Shows
Climate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 32: KaylaJoin John Whidden as he catches up with creative consultant Kayla on the final episode of season two of Climate Action Figures. They discuss unique climate actions, share fascinating stories from the season, and tease exciting upcoming episodes. Don't miss the quick tips on reducing waste and a call to action! Plus, fun banter about youthful trends and next season's lineup.00:00 Welcome to the Final Edition of Season Two00:37 QuickFix: Ice Cream Cones and Edible Containers01:27 Crazy Climate Challenges02:06 Keeping Warm and Composting Tips04:52 Community Cleanups and E-Bike Adventures2025-06-1023 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 29: HarvirJohn Whidden introduces Harvir, an international student from India studying Sustainable Innovation in Canada. They discuss slow fashion, circular economy, the environmental impact of cosmetics, and practical steps for sustainability.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:37 Quick Fix: Slow Fashion01:06 Harvir's Perspective on Sustainable Fashion02:42 Harvir's Background and Program03:33 Sustainable Practices in Everyday Life04:54 Harvir's Cosmetics Project11:00 Differences in Climate Perception: India vs. Canada13:36 Harvir's Climate Action Focus15:40 Innovative Solutions and Hope for the Future17:35 Conclusion and FarewellHarvir on...2025-05-2018 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 28: JessJoin hosts John Whidden and Jess LeBlanc as they discuss empowering youth and educators to take meaningful climate action through the 'N:OW for net-zero' initiative. Hear inspiring success stories, tips for impactful advocacy, and the importance of community-driven solutions. 00:00 Introduction and QuickFix01:03 Meet Jess LeBlanc and FES01:37 N:OW for Net-Zero: Empowering Schools03:17 Success Stories and Impact05:28 Application Process and Support07:23 Government Involvement and Future Vision13:55 Youth Harbour: Supporting Young Climate Organizers15:57 The Power of Storytelling19:03 Women in Climate Action2025-05-1327 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 25: PoojaIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden introduces Pooja, the founder of Youth Climate Collaborative. They discuss youth-led climate initiatives, the importance of conscious consumerism, and Pooja’s journey in climate advocacy, accompanied by tips on preventing burnout while making a significant impact00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures01:00 This Week's QuickFix: Voting with Your Wallet02:26 Meet Pooja: Founder of Youth Climate Collaborative04:07 Open Doors Initiative: Connecting Youth to Opportunities07:12 Jaali: A Digital Social Impact Platform11:01 Balancing Passion and Personal Life16:16 Pooja's Journey an...2025-04-1527 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 22: HilaryIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, hosts John Whidden and Dr. Hillary Inwood discuss the importance of education in addressing the climate crisis, focusing on initiatives like SCAN at the University of Toronto and ESETE. They highlight practical tips, integrating Indigenous knowledge, and the critical role of art and experiential learning in environmental education.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:49 QuickFix of the Week01:35 Discussion on Fast Fashion01:56 SCAN and Its Mission03:07 Role of Education in Climate Action07:32 ESETE and National Initiatives10:00 Indigenous Perspectives...2025-03-2522 min
The Wedding BuzzEp. 60 -Behind the Price Tag: Why Wedding Vendors Charge What They DoEver wondered why wedding vendors charge what they do? In this episode of The Wedding Buzz, Sydney Whidden pulls back the curtain on the costs behind your big day. From hidden business expenses to the true time commitment, we’re breaking down the real reasons behind those price tags. Whether you’re planning your wedding or just curious, this episode will help you understand the value of investing in experienced professionals. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation!2025-03-1122 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 18: GideonJoin John Whidden on Climate Action Figures as he discusses climate change with Gideon from Ghana. Learn about local perspectives, global challenges, and the significance of climate advocacy and action, especially for young people. Tune in for inspiring dialogue!00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:32 Quick Fix: Reducing Online Shopping01:42 Climate Change Awareness in Ghana04:49 Challenges in Climate Finance07:20 Reflections on COP 2915:49 Inspiration and Personal Journey20:41 Final Thoughts and Hopeclimateactionfigures@gmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/climateactionfigureshttps://www.instagram.com/climateactionfigures/...2025-02-2524 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 17: HarshitaNavigating Climate Change and Health with Dr. Harshita UmeshJoin host John Whidden as he interviews Dr. Harshita Umesh from India. Discussing the intersections of climate change, health, and active mobility, Dr. Umesh shares her experiences from Bengaluru, her medical journey, and her passionate advocacy for health equity, disaster relief, and mental resilience.