Conversations With Carole

What turns political frustration into meaningful action? How can we inspire younger generations to participate? And what does it really take to bring an issue before voters?

Join me for an energetic and revealing conversation with Celia Canavan, Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of Massachusetts. This passionate Gen Z leader brings personal stories, practical insights, and a powerful sense of possibility to our discussion about voting, leadership, and community engagement.

Celia shares how her grandmother’s public service, her parents’ community involvement, and a college internship helped shape her path into leadership. We explore the League’s mission, how it combines nonpartisanship with issue advocacy, and why civic participation matters long after Election Day.

We also discuss the Massachusetts ballot questions receiving the League’s attention and the demanding journey from a proposed idea to a question before voters.

Along the way, you will discover how a Cape Cod coffee shop strengthened Celia’s belief in humanity and why joy belongs in the conversation about creating change.

This is a conversation to watch, share, and discuss across generations. Whether you are a longtime voter or preparing to cast your first ballot, pull up a chair and join us!

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RESOURCES:

❤️EPISODE #63: THE NINE BALLOT QUESTIONS EXPLAINED

BUZZSPROUT LINK AUDIO

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2250440/episodes/20006759

YOUTUBE LINK VIDEO

https://youtu.be/T_6kDcFubwc

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❤️WHERE DO I VOTE IN MASSACHUSETTS?

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/WhereDoIVoteMA/WhereDoIVote/

❤️ELECTIONS AND VOTING IN MASSACHUSETTS (HOME PAGE TO ALL THINGS VOTING IN MASS)

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/elesplash.htm

❤️CHECK YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx

 ❤️NATIONAL WEBSITE ABOUT VOTING ACROSS THE US

https://www.vote411.org/

❤️ALL ELECTION OFFICES IN MASSACHUSETTS

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/voter-resources/find-my-local-election-office.htm

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You recognize the candidates. But how prepared are you for the ballot questions?

This week on Conversations with Carole, I tackle the nine Massachusetts ballot questions, breaking down complicated language into explanations you can follow and use.

What would change with a YES vote? What would stay the same with a NO vote? And why do you need to read each question carefully before making your choice?

From government transparency and public defender union rights to elections, taxes, conservation, housing, recreational marijuana, and firearms regulations, we cover the issues one question at a time. I explain the proposals and discuss arguments from supporters and opponents so you can consider each decision for yourself.

My purpose is simple: help you understand what you are being asked to decide so you can make your own informed choices. Bring your questions. Pause the episode. Replay the sections you want to hear again. Then share this conversation with someone who could use a clearer explanation.

Watch or listen to this week’s Conversations with Carole and give yourself time to understand the questions before you cast your ballot.

Your voice matters. Your understanding matters, too.

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❤️NINE BALLOT QUESTIONS EXPLAINED

https://commonwealthbeacon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/cwb-ballot-guide-final-web.pdf

❤️WHERE DO I VOTE IN MASSACHUSETTS?

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/WhereDoIVoteMA/WhereDoIVote/

❤️ELECTIONS AND VOTING IN MASSACHUSETTS (HOME PAGE TO ALL THINGS VOTING IN MASS)

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/elesplash.htm

❤️CHECK YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx

 ❤️NATIONAL WEBSITE ABOUT VOTING ACROSS THE US

https://www.vote411.org/

❤️ALL ELECTION OFFICES IN MASSACHUSETTS

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/voter-resources/find-my-local-election-office.htm

LEADERSHIP HAS NO RETIREMENT DATE!

What happens when a remarkable executive retires but her commitment to making a difference keeps growing?

Meet Marilyn Anderson Chase, my featured guest on Episode #62 of Conversations with Carole!

Marilyn is a longtime friend whose leadership I deeply admire. Her extraordinary career includes serving as Massachusetts Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services, a senior executive at United Way of Massachusetts Bay, and an executive director in the nonprofit sector.

In our spirited conversation, we explore the experiences, relationships, and sense of purpose that shaped her decades of service. From her Detroit roots to her involvement in Boston during the turbulent school desegregation era, Marilyn shares a powerful perspective on leadership, community, and embracing life’s unexpected turns.

And she is still moving forward! Today, Marilyn is helping lead the Legacy Campaign at Bethel AME Church in Boston. She also shares an exciting preview of the October 24, 2026 Women’s Conference, “Embracing Every Season of You,” at Simmons University.

With keynote speaker Rev. Dr. Thema Bryant, workshops, and opportunities for connection across generations, the conference invites women to pause, rediscover themselves, and grow.

You will also discover the personal dream Marilyn recently began pursuing. Here is a hint: it involves piano keys!

Join us for a warm, engaging conversation about serving others while continuing to make room for your own next chapter.

Learn more about the October 24, 2026 Women’s Conference at www.bethelame.org.

What happens when the child who once attended summer camp returns to help lead the organization that shaped her life?

