RAP - Regular Amazing People

Juliet talks about her experiences helping children deal with trauma through play.  Her observations are both exciting and a little sad (hearing what traumatizes children), and can help to understand what children go through and how licensed therapists help them overcome trauma.

Marnie was buried deep within her addictions until a prison term gave her new perspective.  Today she owns a business and runs an addiction support group on Facebook.  Hopefully her willingness to share this difficult story can impact others.

Candyce had to recover her ability to speak and walk after an assault. Today she is a successful entrepreneur and volunteer whose positivity makes an impact on everyone around her!

Ron was my Professor and Director at Truman State quite a few years ago. His commitment to Theater students has been remarkable and heartfelt for over 30 years. Ron recently retired and one of his former (famous) students started a scholarship in his name: The Ronald M. Rybkowski Honorary Technical Theatre Scholarship. https://www.truman.edu/giving/rybkowski-scholarship/

Dena works in the Foster Care system in Peoria, IL. She shares some of the joys and challenges of her job along with the experiences of the kids and parents that she works with.

Chris, John, and Jason joined me to talk about how we help low income black neighborhoods rise up out of their current situations.  The conversation turned to education, "black on black" crime, policing, and everyone told a piece of their story.

Jeanine was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer three years ago and has been battling with her spreading cancer ever since.  Hopefully we can all can gain inspiration from her positive energy and perseverance!

Wendi runs a theater group in St. Charles County (Missouri) that gives opportunities to kids and adults who aspire to perform but need more outlets. From building college resumes to volunteer adults, Midwest Center for Performing Arts has been a great theatrical outlet for hundreds.

Alvin grew up in an Evangelical Christian church, became a minister, and later in his life was unable to continue with the same faith.  This is his story of spiritual journey and transformation. Your host has had a similar transformation albeit by a different path, and Alvin's story becomes more of a back and forth conversation between of us about our journeys.

Jon and Alicia are Missionaries to Honduras, where they established and run a school for special needs children. Their story is amazing, as they have opened the hearts of their community to the needs and humanity of these children, while contributing to national efforts in Honduras in the same capacity.