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:30 QuickFix: Thoughtful Travel Tips01:06 Harshita's Perspective on Air Pollution01:51 Climate Change Impacts in Bengaluru04:03 Harshita's Medical Journey and Advocacy04:48 The Role of Plastic Surgery in Healthcare2025-02-1825 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 12: LunaIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, John Whidden interviews Luna, a young climate activist from Samoa, who shares her experiences and lessons from attending COP29. They discuss the importance of water conservation, the impact of climate change on Samoa, and community efforts in combating climate issues. Luna highlights the role of youth in climate action, the challenges faced by small island nations, and the significance of global conferences in fostering accountability and international cooperation. She emphasizes the need for increased climate funding and the importance of grassroots projects and youth leadership.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:45 QuickFix...2025-01-1417 minThe Wedding BuzzEp. 50 - 2024 Wedding Recap: Lessons, Laughs, and Love Stories2024 Recap on The Wedding Buzz! Join Sydney Whidden as she reflects on her biggest year yet, sharing heartfelt gratitude and wild wedding stories that made this year unforgettable. From venue chaos to unexpected surprises (like a bride and groom disappearing during cocktail hour!), Sydney dives into the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned. Plus, special shoutouts to the amazing people who supported her journey. Tune in for laughs, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at the whirlwind world of wedding planning!2024-12-2417 minThe Wedding BuzzEp. 49 - Just Engaged? Now What?Feeling overwhelmed after saying "yes"? Sydney Whidden is here to guide you through the excitement and first steps of wedding planning in this The Wedding Buzz episode! From celebrating your engagement to setting a budget, defining your vision, and building your dream team, Sydney breaks it all down into simple, actionable steps. Plus, she shares insider tips to make the process stress-free and enjoyable. Tune in for practical advice, personal stories, and everything you need to kickstart your journey to the aisle with confidence and joy!2024-12-1732 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 9: PoragYouth Insights from COP 29: A Bangladeshi Perspective with PoragIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden interviews Porag from Bangladesh about his experiences at COP 29 held in Baku, Azerbaijan. The discussion covers the challenges young delegates face, including overpriced food and limited influence in decision-making. Porag shares his views on gender representation, the impact of climate change on Bangladeshi women, and the systemic issues inhibiting global climate action. Highlighting interactions with global youth and UN officials, Porag also critiques the COP process and offers advice to North American audiences. He concludes with his personal...2024-12-0325 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 8: TanviJoin host John Whidden as he chats with Tanvi, reporting from COP 29 in Baku. They discuss innovative recycling practices, challenges faced by youth delegates, high food prices, and encounters with prominent figures. Tune in for unique insights and stories from the event.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:39 QuickFix: Innovative Recycling Solution01:31 Tanvi's Experience at COP 2901:56 Challenges and Community at COP 2902:28 High Costs and Food Struggles03:17 Navigating the Blue Zone04:16 Meeting Influential Figures05:22 Youth Representation Issues06:43 Censorship and Political Dynamics09:20 Progress and Deadlocks at COP 2910:06 Climate Mitigation Insights2024-11-2616 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 7: HollyJoin John Whidden as he interviews Holly Basiuk, a glacier scientist not to mention sustainable fashion advocate on this week's episode of Climate Action Figures. Discover Holly's journey, practical climate fixes, and her work in making field research accessible and inclusive.00:00 Introduction to Climate Action Figures00:53 QuickFix: Reusable Containers and Bags01:31 Meet Holly Basiuk: Sustainable Fashion and Science02:04 Holly's Journey with Reusable Bags04:08 Alberta Council for Global Cooperation Recognition: Top 30 Under 3006:07 Challenges in Environmental Science10:04 Climate Anxiety and Gender12:06 Celebrating Milestones and Audience Engagement14:56 Holly's Passion for Glaciers and...2024-11-1923 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 4: BethanyJoin host John Whidden and Bethany from Vancouver Island as they discuss sustainable gift wrapping, community-driven climate action, and the importance of connecting with and protecting the environment. Learn about Bethany's journey from the Prairies to studying climate science on the West Coast.