On this Make A Difference Minute, Mrs. Alabama America 2025 Brianna Sistrunk address a challenge every family is facing today: screen time. Phones, tablets, and gaming systems compete for our children’s attention every day. While technology has its place, nothing replaces the power of a book to build imagination, focus, and confidence. This segment encourages parents and grandparents to intentionally create space for reading and to raise “Royal Readers” who learn to think, dream, and grow beyond a screen.

Sponsor: Hydration Lounge

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On this edition of The Mark White Show, I’m joined by Brianna Sistrunk of Colbert County, recently crowned Mrs. Alabama America 2025. Brianna is using her platform to promote literacy across our state through Project Crown, which stands for Creating Reading Opportunities to Win Now. As a Literary Ambassador during Read Across America Week, she is visiting elementary schools to encourage students to become “Royal Readers” through imagination, confidence, and positive storytelling. We talk about her journey to the crown, her heart for children, and how schools can get involved. Listen & share.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Dr. James T. McCormick of the American College of Surgeons explains why early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have against colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is being diagnosed more often in adults under 50, and symptoms are frequently overlooked. Dr. McCormick shares why warning signs like rectal bleeding or ongoing changes in bowel habits should never be ignored, regardless of age. When caught early, colorectal cancer is often highly treatable, and in some cases, screening can even prevent cancer before it starts.

Early action saves lives. Awareness changes outcomes.

Sponsor: Singing River Dentistry

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On this edition of The Mark White Show, we're focusing on two major health issues affecting millions of Americans: colorectal cancer and major depressive disorder.

In our first segment, Dr. James T. McCormick, DO, FACS, of the American College of Surgeons, discusses the rising rates of colorectal cancer in adults under 50. He explains which symptoms should never be ignored, why delays in diagnosis are common among younger patients, and when screening should begin. Early detection can save lives, and this conversation highlights why awareness matters at every age.

In our second segment, we turn to mental health. Depression affects an estimated 21 million adults in the United States, and many individuals with Major Depressive Disorder continue to experience symptoms even while in treatment. Dr. Saundra Jain, MA, PsyD, LPC, and mental health advocate Kelly Uchima share insights into the evolving treatment landscape, the importance of integrated care, and how emerging, technology-supported tools are designed to complement traditional approaches.

Listen & share. It could save someone's life.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Stacie M. Coote shares how her mother’s influence helped shape her passion for education, empowerment, & community growth.

From early lessons at home to the professional path she walks today, Stacie reflects on how belief, encouragement, and strong values laid the foundation for the work she now does through SMC Education Services LLC in Huntsville.

Sometimes the greatest impact begins with one voice at home saying, “You can.”

Listen as Stacie honors that influence and explains why helping others achieve their goals is more than a business., it's personal.

Sponsor: Premier Structures, Inc.

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On tonight’s edition of The Mark White Show, I’m joined by Stacie M. Coote, Founder and CEO of SMC Education Services, LLC in Huntsville, Alabama.

Stacie is building a boutique-style coaching business centered on education, creativity, and intentional community growth. As a small, self-funded entrepreneur, she is helping individuals gain clarity, confidence, and direction in both their personal and professional lives.

We talk about what empowerment truly means, why creativity plays a role in achievement, and how individual growth can ripple outward to strengthen families, workplaces, and entire communities.

If you have ever felt stuck, uncertain, or ready for your next step, this conversation is for you.

On this MADM, Josey Trawick shares a little bit about himself as he battles chronic myelogenous leukemia, vision loss, Meniere’s Disease, and multiple mental health challenges that have left him unable to work. Listen & share.

Donate: gofundme.com/support-josey-trawicks-journey-to-stability

Sponsor: CoraNation Tailoring & Alterations

On this episode of The Mark White Show, I'm talking with Josey Trawick of Muscle Shoals, former owner of Shoals Game Room, as he shares his battle with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia, vision loss, Meniere’s Disease, and multiple mental health challenges that have left him unable to work.

Josey has spent his life providing for his family. Now, he is navigating daily chemotherapy, financial uncertainty, and the emotional weight of asking for help while holding onto his faith.

On this Make A Difference Minute, I’m reflecting on the power of community support after speaking to the Athens TOPS group. This segment highlights how encouragement, accountability, and the right environment can make all the difference when facing personal struggles.

Sponsor: Hydration Lounge

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On this Make A Difference Minute, I’m reminding listeners that struggle isn't always visible. This segment encourages steady, everyday kindness because we never truly know what someone else may be carrying.

Sponsor: Athens Bible School