The Community Mic's Podcast
Real stories from real people shaping our communities. The Community Mic is where local voices are heard, celebrated, and shared.
Episodes
17 episodes
What Do We Do Now, Baby?: Catherine Steele’s Story
This Mother’s Day, Maria and Steph sit down with Steph’s mom, Catherine Steele, for a heartfelt conversation about motherhood, family, growing up, and learning as we go. From dairy farms and llama shows to mom guilt, laughter, and life lessons,...
You Won’t Amount to Anything… Until You Do: Justin Hartman’s Story
What happens when someone tells you that you won’t amount to anything—and you prove them wrong?Justin Hartman shares his journey from struggling student to community leader, and how mentorship, resilience, and lived experience shaped the...
A Coin Flip Changed Everything: Hilary Vaughn’s Story
This week on The Community Mic, we sit down with Hillary Vaughn, a third-year pharmacy student whose path started with a coin flip—and somehow led her exactly where she’s meant to be.We talk about trusting your gut, going with t...
This Is My Second Life: Roshni Kandel’s Story
“I feel like I’ve lived twice.”In this episode, Roshni Kendall shares her journey from Nepal to the U.S., and the life-changing decision to walk away from a 13-year marriage to reclaim her peace and identity.Through healing, spiri...
The Power of Being Seen: Eli Rigatuso
In this episode of The Community Mic, we sit down with Eli Rigatuso — a storyteller, advocate, and creator behind Speaking of Happy, a series focused on uplifting LGBTQIA2S+ voices and organizations in our local community....
Being the Megaphone: Kate Gerber on Community Impact
Kate Gerber, Director of Public Relations for Pottawattamie County, joins The Community Mic for a conversation full of warmth, insight, and reflection.Kate shares her non-linear career journey, the power of recognition in public service,...
Dignity Is Not Conditional | Brandy Wallar on Compassion, Housing, and Hope
In this episode, we sit down with Brandy Wallar, CEO of New Visions Homeless Services, for an honest and deeply human conversation about homelessness, dignity, and community.Born and raised in Council Bluffs, Brandy ...
Ink & Identity: Conversations with Topher Charnley
Join Maria and Stephanie in a captivating episode where they dive into the world of tattoos with tattoo artist Topher Charnley, exploring the artistry, personal stories, and cultural shifts surrounding this unique form of expression. From the e...
From Heartbreak to Hope: Tiffany Eggett's Inspiring Path
In this heartfelt episode, Maria and Stephanie sit down with Tiffany Eggett to explore her journey of resilience and community impact. From her roots in Council Bluffs to the challenges of personal loss and triumph, Tiffany shares candid storie...
Candid Conversations on Co-Parenting and Life: Tony Hajek
In this episode, Maria and Stephanie explore the complexities of co-parenting, the journey of personal growth, and the challenges of navigating family dynamics with Tony Hajek. Listen in as they share candid insights on balancing work and famil...
Climbing Peaks and Breaking Stereotypes: Shay's Journey
Join us on the Community Mic as we dive into Shay's inspiring journey from retail to welding. Discover how a spontaneous hike up Pikes Peak led to a transformative career change, and hear about Shay's experiences as a female welder breaking ste...
Therapy Unplugged: Madison Euse on Mental Health
In this insightful episode, Maria and Stephanie welcome Madison Euse, LIMHP, LPC, NCC, PLADC, to the Community Mic. Madison shares her journey as a mental health therapist and doctoral candidate, offering a candid look into the world of therapy...
Raised by a Changing America: Jackson Abraham Speaks on Hope and Responsibility
In this episode, Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jackson, a 17-year-old, about the challenges Generation Z faces in achieving the American Dream. They discuss the impact of previous generations' decisions, the import...
Get to Know Zuli Garcia
Join us on the Community Mic as we delve into the inspiring journey of Zuli Garcia, the founding president of Knock and Drop Iowa, the first Latino food pantry in Des Moines. Born in El Salvador and raised in California, Zuli has dedicated her ...
Meet Jessica Duncan, an Alzheimer's advocate
In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Stephanie and Maria engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jessica Duncan, an Alzheimer's advocate and program director at the Alzheimer's Association. Jessica shares her personal journey, including her ...
Get to know Corey Lewis, a clinical health coach and founder of My City, My Health.
In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Corey Lewis, a clinical health coach and founder of My City, My Health. Corey shares his personal journey, highlighting the impact of cultural i...
Meet Your Hosts: Maria & Stephanie
In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation about their personal journeys, exploring themes of community, mental health, and cultural identity. Maria shares her experiences as an immigrant from...