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:33 QuickFix: Sophia and Bertha - Sustainable Gift Wrapping01:32 Meet Bethany03:17 Community Connections: Climate Conversations05:57 Bethany's High School Initiatives08:16 Studying Climate Science on the West Coast12:13 Bethany's Climate Action and Inspirations14:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughtsclimateactionfigures...2024-10-2916 minClimate Action FiguresSeason 2, Episode 1: AinsleyIn the first episode of season two of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden introduces Ainsley, a master's student in Global Governance at the University of Waterloo. This episode discusses Ainsley's research focus on environmental policy, the interplay between economics and sustainability, and the importance of community in climate action. Ainsley shares insights on effective governance, public resource utilization, and the hope that increasing environmental awareness brings for future change.00:00 Welcome to Season Two!00:34 QuickFix: Linda's library01:37 Meet Ainsley: A Master's Journey02:48 Global Governance and Environmental Policy03:49 COP Conferences: Accountability and Effectiveness04:35...2024-10-0821 minClimate Action FiguresEpisode 21: Season FinaleFinale of Climate Action Figures: Reflections and Future PlansJoin Creative Consultant Kayla and Host John Whidden in the season finale of Climate Action Figures as they reflect on memorable moments, share listener QuickFixes, and unveil plans for the next season. The episode also features a fun Q&A session, discussions on favourite features, and highlights from guest contributions, not to mention some ad-libbing and laughter…climateactionfigures@gmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/climateactionfigureshttps://www.instagram.com/climateactionfigures/https://www.youtube.com/@ClimateActionFigures2024-06-2517 minClimate Action FiguresEpisode 20: Nate and JaxxonIn this episode of "Climate Action Figures," John Whidden talks with Nate and Jaxxon from Port Elgin Regional School. They discuss their school's sustainability projects, including a greenhouse, solar panels, and composting. The boys share their personal climate actions and inspirations, emphasizing their school's commitment to environmental stewardship.climateactionfigures@gmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/climateactionfigureshttps://www.instagram.com/climateactionfigures/https://www.youtube.com/@ClimateActionFigures2024-06-1818 minClimate Action FiguresEpisode 16: Ryan HillMeet Ryan Hill: Multi-Talented Teen ActivistIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden introduces Ryan Hill, a 13-year-old environmental activist and multi-talented artist. Ryan shares his experience acting with Joaquin Phoenix, his dedication to protecting monarch butterflies and pangolins, and his award-winning writing on environmental issues. He reflects on the support from his parents and discusses his future goals of using his platform to raise awareness about climate change.00:00 Welcome to Climate Action Figures00:33 QuickFix from Lisa at CPAWS00:52 Meet Ryan: The Multi-Talented Climate Advocate02:25 Ryan's Acting Experience with...2024-05-2121 minClimate Action FiguresEpisode 14: KatherineIn this episode of Climate Action Figures, host John Whidden welcomes Dr. Katherine Arbuthnot, Professor Emerita at the University of Saskatchewan and co-founder of EcoStress Sask. Dr. Arbuthnot discusses the widespread anxiety and stress felt by people of all ages over climate change and environmental degradation. She highlights the work of EcoStress Sask, a support group initiative for people to share their feelings about climate change and take collective action. 00:00 Welcome to Climate Action Figures00:19 This Week's Quick Fix: Water Conservation Tips01:20 Introducing Dr. Katherine Arbuthnot: A Pioneer in EcoStress R...2024-05-0714 min
American TributariesEpisode 82 - Doug Teschner of New Hampshire on Polarization, Purity & Brave PoliticsDr. Douglass Teschner lives in the area of West Lebanon, New Hampshire. He is an active member of Braver Angels, founded his own consultancy called Growing Leadership, was involved with the Peace Corps for more than a decade and was a legislator in the New Hampshire House of Representatives from 1988 to 2002. Doug and host Michael Whidden were connected by prior podcast guest Gabbit Timmis from episode 64.Doug finds hope in the power of optimism and listening. You can learn more about Doug at his website www.growingleadershipllc.com and through his writings at www.nhbr.com/author/doug...2024-05-0547 min
