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Major Charles Roberts joins us to shed light on the Salvation Army's powerful impact during the holiday season. Discover how the iconic red kettles are more than just a holiday tradition—they're a lifeline that supports 34 crucial programs ranging from daycare and housing assistance to shelters for homeless youth. Through Major Roberts' personal experiences and insights, you’ll learn about the incredible difference even modest donations can make and why volunteer bell ringers are essential to the mission. He extends an invitation to the community to participate, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment that comes from volunteering during this festive time.

The episode takes a heartwarming turn as we highlight the Christmas Bureau's large-scale gift distribution event, a collaborative effort bringing smiles to countless children and families in need. While volunteer registration may have closed, the spirit of giving is celebrated through partnerships with organizations like Toys for Tots and Old Newsboys. Major Roberts also shares tales from Syracuse, where the Salvation Army has been a beacon of hope for 140 years. As we talk about upcoming events and community engagement opportunities, we invite you to embrace the holiday spirit and support the Salvation Army or any nonprofit close to your heart.

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Join us for a captivating conversation as we step away from our regular country music discussions to explore the fascinating world of snakes with our special guest, Virgil Dombrowski from Endeavor Reptiles Incorporated. Virgil opens up about his journey from a small collection to managing over 700 snakes, including the remarkable Eastern Indigo. Known for its intelligence and protected status, the Eastern Indigo offers a glimpse into the complexities of snake breeding and the legalities involved. Discover the intricacies of maintaining such an extensive collection and the importance of handling these incredible creatures to dispel common fears and misconceptions.

In this episode, we challenge the traditional notions of snake ownership and breeding. Discover the differences between venomous and non-venomous species and laugh along with us at the humorous trials of pairing snakes, including the occasional mix-up of gender identification. Virgil shares his experiences in breeding and incubating snake eggs, from understanding genetics to the challenges of creating the perfect environment for successful hatching. The beauty of scaleless snakes and the genetic intrigue of microscale snakes are discussed, inspiring a newfound appreciation for these often misunderstood reptiles.

Beyond the technicalities of breeding, our conversation shifts to the therapeutic and business aspects of caring for snakes. Virgil shares his personal journey through the emotional impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, finding solace and purpose in reptiles. Learn about the supportive community within the snake industry and the exciting world of reptile shows and conferences. We explore how a passion for these creatures can lead to fulfilling and unexpected ventures, emphasizing the joy of connecting people with pets that bring comfort and joy. This episode promises to entertain, educate, and perhaps even change your perspective on the world of reptiles.

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with John Kinectly, the dedicated executive director and community leader of L'Arche Syracuse. Discover how L'Arche creates a harmonious environment for individuals with and without intellectual disabilities to live together as family across four homes in Syracuse. We promise you’ll be inspired by the story of Ted Fox, a core member whose journey from anger to becoming a community spokesperson showcases the transformative power of belonging and support. John takes us through the organization’s history, founded by Wolf Wolfensberger, and how it rose from the deinstitutionalization movement to become a beacon of hope and inclusion.

We also take a closer look at the everyday rhythm of life at L'Arche, where structured routines and shared meals build a nurturing sense of community and emotional well-being. Listen as we highlight the story of a former law professor who found his calling at L'Arche over three decades ago, illustrating the profound impact of these relationships. Challenges like state policy restrictions and labor shortages are met with resilience and advocacy, calling for better state support. John and our community members share personal anecdotes that underscore the vital role of inclusive communities in celebrating the unique gifts of everyone, emphasizing that true community means everyone is valued and cherished.

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Join us as we dive into the extraordinary world of Ada Pasternak, the prodigious violinist turned singer-songwriter. Picture this: a young girl, uprooted from Moscow to the bustling streets of New York, guided by the melodious legacy of her classically trained parents. Ada’s candid recounting of her journey from being a reluctant violin player to earning a scholarship at Berklee College of Music is nothing short of inspiring. Her transition from classical to contemporary music, fueled by personal experiences like significant breakups, showcases how she has mastered the art of transforming life’s challenges into heartfelt compositions.

Venture with us into the vibrant music scene of Nashville, where Ada has found a new rhythm. The city, known for its rich musical tapestry, offers her an ideal backdrop to hone her craft, surrounded by influences as diverse as John Mayer and The Beatles. Ada opens up about the unique experiences of performing in intimate settings and how Nashville’s dynamic environment invigorates her songwriting process. Despite not gracing the legendary Broadway, her dedication to recording and connecting with fans through live performances and social media has made her a cherished figure in the community.

Finally, we explore Ada's reflections on identity and belonging. From the tranquil beaches of Fairfield to the bustling avenues of Nashville, she weaves a narrative of finding home in music. The episode touches on themes of healing and new beginnings, emphasizing Ada’s passion for music therapy and her car-free lifestyle. Through heartfelt anecdotes and aspirations of future collaborations with artists like Jacob Collier, Ada invites us into her world of artistic possibilities, providing a soundtrack that resonates deeply with listeners and encouraging us all to embrace our journeys with confidence and self-assurance.

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Tiffany Woys joins us to share her courageous journey behind her latest release, "American Dreamer," a song that aims to bridge divides during a politically charged time. Reflecting on the nostalgic days of civil political discourse, Tiffany opens up about her initial trepidations and the driving force of love and unity that pushed her to release this patriotic anthem. As we navigate through the songwriter's world, we uncover the transformative power of music to inspire civic engagement and foster a sense of national pride, transcending political barriers.

