Explore the vibrant community of Albion through the lens of health and wellness. Cassidy Porter hosts an engaging conversation with Jessica Mitchell, Executive Director of the Albion Health Care Alliance, as they delve into the vital role the AHCA plays in advocating for accessible healthcare services. Learn about the AHCA's impactful programs like the Community Table of Albion, a food distribution initiative that served over 16,000 individuals last year, and Healthy Babies Day, a longstanding event supporting maternal and infant health. Join this inspiring exploration of how one organization is making a tangible difference, fostering a healthier future for Albion.

Discover the inspiring journey of Cheryl Bell, a talented artist and small business owner who has been crafting her signature tote bags since 2020. With a passion for creativity and community, Cheryl's journey began with a simple sewing class and blossomed into a business that reflects personal expression through themed tote bags. Her involvement in the Albion community, from participating in craft shows to hosting international students, showcases her commitment to making a difference. Cheryl's story is a testament to the power of starting small and letting creativity lead the way. Learn about her dedication to inspiring future generations, her love for arts and crafts, and her vision for a vibrant community filled with diverse businesses. Join us as we delve into the heart of creativity and community spirit, and be inspired to pursue your own passions and dreams.

Explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Ketwana Schoos, Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at the Community College of Allegheny County. Raised in Albion, Dr. Schoos reflects on her roots and the vibrant community that shaped her. With her return as the keynote speaker for Albion College's MLK Convocation, she shares heartfelt stories of growing up in a close-knit neighborhood, participating in school activities, and the invaluable mentorship she received. Discover her passion for education, sports, and community involvement, which paved the way for her impactful career. Through her experiences, Dr. Schoos highlights the importance of creating opportunities for youth, fostering a sense of belonging, and preserving the spirit of community engagement. Her narrative serves as a testament to the power of nurturing environments and the lasting impact they can have on personal and professional growth.

Explore the journey of Scouting in Albion, Michigan, with Cassidy Porter and Sam Porter, a dedicated Scout Leader of Troop 158. Discover the rich history and evolution of Scouting in the community, from Sam's early days as the youngest Eagle Scout in Albion to the inclusion of girls in the Scouts BSA program. Learn about the core values of Scouting, including character building, leadership, and community service, which are instilled through outdoor skills and merit badges. The conversation highlights unique traditions, the impact of Eagle Scout projects on the community, and the significance of giving back. Sam shares his personal adventures and the importance of continuing the legacy of scouting in Albion.

Meet Kelly Rice, a dynamic force in the Albion community and co-owner of Albion Insurance Agency. With a background in kinesiology and a passion for sports, Kelly transitioned from being a sportswriter to a dedicated insurance agent, driven by her love for helping others. Her journey brought her to Albion, where she quickly immersed herself in community initiatives. From fundraising for downtown renovations to organizing the Kids ‘N’ Stuff Children’s Museum auction, Kelly's commitment shines through. As president of the Albion Moose Lodge, she fosters social connections and community support, such as organizing a suitcase drive for families in need. Kelly believes in the power of collective effort and is dedicated to seeing Albion thrive. Her motto? Be the good you want to see in the world. Join us in celebrating her inspiring journey and unwavering dedication to making a difference.

Dive into the inspiring journey of Kyndall Lewis, an Albion College senior, as she shares her deep-rooted connection to the Albion community. Through candid reflections, Kyndall explores her family's unexpected ties to Albion, her unique experiences growing up on college campuses, and the challenges of rediscovering her hometown after years attended school in a different community. As a passionate volunteer and active community member, Kyndall delves into her involvement with the Build Albion Fellows program and the transformative impact of initiatives like the Albion Community Gardens and Albion Big Read. Her story illuminates the power of intentionality and the importance of bridging gaps between the college and the community. Kyndall's academic pursuits in Environmental Studies, Kinesiology, and English intersect with her commitment to public health, food security, and full wellness, revealing a thoughtful approach to creating meaningful change. Join Kyndall as she reflects on the enduring love for Albion, the importance of community engagement, and her hopes for a future where Albion's unique spirit continues to thrive and inspire.

Trisha Franzen, professor of Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies at Albion College, is impacting food access in Albion through Albion's Community Gardens. Discover Trisha's inspiring journey to Albion, her deep-rooted love for gardening, and her commitment to addressing food insecurity. Learn about the community's rich interconnectedness and the transformative power of the gardens in providing fresh, healthy food. Explore the innovative efforts to educate children about nutrition and gardening, and the collaborative spirit that fuels Albion's growth. This conversation sheds light on the importance of community support, resilience, and the shared vision for a sustainable future.

Romain LaNoe completed a month long internship in Albion, Michigan over the summer of 2024. While Romain was here he worked at the Greater Albion Area Chamber of Commerce, exploring what it means to be a visitor to Albion. Romain brings a unique perspective to the Albion community, as he is from Albion's Sister City, Noisy-le-Roi, France. In this episode learn about Albion's French connections, and the opportunities that Romain has had while in Albion.

Explore the journey of Jill Domingo, Albion's dedicated City Clerk, who has been working for the community for over two decades. Discover her personal story, her commitment to the electoral process, and the vital role she plays in ensuring secure and efficient elections. Learn about the comprehensive steps involved in voter registration, the responsibilities of a city clerk, and the importance of poll workers in making election day a success. Uncover the multiple ways residents can cast their votes, from early voting to absentee ballots, highlighting the accessibility and security measures in place.

Explore the inspiring journey of two dedicated students from Albion College, Malena Solis and Breanna Ridley, as they share their experiences as Build Albion Fellows and Albion's Big Read College Volunteers. Rooted in the rich history of their community, Malena and Breanna discuss the deep connections and sense of family that Albion has cultivated in them. They delve into the significance of giving back to their community through service work and fostering a supportive environment for future generations. Discover the transformative power of programs like the Build Albion Fellows and Albion's Big Read, which bridge the gap between college and community while nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Embrace the spirit of curiosity, creativity, and playfulness that these initiatives encourage, and witness how they shape individuals to carry forward the legacy of impact and growth.