I'm so delighted to have Miss Oregon 2021 Abigail Hayes on this week's episode of "Life Inspired. Abigail is more than just a pretty face, she has a passion for today's youth and is preparing to compete in the Miss America 2022 Competition December 16th, where she will share her platform with the world. She plans to study law and follow in her older brother's footsteps. And I have a feeling, she will accomplish that and so much more. Let's take a peek at what the journey has been like for Abigail so far, as she walks out her dream of becoming the next Miss America.   Wishing her all the best.  

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It's the beginning of the holiday season and one of the things that happens around town that is a perfect reminder of the reason for the season is the Salvation Army Red Kettle Kick Off. The Red Kettle Kick Off marks the beginning of the ringing of the bells to raise money for children's programs throughout the year. My guest today is Major Bob Lloyd from the Cascade Division of the Salvation Army to share more about the event and how you can be a part of something special this holiday season. 

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In this episode of "Life Inspired" Crystal Thornton interviews the creator of  "Word is Bond" along with some other special guests.  The program began in the summer of 2017 with the Rising Leaders summer internship program. The Rising Leaders program brings together a cohort of Black youth and a cohort of law enforcement officers to listen, learn and communicate through guided dialogue and engagement. Word is Bond's goal is to empower young Black man and create space for dialogue with law enforcement officers.

 Word is Bond serves young Black men ages 16-21 in the Portland metro area and has two programs: Rising Leaders, our paid summer internship, and Word Up, our school year leadership program. 

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A really hairy man came into the studio to discuss home improvement. Turns out it was Eric G from "Around the House with Eric G," national radio host. We talk about everything from his new co-host to making the dream bathroom and everything in between.  Sit back and start thinking about your curb appeal. #GetExcited

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In this episode of Life Inspired, Crystal speaks with Major Bob and Major Nancy of the Cascade Division of the Salvation Army. The Army will be hosting this year's "All About Kids," fundraising event, virtually. You are invited to attend online June 16, 2021 to help fund children's programs throughout the year. Hear about how the Salvation Army is doing the most good in Oregon and Idaho!

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Join Crystal Thornton, Georgene Rice and Kat Taylor as they chat all things Thanksgiving!  Favorite foods and traditions, but also how this year has made us realize even more the things we have to be grateful for.  

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Join Summer Shore and special guest Brooke Storms, a local mom who found purpose, even in the middle of a difficult season of unexpected health problems. Hear how she has made it her habit to choose positivity and how she has anchored herself in faith and hope. If you are going through a tough time, you'll be encouraged by Brooke's story and her joyful outlook on life. 

Connect with Brooke on Facebook or Instagram

Get a daily dose of cute at 4 Storms Farm on Facebook or Instagram

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In this episode of the Life Inspired Podcast, Crystal Thornton talks with the team that is in charge of her own son’s education and what they are doing with faith based education during the pandemic and the social change happening here in Portland. Hear about some of the great educators hard at work for our kids. 

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Get to know Hope Darst! We talk about the story behind her song "Peace Be Still" and how this song of healing and peace has come to mean so much to so many right now. Hope is a wife and mom of two young girls and we chat about the struggle of working from home while also trying to be present for our kids. We also get to hear the heart behind her upcoming album, "Peace Be Still," which comes out Friday August 21st! And there is lots of laughing!

You can follow Hope on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/hopedarst/

or online at https://www.hopedarst.com/

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Crystal Thornton, Georgene Rice and Summer Shore sit down to talk with Danielle Render Turmaud, NCC, MS, about collective trauma and how current events in our world today are affecting us, our families and our communities. Danielle is the Faculty Coordinator and Instructor of Applied Psychology and Adjunct Instructor of Counseling at Multnomah University. She has been featured in Psychology Today as an Expert Blog Author. Danielle shares her expertise and some encouragement as we face difficult and trying times. Her insight will help you better understand how to better care for ourselves and the ones we love. 

Recommended Resources:

What is Collective Trauma

Trauma of Pandemic Proportions

Are You Playing Emotional Whac-A-Mole?

Something Happened in Our Town (Children's book) 

"When Our World is Turned Upside Down" Public Resource Course

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