This episode is basically a group therapy session for 2025.

We talk about the highs, the lows, and the “wow, how is it already December?” moments. We revisit some of the best parts of the year, including the very grown-up decision to do fewer episodes so we could keep our sanity intact.

We dig into the Popcorn Series, which somehow turned into one of the most meaningful and fun things we’ve done to the Walkie Talkies conversations with seasoned professionals that were equal parts insightful, hilarious, and grounding in reality.

We also unpack the Taki About It series, because clearly we like naming things with “Talkie” in them. And finally, we look ahead to 2026 with plans for more video, more ways to connect with you all, and fewer moments where we ask, “Should we have planned this better?”

Basically, it’s a look back, a little laughing at ourselves, and a look forward to what’s next.

In this shorter than normal but power packed episode, Desi and Billy conclude the Popcorn edition of Afterschool Snack with Eve, Ava, Erica and Carson. Listen as these professionals give their thoughts, insights and vibrant energy to conclude the Popcorn Edition of Afterschool Snack , SodakSACA.

Quick questions. Real stories. Big heart.

In this Popcorn Edition of After School Snack, afterschool leaders from across South Dakota share what fills their bucket, why kids keep them coming back, and how one connection can change everything. Afterschool is more than a program. It is community.

Holy Moly! Desi and Billy sit down with Afterschool Leader, Advocate, Author, and Veteran — the one and only Juan Alvarado. Juan, founder of We Raize The Bar, joins Afterschool Snack to dive into life, leadership, and the power of afterschool programs. This episode is packed with energy, inspiration, and insights from across the country. Juan recently delivered a dynamic keynote for the South Dakota Afterschool Network — and he absolutely delivered! Tune in for a one-of-a-kind conversation you won’t want to miss.

Billie Jo Bakeburg...you've heard the name we are sure!  Sit down with Desi and Billy as they talk to South Dakota's one and only Billie Jo.  Listen to her passion as she weaves her story of bringing professionalism, organizational leadership and true empathy for our families and kids in Afterschool.  This is a rare opportunity to hear the history of the South Dakota After School Care Alliance (SodakSACA), and the early days of Afterschool programming intertwined with the hope for the future!  This is an Afterschool Snack you don't want to miss!  

In a first ever for Afterschool Snack, we recorded in front of a live audience!  Billy and Desi sit down with four students from the Belle Fourche JAM program in Belle Fourche, SD, recorded live at the Joy Center in Spearfish, SD.   Listen as these four students make us laugh, think and feel our feels as they discuss navigating life in their own special ways!  THIS is an episode you do not want to miss! 

Billy sits down with Julie Garreau from the Cheyenne River Youth Project for a heartfelt conversation about what it truly means to be resilient. Together, they challenge the idea that strength must come from struggle and explore how communities can build a future where thriving, not just surviving, is the goal.

Rooted in Lakota values and lived experience, the discussion highlights how honoring culture and embracing technology can coexist. Julie shares insights from her work with Lakota youth.

Desi and Billy sit down with the Deputy Executive Director of Black Hills Special Services, Dr. Pam Lange (and her granddaughter) for her eye-opening insight into the Ecosystem of South Dakota's afterschool world.  Listen as Pam shares leadership insights, vision and her own mark of humor navigating leaders, teams and people in today's world.  

Billy and Desi head up North!  In this emotionally charged Taki About It, Enrique, Kingston, Sara and Lalanie open up about their lives, families and a little about their daily lives in Eagle Butte, SD.  They may be only juniors and seniors in high school, but they have a voice unlike what we've heard before.  Take a moment and get to know some of the youth at the CRYP!  

In this special episode, Billy and Desi sit down with not one but two school administrators who have created a true co-curricular community with their afterschool program.  Darren (principal) and Jeanne (asst. principal) straight talk the benefits of having an OST program and how it captures so many of those students who might not have anything available to them afterschool if it wasn't for their "Club Hub".  This is a great listen not only to capture how to work with school administration but to hear the passion of these two dedicated lifelong educators.