Podcast

Inspired Changemakers Podcast

Business, Entrepreneurship, Non-Profit

Inspired Changemakers Podcast hosted by Julia Healey

A Podcast about all the amazing things people are doing to make the world a better place - all about creating change and the moments that inspired our guests to activate.
Stay tuned to be inspired!

Episodes
47
Releases
Monthly
Typical length
46 min
On air since
2023
Latest episode
2 weeks ago

Episodes

47 episodes, newest first

  1. Called to Give | A Conversation with Father Paul Grankauskas and Calvin Smith

    Show notes

    🎧 About the Episode:

    In this episode of Inspired Changemakers, Julia Healey sits down with Father Paul Grankauskas, Pastor of St. Bridget of Ireland Catholic Parish in Berryville, Virginia, and Calvin Smith, Director of Faith Formation, for a heartfelt conversation about faith, generosity, and discovering your calling.

    Having recently celebrated 25 years of priesthood, Fr. Paul reflects on the experiences that led him into ministry, while Calvin shares his journey from Protestant pastor to Catholic faith formation leader. Together, they explore how being open to God’s guidance can lead us down unexpected paths—and help us discover how we are meant to serve.

    With personal stories and plenty of humor, Julia and her guests discuss giving as an expression of gratitude, serving others with humility, and the role of prayer in everyday life. They also explore the importance of community and recognizing people who might otherwise fall through the cracks, from isolated seniors to those without family support.

    For anyone who has wondered whether their contribution is enough, this episode offers an encouraging reminder: start with the needs in front of you. Whether through financial gifts, volunteering, or simply being present for someone, each of us has something meaningful to give.

    🔗 Connect with St. Bridget of Ireland:
    https://sbichurch.org

    🎙️ Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!
    Subscribe, share this episode, and tell us how you’re helping make the world a better place.

    Support the show

    54 min
  2. Human Expertise in an Automated World | A Conversation with Svetlana Makarova

    Show notes

    About the Episode

    In this episode of Inspired Changemakers, Julia Healey sits down with Svetlana Makarova for a timely conversation about artificial intelligence, human expertise, and leading responsibly in an increasingly automated world.

    Svetlana is the AVP of AI Technical Product Management at IKS Health, where she leads the development of an agentic AI platform used by hospitals, physician groups, and other healthcare organizations. She previously led technical product initiatives at the Mayo Clinic Center for Digital Health and is a doctoral candidate in applied artificial intelligence and machine learning at George Washington University. A two-time TEDx speaker, her work explores how people and organizations can build resilience as AI becomes more integrated into everyday life and work.

    Julia and Svetlana discuss how leaders can identify appropriate uses for AI, establish thoughtful guardrails, and balance greater efficiency with accuracy, authenticity, and human oversight. They also explore AI’s effects on education and content creation, the risks of delegating decisions without sufficient expertise, and why lived experience, empathy, and intuition remain uniquely human strengths.

    Ultimately, Svetlana encourages listeners to approach AI as a powerful tool that can amplify human ideas and capabilities while remembering that people must remain responsible for the decisions, risks, and outcomes it produces.

    Support the show

    36 min
  3. Fatherhood, Faith, and Finding Purpose | A Conversation with Josh Powell

    Show notes

    About the Episode:

    In this episode of Inspired Changemakers, Julia Healey sits down with Josh Powell for a powerful conversation about resilience, fatherhood, faith, and finding purpose beyond the game of basketball.

    With a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in professional basketball, Josh Powell won two NBA Championships with the Los Angeles Lakers and a EuroLeague Championship with Olympiacos. Beyond his athletic accomplishments, he was honored with the 2025 President's Lifetime Achievement Award for his commitment to community and service. Guided by his personal motto, "If it's worth it, fight for it," Josh is passionate about strengthening families, advocating for fathers, and building resilient communities.

    Julia and Josh discuss Josh's journey from childhood adversity to professional basketball, the role faith has played throughout his life, and how his experiences inspired him to become an author and advocate. They also explore the importance of fatherhood, parental alienation, breaking the silence around trauma, and why honest conversations are essential to healing and creating stronger families.

