We sit down with Dr. Hardeep Saluja, pharmacist, educator, and Rotary leader, to unpack how data literacy and service above self are reshaping modern pharmacy education and community health.

Hardeep brings us from his roots in New Delhi and early work in clinical trials to Boston for graduate school and on to Oklahoma, where he leads in the College of Pharmacy at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. He explains that the most valuable lesson from U.S. education was learning how to unlearn—challenging assumptions, thinking critically, and solving problems with an open mind. That mindset led him to design dual PharmD programs: one with an MBA for leadership and management, and another with a Master of Science in Health Information Management for data, informatics, and quality improvement. The result is a new kind of pharmacist who understands both patient care and the systems that power it.

We dig into AI, automation, and the future of pharmacy: precision dosing, real-time biometrics from wearables, and faster diagnostics that make care more personal and effective. Hardeep argues that AI is the modern calculator, a tool that won’t replace pharmacists but will amplify those who know how to use it. He shares how he fosters a culture of openness, consensus, and student-centered growth, and why emotional intelligence and listening are as essential as clinical knowledge.

Service ties it all together. Hardeep reflects on Rotary’s global impact, from polio eradication to local vaccination efforts, and how students learn by doing: diabetes education, rural outreach, and charitable clinics. He also shares why he founded the American Association of Indian Pharmacy Professors to mentor new faculty and build an inclusive, international network. If you’re a student, educator, or Rotarian, you’ll leave with practical advice—keep your mind open, observe carefully, ask for opportunities, and get involved.

If this conversation sparked ideas, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review. Your feedback helps others find the show and join the work of building smarter care and stronger communities.

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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Step into the mind of Orson Scott Card, the visionary behind Ender’s Game, as he shares the untold story of his journey from creek-exploring child to legendary author.

Card reflects on his free-range 1950s California childhood, where hours spent biking highways and wandering dry creek beds nurtured the imagination that would shape his writing. With candid humor, he reveals how storytelling was simply expected in his family—and how that early ease with public speaking never translated to small talk.

The conversation dives deep into the evolution of Ender’s Game—from award-winning short story to bestselling novel to a film that missed the mark. Card shares Hollywood insights, including how Harrison Ford quietly coached scenes as an uncredited co-director.

Through examples like Lord of the Rings and Pride and Prejudice, Card explains why some adaptations succeed while others fail—and why a miniseries might be Ender’s best future.

More than a masterclass in storytelling, Card offers sharp, hard-won wisdom: “You’re a human first, an artist second,” he says, rejecting formulas in favor of authenticity and excellence.

Whether you're a fan, a creator, or simply curious about the creative process, this is a conversation worth hearing. "If you're not all special," Card asks, "why are you writing?"

Let me know if you'd like a version for social media or a podcast intro.

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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What happens when a healthcare worker trades restraints for paintbrushes? Lori Ferreira takes us through her remarkable journey from the intensity of bedside nursing to the creative world of TikTok influencing in this candid conversation about career evolution and finding joy.

Lori doesn't hold back when describing the realities of nursing life - from the disturbing sight of patients in five-point restraints to treating wounds so severe you could see bone. These stark experiences, invisible to most of us but routine for healthcare workers, shaped her perspective on both gratitude and burnout. Her advice to new nurses cuts through typical career guidance: "Don't wait until you're completely burnt out, because then you're going to be bitter and not going to give the best care." This wisdom applies far beyond healthcare.

The conversation shifts dramatically as Lori explains her pivot to TikTok influencing and live shopping. Her impulsive Black Friday purchase of a course on social commerce has blossomed into a creative second career that taps into her passion for painting and connecting with others. Lori's insights into this emerging marketplace reveal why it's becoming the next frontier for digital entrepreneurs.

We wrap with a fascinating detour into the science of de-extinction and the recently created dire wolves, combining Lori's healthcare background with her curiosity about these technological breakthroughs. From hospital rooms to social media studios to prehistoric predators, this episode traverses unexpected territory while delivering practical wisdom about career transitions, creative renewal, and the courage to change direction when burnout threatens.

Ready to explore your own creative pivots? Listen now and discover how one healthcare worker found her spark beyond the hospital walls.

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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Emmanuel Rivera's path from troubled teen to youth mentor reveals the transformative power of martial arts and positive guidance. As Executive Director of the Come Up Foundation, Rivera now shapes the futures of over 200 children across Oklahoma City through free martial arts training that builds discipline, confidence, and leadership skills.

Moving out at just 16 and lacking male role models, Rivera's early life was marked by poor decisions and legal troubles. After his house was raided, he knew change was essential. His journey took him through several cities, including a stint with a fraudulent magazine sales crew, before he found stability and eventually became a professional MMA fighter. When health issues abruptly ended his fighting career, Rivera channeled his passion into helping youth avoid the struggles he faced.

