It’s National Recovery month, and in this week’s episode, we’re talking with Mandy McCarthy about the role that vulnerability plays in healing, the world’s need for storytelling, and moving upstream in prevention and wellness work. Mandy McCarthy is a Prevention and Wellness Specialist with Northwestern Community Services Board, who uses her story …

We’re kicking off Season 4, joined by Chief Wayne Sager! We’re discussing Overdose Awareness Day on August 31st, what it looks like to work collaboratively within our communities to create change, and how looking locally can help us live better for longer. Born and raised in the Shenandoah Valley, Chief Wayne Sager has served the Town of Strasburg …

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Dr. Adam Starks about breaking the cycle, reaching out to help others, the need for community, and the hope of at-promise youth. Dr. Adam Starks is a motivational keynote speaker on a variety of child welfare-related topics, ranging from foster care, child mental health issues, and trauma informed care. As…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Dr. Melissa Goldberg Mintz about healing, connection, and the journey of “traumatization to empowerment.” Dr. Melissa Goldberg Mintz is a psychologist, author, and mother of two. Dr. Goldberg Mintz owns a small private practice, Secure Base Psychology and holds the title of Clinical Assistant Professor at …

In this final episode of season 3 we go for a West Country wander with wildlife cinematographer Jamie McPherson. We chat about starting in TV, immersive gimbal filming and seeing dinosaurs everywhere. Website https://www.jamiemcpherson.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/byjamiemcpherson/ Twitter https://twitter.com/jamiemcphers0n?lang=en TV Li…

In this week’s episode we go for a wintery wander with award-winning wildlife filmmaker and climate activist Lis Oakham. Along the banks of the Frome we chat about her path into the industry, filming plants and people for The Green Planet and reducing our environmental impact. Twitter: @MsOakham The Green Planet: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0013cl7 L…

Deer, drones & diving! Presenter, filmmaker & explorer Bertie Gregory joins us in this episode for a winter walk in Bristol. We chat about his career, from getting started in the industry to his massive series of ‘Epic Adventures’ for Disney+. TV Epic Adventures: www.disneyplus.com/en-gb/series/epic-adventures-with-bertie-gregory/4As67yVT9IiU Wild …

In this episode of the Plodcast we go for a London wander with wildlife filmmaker and presenter Dan O’Neill. In the heart of the capital we chat about Dan’s eclectic passions, from saving snow leopards to exploring Guayana’s Rewa River, making music for Cate Blanchett, and being the first openly LGBTQIA+ natural history presenter to carry a show. T…

‘Love like a mustard seed!’ In this episode of Natural Wanders we go for a plod with the fantastic conservation scientist and presenter Dr Rutendo Shackleton. While battling the elements in Cheshire, we chat about the social bonds of elephants, sharing space with nature and hosting the BBC Earth podcast. BBC Earth podcast: www.bbcearth.com/podcast …

We are ending the year with a revisit to our first episode of 2022 by reposting our sit down with Shanza Isom to discuss holistic well-being, mindfulness, and self-care. We think this conversation is the PERFECT way to start January, at a time when we’re all considering how we can better care for ourselves, and others, in the year ahead. Shanza Iso…

In this week’s episode of Natural Wanders we meet with Orcadian composer and multi-instrumentalist Erland Cooper. From Stromness to the city of London, we chat about being inspired by the people and nature of his Orkney home, breaking into school and planting an album in the earth. Website: www.erlandcooper.com Spotify: spotify.com/artist/636k3cBTC…

Wasps, beetles, botfly and beyond! In this episode we go for a Hampshire plod with the brilliant entomologist and presenter Dr George McGavin. We chat about incredible insects, his latest book, overcoming a stammer and the wonder of science. George’s new book, All Creatures Small and Great: How Insects Make the World, is available now as an audio b…

Series 3 has landed! In this first episode of the new series we go for a wander with National Geographic executive vice president, Tom McDonald. In the heart of London we chat about commissioning in today’s TV landscape, avid soap-watching with his family and the solace of nature. Tom McDonald on Linkedin Press: uk.linkedin.com/in/tom-mcdonald-9455…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Jared Rowan about the tools and self-discovery found in therapy, yoga practice as a way of living, and the empowerment that can be experienced in both. Jared is a Psychotherapist on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, working with individuals across the lifespan, providing one-on-one, family, and couple's thera…

On this week’s episode, we’re flipping the script and talking with our host Casey Dwyer about the history and evolution of the Awareness 2 Action podcast, our hopes for its future, storytelling, the importance of developing community, and staying hopeful. Along with the Northwestern Community Prevention and Wellness Services team, Casey co-develope…

