Optimistic Tales

Dr. Moody talks with Mr. Todd Shriver, teacher and instructional coach at North White Middle-High School in Monon, Indiana.  Mr. Shriver is the current Director of the North White Guest Speakers program, which was originally formed to bring “icons of the 80s” into the classroom, but has grown to include historical figures, various plebeian elite, and contemporary artists to directly mentor and counsel students.  Todd’s optimistic tale is a product of his personal and academic interests in 80’s history and the sincere role he plays in teaching his students about being resilient in the classroom, as well as life.  Also joining the conversation are North White Middle-High School’s Band Director and Assistant Band Director, Mr. Leander Hoover and Mr. Brian Malone, respectively.

Dr. Moody talks with Mary Judd, co-founder and Honorary Director of SongwritingWith: Soldiers (SW:S), a non-profit organization that uses collaborative songwriting as a catalyst for positive change by offering veteran participants a unique way to tell their stories, rebuild trust, release pain, and forge new bonds. Mary’s optimistic tale is reflected in her personal mission to connect professional songwriters with military veterans to build Creativity, Connections and Strengths. Also joining the conversation are two U.S. Air Force veteran participants of the SW:S Retreat program: AnnMarie Halterman, co-founder of the non-profit organization, unitingus.org and co-writer of the song, Square Wheels; and Richard Erikson (BGen, retired), co-writer of the song, Born to Bless the Fallen—both songs were written and performed during participation in an SW:S weekend retreat session. DISCLAIMER: This episode contains discussion of suicide and combat related situations; please take care when listening. If you’re struggling, help is available, 24/7, by calling or texting 988.

Dr. Moody talks with Dr. Helen Demetriou, a Chartered Psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychology & Education at the University of Cambridge (UK). She is also the author of the book, “Empathy, Emotion & Education.” Dr. Demetriou’s unique, interdisciplinary research underscores her belief that ultimately, “empathy is a seismic shift, a galvanising force and the oxygen that elicits emotion and enriches education.” 

Dr Moody concludes his talk with Anthony, Michael, and Jon in this final installment of their collective account of the magic of music and the social bonding that occurs through decades of friendship. 

Dr Moody concludes his “five albums on a deserted island” discussion with Anthony, Michael, and Jon in this intimate and warm-hearted coda. DISCLAIMER: All references to “Sandy Allen” are incorrectly referred to as “Sally,” apologies are extended.

Dr Moody continues his “five albums on a deserted island” discussion with Anthony, Michael, and Jon. This “neo-Fab Four” further examines the magic of music as they dive deeper into back-catalogs, begging for box sets and exploring their own fanaticism with Pop Music. 

Dr Moody discusses with Anthony, Michael, and Jon the “five albums" they would want to have on a deserted island to keep from going insane. 

Dr Moody continues his discussion with Anthony, Michael, and Jon about how the magic of music has impacted their lives over decades of friendship. As previously asked, “Have you ever had a special connection with someone through music?”  This glory-dazed celebration of laughter, revelry, and musically-fueled rollicks will prove you’re not alone.

Dr Moody talks with Anthony, Michael, and Jon to discuss how the magic of music has impacted their lives over decades of friendship. Have you ever had a special connection with someone through music? This fun-filled celebration of laughter, revelry, and musically-fueled mayhem will prove you’re not alone.

Dr Moody talks with Amber Dawn, a local musician and highly regarded voice coach and vocal consultant for creatives. She is also the founder of Amber Dawn Vocal Studio in Gulfport, MS.  Amber Dawn’s optimistic tale began at a early age when she found that her passion and purpose in life was to help others walk their most authentic path to self-fulfillment…one voice at a time.