The Come Up Foundation operates through an innovative outreach model, partnering with schools, churches, and other organizations rather than maintaining a central facility. This strategic approach eliminates transportation barriers and allows them to reach more children where they already gather. They currently offer over 20 free classes weekly, including PE classes and after-school programs, and have even been recognized by Oklahoma City Public Schools as an elective course option for credit.

What begins as martial arts training quickly evolves into comprehensive character development. Rivera explains that while physical training attracts the kids, the program's true purpose is building future leaders who possess emotional intelligence and resilience. The foundation particularly focuses on providing positive male role models in communities where they're often absent.

Rivera's vision extends beyond their current operations. He dreams of dedicated transportation bringing students to a central location after school, where they would receive meals, homework support, and martial arts training in a structured environment. This expanded vision would require growing their annual budget from $150,000 to approximately $500,000, allowing them to provide additional services like counseling and medical support.

Want to support this transformative work? The Come Up Foundation's next fundraiser is April 21st. Follow their journey on Facebook (The Come Up Inc) or Instagram (the_comeup_foundation) to see firsthand how martial arts is building Oklahoma's next generation of leaders.

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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What happens when ancient mystical wisdom meets modern business strategy? In this eye-opening conversation, Brian Triger sits down with Marisa Yakutis, a self-described "business alchemist" who brings together astrology, numerology, and practical business acumen to help entrepreneurs transform their ventures and lives.

Marisa breaks down what it means to be a business alchemist – someone who uses elemental understanding to bring balance and transformation. She explains how recognizing whether someone has dominant fire (action-oriented, impulsive), earth (grounded, practical), air (intellectual, communicative), or water (emotional, intuitive) energies can reveal both superpowers and blind spots in business and life. Far from limiting people to categories, this knowledge empowers them to work consciously with their natural tendencies while developing balance.

The conversation thoughtfully addresses the skepticism surrounding astrology, with Marisa sharing how her own Christian background ultimately complemented rather than conflicted with her astrological practice. She dispels common misconceptions, particularly around newspaper horoscopes, explaining that real astrology involves analyzing complete birth charts rather than just sun signs. What emerges is a nuanced view of how understanding your "elemental blueprint" can create greater self-awareness and compassion.

Perhaps most fascinating is the practical application of these seemingly esoteric concepts. Marisa describes how she helps clients identify communication styles for difficult conversations, recognize their natural strengths, and find greater purpose in their work. "Having purpose and seeing that in yourself changes everything," she shares, describing the transformation she witnesses when people understand the unique gifts they bring to the world.

Whether you're a spiritual seeker or practical business mind, this conversation invites you to explore how different perspectives can open new pathways to understanding yourself and others. As Marisa puts it, her goal isn't to be treated as a guru but to serve as "a guide walking beside you," helping people discover their own answers and potential.

Ready to discover your elemental superpower? Listen now to explore how ancient wisdom might inform your modern life and business in surprisingly practical ways.

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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Seth Block brings over five decades of photographic wisdom to this engaging episode, tracing his journey from childhood fascination to becoming an accomplished wildlife photographer. Growing up with a professional photographer grandfather and an encouraging father who recognized his "good eye," Seth developed his craft through meticulous self-teaching—carefully recording camera settings and studying developed photographs weeks later to understand cause and effect.

The conversation explores photography's profound evolution from film to digital. Seth describes his initial skepticism toward digital technology before eventually embracing its advantages while maintaining his commitment to in-camera composition rather than relying on post-processing. His technical insights on camera selection prove valuable for aspiring photographers, emphasizing that while equipment matters, understanding the fundamentals matters more.

Beyond the technical aspects, Seth shares photography's deeper spiritual dimensions. His approach to wildlife photography—tracking eagle families for 15 years, photographing from kayaks, and waiting hours for the perfect moments—demonstrates profound patience and respect for his subjects. "They're not there for our entertainment," he explains about photographing whales. "They're there living, and we're fortunate enough to see them."

Perhaps most compelling is Seth's story about overcoming personal bias—the moment he nearly returned payment for event photos because the subjects didn't match his aesthetic preferences, only to witness the clients' delight in seeing their loved ones captured authentically. This humbling experience taught him that "there's beauty everywhere, and you can't judge."

Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply appreciate thoughtful reflections on creative pursuits, Seth's journey inspires a more mindful approach to seeing and capturing the world. Visit sethblockphotography.com to explore his extensive portfolio, spanning decades of passionate image-making.

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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Jeff Harrison's journey from aspiring graphic designer to managing editor of the Midwest City Beacon reveals the unexpected paths that lead us to meaningful work. The Wisconsin native never imagined Oklahoma would become his permanent home, yet the challenges and rewards of local journalism captured his heart and anchored him in a community he's grown to love.

