Keeping It Real with Sharon

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On this episode, Lavenda Denney and I share heartwarming "tails" about pets and their personalities. Lavenda is the Executive Director of the SPCA of Winchester, Frederick & Clarke Counties where she is "On a Mission for pets and people."  Listen as she shares how the many animals that come through the doors of the SPCA, enrich the lives of so many people. Her stories will inspire you!

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The COO of ERA OakCrest, Jason Vickers, sits down with me to have a heart to heart about growing up in a family business.  From his young years of sweeping the floors to help his dad, to having a corner office with a view, Jason shares heartwarming stories of being raised by an entrepreneur with a focus on improving the community.  Learn about the history of OakCrest and the vision for the future in this podcast while learning more about Jason and his infectious personality along the way!  He will keep you entertained as he shares his story!

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From the eyes, and hearts, of 5 High School Seniors (known by others as The Senior 5) you will learn the impact a world pandemic has had on their lives and how a beautiful friendship was formed. Elena Farinholt, Isabella Newman, Lauren Beatty, Liam McDonald, and Nathaniel Woshner share how COVID 19 brought them together when the world around them seemed to be falling apart. And how their love for running turned a negative situation into a positive outlook on life. You won't want to miss this heartwarming and candid conversation from the eyes of High School Seniors.

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From a secure job as an engineer, to opening a small retail business, learn how local running legend, Mark Stickley quit his job at an engineering firm to turn his passion for running into a successful small business.  Twenty years later, his store on the Winchester Old Town Mall, Runners’ Retreat, is a staple in the community. Hear how Mark’s involvement and dedication to the community as a coach, Race Director, and business owner has evolved and how he plans to celebrate the upcoming 20th anniversary of his store.

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Andy Gail's enthusiasm for life, and our community is contagious in this episode of Keeping it Real.  Andy is passionate about his position as the Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers and shares how he and his team collaborate with businesses and organizations in an innovated way. Listen as Andy proves by being your best self in all areas of your life, your community benefits as a whole.

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Meet Justin Kerns, Executive Director at Winchester/Frederick County Convention & Visitors Bureau.  Justin shares insight on how partnering with  state and local elected officials, the City of Winchester and Frederick County work with Justin and the local CVB to create a destination plan that entices tourists to visit our local area.  Want to know more about this great community?  Listen here to learn more about some of the unique and original experiences this area has to offer. 

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A mother to 7 kids, an entrepreneur,  a community advocate, and a cancer survivor.  Jill Edlich managed to continue to grow her business and started a community outreach all while fighting breast cancer. Jill regained control of her life by focusing on things she wanted to accomplish in life and moved forward with her mission with perserverance and determination. Her story is sure to inspire you.

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As a business works to improve and grow, setting goals and creating strategies is one way to measure success. Kevin McKannan,  Managing Attorney with Glenloch Legal, discusses how having a business plan is an important strategic tool for entrepreneurs to plan for success. Kevin walks us through the reasons why a business plan and strategy can be the difference between a successful business and one that struggles to succeed.

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Join me as I sit with Sherry Hudson,  Senior Director, Institutional Advancement at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley.  Sherry raises awareness of the impact a museum has on a community by expanding awareness of cultures and ways of life. Sherry enthusiastically shares how a museum can challenge us to see life through a different lens.  This is an informative discussion about the importance and connections a museum and community share as well as information on the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley!  You will get to know Sherry Hudson as she not only shares her passion for her job, but her enthusiasm for life itself!

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Becky McGraw, Aging in Place Coordinator at Blue Ridge Habitat for Humanity, discusses the challenges that come with aging and home ownership and ways to overcome some of these challenges. Becky and the team at Blue Ridge Habitat for Humanity understand the growing concern facing the aging population and designed programs and resources to help them stay home longer.
Becky shares her inspirational health journey during our discussion and how she has challenged herself to stay true to herself throughout this journey.