On this summer’s bonus episode, the Awareness 2 Action team gathers to discuss their highlights and takeaways from Season 2. Our guests are the incredible team members who bring you this show every other week! NWCSB Prevention and Wellness Services Coordinator Shannon Urum, and Prevention and Wellness Specialists Denise Wakeman, Corialise Pence, Re…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Amanda Quintana & Colleen Jones, hosts of The Hidden Addiction Podcast about their work to address problem gambling, utilizing innovation & technology in human services, and connecting individuals with care. Amanda Quintana works as a Program Manager for the Mid-Hudson Problem Gambling Resource Center in N…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Jordan Brooks about reducing the stigma associated with suicide, starting meaningful conversations, and the noteworthy resources available in our state. Jordan Brooks serves as the Regional Suicide Prevention Program Manager for DBHDS Region 1, as well as the Lock and Talk Virginia Coordinator— a comprehen…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Stephen Hill about [expansion of epi descriptors] Stephen Hill is the founder of Speak Sobriety and a renowned national speaker on substance use prevention & mental health awareness. Stephen is also an attorney, recovery coach, and bestselling author of A Journey to Recovery: Speak Sobriety. Stephen has pr…

In the last episode of season 2, Mandi meets wildlife cameraman Tom Walker. While wandering on the Somerset coast they chat about capturing landscapes, his journey into the industry and filming hyenas for Dynasties II. Website: www.tomwalkerphotography.co.uk Instagram: instagram.com/tomwalkercam?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Facebook: www.facebook.com/tom.wa…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Gail Maddox Taylor about listening to and investing in communities, building coalitions, and why prevention matters. Gail Maddox Taylor is the Director of the Office of Behavioral Health Wellness for the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, also known as the NPN, where she p…

In a blustery Cornwall we meet biologist, writer and presenter Gillian Burke. We chat about Gillian’s career path from behind to in front of the camera, unpopular options and living like it’s 1999. The Watches: www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000ww4q www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p09y9cpy Website: www.gillianburkevoice.com Instagram: instagram.com/g…

Grease is the word! In this episode I take a walk down memory lane with one of the best-known faces on Scottish Television, the actor Jordan Young. Near his Dunbartonshire home we chew the fat about school days, his roles in River City and Scot Squad and the play that started it all. Twitter: twitter.com/joskyn100 Instagram: www.instagram.com/josky…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Dorris Walker-Taylor about Thistle Farms- a nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to helping women survivors recover and heal from prostitution, trafficking, and addiction. Dorris is a Senior Ambassador and a 2012 graduate from Thistle Farms. Dorris also recently authored her first book, Hope is Always Rea…

In the grounds of Pollok House, Mandi searches for signs of spring with one of Britain’s most experienced television journalists, Kirsty Wark. They chat about the history of Pollok, working on Newsnight and raising awareness of issues affecting women of all ages. Twitter: twitter.com/kirstywark?lang=en Instagram: instagram.com/kirsty_wark_/ BBC New…

In this episode we meet with multi-award-winning wildlife cinematographer Gavin Thurston. On his allotment, we chat about storytelling in natural history, filming the deep ocean from a submersible and finding the joy in nature close to home. Instagram: instagram.com/thegavinthurston?utm_medium=copy_link Twitter: twitter.com/GavinThurston Book: www.…

On this week’s episode, we’re sitting down with Laura Cross to discuss the importance of prioritizing authenticity with ourselves, what it looks like to develop community within a profession or field, and how to encourage positive workplace culture. Laura Cross is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified EFT Therapist and Supervisor and …

In this episode we go for a walk in the Kent countryside and a wander into the brilliant mind of Max Cooper. Drawing on his fascination with science and nature, Max is a genuinely unique artist whose live performances combine electronic music and audio-visuals to create a deeply immersive experience. While plodding in the forest we discuss nature a…

In this episode of Natural Wanders, we meet with director and producer, James Reed. From studying zoology to winning an academy award, we discuss James’ career path and three of his standout films to date; ‘Jago: A life underwater’, ‘Rise of the Warrior Apes and ‘My Octopus Teacher’. Website: https://www.underdog-films.com/ IMDb: https://m.imdb.com…

Watch out Mr Darwin! In this episode of Natural Wanders we meet with author, presenter and zoologist Lucy Cooke. While plodding in Pett Level, we discuss the influences on Lucy’s career from Darwin to Dawkins and how her new book is redefining evolution and the female animal. Website: www.lucycooke.tv/about/ New Book – Bitch: www.waterstones.com/bo…

On this week’s episode, we’re revisiting a conversation from Season 1 with Keith Cartwright to discuss Adverse Childhood Experiences, where prevention and health promotion should begin, and how we can build better relationships in our homes, our workplaces, and our communities. Keith Cartwright is a Behavioral Health Wellness Consultant for the Vir…

In this episode of Natural Wanders we meet iconic angler and presenter Jeremy Wade. While walking the banks of his local river we chat about the plight of freshwater, catching River Monsters and how to think like a fish. Website: jeremywade.co.uk Instagram: instagram.com/thisisjeremywade?utm_medium=copy_link Facebook: facebook.com/JeremyWadeOfficia…