American TributariesEpisode 80 - Greg Gerloff of North Dakota talks Ross Perot, Healthcare and WinnipegGreg Gerloff lives in Grand Forks, North Dakota, where he raised his family and pursued a career in healthcare, which concluded with him serving as chief executive officer of Altru Health Systems. Greg and host Michael Whidden were connected by Greg’s nephew Adam, who was an elementary school teacher for two of Michael’s children.Greg finds hope in his granddaughter...in his belief that people are basically good people...in the core values of America...and in the centrists that he still sees in politics.American Tributaries is a podcast sponsored by American Tribu...2024-04-051h 06
American TributariesEpisode 76 - Mark Genszler of New York on SpiritualityReverend Mark Genszler lives in Brooklyn, New York, where he is the rector for Christ Church Cobble Hill, an Episcopal parish first organized in 1835. Rev. Genszler and host Michael Whidden met this past December at the holiday party of mutual friends.Mark finds hope in the rising generation’s awareness of the world, in the quiet and stillness of nature and in the enduring power of life on Earth.American Tributaries is a podcast sponsored by American Tributaries, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit based in Brooklyn, NY, and dedicated to promoting fellowship and understanding in America thr...2024-01-121h 23
New Books in Popular CultureCorry Cropper and Seth Whidden, "Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France" (Bucknell UP, 2022)Today we are joined by Corry Cropper, a Professor of French at Brigham Young University, and one of two authors, alongside Seth Whidden, of Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France (Bucknell University Press, 2023). In our conversation we discussed the origin of the velocipede and how it illuminated the paradoxes of cultural life in Second Empire France.In Velocipedomania, Cropper and Whidden argue that a close examination of the velocipede and the discourse around it both highlight the complexities of class, gender and modernity in late Second Empire France but also prefigure the links between the...2023-10-211h 00
New Books in SportsCorry Cropper and Seth Whidden, "Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France" (Bucknell UP, 2022)Today we are joined by Corry Cropper, a Professor of French at Brigham Young University, and one of two authors, alongside Seth Whidden, of Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France (Bucknell University Press, 2023). In our conversation we discussed the origin of the velocipede and how it illuminated the paradoxes of cultural life in Second Empire France.In Velocipedomania, Cropper and Whidden argue that a close examination of the velocipede and the discourse around it both highlight the complexities of class, gender and modernity in late Second Empire France but also prefigure the links between the...2023-10-211h 00
New Books in Science, Technology, and SocietyCorry Cropper and Seth Whidden, "Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France" (Bucknell UP, 2022)Today we are joined by Corry Cropper, a Professor of French at Brigham Young University, and one of two authors, alongside Seth Whidden, of Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France (Bucknell University Press, 2023). In our conversation we discussed the origin of the velocipede and how it illuminated the paradoxes of cultural life in Second Empire France.In Velocipedomania, Cropper and Whidden argue that a close examination of the velocipede and the discourse around it both highlight the complexities of class, gender and modernity in late Second Empire France but also prefigure the links between the...2023-10-211h 00
New Books in Western European StudiesCorry Cropper and Seth Whidden, "Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France" (Bucknell UP, 2022)Today we are joined by Corry Cropper, a Professor of French at Brigham Young University, and one of two authors, alongside Seth Whidden, of Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France (Bucknell University Press, 2023). In our conversation we discussed the origin of the velocipede and how it illuminated the paradoxes of cultural life in Second Empire France.In Velocipedomania, Cropper and Whidden argue that a close examination of the velocipede and the discourse around it both highlight the complexities of class, gender and modernity in late Second Empire France but also prefigure the links between the...2023-10-211h 00
