What's the Mood? with The Illinois Human Performance Project

In this episode, we’re joined by Carlos Jimenez, Prevention Services Manager at Rock Island Martin Luther King Jr. Center and a dedicated community partner with more than 30 years of experience. With a master’s degree in communication, Carlos shares his perspective on building strong communities and keeping people and our environment safe.

We discuss Drug Take Back Day, how it works, ways to get the community involved through coalitions, police departments, and other local partners, and how communities can sustain initiatives like Drug Take Back Day to promote safety and make a lasting impact.

We’re bringing our podcasts together! Moving forward, What’s the Mood? will feature special episodes of Tackling the Opioid Epidemic, bringing real stories, lived experiences, and conversations about recovery directly to you.
In this episode, we sit down with Tim, an Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor who shares his personal journey through addiction and recovery. His story didn’t follow the “typical” path many people imagine and that’s part of why his message is so powerful.

Hear Tim talk about his lived experience, what led him toward recovery, and the work he does today to help others see that there is a solution, even when it may not feel like there is one.

🎧 Tune in to hear Tim’s story and learn more about recovery, resilience, and the power of finding a way forward.

In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with John Maley—teacher, former coach, motivational speaker, podcaster, and mental health advocate. John shares the pivotal turning points that shaped his life and the lessons he learned along the way. Together, we discuss the importance of prioritizing mental health, embracing vulnerability, and building resilience, especially for young people. This conversation is a powerful reminder that life will have its challenges, but with the right mindset and support, you can continue moving forward and show up as your best self each day.

On this episode of What’s the Mood, we’re joined by Ethan Karolczak. With more than 20 years of experience in education, as a teacher, coach, and now in his fourth year as Athletic Director at Round Lake High School, Ethan brings powerful insight into student leadership and building a positive, healthy school culture.

His experience both on and off the field helped shape a meaningful conversation about empowering students, modeling leadership, and creating environments where young people can thrive.

In this episode, of What's The Mood we sit down with Zach and Pat from Me2We, an organization dedicated to personal growth and collective empowerment. Through their mission of nurturing the spirit, mind, and body, they focus on building healthier and more connected communities. We talk about their approach, the impact of their work, and why investing in personal growth is essential for long-term community well-being.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on growth and connection!