As the sole full-time editorial employee at a small community newspaper, Harrison offers a fascinating glimpse into the day-to-day realities of modern local journalism. From the Monday press-day scrambles to finish layouts and tie up loose ends, to the persistent detective work required to uncover important stories, his experiences highlight both the evolving challenges and enduring importance of community news. "It's getting harder and harder to get people on the phone," Harrison notes, pointing to just one of the many obstacles today's journalists face in gathering information.

The symbiotic relationship between local journalism and community service organizations like Rotary forms the heart of this conversation. Harrison's relatively new membership in the Midwest City Rotary Club mirrors the newspaper's mission to strengthen community bonds. Both entities share information, support local initiatives, and create connections between diverse community members. As newspapers nationwide face unprecedented financial pressures, Harrison emphasizes how community support through subscriptions, advertising, and news tips directly translates to stronger local journalism and, by extension, more informed and connected communities. Check out MidwestCityBeacon.com to subscribe or call 405-455-1110 to learn how you can support this vital community resource. What local news sources do you rely on, and how might you help them thrive?

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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Has community service evolved in the digital age? In this episode, we dive deep into the connections that Rotary fosters, showcasing how one local club navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while fostering fellowship among its members. Join us as Neal Hettinger shares his personal journey through Rotary, detailing how they effectively transitioned from in-person gatherings to virtual meetings, ensuring that community spirit continued to thrive even in the most trying times. 

We also explore the exciting realm of AI in graphic design as Neal introduces his book, "Modern Graphic Design with AI." The conversation reveals how these technologies not only enhance creativity but also empower students to secure jobs in an increasingly competitive market. As we discuss the importance of authentic relationships formed through Rotary, we uncover how service organizations can catalyze personal and professional growth beyond mere networking. 

What does the future hold for community service in the era of AI? Tune in to hear inspiring stories, discover practical skills, and gain insights that could transform your own approach toward service and professional development. Remember to subscribe and share your thoughts with us!

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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In this episode of The Rotary Spark Podcast, we welcome Adam Reese, a dedicated member of the Bricktown Rotary Club. Originally from Gotebo, Oklahoma, Adam’s Rotary journey took off when he earned a scholarship that led him to join the organization in Denton, Texas. His story is one of commitment and community impact, shaped by a strong family legacy in auctioneering and a deep passion for service. Adam shares how his experiences across different Rotary districts have influenced his perspective and how he found a strong connection with the Bricktown Club during the pandemic.

We also explore the far-reaching impact of Rotary’s mission, showcasing service projects that embody the spirit of "service above self." From modernizing a fruit drive fundraiser in North Texas to providing fresh produce for local shelters, Adam highlights the creative ways Rotarians make a difference. The conversation extends beyond the U.S. to Guatemala, where partnerships with local Rotary clubs have helped rebuild schools and construct a collegiate dormitory, proving that service not only transforms communities but also enriches those who give their time and effort.

As Rotary Clubs continue to evolve from traditional meetings to globally connected service hubs, Bricktown Rotary is gearing up for its next international project in Bucerias, Nayarit. This initiative will focus on supporting families and children through education and shelter efforts. Stay engaged with Bricktown Rotary and District 5750 through digital platforms, and be sure to mark your calendar for the upcoming Days of Wine and Rotary event on May 2nd. Join us in making a meaningful impact while strengthening the bonds of service and fellowship.

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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Imagine being a superhero in your community. Evan Burrell does just that through his inspiring 26-year journey with Rotary. From joining Rotaract at 18, influenced by his mother's involvement, Evan's adventure evolved, leading him to Rotary at 30, encountering clubs resistant to change. His story is one of resilience and transformation as he navigated these challenges to find his place in an online e-club, ultimately becoming a District Governor Elect. Join us as Evan shares his insights on the vibrant roles Rotarians play and how he balances his public persona with his authentic self.

Evan brings a fresh perspective on the dynamics within Rotary clubs, highlighting the superhero-like influence members have and the contrasting energy levels in meetings. Humor, creativity, and genuine connections are at the forefront of his approach, driving positivity while respecting traditions. We discuss the powerful role of branding and innovative design in promoting Rotary's mission, with engaging merchandise like Rotary Rocks shirts designed to capture the attention of younger audiences and spark conversations about the organization's impact.

Gratitude and inspiration take center stage as we reflect on the meaningful dialogues sparked worldwide, encouraging listeners to explore their Rotary journeys. From heartfelt thanks to IT Spark and the Metropolitan Library System for their nonprofit support to acknowledging Rotary International's contributions, this episode is a celebration of community and connection. We look forward to future episodes where we continue to inspire and empower our listeners to engage in impactful conversations and embrace the diverse opportunities within Rotary.

This episode of the Rotary Spark Podcast is brought to you by Triger Media — helping individuals and businesses build a solid digital presence. From website design to social media management and podcast production, they provide the tools and support to share your story effectively. Triger Media works closely with clients to create something that feels true to their brand. Give them a call at 978-290-8200 to see how they can help. 

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