New Books in French StudiesCorry Cropper and Seth Whidden, "Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France" (Bucknell UP, 2022)Today we are joined by Corry Cropper, a Professor of French at Brigham Young University, and one of two authors, alongside Seth Whidden, of Velocipedomania: A Cultural History of the Velocipede in France (Bucknell University Press, 2023). In our conversation we discussed the origin of the velocipede and how it illuminated the paradoxes of cultural life in Second Empire France.In Velocipedomania, Cropper and Whidden argue that a close examination of the velocipede and the discourse around it both highlight the complexities of class, gender and modernity in late Second Empire France but also prefigure the links between the...2023-10-211h 00
American TributariesEpisode 71 - Ron Heller of Oklahoma talks OKC, Tornadoes & PoliticsRon Heller is a practicing attorney and retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel who has lived in Oklahoma City since 1974. Ron and host Michael Whidden were connected by Ron’s son Eric, who worked with Michael in the early 2000s.Our discussion covers, among other things:*his early days: from the ashes of World War II to the life of an "Army brat" to service in Vietnam*basketball, taxes and urban revitalization in Oklahoma City*tornados*must-do’s for OKC visitors*what it means to be a “conservative”Ron finds hope in...2023-10-061h 06The Wedding BuzzEp. 13 - Inside Delightful PlanningStep into a special episode of The Wedding Buzz, where host, Sydney Whidden takes the reins solo to unveil the inner workings of Delightful Planning, her very own wedding planning business. But that's not all—Sydney also delves into the world of content creation, sharing how Delightful Planning captures the behind-the-scenes moments of couple's special day. If you are an engaged couple looking for wedding planning or content creation, contact sydney @sydney@delightfulplanning.com to learn more about how Delightful Planning can serve you best on your wedding day. delightfulplanning.com2023-08-3020 min
The Wedding Chaplain PodcastEp. 40 - The Wedding Buzz with Sydney Whidden No guest today. Well, I am the guest. Specifically, I was a guest on another podcast called The Wedding Buzz hosted by Sydney Whidden. Are you planning your wedding and overwhelmed? Sydney is a wedding planning coach and founder/owner of Delightful Planning. She knows that planning a wedding can be so stressful, and she is on a mission to ensure that the only tears on a wedding day are happy tears. I am actually a guest on her podcast today. After we were done, it was such a good conversation that I made it an episode here. If...2023-07-2539 min
American TributariesEpisode 65 - Connor Rickett of Arizona on Wolves, Conversation & Insight from a Walmart BathroomConnor Rickett is based in Phoenix, Arizona but, with the remote character of his employment, travels extensively around the United States (especially in the West). In those travels, he studies and photographs wildlife and their surroundings and, perhaps more importantly, has gained optimistic insight into Americans and human beings in general. This podcast is the result of a chance meeting between Connor and host Michael Whidden at a coffee joint in Jackson, Wyoming in August 2022 (thank you, Snake River Roasting Company!).Our discussion covers, among other things:*the advantages of getting off the interstate when driving c...2023-07-201h 15
American TributariesEpisode 63 - Mike Myers of Indiana on Teaching History, Balance in Democracy & Sugar Cream PieMike Myers lives in West Lafayette, Indiana and is a lifelong Hoosier. He is currently a high school social studies teacher and previously worked in middle schools as a teacher and administrator. Mike and host Michael Whidden were connected by Dustin McKinney, the guest from podcast episode 51.Our discussion covers, among other things:*the reasons he enjoys teaching*how history may not repeat itself, but it rhymes*balancing, in a democracy, patience vs flexibility and loud voices vs quiet voices*following the Indy 500...on the radio*sugar cream pie and fried pork t...2023-06-291h 03
American TributariesEpisode 61 - Maryellen Feehery Hank of Pennsylvania on Incentives, Points-of-View and IdentityMaryellen Feerhery Hank lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and has been an attorney for almost twenty-five years, with a specialty in patent law. She and host Michael Whidden know each other from when they were classmates at the University of Pennsylvania in the early 1990s.Our discussion covers, among other things:*how a trip to Russia in 1992 impacted her perspective on the United States*rewards, incentives and innovation and how they benefit society*the importance of learning alternative points-of-view*sense of identity in America, whether it’s by political party, economic the...2023-06-1653 minThe Wedding BuzzEp. 1 - 10 Things You Need to Know Before Picking a Wedding VenueWelcome to The Wedding Buzz, the ultimate podcast for brides and grooms-to-be! Get ready for an exciting debut episode as we dive into the captivating world of weddings with our fabulous host, Sydney Whidden. Join us as we uncover the woman behind the microphone, where Sydney shares her background, expertise, and the inspiration behind this fantastic podcast. But wait, there's more! We're also delving into one of the most crucial aspects of wedding planning: choosing the perfect venue. Sydney will be your trusted guide, revealing the top 10 things you absolutely need to know and consider before making...2023-06-1305 min
