The Friendship Circle from Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois

In this episode, Tracy Hooper, GSNI Adult Delegate, and Eleanor Hooper, GSNI Youth Delegate, join us to break down one of the biggest events in Girl Scouts—the 58th National Council Session. They answer some of the most frequently asked questions, including what it means to be a delegate, and share what attendees can expect from the session. Tracy and Eleanor also walk through the three proposals up for a vote and explain how Girl Scouts and volunteers can make their voices heard!

Join us as we talk to Bridget Wolcott, Girl Scout Mom & TroopLeader, Girl Scout Caitlin W., Troop 1119, and Girl Scout Emily W., Troop 923 about the upcoming cookie season and get the inside scoop on what works (or doesn’t) during cookie booth season. These Girl Scouts share their ideas, tips, and innovations to make the most of the Girl Scout Cookie Program each year! 

Have you heard about GivingTuesday? Each year GSNI participates in this international day of charitable giving worldwide! Our theme this year is #FuelHerDream—highlighting how Girl Scouts is an exciting, hands-on, fun way to equip Girl Scouts to dream big, follow those dreams, and achieve them. One GSNI alum who achieved her dream with the help of Girl Scouts is Rachel Roschi, DVM, Small Animal Veterinarian. In this episode, Rachel talks about how Girl Scouts made a positive difference in her life, shares valuable pet care tips, and gives advice to any Girl Scouts wanting to follow a similar path. 

Join members of our phenomenal STEW Crew to learn all about this incredible weekend opportunity planned FOR volunteers BY volunteers. Brea, Ericha, and Robin will have you laughing with their stories, memories, and workshop recommendations. Don’t miss your chance to experience these troop-enhancing tips, tricks, and hacks you’ll use for years to come! 

Our 21st Annual Thin Mint Sprint is coming up on September 13. There’s still time to register! Join us as we talk to Johnny Meshes and Chris Spiek, members of the Fox River Grove Memorial Library Running Club. They give great running tips and tricks and tell us all about the Thin Mint Sprint and why you shouldn’t miss this fun, family-friendly event! 

On this episode Michele gives a full overview of the Fall Product Program, including benefits for Girl Scouts who choose to participate. Hear more about our adorable mascot and Brave. Fierce. Fun! theme! Michele also shares about awesome rewards, resources, patches, dates, troop proceeds, and proven ways to set reachable goals for each entrepreneur. Don’t miss the new items debuting (and returning) to the 2025 Fall Product Program lineup!

Do you need to know how to make an origami paper cup? Ask Kelsey, our Cheyenne Service Unit Manager, and member of an awesome multigenerational Girl Scout family going all the way back to 1921! On this episode, Kelsey, her mom Shawn, and daughter Klarissa share their Girl Scout memories over the years and discuss why they’re a family that fully  invests in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.

Meet members and leaders of Troop 353 as they tell us all about planning and taking an amazing troop trip to Savannah, Georgia, the birthplace of Girl Scouts! The troop took over 1,500 photos while participating in activities like a dolphin cruise and a Savannah Bananas ball game. You’ll learn what inspired their trip, how they planned for activities, food, and accommodations—and how Girl Scouts funded their own adventures. Listen for funny Juliette Low stories (and a possible ghost sighting!), lots of Girl Scout history, Georgia attractions, and the mysteries of the ghost shrimp. Troop 353 leaders have tips on Girl Scout travel progression and why troops that travel together tend to stay together. Plus, meet Joselyn, one of our new Friendship Circle podcast co-hosts!

Happy Pride Month! Join us and Janey Welch, longtime GSNI volunteer and one of the founding volunteer members of the GSNI Belonging team, as we talk all about Pride Month and what it means. This is one you do not want to miss! Queue the tissues!

It’s time for summer camp! Join our camp friends Unicorn and Figment as they talk about exciting new sessions at Camp Dean and Camp McCormick, give tips for first-time campers (and their caregivers!), and share some fun and meaningful camp stories. Listeners will also get to hear more about our camp Maker Spaces and a unique story about a tree-climbing goat!