This week on Conversations with Carole, I welcome my longtime friend Veronica Williams, a financial analyst by day and a passionate community advocate beyond her professional role. As Co Chair of the Board of Directors for Lena Park Community Development Corporation in Boston, Veronica is helping shape the next chapter of an organization close to both our hearts.

Our conversation explores the difference between your career and your calling, the leadership lessons she learned through the AME Church, and the lasting impact of a place where young people found friendship, encouragement, and a safe haven.

Now, Lena Park is looking ahead, and an important leadership opportunity takes center stage.

The organization is searching for its next Executive Director. Veronica shares her vision for a leader who understands the community, thinks strategically, builds strong partnerships, and helps advance Lena Park’s work in affordable housing and community programming.

Could that leader be you or someone you know?

We also discuss her hopes for stronger youth programs, meaningful connections with older residents, and a future that brings people together across generations.

Join us for a warm, inspiring conversation about giving back, stepping into leadership, and investing in the community that helped you grow.

Explore Lena Park and its Executive Director opportunity at www.lenaparkcdc.org.

RESUMES ARE DUE BY OCTOBER 10, 2026

Please share this episode with someone who cares about community leadership. You could help connect Lena Park with its next Executive Director!

Conversations with Carole is back in action, and this week’s episode is one you will not want to miss.

My guest is Linda Turnbull, a remarkable business leader, human resources professional, entrepreneur, woman of faith, and community advocate.

Together with her husband, Clayton, Linda owns and operates 30 Dunkin locations in Boston, Quincy, and Logan Airport, along with a manufacturing facility in Roxbury. Their organization has grown from one location to a thriving enterprise employing approximately 500 people.

Linda takes us behind the scenes of that extraordinary journey. She shares the grit, commitment, teamwork, and strong people practices required to build and sustain a successful business. She also explains why every entrepreneur and business owner should include a strong human resources strategy in their business plan.

But Linda’s story extends far beyond business success.

She is deeply committed to strengthening the community, developing women, and helping others discover their purpose. During our conversation, Linda introduces two exciting women’s events sponsored by Bethel AME Church in Boston.

The Significant Women’s Weekend takes place September 25 through September 27, 2026. This inspiring experience will celebrate sisterhood, wellness, faith, purpose, and the extraordinary legacy of Rev. Dr. Gloria White Hammond. Activities will include Pearls and Denims, a wellness experience, meditation, a sound bath, meaningful conversations, worship, and opportunities to build new relationships.

The Bethel Women’s Conference will take place October 24, 2026, at Simmons University. The conference will offer women an opportunity to explore healing, personal growth, purpose, networking, and becoming the best version of themselves.

Both events are open to the community. Women of every background are welcome.

As Linda reminds us, women spend so much time caring for their families, careers, churches, businesses, and communities that they do not always make time to care for themselves. These events offer an opportunity to pause, rejuvenate, recalibrate, and move forward with renewed clarity.

Listen to this powerful episode of Conversations with Carole and discover what can happen when business leadership, faith, sisterhood, and community service come together.

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COMPLETE CONFERENCE INFORMATION AT:

www.BethelAME.org/significant

www.BethelAME.org

CONVERSATIONS WITH CAROLE IS BACK!! After pausing in 2025, we're back with exciting new topics and guests!!

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On today's Podcast...

What happens when the business you carefully built suddenly disappears?

That is exactly what happened to entrepreneur, photographer, and branding professional Tiffany Arnold when the COVID pandemic brought the live events industry to a halt.

Before the pandemic, Tiffany had invested in photography equipment, artificial intelligence technology, a custom photo booth, and an innovative business model designed to serve conferences and special events. When the contracts stopped, she was forced to reevaluate everything.

She eventually relocated from California to Amarillo, Texas, rebuilt her photography business, and expanded her services to help entrepreneurs and small business owners improve their branding and marketing.

In this new episode of Conversations with Carole, Tiffany and I discuss the power of professional reinvention, the value of lifelong learning, the realities of running a small business, and the courage required to pivot when circumstances change.

Her story offers an important lesson for every leader and entrepreneur: Reinvention is not a sign that you failed. It is evidence that you were willing to adapt.

Learn more about Tiffany at www.eventstapic.com

or

On Instagram: BrandingAmarillotx

In today’s episode of Conversations With Carole, we explore the power of language and the unintended consequences of everyday words and phrases. What you say may seem harmless, but the impact on others can be lasting, offensive, or dismissive.

Carole breaks down eight common words and phrases that can trigger negative reactions, create distance, or reinforce harmful stereotypes. She explains why these expressions are problematic, shares cultural context, and offers better alternatives that promote respect and inclusion.