American TributariesEpisode 60 - Matt Smith of New Jersey talks Coast Guard, Ice-Breaking & Flying AirplanesMatt Smith lives in southern New Jersey, where he retired as a Commander after 22 years of service in the U.S. Coast Guard. While continuing work with the USCG as a civilian he has also been pursuing flight training and recently earned his Private Pilot certificate to fly under Visual Flight Rules. Matt and host Michael Whidden know each other from when they attended high school together on Long Island.Our discussion covers, among other things:*his Coast Guard experiences, ranging from Alaska to Michigan to Florida to Connecticut to Rhode Island to Indiana to Wisconsin an...2023-06-081h 01The Wedding BuzzWelcome to The Wedding BuzzAre you planning your wedding and overwhelmed?! Hey, I’m Sydney Whidden, your wedding planning coach and founder/owner of Delightful Planning. Planning a wedding can be so stressful, and I'm on a mission to ensure that the only tears on wedding day are happy tears. On this podcast, you will hear wedding tips, tricks, stories, and advice from me and the amazing wedding experts that I will have as guests. You will learn the do's and don'ts when it comes to your wedding. Wedding planning can also be lonely, so do it with me! Follow us now on Apple, Spot...2023-06-0700 min
American TributariesEpisode 56 - Jeremy Parzen of Texas on Geographic Prejudgment, Political Diversity & ProgressJeremy Parzen lives in Houston TX with his wife and two children. His life started in Chicago, but he grew up in La Jolla CA. He then attended UCLA and worked in New York City before moving to H-Town approximately fifteen years ago. With a PhD in Italian literature, Jeremy has spent significant time in Italy and is a widely-respected expert in Italian wine, but his appearance on the podcast is not necessarily related to wine but to his life as a Texan.Our discussion covers, among other things:*his observation that Texas of the 2020’s is...2023-05-1149 min
American TributariesEpisode 48 - Pam Jones Manocchio of Delaware on Live Performing Arts & the "First State"Pam Jones Manocchio lives in Wilmington, DE, and is the executive director of the city’s Grand Opera House, where she has worked since 2006 and which offers a wide range of musical performances, comedy acts and Broadway shows. Pam and host Michael Whidden were classmates at Smithtown High School East on Long Island, NY.Our discussion covers, among other things;*the urban yet small town feel of Wilmington and the State of Delaware itself*Pam’s education and career path into performing arts management*the history of the opera house*how the organization cont...2023-03-0957 min
American TributariesEpisode 47.5 - Michael on the Podcast's One Year AnniversaryPodcast host Michael Whidden marks the one year anniversary of the show (the first episodes were uploaded on March 8, 2022) by expressing gratitude to guests, listeners and viewers...and especially his family. He shares what gives him hope: the power of conversation, especially in giving someone the respect of listening.2023-03-0804 min
American TributariesEpisode 47 - Kepler Knott of North Carolina on Democracy, Service & His Community Corps ProjectKepler Knott lives in Raleigh, NC, where he has founded an organization, Community Corps, to promote a bottoms-up approach to universal service through localized summer citizenship boot camps. Host Michael Whidden and Kepler are each members of the organization Braver Angels, the country’s largest organization building bridges across the political divide.Our discussion covers, among other things:*democracy’s tandem of personal freedom and personal responsibility*the genesis of Community Corps*how Community Corps would work*the need to raise our children to achieve their full potential as human beings*embracing nuanc...2023-03-0252 min
The Mike Fallat Podcast#003 - Sydney Whidden (Your Day Your Way)Mike Fallat interviews Sydney Whidden.You deserve to have your wedding, your way! You also deserve to enjoy the planning process! The perfect wedding is often something that people dream about from childhood. However, the process can get complicated, messy, and confusing, not to mention, expensive! Just because someone doesn’t have the budget to hire a full-time wedding planner does not mean they don’t deserve to have a well-organized wedding. The better organized you are, the more you will enjoy your wedding day. A little planning in advance can go a long way! But, where do y...2023-01-2443 min