    Connect with Josh:

    Instagram: @josh21powell

    Purchase his book: What I Wish I Knew

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights people turning purpose into action. Each episode features a new guest sharing their journey, insights, and projects making a difference in their communities and beyond. Listen in, learn, and get inspired to take your next step!

    Support the show

    55 min
  4. Building a Legacy Through Philanthropy | A Conversation with Hannibal Navies

    Show notes

    About the Episode:

    In this episode of Inspired Changemakers, Julia Healey welcomes back Hannibal Navies, Vice President of Development for United Charitable and Athletes Charitable, for a conversation about philanthropy, social entrepreneurship, and building a legacy beyond the game.

    A former NFL linebacker with a nine-year career spanning the San Francisco 49ers, Cincinnati Bengals, Green Bay Packers, and Carolina Panthers, Hannibal has dedicated his post-football career to helping athletes and communities create lasting impact. Drawing on his experience with The Trust powered by the NFLPA, founding 360° Sports Academy, and leading athlete-focused philanthropic initiatives, he shares why giving back is more than charity—it's an opportunity to build purpose, leadership, and sustainable change.

    Julia and Hannibal discuss the evolution of Athletes Charitable, the growing influence of NIL in collegiate athletics, why philanthropy should be viewed through the lens of social entrepreneurship, and how donor advised funds and fiscal sponsorship are helping athletes turn their passions into lasting community impact.

    Whether you're an athlete, nonprofit leader, advisor, or someone looking to create meaningful change, this episode offers an inspiring look at how purpose-driven leadership can leave a legacy that extends far beyond a career.

    Connect with Hannibal:

    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hannibalnavies

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bullnavies

    Athletes Charitable: https://athletescharitable.org/

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast is a platform that showcases inspiring individuals who are making a difference in the world. Each episode features a new guest, sharing their journey, insights, and projects aimed at creating positive change in their communities and beyond. Join us as we learn from these changemakers and get inspired to take action in our own lives!

    You can find us on:
    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    54 min
  5. Success Through Community | A Conversation with Tina Johnson

    Show notes

    About the Episode:

    In this episode of Inspired Changemakers, Julia Healey sits down with Tina Johnson for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and empowering women in business.

    Tina has been an entrepreneur for over 35 years, launching numerous successful businesses, including her event management company, JP Events & Consulting. In 2020, driven by a passion for helping mission-driven women entrepreneurs achieve independent business success, she launched the CEO Consulting Group and the Women’s CEO Business School. Built on a philanthropic mission, the programs focus on teaching women business owners the “how to” of building sustainable businesses through proven foundational frameworks. Tina also serves on several nonprofit boards and is currently President of the Loudoun First Responders Foundation.

    Julia and Tina discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, balancing motherhood and business ownership, imposter syndrome, financial empowerment for women, and the importance of creating authentic communities where women can support one another personally and professionally. The episode also explores Tina’s passion for philanthropy and how she is building spaces that help women thrive both in business and in life.

    Connect with Tina:

    Instagram: @ceoconsultinggroupllc

    Websites:
    The CEO Woman: https://www.theceowoman.com
    CEO Sisterhood: https://www.ceosisterhood.com
    Women’s CEO Summit: https://www.womensceosummit.com

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights people turning purpose into action. Each episode features a new guest sharing their journey, insights, and projects making a difference in their communities and beyond. Listen in, learn, and get inspired to take your next step!

    Support the show

    38 min
  6. Healthy Faith | A Conversation with Carrie Sheffield

    Show notes

    About the Episode:
    In this episode of Inspired Changemakers, Julia Healey sits down with Carrie Sheffield for a powerful conversation about resilience, healing, and purpose.

    Carrie Sheffield is a writer, broadcaster, and musician in Washington, D.C. Carrie serves as Program Manager of Healthy Faith at United Charitable, and authored the bestselling book Motorhome Prophecies: A Journey of Healing and Forgiveness, published by Hachette Book Group. A Senior Policy Analyst at Independent Women’s Forum, Carrie serves as Board Vice Chair of the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. A former White House reporter, Carrie earned a master’s in public policy from Harvard University, with a concentration in business policy.

