In this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell explore the origins and legacy of the beloved It’s a Wonderful Life Festival in Seneca Falls, New York—a town many believe inspired Bedford Falls itself. 

Now more than two decades strong, the festival continues to unite cast members, fans, and a close-knit community each year in celebration of the film’s timeless message. Guests Fran Barbieri, Fr. Jim Fennessy, Michael J. Mirras, and Laura Jacuzzo join to share the incredible journey behind this cherished event and how it keeps the spirit of It’s a Wonderful Life alive for generations to come.

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Kathy Coady and Shannon Shepherd from Hope Ministries. Since 1915, this Iowa-based organization has offered life-changing services to those experiencing homelessness, hunger, abuse, and addiction. Kathy and Shannon share powerful insights into how rescue, recovery, and restoration are made possible—one person at a time. Tune in to learn how you can be part of their mission to create hope and healing in your own community.

In this uplifting episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Alissa Catanzaro, Director of Operations, and Jeffrey Roeters, Co-Founder and Director of Guitars for Glory. This remarkable organization places guitars and musical instruments in the hands of people across the globe—from churches to recovery homes for survivors of human trafficking. Alissa and Jeffrey share how their mission has transformed lives through the gift of music and community. Tune in to discover how this growing movement is changing hearts and inspiring hope, one instrument at a time.

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Tim Glenn, Director of Public Relations at Compassion International. Tim shares how this Christian organization is on a mission to end childhood poverty—one child at a time. With a focus on nurturing the mind, body, and soul, Compassion International helps children around the world thrive through education, healthcare, and spiritual guidance. Discover how you can be part of this life-changing work and bring hope to a child in need.

In this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, we honor what would have been Dr. Leo Buscaglia’s 101st birthday by sharing a rare, almost never-before-heard interview recorded in 1982. Discovered in the attic of the late journalist Michael Canterbury, this heartfelt conversation captures Dr. Leo at his most candid—reflecting on the goodness in humanity, the power of love, and how to find the “wonderful” in everyday life. 

In this heartwarming episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Reverend Edie Weinstein—therapist, author, and founder of Hug Mobsters Armed With Love. Edie shares how a simple act of kindness grew into a movement, using the power of hugs to foster love and human connection.

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Eli Marcus, the dynamic host of The Motivation Show and a respected expert in self-improvement, collaboration, and mentorship. Known as the Mayor of Times Square, Eli shares his insights on how the mind shapes success and how we can harness motivation to create the life we truly want. Tune in for an uplifting conversation packed with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable strategies to help you reach your full potential.

In this festive episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Trish Parris, co-director of the biannual Santa Family Reunion in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Every two years, hundreds of Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and elves gather in this charming mountain town to celebrate their shared love of bringing holiday joy. Trish offers a behind-the-scenes look at what makes this unique event so magical—for attendees and the lucky folks in Gatlinburg who happen to witness it. Get ready to embrace the Christmas spirit, even in March!

In this uplifting episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Rebekah Kellaway, Director of Haven Academy of the Arts. What started as a passion for teaching has grown into a thriving nonprofit that gives children access to theater, dance, and acting—regardless of their background. Rebekah shares the joys and challenges of running an arts organization and how the arts help shape confident, creative young minds. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the power of self-expression. 

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Elly Katz, founder of Sages & Seekers, a program that fosters meaningful connections between older adults and teens. Through storytelling and shared experiences, the initiative bridges generational gaps, combats ageism, and enriches lives on both sides. Elly shares how wisdom and curiosity come together in a transformative exchange, offering valuable life lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.