes and founder of the Granville Home of Hope foundation.

Join us as we explore the origins of the Granville Home of Hope and the passion that sparked its establishment. Darius shares the heartfelt story behind its inception and the driving force behind his commitment to giving back to the community.

Discover the significant growth and impactful milestones achieved by the Granville Home of Hope over the years. Darius reflects on the most rewarding moments and memorable stories that highlight the positive outcomes of the foundation's efforts, touching the lives of Valley families.

Gain insights into the founding of Granville Homes and the journey that led Darius to where he is today. Learn about the integration of social responsibility into the business model and how it has shaped the company's culture, fostering a spirit of community involvement and philanthropy.

Explore the crucial role of leadership in driving business success, as Darius shares the principles he prioritizes in his role as CEO and how he empowers his team to excel.

Tune in to the CASA FAM podcast for an inspiring conversation about making a difference and creating a lasting impact in our community.

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

In this episode, we delve into the experiences and insights of individuals who have dedicated their careers to supporting foster youth. Our guest shares their personal journey and what inspired them to work with foster youth, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs they've encountered along the way.

From impactful stories that highlight the resilience of foster youth to strategies for building trust and rapport with those who have experienced trauma, Francisco offers valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of the foster care system.

We explore the role of mentorship in the lives of foster youth and how it can make a profound difference in their journey toward stability and success. Additionally, our guest discusses the unique challenges foster youth face and how their organization provides tailored support to meet their needs and aspirations.

Through success stories and memorable moments, we gain insight into the profound impact of dedicated individuals working with foster youth. Pelayo also addresses common misconceptions about foster youth and offers practical advice for listeners interested in supporting foster youth or getting involved in similar organizations.

Join us as we amplify the voices of those working tirelessly to empower and uplift foster youth, providing hope and inspiration for positive change in our communities.

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Welcome back to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast!

Today we have Chef Robert Ortiz, with 15 years of culinary experience, Roberts's enthusiasm for the culinary arts, and genuine love for creating exceptional dining experiences are inspiring. He is dedicated to delivering high-quality dishes, exploring new flavors, and continually refining his skills.

In today's episode, we will discuss Roberts's journey into and throughout the amazing world of culinary wonders and all things Chef Cook-Off, which will take place on Saturday, March 2nd  from 6-9 pm. If you are interested in attending, donating, sponsoring, or volunteering please go to our events page on the CASAFresnoMadera.org website.

Where You Can Connect With Chef Ortiz:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef_3rds/
YouTuber: https://www.youtube.com/@robertortiziii1077
Linked:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ortiz-iii-ab104879/

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Welcome back to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast. Today we have Mitch Shaw, Court Appointed Special Advocate, Real Estate Agent, and Mental Health Advocate, he serves on various committees and boards that serve the underserved people of our community. 

In today's episode, Mitch highlights what it truly means to be an advocate. Often, we as humans enter a situation wanting to come in and fix it immediately. However, reality sits and often shows us that when coming into someone else’s world it’s beneficial to enter from the perspective of their lens. Keeping in mind people only know what they have been taught. Offering grace and meeting people where they are and not where you want them to be is crucial when entering the lives of a child in foster care. Respect needs to be earned when working with someone who has experienced a constant revolving door of people coming in and out of their lives. This breeds trust issues for any human because you are forced to constantly regulate when the next person you get close with will leave. 

Diving deep into inner child healing and the realization of knowing that anyone could have been placed in these circumstances, even you. As a man, Mitch gives his perspective on the benefits of volunteering and giving back to something greater than oneself. This episode is for anyone who wants to be inspired to do something great, to learn patience, and acceptance, and to learn more about themselves than they ever could imagine. Tune in today to learn more!

Where can you connect with Mitch?
Email: [email protected]

KW website: www.mshaw.kw.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MitchShawKWRealtor

Instagram: @mitchshawrealtor

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mitchell-shaw-36b59b227/

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” 

Welcome back to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast today we have Debra Rush, Co-Founder / Chief Executive Officer of Breaking the Chains, Breaking the Chains provides long-term residential and non-residential trauma treatment to victims of human trafficking. She is also an alcohol and drug counselor, Certified Trauma Professional and recently published author.