American TributariesEpisode 41 - John McCafferty of Montana talks Cattle RanchingJohn McCafferty lives in central Montana where he owns and operates his family’s large cattle ranch. His family first settled in Montana to raise cattle in the 1870s. John and host Michael Whidden were connected by Njekwa Beasnael, who is John’s son-in-law and who was a guest of the podcast on Episode 10.Our discussion covers, among other things:*cattle herding*the benefits of barbed wire*beef production*prices for bulls and cows*his expectations for and reactions to New York City*the positive impact technology has had on ranching...2023-01-0655 min
American TributariesEpisode 39 - Brandon Erny of Vermont on Christmas TreesBrandon Erny (“Erny”) lives in northeastern Vermont but spends the holiday season in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn selling Christmas trees for Windswept Farm of Barton, VT. Host Michael Whidden and his family purchased their tree from Erny for the current holiday season and it presented an opportunity to learn more about Christmas trees and, more importantly, the folks who ensure celebrants get their Christmas magic centerpiece each year.Our discussion covers, among other things:*how many trees a location sells in a season*Christmas tree cultivation*what a work day selling Christmas trees is like...2022-12-1951 min
American TributariesEpisode 36 - Philson Tavernier of South Carolina on Army Service, from Jamaica to Germany, Kosovo to KoreaSergeant Major Philson Tavernier lives in South Carolina and is currently Post Command Sergeant Major for the U.S. Army Training Center and Fort Jackson in the state capitol of Columbia. PCSM Tavernier, who originally hails from New York City, has been serving for 27 years, which included a peacekeeping tour in Kosovo, two combat tours in Iraq and assignments in German and South Korea. PCSM Tavernier and host Michael Whidden were connected by a mutual friend, Thomas Byrd, who is the Public Affairs Officer at Fort Jackson and who was a gust on the podcast in Episode 20.O...2022-12-0249 min
American TributariesEpisode 35 - Ivelisse Porroa-García of Virginia on the American Dream, Compromise & the Changing CapitolIvelisse Porroa-García lives in Virginia and worked on Capitol Hill for approximately six years, during which she was a legislative assistant for U.S. Representative Raul Ruiz and worked for U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, before becoming director of government affairs for Ferox Strategies, a consulting firm, in October 2021. Ivelisse and host Michael Whidden were connected by a mutual friend, Nic Adams, who was also a guest on the podcast in Episode 25.Our discussion covers, among other things:*her journey from growing up in Peru to working in the halls of Congress*the American D...2022-11-2259 min
American TributariesEpisode 34 - Brad Alaniz of Rhode Island talks Local History, Civil Discourse & Artificial IntelligenceBrad Alaniz lives in Middletown, Rhode Island. Since retiring from the US Navy as a Commander, he has been a Military Professor at the US Naval War College in Newport, RI, and is currently an Operations Research Analyst exploring new underwater technologies in New London, Connecticut. Brad and host Michael Whidden were shipmates on USS Bunker Hill (CG-52) from 1995 until 1997, when it was homeported in Yokosuka, Japan.Our discussion covers, among other things:*some history about Newport and Rhode Island*which US metropolitan region is bigger than the entire state of Rhode Island*his t...2022-11-181h 08
American TributariesEpisode 33 - Sally Curci of New Jersey on the Special Needs Community & Performing ArtsSally Curci lives in New Jersey and is co-founder with her husband Mike of Shining Stars Network, a not-for-profit dedicated to providing a platform for folks in the special needs community to showcase their performing arts talent in an inclusive environment. Sally and host Michael Whidden were connected by a mutual friend, Frank Vito, who was also a guest of the podcast on episode 3.Our discussion covers, among other things:*how the show got started and has grown*the beneficial impact of the show on its performers as well as their assisting high school buddies2022-11-1034 min
American TributariesEpisode 32 - David Sorich of Maine talks Subs, the Down East & Maritime AcademiesDavid Sorich lives on the northern coast of Maine (aka the “Down East”) and for the last 3+ years has been a professor in the International Business and Logistics Programs at Maine Maritime Academy. He has had a vast array of experiences, including growing up in Utah, attending college in Philadelphia; and being stationed in Athens, GA, Charleston, SC, Pearl Harbor, HI, and London, England. David and host Michael Whidden have known each other since they were fellow students and Navy ROTC midshipmen at the University of Pennsylvania.Our discussion includes, among other things:*transiting the Panama Canal...2022-11-041h 15