In this powerful and informative episode, we sit down with Alzheimer's Association Iowa Chapter leaders Keesha Ward, Director of Development, and Erica Eikren, Program Manager, to explore dementia beyond the diagnosis. This conversation highlights why understanding brain health is essential and why early awareness can change lives. We unpack the early warning signs of dementia that often go unnoticed, and discuss how stigma continues to silence important conversations around cognitive decline. The discussion also takes a deeper look at who is most at risk and why. We explore how race, access to healthcare, stress, trauma, and chronic health conditions all influence dementia outcomes — and why addressing dementia through a health equity lens is critical for meaningful change.Listeners will also learn about prevention — including how movement, nutrition, sleep, and mental health all contribute to brain health — and why prevention conversations should start long before older adulthood.This episode is both educational and empowering — reminding us that awareness reduces stigma, community support improves quality of life, and early action can make a lasting difference.Thank you, Keesha Ward and Erica Eikren, for joining the show and sharing your expertise and valuable insights.

What happens when a teacher becomes someone students don’t outgrow?This thought-provoking episode centers on Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter and asks a powerful question: How do you measure the impact of a teacher whose influence lasts long after the class roster changes?Through a parent’s heartfelt reflections and her children, some of them now students navigating high school, we reflect on the lasting influence of middle school teacher Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter who went beyond academics to truly see, support, and believe in her students. The conversation centers on what it means when a teacher leads with love—when encouragement replaces judgment and when a classroom becomes a place of safety, trust, and belonging.Listeners will hear how small, consistent acts of care can leave lifelong impressions. The kind of impact that doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built through genuine connection and unwavering belief in kids.We also explore the broader culture of Hiatt Middle School, highlighting how fairness, care, and consistency from teachers—and all staff, shape a sense of belonging for students.The episode expands the lens to school culture as a whole, recognizing that schools are communities. From teachers to support staff to the cafateria workers to maintenance teams, every adult plays a role in making students feel valued. When kids know they are cared for by everyone in the building, it changes how they show up—not just in class, but in life.More Than a Teacher is ultimately a message of gratitude and recognition. It honors educators who shape hearts as much as minds, and it invites us all to reflect on the teachers who helped us become who we are today.Thank you Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter for all that you do for the students! Thank you Tammy and your kids Jasmine, Damien, and Dominick for being guests on the podcast and sharing!

In this impactful and heartwarming conversation, Breanne Ward, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Founder of ForWard Consulting, shares her expertise on guiding emotional wellness, building awareness, and supporting youth through every phase of growth.Breanne shares what first inspired her to pursue a career in mental health counseling and trauma-focused care — and how that passion led her to launch ForWard Consulting in 2014.Together, we unpack some of the most common misconceptions surrounding trauma and healing, and dive into how schools, families, and communities can work together to support youth mental wellness.From building emotional literacy in elementary students, to helping middle schoolers navigate peer pressure and identity, to supporting high schoolers under academic and social stress — Breanne offers practical insights and heartfelt strategies for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about youth well-being.This episode reminds us that mental health is not a luxury — it’s a lifelong lesson that deserves space in every classroom, conversation, and community.Thank you Breanne Ward for being a guest on the podcast and sharing your insight! 

In this inspiring episode of Do The Math 247 "Math Talk", I sit down with Renee Welk — a seasoned mentor, coach, and author with over three decades of experience helping people navigate growth, change, and self-discovery.

Renee shares how her lifelong passion for guiding others led her to write "Ease the Chaos", a book that blends real stories, wisdom, and practical tools for finding peace amid life’s storms. She also introduces her unique and memorable metaphor — “bubble wrap.” The “bubble wrap” concept represents the emotional protection, grace, and support we offer one another — the people and practices that help cushion life’s rough edges. 

Listeners will gain insight into the book’s core message: that chaos isn’t something to fear, but something to understand and ease through mindset shifts, self-awareness, and compassion.

✨ Stay tuned for this inspiring conversation — you don’t want to miss it!