    Julia and Carrie discuss the connection between faith and mental health, the importance of breaking generational cycles, and the work Carrie is doing through Healthy Faith to bridge the gap between spiritual and mental health care. The episode also highlights Carrie’s impressive professional career spanning journalism, finance, public policy, and advocacy.

    Connect with Carrie:
    Instagram: @sheffieldcarrie
    X/Twitter: @carriesheffield
    Healthy Faith: https://healthyfaithsaves.substack.com/
    Book: Motorhome Prophecies (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1546004386?tag=hacboogrosit-20)

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!
    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights people turning purpose into action. Each episode features a new guest sharing their journey, insights, and projects making a difference in their communities and beyond. Listen in, learn, and get inspired to take your next step!

    Support the show

    46 min
  7. The Advisor Evolution | A Conversation with Jason Diamond

    Show notes

    About the Episode:

    In this episode of Inspired Changemakers, Julia Healey sits down with Jason Diamond, President of Diamond Consultants, to explore how the role of the financial advisor is evolving and why education and adaptability are key to long-term success. With experience at both Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley before starting Diamond Consultants, Jason brings a unique perspective shaped by working with some of the industry’s most sophisticated advisors.

    Jason shares how advisors are moving beyond transactional models toward more relationship-driven practices, while navigating challenges like growth, succession planning, and a shifting client base. As investment management and financial planning become “table stakes,” differentiation has never been more important.

    Julia and Jason also discuss the powerful lens on philanthropy, highlighting how tools like donor-advised funds can help advisors deepen relationships and align clients’ wealth with their values. Together, they unpack the growing influence advisors have not just on financial outcomes, but on legacy, purpose, and long-term impact.

    Connect with Jason:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-diamond/

    Diamond Consultants: https://www.diamond-consultants.com/

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights people turning purpose into action. Each episode features a new guest sharing their journey, insights, and projects making a difference in their communities and beyond. Listen in, learn, and get inspired to take your next step!

    You can find us on:
    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    37 min
  8. The Power of Girls on the Run | A Conversation with Annoica Ingram

    Show notes

    About The Episode:

    In this episode of Inspired Changemakers, Julia Healey sits down with Annoica Ingram, Executive Director of Girls on the Run of the Shenandoah Valley, to explore how confidence, resilience, and leadership are built in young girls through movement, mentorship, and community. What began as a simple volunteer opportunity turned into a lifelong passion for Annoica. One that now impacts hundreds of girls across a 13-county region.

    Together, they dive into the power of combining physical activity with life skills, why addressing negative self-talk at an early age is critical, and how programs like Girls on the Run create safe spaces for girls to discover their voice and believe in their potential. Julia also shares a personal perspective as a parent watching the program’s impact firsthand, bringing the conversation to life in a deeply relatable way.

    From the transformative moment of crossing the finish line to the full-circle stories of former participants returning as coaches, this episode highlights how small, consistent investments in young people can lead to lasting change for individuals, families, and entire communities.

    Support the show

    27 min
  9. Beyond the Portfolio | A Conversation with Sarah Baker, CFP

    Show notes

    Beyond the Portfolio | A Conversation with Sarah Baker, CFP

    🎧 About the Episode:

    In this episode, host Julia Healey sits down with Sarah Baker, CFP®, Senior Financial Planner at Mason Investment Advisory Services, to explore how philanthropy becomes transformational when it’s fully integrated into financial planning. Sarah shares how her early exposure to service shaped her belief that wealth should align with values—and why she regularly asks clients, “Why do you have more than you need?”

    Together, they discuss donor-advised funds as a powerful, flexible giving tool, how thoughtful planning before a business sale can fund both retirement and lifelong philanthropy, and why automation is the key to building sustainable generosity. Sarah also reflects on the pivotal moment that led her to focus on empowering women through major life transitions and ensuring both spouses are engaged in financial conversations. This episode is a practical and personal look at moving from fear to freedom through intentional giving.

    Show your support for Sarah and this work by liking, sharing, and leaving a comment below.

