Join us as welcome Margaritte Arthrell-Knezek, the visionary founder and principal and Amber Gates, Instructional Leader for the Under the Canopy School. We explore their inspiring journey from running an after-school program to launching an innovative charter school under Tulsa Public Schools. Discover how Under the Canopy has transformed from a dream into a reality. Margaritte shares insights into the enrollment process and the excitement of offering spots to eager families, while Amber emphasizing the school's unique nature-based, Public Waldorf approach that integrates academic learning with holistic human development.

We continue the conversation by discussing the challenges and strategies of opening a new charter school. Learn about the school's creative use of an old school building and the aesthetic upgrades required for its transformation. We highlight community engagement efforts that extend beyond the Red Fork neighborhood, involving collaborations with local events and partnerships to increase the school's visibility. Discover how marketing efforts target preschools and homeschool communities to draw interest, while the school's funding model is compared to traditional public schools, highlighting the unique financial landscape charter schools navigate.

Finally, immerse yourself in the innovative educational approaches that set Under the Canopy apart. The school's Waldorf-inspired curriculum includes practical skills like woodworking, cooking, and knitting, along with unique specials such as nature and garden classes. Don't miss this chance to connect with a school that's redefining education by nurturing students' connections to nature and fostering a comprehensive learning experience.

Check them out online at https://www.underthecanopy.org/ and if you are interested in enrolling your child, the next window ends at the end of May.

Join us as we welcome Kuma Roberts, the CEO and President of the Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce, for an insightful conversation about the vital role chambers of commerce play in fostering business growth and community engagement. We'll explore the historical context and the unique missions of the Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce, shedding light on how they support black entrepreneurs both locally and nationally. Kuma provides a compelling perspective on how these chambers navigate the intricacies of business advocacy while honoring the legacy of the original Black Wall Street.

In our discussion, we address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce. With limited resources, this chamber finds itself competing with larger organizations, yet it remains steadfast in its mission. We highlight potential growth strategies, such as state appropriation for tourism, revenue-sharing agreements, and partnerships that could bolster Greenwood's revitalization. Additionally, Kuma shares details about the chamber's programming, including the NEST entrepreneurship program and collaborations aimed at supporting startup entrepreneurs.

As we explore the operations and strategic planning behind running a Chamber of Commerce, you'll gain a better understanding of the complexities involved in managing diverse groups and aligning with community values. We also tackle the nuances of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work within organizations and emphasize the importance of genuine commitment over superficial efforts. Finally, learn how you can support the Black Wall Street Chamber through various membership levels and partnerships, reinforcing the chamber's impactful initiatives in Tulsa and beyond.

Check them out online at : https://www.bwschamber.com/

Matt Carney, co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Pickup, takes center stage as he discusses the creation of a fresh, Alt Weekly-inspired website dedicated to Tulsa's vibrant cultural scene. Transitioning from his role at The Root, Matt shares the mission behind The Pickup, a platform that combines event listings with deep-dive journalism to fill the void left by previous alternative publications. From exploring the economics of Tulsa's galas to the quirky future of a local adult superstore, Matt provides a glimpse into the captivating stories that await readers.

Unravel the intricate process of naming a publication with "The Pickup" as we discuss its ironic ties and cultural significance in Tulsa. We navigate the evolving landscape of journalism, where advertising gives way to subscription-based models, and community engagement becomes the cornerstone of content direction. Alongside anecdotes from Matt's journalism journey, we humorously ponder the potential transformations of local businesses, all while emphasizing the power of subscriber-driven storytelling.

Journey into the world of modern journalism and social media dynamics with insights from Matt's personal experiences. Discover how The Pickup crafts an ad-free, serene reading haven that aligns with changing consumption habits. From the growing preference for email over social media to the innovative freemium model, we explore sustainable journalism strategies and the aspirations for impactful storytelling. Join Matt as he shares the future vision, where engagement, events, and authentic narratives forge the path for a thriving journalism business that resonates with its community.

ivic engagement consultant Amanda McCellon joins us on Pod4Good to spotlight the transformative power of grassroots activism in Oklahoma. Through her insightful experiences, Amanda sheds light on the impact of participating in local governance, from city councils to school boards. We dive into the significance of community involvement, with Amanda emphasizing how local elections often come down to just a handful of votes, making each voice critical in shaping essential services and policies. This episode is packed with practical steps for those who feel daunted by the national political climate, empowering listeners to find hope and agency through localized action.