The eight words/phrases discussed include:

1. “You people” – why this collective phrase often sounds derogatory.
2. “People of color” – how usage depends on context and confidence.
3. “Colored people” – why this outdated term is unacceptable in the U.S. today.
4. “Articulate” – how it can feel condescending when applied selectively.
5. “Poor communities” – the hidden implications behind labeling.
6. “Safe neighborhood” (or its opposite “crime-ridden”) – the coded language of geography.
7. “Idyllic life” – how this phrase privileges some lifestyles while dismissing others.
8. “Broken home” – why this term can be inaccurate and painful, and what to say instead
   .

Carole draws from history, current events, and personal experience to demonstrate how these words can alienate others—even when not intended. By choosing more accurate and respectful language, we can create conversations that connect rather than divide.

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Discover how Carole can support your organization with keynote speaking, leadership training, and consulting solutions—visit www.carolecopelandthomas.com

In this empowering episode of Conversations With Carole, Carole Copeland Thomas shares her 10 Point Plan for creating the right mindset for a successful school year. Whether you’re a high school student, college learner, adult returning to the classroom, or simply someone looking to reset your approach to learning, these insights will set you on the path to success.

Carole covers strategies like:

• Embracing a clean slate and leaving the past behind
• Securing resources early to avoid mid-semester stress
• Building the discipline of routine study and research
• Using AI wisely without losing your critical thinking
• Finding study buddies and choosing teachers with care
• Avoiding the trap of a negative, self-fulfilling mindset
• Harnessing the power of faith, prayer, and self-belief

This episode is full of practical wisdom and motivational energy to help you or someone you know start the academic year strong.

Share this episode with students in your life—or use these tips yourself as a reminder that every season brings a chance for growth.

Listen now and step into the year with purpose, positivity, and power!

Learn more about Carole's speaking and training services at www.carolecopelandthomas.com

Recorded LIVE in Roxbury, Massachusetts outside of Logan's favorite Boston eatery, Merengue Restaurant,

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In this episode of Conversations with Carole, Carole Copeland Thomas continues her Best and the Brightest series by spotlighting LOGAN BROWN, a rising fourth-year medical student at the University of Michigan.

Originally from Detroit, Logan spent the past year in Boston as a Sarnoff Cardiovascular Research Fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital, conducting groundbreaking work in women’s cardiology under Dr. Emily Lau. As she prepares to return to Ann Arbor to complete her final year of medical school, Logan reflects on the mentors and community she found in Boston, the challenges of preparing for residency applications, and her aspirations to serve diverse communities through medicine.

Logan shares wisdom about perseverance, faith, and believing in one’s purpose—even when the journey feels overwhelming. Beyond medicine, listeners will get a glimpse of her creative side as an avid event planner, her love for the film Best Man Holiday, and her dreams of future travels across Africa, Thailand, and Mexico City.

This inspiring conversation captures the voice of a determined young leader on the brink of a career in medicine. Logan Brown truly represents the best and the brightest.

Key Highlights

• Logan’s research year in Boston at Massachusetts General Hospital
• The upcoming residency application process and the path to Match Day 2026
• How faith and self-belief sustain her journey in medicine
• The importance of representation and diversity in healthcare
• Personal insights: event planning, favorite movies, and global travel goals

Guest: Lilly Marcelin, Founder & Executive Director of the Resilient Sisterhood Project (RSP)
Host: Carole Copeland Thomas
Episode Length: ~43 minutes
Original Air Date: August 5, 2025
Featured Event: Call and Response: Gynecology Art Exhibition
Location: Urban Farming Institute of Boston
Date & Time: Saturday, August 9, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Tickets: $20 | urbanfarminginstitute.org

Episode Summary:

In this powerful episode, Carole Copeland Thomas sits down with Haitian-born activist and visionary leader Lilly Marcelin, founder of the Resilient Sisterhood Project (RSP), to explore the intersection of art, medicine, Black history, and reproductive justice. What begins as a conversation about an upcoming art exhibition evolves into a profound journey through the untold stories of Anarcha, Betsy, and Lucy—three teenage enslaved girls subjected to brutal gynecological experiments in the 1840s by Dr. James Marion Sims, often lauded as the “father of modern gynecology.”

Marcelin shares how her early work with survivors of gender-based violence led her to uncover the silenced reproductive struggles of Black women—both past and present. She recounts the birth of the Resilient Sisterhood Project and its commitment to lifting the veil on generational medical inequities and racism through education, advocacy, and the arts.

The conversation highlights the upcoming Call and Response exhibition, featuring haunting and humanizing portraits by New York-based artist Jules Arthur. With six original paintings of Anarcha, Betsy, and Lucy, the exhibit reclaims their stories and invites attendees to witness history through an unapologetically Black and feminist lens.

This episode is a tribute to resilience, remembrance, and the sacred power of storytelling. Don’t miss it.

Links Mentioned:

• Resilient Sisterhood Project: rsphealth.org
• Urban Farming Institute of Boston: urbanfarminginstitute.org