    🔗 Connect with Sarah:

    Sarah’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-baker-95046435/

    Support the show

    40 min
  10. Control What You Can Control | A Conversation with Garry Gilliam (Part 2)

    Show notes

    Control What You Can Control | A Conversation with Garry Gilliam (Part 2)

    About the Episode

    In part two of this two-part conversation, Julia Healey continues her discussion with Garry Gilliam as he shares the next phase of his journey from an outstanding Pro Day performance at Penn State to going undrafted and navigating the realities of entering the NFL as a free agent.

    Garry walks through the emotional weight of Draft Day, the mindset shift required to focus on opportunity rather than disappointment, and his decision to sign with the Super Bowl–defending Seattle Seahawks. He reflects candidly on early struggles at training camp, experiencing imposter syndrome, and the importance of asking for help, stacking incremental improvement, and controlling what he could control each day

    Garry explains how his experiences living and playing in Seattle and San Francisco exposed him to deep systemic challenges around housing, food security, and access to opportunity. Drawing on lessons from the Milton Hershey School and his background in business and sustainability, he outlines the vision behind The Bridge Eco Village — a mixed-use, community-based model designed to help people work, eat, live, learn, and play, supported by education and pathways to self-sufficiency

    Connect with Garry: https://www.garrygilliamjr.com/

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights people turning purpose into action. Each episode features a new guest sharing their journey, insights, and projects making a difference in their communities and beyond. Listen in, learn, and get inspired to take your next step!

    You can find us on:
    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    49 min
  11. Control What You Can Control | A Conversation with Garry Gilliam (Part 1)

    Show notes

    Control What You Can Control | A Conversation with Garry Gilliam (Part 1)

    About the Episode

    In Part One of this two-part conversation, Julia Healey sits down with Garry Gilliam — former NFL player, Penn State graduate, and founder of The Bridge Eco Village — to explore how adversity, structure, and belief shaped his path from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to national impact.

    Garry reflects on growing up in generational poverty, being sent at eight years old to the Milton Hershey School, and the difficult mindset shift required to move from survival to opportunity. He shares how a “whole child” approach, focused on mind, body, spirit, and community, helped him redefine what was possible when resources and stability were finally in place.

    The conversation also dives into Garry’s devastating college injuries, the mental battle of being told he had just a 10% chance of returning to form, and the discipline of focusing on effort, character, and the next right step when everything else felt out of control. Throughout, Julia and Garry unpack bigger questions about education, transition, and why preparing people for success must include preparing them for what comes next.

    This episode sets the foundation for Part Two, where Garry’s NFL journey and the vision behind The Bridge take center stage.

    Connect with Garry: https://www.garrygilliamjr.com/

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights people turning purpose into action. Each episode features a new guest sharing their journey, insights, and projects making a difference in their communities and beyond. Listen in, learn, and get inspired to take your next step!

    You can find us on:
    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    50 min
  12. Beyond the Checkbook | A Conversation with Rick Peck

    Show notes

    Beyond the Checkbook | A Conversation with Rick Peck

    🎧 About the Episode:

    In this episode, Julia sits down with Rick Peck, an independent philanthropic advisor and founder of The Philanthropy Guy, to talk about what really moves giving from good intentions to meaningful impact. Growing up in a service-minded family and later working in fundraising, healthcare, and community foundations, Rick shares how those experiences shaped his belief that every great gift starts with a clear sense of values, purpose, and the change you want to see in the world.

    Julia and Rick dive into how nonprofits can sharpen their case for support, make it easier (and less intimidating) for donors to say “yes,” and why most organizations are leaving money on the table by not asking for non-cash gifts like appreciated stock, real estate, or business interests. They explore how donor-advised funds fit into the picture, what professional advisors wish nonprofits understood, and practical ways families can use their giving, through DAFs, foundations, and everyday generosity, to teach the next generation about stewardship and service. If you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or advisor who wants to deepen donor relationships and think beyond the checkbook, this conversation offers a roadmap.

    Show your support for Rick and this work by liking, sharing, and leaving a comment below.