We celebrate a historic milestone with Amanda Sandoval's election as the first Latina mayor of Bethany, Oklahoma, illustrating a growing shift towards inclusivity in traditionally conservative areas. Her success story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring us to break barriers and engage deeply with local communities. Amidst rising skepticism in democratic processes, our conversation delves into advocating democracy's value to those focused on pressing social and economic issues. Through "spiteful optimism," we embrace the resilience required to drive change, even when facing setbacks, and reinforce the belief that meaningful progress is attainable anywhere.

This episode also tackles the modern challenges of digital activism, featuring a TikTok creator who found their voice during the pandemic. We explore the complexities of navigating social media ethics while maintaining mental health and joy amidst activism. Our discussion underscores the powerful role of unconventional media in connecting and mobilizing communities, especially in areas with limited access to mainstream platforms. Finally, we express our gratitude to the Pod4Good community, encouraging listeners to support our mission by liking, subscribing, and sharing feedback to help us amplify these crucial conversations.

Follow Amanda on all of her social media feeds: https://linktr.ee/amandamccellon

Unlock the secrets of city governance as we engage with Nathan Picard, Tulsa's City Auditor, who transformed his career from art major to city auditor. Nathan details his unexpected journey and sheds light on the critical function of his role, made even more challenging by new charter requirements for candidates to be CPAs or certified internal auditors. He explains the nuances between external and internal auditing, offering a fresh perspective on financial accuracy and performance processes. Explore how Nathan is building on his predecessor’s legacy while championing community engagement to boost city operations.

Discover the strides Tulsa has made in government efficiency and employee retention, guided by a mission to listen, evaluate, and inform. Our conversation uncovers the importance of a feedback loop that connects residents and city employees, ensuring transparency and accountability. Nathan delves into the successes and hurdles of implementing a new financial system, and highlights the vital role of continuous auditing and data analytics in identifying inefficiencies and tackling waste. Mayor GT Bynum's dedication to performance and employee engagement is applauded, as we reflect on the city's improvements since 2006.

Engage with the complexities of civic participation and city planning as we discuss the challenges of aligning public input with practical outcomes. Nathan shares insights into participatory budgeting, the intricate dance between federal, state, and local authorities, and creative revenue generation strategies. From downtown Tulsa's parking dilemmas to the aspirational role of a city auditor, Nathan offers a comprehensive view of the interconnectedness of community engagement and efficient city governance. Follow "Tulsa City Auditor" on social media for ongoing updates and direct interaction with Tulsa’s dedicated public servant.

https://www.facebook.com/tulsacityauditor

https://www.tiktok.com/@tulsacityauditor

https://www.instagram.com/tulsacityauditor

Join us for an inspiring conversation about aging with dignity and independence as we delve into the transformative work of Life Senior Services in Tulsa. Our guest, Eileen Bradshaw, executive director, shares how the organization is reshaping senior care through innovative programs and community support. Discover how seniors in Tulsa are staying active, engaged, and connected through dynamic activities and volunteer opportunities.

Episode Highlights: Introduction to Life Senior Services (0:00:00): Meet Eileen, who outlines the mission and diverse programs offered by Life Senior Services, from Medicare assistance to active senior centers featuring activities like yoga and line dancing. Learn about their unique Vintage Magazine and Vintage Housing initiatives. Community Support and Engagement (0:08:58): Explore the profound impact of senior community centers on older adults seeking purpose and connection. Hear heartwarming stories of seniors finding joy through creative arts, theater, and volunteerism. Active Senior Center Activities (0:15:17): Dive into the world of pickleball and other community activities, highlighting intergenerational play and storytelling. Discover the range of physical and social opportunities available at the center. Preserving Life Stories (0:19:43): Understand the importance of capturing and sharing personal narratives. Eileen discusses collaborations with various organizations to support seniors facing challenges like elder abuse and homelessness. Volunteer Opportunities and Community Engagement (0:32:51): Learn about the diverse volunteer roles available through Life Senior Services, including the educational Give 5 program. Discover how volunteering fosters personal fulfillment and community connection. Valuing Seniors in the Workforce (0:40:56): Acknowledge the valuable contributions seniors bring to the workforce. Challenge age-related biases and explore opportunities for seniors in fields like audio and video editing.