In this inspiring Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" episode, we sit down with the founder of Divergent Family,  Demitry Lasu, a brand built on the bold message: “Be Different. Act Together.” Through heartfelt reflections and stories—like the journey from Egypt to Louisville, KY, and ultimately Des Moines, IA—listeners see how Divergent Family’s message, Be Different. Act Together., transforms fashion into a movement that champions unity, community, and belonging. If we take a walk down memory lane, Divergent Family draws some inspiration from the 1980's hit tv sitcom "Family Ties", which revolved around family values, differences, and the changing social landscape.  Thank you Demitry for being a guest on the podcast and sharing your story! Grateful for the Sudanese community here in Greater Des Moines, Iowa. Every moment of learning about your culture has been a blessing.

🌟 What does parent power really look like inside a school?Behind every bake sale, fun fair, and fundraiser is something much bigger—a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) working tirelessly to shape the culture of a school. But it’s not just about raising money or organizing events—it’s about building a stronger community where every parent feels welcome, every voice is heard, and every student benefits.

🎙️ In this Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" episode, "Parent Power: How The PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) Support Students and Schools", we sit down with a former PTO President who opens up about the victories, the hurdles, and the lasting impact that parent leadership has on school communities.

💡 From creating inclusive spaces to overcoming leadership challenges, to dreaming about what schools could look like with unlimited resources—this conversation reveals the heart and purpose of PTOs.

🎶 And yes, we even end with a little fun—favorite PTO treats and the songs that set the vibe for big events!If you’ve ever wondered how parents can truly help shape the future of education, this episode will give you fresh perspective—and maybe even inspire you to get involved. 💬✨

📚✨ With a new school year beginning across the nation, this episode shines a spotlight on the powerful role of the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization).

Summary: In this moving Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" episode, Ramona Bates, Early Childhood Educator & Community Advocate reflects on what made the John R. Grubb YMCA more than just a gym—it was a lifeline, a safe space, and a source of strength for so many.Ramona shares how "The Grubb" YMCA evolved over the years, not just in programs, but in purpose. Ramona reminds us that The Grubb YMCA wasn’t just a building—it was where people found belonging, where hard times met helping hands, and where futures were quietly transformed. Buildings don’t change lives—people do. And the Grubb YMCA was full of the right people.If the walls of the Grubb YMCA could talk, what would they say? What happens to a legacy when the building is gone—but the impact lives on?🎧 Tune in for a heartfelt reminder that community is a feeling, not just a place.

In this inspiring episode of Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" Podcast, we sit down with Ames native and experiential producer Kaleb Stevens, the show manager behind the "Middle of NOWhere Festival (MONFest)". Kaleb shares his personal journey—from humble beginnings producing basement dance battles, high school open mics, and art shows to curating immersive events that celebrate music, poetry, and culture. 🎭 We explore Kaleb’s creative roots and how growing up in a smaller town helped him develop a grassroots mindset and deep appreciation for authentic community spaces. 🌍 We go behind the scenes of MONFest, a rural art and music festival that’s reshaping the cultural narrative of Iowa. Kaleb shares the MONFest team vision, the festival’s growing impact, and what he hopes city-dwellers and out-of-state guests experience when they step into the “Middle of NOWhere.” Whether you're an artist, community builder, or just someone looking for creative inspiration, this episode will spark new ideas and remind you of the power of passion and purpose. 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1463674118179566/

In this episode of Do The Math 247 "Math Talk", we sit down with Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter and students from Hiatt Middle School to reflect on a year of powerful growth in both reading and character. The students share their personal journeys—how they improved as readers, developed stronger values, and plan to keep the momentum going through summer with the bold commitment of “No Summers Off.” 💪🏾📖 

From classroom discussions to character-building projects, this conversation is a celebration of student voice, motivation, and meaningful learning that extends far beyond the school year. 

A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter and Hiatt Middle School for their partnership in helping young minds grow. 🌱✨

What happens when young women are seen, heard, and believed in? In this Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" podcast episode, we unpack the impact of Project Bridging — a program transforming at-risk young women into confident changemakers through mentorship, identity, and community. Patricia Barbee, Executive Director of Project Bridging and 2025 Girls Scouts of Central Iowa Character Award Recipient, shares the mission behind her program and vision on what's to come. This isn’t just about saving futures — it’s about reimagining them.