    🔗 Connect with Rick:

    Rick’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-peck/
    The Philanthropy Guy: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com/

    Support the show

    46 min
  13. Start Small, Do Something | A Conversation with Corinne Grimaldi

    Show notes

    Start Small, Do Something | A Conversation with Corinne Grimaldi

    🎧 About the Episode:

    In this episode, Julia welcomes Corinne Grimaldi, Manager at Evans, Inc., where she leads corporate social responsibility (CSR) alongside organizational development, change management, and strategic planning. Raised with a service-first mindset, Corinne shares how those early experiences shaped a practical, people-centered approach to giving at work.

    Julia and Corinne dig into living your values loudly, building psychological safety so employees feel free to “care out loud,” and simple systems that make participation easy—like crowdsourcing causes, a “March Charity Madness” bracket, multi-option volunteer drives, and even textile recycling led by employee interest. You’ll hear why small actions compound (especially in small businesses), how to avoid “perfect impact” paralysis, and why board service is an accessible on-ramp for deeper community leadership. If you’ve wanted to start, or strengthen, your company’s giving, this conversation shows how to start where you are and build momentum.

    Show your support for Corinne and this work by liking, sharing, and leaving a comment below.

    🔗 Connect with Corinne:

    Corinne’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinne-grimaldi-m-s/

    🎙️ Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights people turning purpose into action. Each episode features a new guest sharing their journey, insights, and projects making a difference in their communities and beyond. Listen in, learn, and get inspired to take your next step!

    You can find us on:
    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    51 min
  14. Change Our Future | A Conversation with Rodney McLeod

    Show notes

    🎧 About the Episode:

    Rodney McLeod Jr. is a recently retired NFL safety, Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles, and 2024 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award nominee. After going undrafted in 2012, Rodney built a 13-year career across four teams, earning recognition not only for his play but for his community service, including the NFLPA Alan Page Community Award. With his wife Erica, he co-founded the Change Our Future Foundation to empower youth through mentorship, education, and exposure.

    In this episode, Rodney reflects on his journey from overlooked athlete to respected leader and how adversity, including multiple injuries and setbacks, shaped his resilience, discipline, and faith mindset.

    He shares the story behind launching Change Our Future during 2020’s national reckoning, why programs like Next Man Up and the Youth Leadership Summit are transforming young men into leaders, and how exposure to STEM and higher education opens new doors for underserved youth

    Alongside host Julia Healey, this conversation explores the power of mentorship, the courage to pivot when strategies aren’t working, and the role of faith and community in creating long-term change. Rodney also reveals how donors make a direct difference—from funding HBCU trips to equipping students with essential resources—and why he believes legacy is about being a symbol of hope and possibility.

    Whether you’re an athlete, philanthropist, or changemaker, this episode offers a playbook for turning personal challenges into community impact.

    Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the Inspired Changemakers Podcast! Your support helps us continue bringing stories of leaders like Rodney McLeod, who are shaping the future through service, resilience, and hope.

    🔗 Connect with Rodney:
    Change Our Future Foundation: https://www.changeourfuture.org

    🎙️ Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!
    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights individuals who are making a difference in the world. Each episode features their journey, insights, and projects aimed at creating positive change in their communities and beyond. Tune in to be inspired—and to learn how you, too, can create impact where it matters most.

    Support the show

    1 hr
  15. Law, Sport, and Brand Strategy | A Conversation with Natasha Brison

    Show notes

    🎧 About the Episode:

    Dr. Natasha T. Brison, JD, PhD, is a tenured associate professor in the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management at the University of South Carolina, an accomplished attorney, and a leading voice in sport and entertainment law. With professional experience in contracts, licensing, copyrights, trademarks, and sponsorship agreements, Natasha expanded her practice to focus on athlete branding and the legal aspects of marketing—bridging creativity and compliance to create opportunity.

    In this episode, Natasha shares her journey from law to academia, and why she embraces being “comfortable being uncomfortable." She offers insights into athlete branding and why purpose and philanthropy should be embedded in every brand strategy. Natasha also reflects on her leadership in professional associations and the impact of her first textbook, Legal Liability in Recreation, Events, and Hospitality: A Risk Management Approach.

