How Memphis Youth Are Leading Community Change Today With BRIDGES

In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, we dive deep into the heart of BRIDGES, which works to break down barriers and unify our community. President & CEO, Dana Wilson, chats with Host Andrew Bartolotta about their investment in the power of youth and how they empower them to be courageous leaders and change makers today, not just for tomorrow.

Through Connect, Collaborate, and Change, the three levels of Bridge Builders programming, youth in grades 6-12 learn to step outside their comfort zones and seek out diverse perspectives. They also hone crucial real-world skills like communication, problem-solving, and decision-making as they explore effective citizenship and social responsibility.

Bridge Builders programs don’t stop at diversity appreciation and leadership development—they challenge youth to apply those skills to make meaningful and lasting impacts on schools, neighborhoods, and city through the Youth Action Center, councils, and boards.

At BRIDGES, they believe youth aren’t just “the leaders of tomorrow.” They’re powerful agents for positive change today.

Learn more: https://www.bridgesusa.org

Host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Lisa Anderson, founder of Room In The Inn – Memphis (RITI), a transformative nonprofit providing sanctuary and support to the unhoused across Memphis. Lisa shares RITI’s journey from a small church project to a city-wide mission with over 50 congregations involved. We discuss the organization’s key programs, including the Congregational Shelter, the pioneering Recuperative Care Center, and the Family Inn, which together aim to offer warmth, safety, and a path towards sustainable housing for those in need.

Lisa emphasizes the critical role of community involvement and the impact of RITI’s work in creating a sense of belonging and sanctuary for the most vulnerable.

For those inspired to learn more or contribute to Room In The Inn – Memphis, Lisa provides insight into how the community can make a difference. Tune in to discover how RITI is making Memphis a warmer, more welcoming place for everyone.

For more information on Room In The Inn – Memphis and how you can help, please visit their website here: https://ritimemphis.org/

Host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Angie Orth, a celebrated travel expert, content creator, and author, whose remarkable transition from a PR publicist to a leading voice in travel has inspired countless adventurers worldwide. Angie shares her captivating journey, documented in her memoir, 'Flirting With Disaster - True Travel Tales of Fear, Failure and Faith,' offering listeners a raw and authentic look into the highs and lows of life on the road. 

From the inception of AngieAway.com to her dynamic presence on The Jet Sisters and various podcasts, Angie has not only contributed to reshaping the narrative around travel but has also become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring travelers and content creators alike.

Interview Highlights:

• Angie delves into her initial leap into the world of travel, tracing back to the spark that ignited her passion and led her to pursue it as a full-time career.
• The creation story behind AngieAway.com and its evolution from a dream to a thriving career.
• Insights into Angie's book, 'Flirting With Disaster,' and her motivation for sharing her personal journey of overcoming fear, embracing failure, and finding faith.
• Angie recounts the most unforgettable experiences from her travels across over 60 countries.
• The transition from a traditional PR career to becoming a trailblazer in travel content creation.
• Angie’s perspectives on the top travel destinations for this year.
• Advice for solo female travelers.
• A discussion on the misconceptions surrounding content creation and the influencer lifestyle.

Host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Erik Hanberg, a multifaceted author, media entrepreneur, and nonprofit expert, to delve into the world of nonprofit leadership and innovation. Erik, known for his insightful books designed to aid small nonprofits in fundraising, leadership, board governance, and marketing, shares his wealth of knowledge and experience in the sector.

The conversation explores Erik’s unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing small nonprofits today, drawing on his extensive background in running nonprofit organizations and his success as an author. Erik discusses the motivation behind his targeted book series for small nonprofits, providing listeners with actionable advice on enhancing their organizations’ impact through effective leadership, innovative fundraising strategies, and engaging board governance.

Listeners will also get a sneak peek into Erik’s latest initiatives, including his co-founding of Channel 253, a hyper-local podcast network that focuses on Tacoma. The discussion touches on the importance of community engagement, digital storytelling, and the evolving landscape of nonprofit communication.

Erik shares practical tips for individuals considering joining a nonprofit board, emphasizing the significance of understanding a board’s responsibilities and the relationship with the Executive Director. Through Erik’s expert insights, the episode illuminates the path to nonprofit success, offering inspiration and guidance for nonprofit leaders, board members, and volunteers alike.

This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone involved in or interested in the nonprofit sector, providing a deep dive into the strategies that can help small organizations thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Join us as Erik Hanberg leads the way in redefining what it means to lead, support, and innovate within the nonprofit world.

Learn more: https://erikhanberg.com/

In this inspiring episode of the cityCURRENT Show, host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Kenny Alonzo, Executive Director of Rocketown to explore the transformative journey and incredible impact of this Nashville-based youth center.

Founded by contemporary Christian music artist Michael W. Smith, Rocketown stands as a beacon of hope and fun for teens, offering a unique blend of entertainment, after-school programs, and spiritual growth opportunities.

Kenny shares the founding vision of Rocketown, its commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for youth, and the core values that drive its mission to help teens thrive.

The conversation dives into Rocketown’s array of facilities and programs, from skateparks to digital studios, and the recent addition of an esports initiative, showcasing the center’s dedication to evolving with the interests and needs of Nashville’s teens.

Listeners will gain insight into the positive outcomes of Rocketown’s approach, including enhanced physical and emotional health, stronger parent/child bonds, and increased community connections among participants.