Natural Wanders returns! In this episode of the Plodcast we meet with scientist, presenter, and adventurer Lizzie Daly. Before taking a wintery dip, we chat about her route into broadcasting, her passion for British wildlife and how everyone can be involved in the fight for climate action. Website: https://www.lizziedaly.com/ https://www.josarsby.c…

On this week’s episode, we sit down with Sam Quinones to discuss the contents of his books Dreamland and Least of Us, the neuroscience of addiction, and the reasons why he feels hopeful about our future as a nation navigating an opioid epidemic. Sam is a journalist and author of four books of narrative nonfiction. Sam’s landmark book Dreamland: The…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Rita Miller about the benefit of establishing unexpected partnerships, the importance of staying flexible, and the beauty of engagement in the field of public health. Rita Miller is the Cessation Services Coordinator for the Tobacco Control Program at the Virginia Department of Health, where she is respons…

Happy New Year! We’re kicking off the year by sitting down with Shanza Isom to discuss holistic well-being, mindfulness, and self-care. We think this conversation is the PERFECT way to start January, at a time when we’re all considering how we can better care for ourselves, and others, in the year ahead. Shanza Isom, MSW is an assistant professor i…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Misty Harris about breaking the cycle of abuse in families and communities, storytelling as a method for overcoming stigma, and pursuing growth at every stage of life. Misty is an author, speaker, senior counselor, and ordained minister. Misty will soon graduate with her Masters in Addiction Counseling and…

The holidays are here, and for many, this can be a difficult, isolating time. We're revisiting one of our conversations from season one with a guest who offers important insight on being supportive to those who might be struggling. Angie Burleson, APP, CHt, is a Community Development Specialist and Polarity Therapist committed to changing the conve…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Bryon Johnson about the courage and vulnerability involved in healing, celebrating diversity within recovery, the differences between serving & partnering in the community, and the freedom that comes from sharing truth. Bryon Johnson serves his community in a multitude of ways, including his roles an autho…

In this second episode of season 2 we go fossil hunting with evolutionary biologist and conservationist, Professor Ben Garrod. While combing the shores of the Severn we chat about being a geek, serving soup to Jane Goodall and what a 1.5 degree rise really means for the planet. https://www.bengarrod.co.uk/about Twitter: @Ben_garrod Instagram: ben_g…

The Plodcast is back! In the first episode of season 2 we go for a wander in one of Scotland’s most iconic locations with wildlife cameraman and presenter Gordon Buchanan. On the bonny banks, just a stone’s throw from his home in Glasgow, we chat about land use and rewilding, Gordon’s 30-year career behind and in front of the camera and his hopes f…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Kate Gordon about receiving community support, paying it forward, and her experience in the 2021 College Softball World Series. You might recognize Kate Gordon’s name from hearing it this summer when the James Madison University Women’s Softball Team excelled in their first-ever World Series Trip. The team…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Rodney Culbreath and Tina Stevens-Culbreath about the impact of celebrating differences, why representation matters, and what it means to utilize life experiences to inform work and service. Tina and Rodney are co-founders of the I’m Just Me Movement, nonprofit organization based out of Winchester, Virgini…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Susan Betcher about giving back, engaging young people in service, and leaving the world a better place. At 61, Susan has spent half of her life in the field of education, with her last eight years spent working for Laurel Ridge Community College as a Career Coach. Susan is always on the move and always se…

We’re hard at work preparing for season two of Awareness2Action but we didn’t want to miss the opportunity to look back on season one. We hosted 12 incredible guests this season, and asked them all the same question: What does the process of awareness to action mean to you? Here are their inspiring and encouraging answers, all in one place. We hope…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Yvonne Frazier about community partnerships, creating a vision, networking, and building a better future. Yvonne Frazier is the Program Manager for Healthy Families of Shenandoah and Page Counties and founder of Community Care and Learning Center in New Market VA, Shenandoah County’s first non-profit child…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Dr. Somer George about strengthening and repairing relationships, savoring moments of joy and delight, and curiously engaging in lifelong learning. Dr. Somer George is a licensed counselor who loves helping families become happier, healthier, and more connected with each other. She does this through provid…

On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Dr. Matt Pandel about the winding paths we take to reach work we love, community engagement, finding our interests, and becoming aware of trauma. Dr. Matt Pandel began working with the Northwestern Community Services Board in December 2009 as a child/adolescent therapist. Since that time he has created a m…

On this week’s episode, we’re sitting down with Angie Burleson to discuss the importance of sharing our stories, the power of overcoming shame, and our ability to create change at every level. Angie Burleson, APP, CHt, is a Community Development Specialist and Polarity Therapist committed to changing the conversation surrounding substance use and m…

On this week’s episode, we’re sitting down with Kym Laube to discuss resilience, listening to your inner voice, community parenting, and starting small to create big change. Kym Laube is the Executive Director of Human Understanding Growth Services, Inc., HUGS, Inc., located in Westhampton Beach, NY. In this position she brings over 30 years of sub…