    Alongside host Julia Healey, this conversation explores the power of “both/and” careers, resilience through rejection, and creating meaningful options for athletes, students, and changemakers alike. Whether you’re an athlete, educator, or purpose-driven professional, this episode will challenge you to see branding as more than image—it’s about creating options, impact, and legacy.

    Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the Inspired Changemakers Podcast! Your support helps us continue sharing the stories of individuals like Dr. Natasha Brison who are shaping the future of sports, education, and philanthropy.

    🔗 Connect with Natasha:

    Natasha's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-brison-jd-phd

    Natasha's University of South Carolina Faculty Page: https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/hrsm/faculty-staff/brison_natasha.php

    🎙️ Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!
    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast is a platform that showcases inspiring individuals who are making a difference in the world. Each episode features a new guest, sharing their journey, insights, and projects aimed at creating positive change in their communities and beyond. Join us as we learn from these changemakers and get inspired to take action in our own lives!

    Support the show

    56 min
  16. Stories That Spark Action | A Conversation with Jill Kubit

    Show notes

    Stories That Spark Action: A Conversation With Jill Kubit

    Don't forget to subscribe to the Inspired Changemakers Podcast to stay updated with the latest stories of visionaries transforming lives and shaping a better future. Your support helps us continue sharing inspiring stories like Jill’s!

    About the Episode

    Jill Kubit is a social entrepreneur, climate communicator, and the visionary behind DearTomorrow — a 10-year storytelling project that invites people to write letters to their loved ones about climate change and the future they hope to create. With over 7,000 letters submitted from over 50 countries, Jill’s work weaves together the personal and the political, using narrative to ignite global engagement and climate action.

    In this episode, Jill shares how storytelling became her most powerful tool for building movements, shaping public discourse, and inspiring change. From her early days as a teacher in D.C. to speaking at the United Nations and partnering with the Museum of Modern Art, Jill reflects on the winding path that led her to climate leadership. She also opens up about burnout, resilience, and the importance of nurturing the next generation of changemakers.

    Connect with DearTomorrow:

    Website: https://www.deartomorrow.org/
    Instagram: @deartomorrow
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deartomorrow

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!
    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast is a platform that showcases inspiring individuals who are making a difference in the world. Each episode features a new guest, sharing their journey, insights, and projects aimed at creating positive change in their communities and beyond. Join us as we learn from these changemakers and get inspired to take action in our own lives!

    You can find us on:
    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    35 min
  17. The Baddest Changemaker in the Room | A Conversation with Sophia Chang

    Show notes

    About the Episode
    Sophia Chang is a screenwriter, author, and music industry legend who has managed icons like RZA, GZA, and D’Angelo—and now she’s building something even bigger. As the founder of Unlock Her Potential, a mentorship program for women of color, Sophia is creating the kind of support system she never had.

    In this episode, Sophia sits down with United Charitable CEO Julia Healey to share her journey from the hip hop clubs of 1980s New York to launching a charitable initiative. She opens up about navigating racism and sexism, being embraced by Wu-Tang Clan, and the power of being her authentic self in every room she enters.

    Sophia also reflects on motherhood, reinvention at 50, and how building community means showing up—for yourself and for others. Whether you’re an artist, activist, or changemaker in the making, Sophia’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to unlock your potential—and help someone else do the same.

    Connect with Unlock Her Potential:
    Website: https://www.unlockherpotential.com
    Instagram: @unlockherpotential
    LinkedIn: Unlock Her Potential

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!
    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast is a platform that showcases inspiring individuals who are making a difference in the world. Each episode features a new guest, sharing their journey, insights, and projects aimed at creating positive change in their communities and beyond. Join us as we learn from these changemakers and get inspired to take action in our own lives!

    You can find us on:
    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    54 min
  18. Building Community Through The Game | A Conversation with Mike Brown & Evan Makle

    Show notes

    Building Community Through the Game | A Conversation with Mike Brown & Evan Makle

    Don't forget to subscribe to the Inspired Changemakers Podcast to stay updated with the latest stories of visionaries transforming lives and shaping a better future. Your support helps us continue sharing inspiring stories like Mike’s and Evan’s!