The episode takes a heartfelt turn as we discuss my personal evolution as a podcast host. Moving away from the rigid question-by-question format, I've embraced a more conversational style that invites deeper guest engagement and honest dialogues. With the shift to a professional studio setting in the second season of "What's Mine is Yours," the focus is on creating a warm, inviting space for our guests, ensuring their stories and insights are captured authentically. We tackle the common misconception that hosting a podcast is easy, sharing the learning curves and growth experiences along the way.

We wrap up with a candid look at the music industry's current landscape, particularly the surprising trend of cover songs overshadowing original works. This discussion highlights the industry's shift towards viral content at the expense of enduring musical quality and originality. We encourage listeners to actively support the artists they believe in, emphasizing the impact of informed voting and civic participation on shaping the future. With Tiffany's "American Dreamer" as our soundtrack, we champion a message of unity and pride in our shared identity as Americans.

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Ever wondered how an actor makes the leap from the Hollywood hills to the heart of country music? Our guest, Richard Banker, takes us on his incredible journey from starring in NBC’s "Love Bites" to serenading audiences in Texas honky-tonks. Richard shares his childhood moments in South Dakota, his bold move to Los Angeles, and the fascinating transformation that saw him step off the screen and onto the stage. This episode is a treasure trove of stories, from his early acting roles to his pivot into the music scene, and how the pandemic became a turning point for his solo career.

Picture this: a man with just $300 and a guitar decides to leave Los Angeles and try his luck in Texas. Richard Banker recounts his adventures as he navigated small towns, sought out gigs, and eventually set up an eight-show tour across North Texas. We explore the vibrant Texas music scene through Richard's eyes, hearing about legendary venues like the Broken Spoke in Austin and historic locations in Fort Worth and San Antonio. Through his unique "cosmic country" style, he blends 70s country with rock influences, creating a sound that's both nostalgic and refreshingly original.

In the final part of our conversation, Richard opens up about his songwriting process and the inspirations behind his music. You'll get an insider look at his latest song, "Beetles in the Morning, Stones at Night," and learn how his musical tastes have evolved over the years. From the gritty tales of his early audition days in Los Angeles to his ongoing passion for acting, Richard provides a heartfelt reflection on his artistic journey. Tune in to hear about his plans for a new 12-song album, his work with Grassroots Promotions in Nashville, and the delightful spontaneity that fuels his creativity.

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What if musical genres were as fluid as emotions? Join us in an inspiring conversation with the multi-talented Rebecca Correa, as she uncovers the magic behind her latest single "Rose-Colored Glasses" and her eclectic musical journey. From her childhood in Dartmouth, Massachusetts to her vibrant performances along the Northeast coast and the iconic music scene of Nashville, Rebecca takes us on a captivating tour of her life's musical tapestry. We explore her summer gigs on islands like Martha's Vineyard and her plans to return to Nashville for an intense writing and recording season.

Rebecca's story is a tapestry of diverse influences and early passions. She reflects on her music, which blends folk, rock, Americana, pop, R&B, soul, and country, and the impact of her varied musical upbringing. Rebecca offers a fascinating take on the blurring lines between genres, with a nod to Post Malone's successful crossover into country music. We also dive into her roots: starting with piano, transitioning to guitar, and eventually collaborating with Grammy winner Keb' Mo'. Her journey is a testament to the power of early songwriting as an emotional outlet and the significant role Nashville connections have played in her career.

Beyond the chords and melodies, we uncover Rebecca's life off the stage. She shares her passion for running, highlighting the communal spirit of both the music and running communities. With twelve half marathons under her belt, including the Nashville Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon, Rebecca draws striking parallels between these two worlds. We touch on her experiences recording in prestigious studios and her love for local sports, particularly Nashville Predators games. Our conversation wraps up with a powerful note on female representation in the music industry, celebrating Rebecca's determination and positivity as she continues to make waves with "Rose Colored Glasses.

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What if one month could transform your understanding of a vibrant culture? Join us as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the dynamic Fanny Villarreal, a beloved Latino leader in Central New York. This episode is an enlightening journey through the rich tapestry of Hispanic and Latino contributions, set against the backdrop of the independence days of several Central American countries. Fanny shares her personal anecdotes which highlight the beautiful cultural exchanges within our community.

Over her 33 years in Central New York, Fanny has made a significant impact, particularly through her work at a local radio station now celebrating its 31st anniversary. We discuss how Hispanic culture has enriched mainstream American culture, likening it to a vibrant, diverse salad. Fanny clears up common misconceptions about Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day, and the terms Hispanic and Latino. She passionately talks about the importance of non-Hispanic participation in Hispanic Heritage Month, fostering a deeper cultural appreciation and understanding.

In the final segment, we celebrate the infectious energy of Hispanic music and dance, showing how they bring unity and joy to community gatherings. Fanny details her role in educating others about Latino cultures through her radio show, Nosotros Radio, which features community events, music, and spiritual well-being segments. As we wrap up, Fanny shares her gratitude for the opportunities she's received and her hopes of reconnecting with her roots in Peru. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the diverse and vibrant Hispanic community in Syracuse and beyond.

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