Transcript Samples: Senior Services and Aging in Tulsa: Eileen provides an overview of the services offered by Life Senior Services, including Medicare assistance and community activities that keep seniors engaged and connected. Capturing and Sharing Life Stories: Reflect on the significance of recording family stories and creating safe spaces for sharing narratives, emphasizing the collaborative efforts to support aging populations.

Connect with Us: Visit Life Senior Services Website for more information on their programs and initiatives. Subscribe to our podcast for more insightful discussions on aging and community engagement.

Support Our Work: Consider supporting Life Senior Services through donations or volunteering to help transform senior care in Tulsa. Tune in to this episode to reshape your perspective on aging and discover the vibrant world of Life Senior Services!

Uncover the secrets to transforming education in Tulsa as we spotlight Olivia Martin and Lisa Shotts, two remarkable leaders dedicated to closing the literacy gap. Learn how their organizations, Reading Partners and Gaining Ground, are breaking down barriers with innovative approaches such as science-based reading curricula and community-driven mentorship. Olivia and Lisa share inspiring stories of overcoming the summer slide and fostering a love for reading among underserved youth, bringing to light the power of books and personal connections in education.

Explore creative strategies that ignite a passion for reading in children. Discover initiatives like culturally relevant book buses, free book fairs, and unique programs encouraging kids to read aloud, even to their pets, to build confidence. With community partnerships placing libraries in unexpected places and incentivizing reading with engaging rewards, these efforts aim to weave reading seamlessly into everyday life, nurturing not just literacy but a lifelong love of learning.

Join the movement to support education by engaging with Oklahoma's community-driven initiatives. From advocating for smaller class sizes and competitive teacher salaries to volunteering with organizations like Educate 918 and City Year, there are countless ways to get involved. As Olivia and Lisa highlight, this is a call to action for everyone to contribute—whether through time, resources, or simply spreading the word. Be inspired to foster educational equality and make a lasting impact in your community.

To volunteer and or donate, please make sure to check out Gaining Ground, https://gaininggroundliteracy.org/, and Reading Partners, https://readingpartners.org/get-involved/where-how/tulsa/

Join us on this heartwarming journey as we sit down with Evan Taylor and Cindy Webb from Pause4Paws, an organization that bridges the gap for individuals needing treatment for addiction, mental illness, or homelessness by fostering their beloved pets. Discover the significant barriers faced when treatment facilities can't accommodate animals and learn how Pause4Paws offers a lifeline by temporarily caring for these pets. Listen in as Evan and Cindy share touching stories of pet-owner reunions and the vital role their organization plays in ensuring that individuals don't have to make the heartbreaking choice between their well-being and their furry companions.

As we continue the conversation, we explore the critical issue of homelessness and pet ownership, highlighting the challenges and support systems available for those experiencing temporary homelessness. Pets often serve as loyal companions and emotional support for homeless individuals, with Pitbull mixes and Chihuahuas being common companions. Discover the efforts of shelters and organizations that provide short-term foster care for these animals while their owners receive treatment or transition to stable housing. We also touch on the diverse range of support animals, from traditional pets to non-traditional ones like rats, and the foster care systems in place for them.

Finally, we dive into the process of becoming a pet foster with Pause4Paws, detailing the steps involved and the rewarding experience it brings. We highlight the importance of pet sterilization and the collaboration with local vet partners to control the pet population. By fostering, potential pet owners can experience the joy of caring for a pet without a long-term commitment. Evan and Cindy share anecdotes of joyful reunions and the emotional impact pets have on their owners, motivating them to seek treatment and stay healthy. Learn how you can support these initiatives, from becoming a foster to contributing supplies, and the profound difference it makes in the lives of both humans and their pets.