    About the Episode

    In this episode, Julia Healey sits down with Evan Makle and Mike Brown, teammates on the Virginia Valley Vipers, to talk about how basketball has shaped their lives—and how they’re using the game to give back.

    Evan Makle, a Shenandoah University graduate with a degree in media & communications and a minor in coaching, found his love for basketball as a toddler. Today, he channels that early passion into mentoring the next generation, from training kids during the week to coaching at local camps.

    Mike Brown, a Winchester native and University of Mount Olive alum, is just as committed to community as he is to the game. A dedicated husband and father, Mike balances family, work, and professional basketball—all while staying focused on making an impact through youth engagement, charity events, and leading by example.

    They open up about overcoming injuries, setbacks during COVID, and the mental discipline it takes to keep showing up — for themselves, their teammates, and their fans.

    Connect with Mike, Evan, and the Virginia Valley Vipers:

    Evan’s Instagram: @evanmakle

    Mike’s Instagram: @_miikeb_

    Website: https://virginiavalleyvipers.com/

    Instagram: @va_viperstbl

    Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast is a platform that showcases inspiring individuals who are making a difference in the world. Each episode features a new guest, sharing their journey, insights, and projects aimed at creating positive change in their communities and beyond. Join us as we learn from these changemakers and get inspired to take action in our own lives!

    You can find us on:
    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    36 min
  19. Leadership Is A Verb | A Conversation with Sheila Baerenz and Wayne Applewhite

    Show notes

    Leading with Action: A Conversation with Wayne Applewhite and Sheila Baerenz

    Don't forget to subscribe to the Inspired Changemakers Podcast to stay updated with the latest stories of visionaries transforming lives and shaping a better future. Your support helps us continue sharing inspiring stories like Wayne and Sheila’s!

    About the Episode

    Leadership isn’t a title—it’s a practice, a mindset, and, according to this episode’s guests, a verb. Wayne Applewhite and Sheila Baerenz, co-hosts of the podcast 27 Minutes with Sheila and Wayne, join host Julia Healey to explore what leadership really looks like in action.

    Drawing from decades of experience in education, military service, counseling, and business, they share powerful lessons on letting go, building self-efficacy, and the importance of listening and learning as a leader. With warmth and wit, this conversation invites us to rethink how small shifts in language—and mindset—can inspire big change.

    Connect with Sheila and Wayne:

    27 Minutes with Sheila and Wayne: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/27-minutes-with-sheila-and-wayne/id1660085600

    Sheila on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-baerenz-11b33120/

    Wayne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-applewhite-9660668/

    🎙️ Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast is a platform that showcases inspiring individuals who are making a difference in the world. Each episode features a new guest, sharing their journey, insights, and projects aimed at creating positive change in their communities and beyond. Join us as we learn from these changemakers and get inspired to take action in our own lives! You can find us on:

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    46 min
  20. From Adversity to Advocacy | A Conversation With John Heath

    Show notes

    From Adversity to Advocacy: A Conversation With John Heath

    Don't forget to subscribe to the Inspired Changemakers Podcast to stay updated with the latest stories of visionaries transforming lives and shaping a better future. Your support helps us continue sharing inspiring stories like John’s!

    About the Episode

    John Heath, adaptive CrossFit athlete and Marine Corps veteran, turned a challenging childhood and life-changing injury into a mission for adaptive athletics. As the founder and CEO of the Adaptive Athletic Foundation of Maryland, he champions innovative adaptive fitness certifications, advocates for prosthetic policy change, and builds inclusive fitness communities. In this episode, John shares how resilience, self-care, and community empowerment have redefined his journey—and how they continue to inspire lasting change for individuals with disabilities.

    Connect with John:

    Instagram: carbonfiber_john_

    Adaptive Athletics Foundation of MD’s Instagram: adaptiveathletics_md

    🎙️ Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

    The Inspired Changemakers Podcast is a platform that showcases inspiring individuals who are making a difference in the world. Each episode features a new guest, sharing their journey, insights, and projects aimed at creating positive change in their communities and beyond. Join us as we learn from these changemakers and get inspired to take action in our own lives! You can find us on:

    Facebook

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    YouTube

    BuzzSprout

    Support the show

    45 min