In today's episode, Debra shares her story and the reality of the emotional trauma one carries after surviving human trafficking. She shares important information and key tips to help better navigate the manipulating world of HT. Debra discusses the reality of the world we live in today. Many parents are quick to hold their child’s hands when crossing the street but often forget about one of the most dangerous highways of all, the Internet superhighway.


This episode is here to remind people of the dangerous world we live in, to remind people to be cautious and aware of what is happening around them. While at the same time reminding people of the glimmer of hope we all have inside us, that gives us the strength to not give up.

Connect with Debra:
Website
Instagram
Contact

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

In Today’s episode we have special guest Julie McGue, she is an author, a domestic adoptee, and an identical twin. She writes extensively about finding out who you are, where you belong, and making sense of it. 

We Dive deep into the concept of identity, shame, and rejection. Discussing how we are constantly searching for answers to the uncertainties we have as humans. However, patience and persistence are key, Julie touches on being adopted at birth with her identical twin sister. The uncertainty and romanticized idea of who her birth parents were and their reasoning for adoption was something she struggled with most of her life.

Not having the answers, she longed for and trying to put the pieces together was difficult for Julie, however, due to her continuous grit, she did not give up. She shares her story of a routine check-up that would change the course of her life forever and lead her down the path to finding the answers she had always wanted.         


This would later inspire her to write two published books and one on the way in which she focuses on the topics of identity, belonging, and family. This episode is for anyone searching to take back their power, discover who they are and understand that love can come in many forms, the first starting with yourself. The Holidays are here, to anyone reading this who feels alone, we are here for you. May this podcast bring you clarity and determination to never give up and to realize that you are more than the labels society has placed on you. You are enough!

Where you can connect with Julie:

Email: [email protected]

Author website: www.juliemcgueauthor.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/juliemcguewrites 

Twitter: @juliermcgue

Instagram: @julieryanmcgue

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/julie-mcgue-a246b841

Upcoming CASA Events:
CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties is partnering with Quail State for a proceeds donation opportunity on Thursday, December 14th from 5-11 pm. Quail State Downtown Fresno’s first and only rooftop bar will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the selected craft cocktails that will be custom-made specifically for the event. As Fresno’s first and only rooftop bar, this fun-filled night will ring in the holidays with amazing drinks and giving.

Located in: Pacific Southwest Building
Address: 1060 Fulton Mall, Fresno, CA 93721
Date: Thursday, December 14th, 2023
Time: 5:00 - 11:00 PM

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Today we have a very special guest, Founder, Meditation & Wellness Coach at Take 5, LLC,  Holistic Health & Workplace Wellbeing Mentor and Mindful Wine Tasting Guide; Maria Mayes.

She is a certified health/wellness coach, mentor, and meditation teacher with a track record of creating positive transformations in the lives of executive-level leaders and diverse corporate workforces. With a strong focus on developing and executing enterprise wellness programs and events, she is dedicated to delivering optimal wellness and work-life outcomes.

We discuss wholeness, Take 5 and Mental Wellness in the workplace. Touching on topics of meditation and how your breath is an amazing tool to help control your mind. 

Maria gives tips and tricks from her own journey that can help you find stillness within all the noise. From anxiety and stress to joy and prioritizing what needs your time right now. This episode is for anyone searching to cultivate their inner peace and don’t know where to begin.

Tune in to learn more!

You can find Maria at:

Instagram: @take5health

Newsletter: https://take5.myflodesk.com/24be8ac8-9f63-4d1b-b0a9-2c8732df305d 

Insight Timer: https://insighttimer.com/mariamayes/guided-meditations/for-times-of-heaviness 

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chakras-chardonnay/id1680089499 

Website: https://my.marvelouspages.com/take5/4-month-transformational-coaching-package 

Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree
Instagram: @casafresno_madera
Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera

Call/Text: 988
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.