Kenny also highlights upcoming events, such as the eagerly anticipated Esports Tournament, and shares heartwarming success stories that exemplify Rocketown’s lasting impact on the lives of young people.

Learn more: https://rocketown.org/

Host Andrew Bartolotta engages in a captivating discussion with Debbie Abrams-Cohen, the dynamic state director of the Tennessee Child Support Employment & Parenting Program (TCSEPP). 

This episode delves deep into the heart of TCSEPP, shedding light on its foundational mission to assist parents ordered to pay child support in overcoming barriers to employment, fostering involved parenting, and establishing stable lives. 

Debbie Abrams-Cohen provides an in-depth look at the challenges and strengths of participants, the critical role of partnerships with DHS Child Support and community allies, and the innovative strategies TCSEPP employs to refer and work with participants effectively. Through Debbie's expert perspective, audiences will discover the significant impact of TCSEPP on ensuring the well-being of children and families across Tennessee, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in social welfare, community development, and the power of supportive programs in changing lives. 

Learn more: https://sworps.org/index.php/field-based-services/tcsepp/

In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Wayne Lutomski, a distinguished figure in the food and beverage industry with a career spanning over four decades.

Wayne has played a pivotal role in launching and globalizing major brands like Snapple, Gatorade, Starbucks Frappuccino, and Welch’s in more than 60 countries.

Currently, as the CEO/Founder of WNDY (We’re Not Dead Yet), Inc., Wayne is focusing on enhancing the well-being of the 55+ community through innovative products like Hydro Shot.

Join us as Wayne shares his journey from international brand management to spearheading wellness initiatives, offering insights into the art of brand growth, market strategy, and the personal motivations behind his current venture including his faith.

Key Topics Discussed:
Wayne’s Transition from Financial Analyst to Global Brand Strategist: Wayne discusses his early career and the path that led him from financial analysis to becoming a global leader in the food and beverage industry.

Launching Iconic Brands Globally: Insights into the strategies Wayne employed to successfully introduce and establish brands like E&J Gallo Wines and Starbucks Frappuccino in international markets.

The Birth of WNDY, Inc. and Hydro Shot: Wayne shares the inspiration behind founding WNDY, Inc., and the development of Hydro Shot, a wellness beverage aimed at the 55+ demographic, emphasizing its health benefits and the science behind it.

Challenges and Rewards of Targeting the 55+ Community: Wayne discusses the unique challenges of marketing to the 55+ age group and the rewards of creating products that genuinely improve their quality of life.

The Importance of Vision and Values in Branding: Wayne emphasizes the critical role of aligning brand vision and values with market strategy to ensure long-term success.

Advice for Entrepreneurs and Brand Strategists: Drawing from his vast experience, Wayne offers advice to young entrepreneurs and brand strategists looking to make a global impact.

Insights from Wayne:
– The significance of understanding and adapting to cultural differences in global brand expansion.
– How personal passion and professional expertise combined to create Hydro Shot.
– The role of storytelling and authenticity in connecting with your audience.

Connect with Wayne:
LinkedIn: Wayne Lutomski: https://www.linkedin.com/in/waynelutomski/
Website: WNDY, Inc. / Hydro Shot: https://h2bev.com/

In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Alessia Citro, a visionary entrepreneur, author, and habits & high-performance coach.

Once a top performer in tech sales at Google and Salesforce, Alessia shares her transformative journey from the fast-paced world of technology to the introspective path of personal development through habits. With the upcoming release of her book, Higher Self Habits, Alessia offers our listeners a unique blend of neuroscience, behavioral science, and spirituality, aimed at fostering lasting change and achieving personal excellence.

Throughout the interview, Alessia delves into her Five-Step Framework for creating sustainable habits, the importance of foundational habits for thriving, and insights into balancing parenthood, work, and entrepreneurship while navigating personal growth.

Alessia’s journey and expert advice are sure to motivate and guide you towards a more fulfilling life.

Learn more: https://alessiacitro.com/

In this compelling episode of the cityCURRENT Show, host Andrew Bartolotta delves deep into the heart and soul of “The Naked Truth Art Project” with its creator, Ephraim Urevbu.

This project, comprising over 150 pieces, serves as a profound narrative on race relations, socioeconomic history, and the untold stories that shape our understanding of humanity.

Ephraim, who hails from Nigeria and now resides in Memphis, shares his journey of passion, resilience, and artistic transformation. His work not only reflects his personal experiences but also acts as a catalyst for dialogue and understanding across diverse communities.

Throughout the conversation, Ephraim touches on the inspiration behind the project, the significance of each piece, and his hope to foster a greater understanding of historical and social justice issues through art.

Join us as we explore the narrative behind each brushstroke and the transformative power of art with Ephraim Urevbu.

Learn more: https://nakedtruthartproject.com/

Host Jeremy C. Park catches up with Joel Primus, who is an entrepreneur, author, filmmaker and media producer featured on a previous episode of cityCURRENT's ChangeMakers podcast.

During the interview, Joel talks about the importance of knowing your strengths and weaknesses, your passions and purpose, and how his acceptance of being a "creative" is paving the way for new opportunities. He talks about the 2.0 version of his clothing and underwear company, and what he is doing differently now as co-founder of Naked Revival Inc. Joel also talks about updating his book, "Getting Naked - The Bare Necessities of Entrepreneurship and Startups," and his second book coming out in 2024, along with some of the film projects, like Raising Global Citizens, and the Docu Series he is producing.

Visit https://joelprimus.com to learn more.