In this episode of 'Find Your Voice,' we sit down with Mrs. Susan Lyons, a high school science teacher and trombone enthusiast, to explore her journey in both music and education. Susan shares her passion for music, her experience raising funds for new band uniforms, and the unique ways she connects with her students through music and athletics. From small-town roots to her advocacy for music’s role in shaping well-rounded individuals, Susan provides insight into the importance of arts education and the profound impact it has on students. Join us to be inspired by her relentless support for music and hear the heartwarming stories that have endeared her to the Pella community.

00:00 Introduction to Find Your Voice Podcast

00:46 Meet Mrs. Susan Lyons

01:11 Susan's Musical Journey

01:42 Family and Music

03:21 The Importance of Music Education

04:29 Balancing Music and Athletics

06:30 Susan's Involvement with the Band

15:05 The #LetHerMarch Movement

18:43 The Viral Impact of Social Media

20:26 Fundraising for New Uniforms

21:43 The Power of Community Support

23:50 Creating and Editing Videos

25:17 Highlights and Personal Reflections

31:18 Advocating for Music Education

34:22 Gratitude and Final Words

Contact Dr. Mom: [email protected]

FOLLOW

https://www.youtube.com/@dr.mom_music

https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.mom_music?_t=ZT-90BvmviMAhr&_r=1

https://www.instagram.com/dr.mom_music?utm_source=qr&igsh=MXJhZGw4azRxamM4bg==

https://rss.com/podcasts/find-your-voice-with-dr-mom-music

In this episode of “Find Your Voice,” host Dr. Mom sits down with Samantha Robillard from Pella High School. Samantha shares her background in music education, her family's influence, and her experiences as a choir director. She also talks about her mission trips to Kenya and how they've impacted her teaching and personal growth. Listen to Samantha's journey of balancing family, education, and her passion for missions, and hear heartfelt words of gratitude from a former student whose life she has touched.

00:00 Introduction to Find Your Voice Podcast

00:40 Meet Samantha Robilliard

01:49 Samantha's Musical Journey

04:02 Daily Life at Pella High School

06:35 Mission Work in Kenya

15:02 Impact of Mission Work on Teaching

21:37 Reflection

23:46 Pay it Forward and Final Thoughts

Contact Dr. Mom: [email protected]

FOLLOW

https://www.youtube.com/@dr.mom_music

https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.mom_music?_t=ZT-90BvmviMAhr&_r=1

https://www.instagram.com/dr.mom_music?utm_source=qr&igsh=MXJhZGw4azRxamM4bg==

https://rss.com/podcasts/find-your-voice-with-dr-mom-music

In this episode, Dr. Mom Music sits down with Professor Brad Lampe — longtime music educator from Clarke Community Schools in Osceola, Iowa and current Director of Bands at Central College in Pella, Iowa — to explore what it truly means to build community through music.

Brad’s approach to directing isn’t just about perfecting sound or preparing for the next concert. It’s about building relationships, fostering belonging, and creating a space where every student knows they matter.

Together, Dr. Mom Music and “Lampe” discuss how connection fuels musical excellence, how empathy strengthens leadership, and how cultivating a culture of care transforms an ensemble into a family. Enjoy hearing the Central College Symphonic Wind Ensemble under the baton of Professor Brad Lampe performing Central College sophomore Music Education major, Andrew Mahaffey’s work, “Dance of Leprechaun” throughout the podcast (played with permission by the composer).

Contact Dr. Mom: [email protected]

FOLLOW

https://www.youtube.com/@dr.mom_music

https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.mom_music?_t=ZT-90BvmviMAhr&_r=1

https://www.instagram.com/dr.mom_music?utm_source=qr&igsh=MXJhZGw4azRxamM4bg==

https://rss.com/podcasts/find-your-voice-with-dr-mom-music

In this very first episode, host Dr. Sarah Van Waardhuizen—also known as Dr. Mom Music—shares the vision behind Find Your Voice. With over 20 years of experience as a music educator and professor at Central College, Sarah has seen firsthand how powerful voices can be—whether in the classroom, the concert hall, or everyday life.

In this episode, you’ll hear the story behind the podcast, what inspired its name, and what listeners can expect in the weeks ahead. From conversations with music educators and artists, to stories of resilience and creativity, Find Your Voice is a space where music and meaning meet.

Sponsored in part by Dr. Mom Music and Central College.