In this conversation, Eddy Paul Thomas and Laura Starr discuss the landscape of free and charitable clinics in Illinois, focusing on their unique roles in providing healthcare to underserved populations. They explore the impact of federal budget cuts on healthcare access, the importance of building trust within communities, and innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Laura shares her experiences in strengthening these clinics and the challenges they face, emphasizing the need for community engagement and collaboration to ensure that everyone has access to necessary healthcare services. In this conversation, Laura Starr discusses her transition from clinic work to association leadership, emphasizing the importance of community support in healthcare. She shares insights on managing crises, maintaining mental health, and the necessity of empathy in healthcare systems. Laura highlights the need for community-centered solutions and the impact of trauma on patients. She encourages listeners to get involved in community healthcare efforts and stresses the importance of listening to community needs to provide effective healthcare services.

Give to Laura's organization today!: Illinois Association of Free & Charitable Clinics

Learn more Eddy at: www.eddypaulthomas.com

Discover the transformative power of empathy in both our personal lives and the workplace with the following resources:

• Ok…On Second Thought Life & Leadership Coaching at www.onsecondthoughtstudio.com
• Read the Things I’m Rethinking monthly newsletter.
• Read the Before You React blog for helpful articles on relationships.
• Read the Ok…On Second Thought blog for insightful articles on leadership.

Brought to you by Elevate 1 Consulting.

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios.

Music: "Show Your Hand” and “Too Fly“ by Kesta from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

Before moving forward, we’re looking back.

In Let’s Start with a Recap, Eddy Paul Thomas revisits some of the most impactful moments from Season 2. These are the conversations that didn’t just resonate in the moment, but stayed, challenged, and continued to shape how we lead, relate, and grow.

Because sometimes you don’t need something new. You need to hear the right thing again.

If you’re new, this is the place to start. If you’ve been listening, this is your moment to reflect.

Press play and step into Season 3 with intention.

Guests This Episode:

• Mona Hennein
• Annie To
• Erin Jones
• Christian Ortiz
• Dr. Shawn Wooden
• Emily Longnecker
• Dave Capozzi

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Learn more Eddy at: www.eddypaulthomas.com

Discover the transformative power of empathy in both our personal lives and the workplace with the following resources:

• Ok…On Second Thought Life & Leadership Coaching at www.onsecondthoughtstudio.com
• Read the Things I’m Rethinking newsletter.
• Read the Before You React blog for helpful articles on relationships.
• Read the Ok…On Second Thought blog for insightful articles on leadership.

Brought to you by Elevate 1 Consulting.

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios.

Music: "Show Your Hand,” “Reclaimed, “ and “Vibrant Life" by Kesta from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

In this MicroPod episode, Eddy Paul Thomas discusses the importance of focusing on what we can control, especially in the context of mental health and relationships. He emphasizes the impact of social media on our well-being and offers strategies for managing attention and reducing stress. The conversation also highlights the significance of repairing relationships and choosing connection over independence as we navigate challenges leading into 2026.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Empathy and Control 02:42 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health 05:21 Managing Attention and Reducing Stress 08:15 The Importance of Relationships and Apologies 10:22 Choosing Connection Over Independence

• Learn More about Eddy's Life and Leadership Coaching: www.eddypaulthomas.com
• Give to The Black Missions Museum: www.theblackmissionsmuseum.org
• For consulting inquiries learn more at www.elevate1consulting.com
• Learn more about the Unbroken Place Podcast at: www.eddypaulthomas.com/unbrokenplace

For speaking or workshop inquiries, click here.

For guest inquiries, reach us at hello@eddypaulthomas.com

Discover the transformative power of empathy in both our personal lives and the workplace with the following resources:

• Ok...On Second Thought newsletter on Linkedin.

• Ok...On Second Thought articles.

• Ok...On Second Thought Resources for the Workplace.

Brought to you by Elevate 1 Consulting.

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios.

Music: "Blood" by Anthem of Rain, “Holizna” by HoliznaRAPS, “Too Fly” & "Tide Turns" by Kesta, and "Basurera" by Blue Dot Sessions from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.