Thrive-Learn-Connect

Season 2 Finale: Reflections & Revelations

Hello, friends! Get ready to dive into a whirlwind of emotions and insights with Jamie and Max as they wrap up a phenomenal Season 2 of Thrive-Learn-Connect." In this heartwarming episode, they reflect on the joys and challenges of life, including personal stories like eagerly awaiting a daughter's return from Antarctica and finding peace despite external chaos.

Join them in celebrating the beautiful connections made throughout the past episodes, from inspiring guests to masterclasses of soul-nurturing advice. Whether you're curious about life, seeking ways to add joy and kindness to your days, or simply wish to catch up on what you missed, this episode wraps it all up with love, laughter, and lessons learned.

So, grab your earphones, relax, and soak in the wisdom shared. And hey, remember to stay curious, stay kind, and always explore the possibilities that life offers. Enjoy the journey!

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Special thanks:

We♥️our local libraries! Thank you, Spokane Public Library, for helping us make this episode possible.

We♥️the Ali & Callie ArtCast and think you will, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

 

The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC and St. Emillion Productions.

Stay curious and keep exploring!

©️2025 Thrive-Learn-Connect

Learn more at ThriveLearnConnect.com

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Creative Strategies for Dealing with Toxic People

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of Thrive-Learn-Connect, Jamie and Max dive into two powerful topics: the meaning behind our names and how to creatively handle toxic relationships. They begin with a reflection on the newly named Pope Leo XIV and the profound significance a chosen name can hold—then pivot to the personal, sharing stories of their own names and what they’ve come to mean over time.

But the episode doesn’t stop there. Jamie brings her communication expertise to the table with eight creative strategies for dealing with toxic people—tools that protect your peace without escalating conflict. From the “mirror technique” to the “cloak of compassionate detachment,” this conversation is full of wisdom, warmth, and humor.

If you’ve ever struggled with honoring someone’s chosen name or felt drained by a toxic dynamic, this episode offers both insight and practical relief.

Help us spread TLC - like, comment, share, and follow us on:

 

Special thanks:

We♥️our local libraries! Thank you, Spokane Public Library, for helping us make this episode possible.

We♥️the Ali & Callie ArtCast and think you will, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

 

The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC and St. Emillion Productions.

Stay curious and keep exploring!

©️2025 Thrive-Learn-Connect

Learn more at ThriveLearnConnect.com

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Embracing Positivity: A Conversation with Community Changemaker Jill Reeves

In this heartening and hopeful episode, hosts Jamie and Max sit down with Jill Reeves, Spokane’s Waste Reduction Education and Outreach Coordinator. From ballet to Bokashi, Jill shares how a life rooted in creativity, compassion, and community has led her to inspire others to reduce waste and live with more intention.

The conversation weaves together the power of words—like “ubuntu,” meaning I am because you are—with small but powerful acts like writing kind notes on Post-its and rethinking what we throw away. Jill shares how the Spokane Waste Ambassadors program empowers everyday people to make a meaningful difference, proving that sustainability isn’t just about the planet—it’s about people.

Listeners will walk away with practical tips for sustainable living, a renewed sense of connection, and an invitation to start where they are, use what they have, and do what they can. 💚

Learn more:
City of Spokane Waste Reduction Education programs
https://my.spokanecity.org/solidwaste/education/

Art Salvage Spokane
https://www.artsalvagespokane.com/

 

Help us spread TLC - like, comment, share, and follow us on:

 

Special thanks:

We♥️our local libraries! Thank you, Spokane Valley Library, for helping us make this episode possible.

We♥️the Ali & Callie ArtCast and think you will, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

 

The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC and St. Emillion Productions.

Stay curious and keep exploring!

©️2025 Thrive-Learn-Connect

Learn more at ThriveLearnConnect.com

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The Gift of Time: Embracing Past, Present, and Future

In this heartfelt and humor-filled episode of Thrive-Learn-Connect, Jamie (rocking a delightfully husky voice thanks to a stubborn sinus infection) and Max (recovering from a fierce case of “pickle elbow”) reflect on how our past, present, and future shape who we are and who we’re becoming.

Through personal stories, laughter, and a few sniffles, they explore:

• The hidden gifts of our past (including Max’s third-grade grit and Jamie’s first-grade recorder concert gaff)

• Techniques for finding peace and presence in a chaotic world

• The power of dreaming big and imagining what’s next

Whether you’re stuck in the past, hustling through the present, or nervously eyeing the future, this episode invites you to pause, breathe, and appreciate all three timeframes as part of your personal mosaic.

Help us spread TLC - like, comment, share, and follow us on:

 

Special thanks:

We♥️our local libraries! Thank you, Spokane Valley Library, for helping us make this episode possible.

We♥️the Ali & Callie ArtCast and think you will, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

 

The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC and St. Emillion Productions.

Stay curious and keep exploring!

©️2025 Thrive-Learn-Connect

Learn more at ThriveLearnConnect.com

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Cheap Thrills

What do bubble-blowing, backyard stargazing, art walks, and handwritten notes have in common? They're all simple, soul-filling experiences that cost next to nothing—and they’re the heartbeat of this episode.

Join Jamie and Max as they share some of their favorite “cheap thrills,” from creating pantry-only meals with the help of AI to dancing in the park to free local concerts. This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, giggle-worthy moments, and practical ideas to infuse more joy into your days—no credit card required.

We also unveil our Cheap Thrill Bingo Card with five playful categories:

• B – Body (movement, dance, play)

• I – Intellect (reading, journaling, library discoveries)

• N – Nature (hikes, stargazing, beach sitting)

• G – Goodness & Giggles (volunteering, blowing bubbles)

• O – Old School / Oh-Wow moments (card games, board games, handwritten notes)

Join the Thrive-Learn-Connect Community on Facebook to get your BINGO card today!

Resources & Mentions:

• 🎨 Art Walks: 1st Friday (Spokane), 2nd Friday (Coeur d’Alene)

• 🎵 Free summer concerts: Check city parks & rec departments

• 📚 Library lending programs: Tools, hobby kits, museum passes

• 🌄 Apps for hiking: AllTrails, TrailLink

• 👨‍🍳 Cooking inspiration: Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Recipes

• 💌 Snail mail joys: Cool stamps via USPS Store

• 🖼️ Art galleries: Art Spirit Gallery (CdA), The Well-Read Moose, Auntie's Bookstore

• 📻 Poetry Corner: Weekdays at 9AM on Spokane Public Radio

• 🗞️ Event Listings: Pacific Northwest Inlander, Spokane Public Radio Calendar

Help us spread TLC - like, comment, share, and follow us on:

 

Special thanks:

We ♥️our local libraries! Thank you, Spokane Valley Library, for the use of your Recording Studio in making this episode.

We♥️the Ali & Callie ArtCast and think you will, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

 

The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC and St. Emillion Productions.

Stay curious and keep exploring!

©️2024 Thrive-Learn-Connect

Learn more at ThriveLearnConnect.com

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Thrift Is the New Self-Care

In this episode, Jamie and Max dive into the murky waters of "sludge" – those pesky barriers that slow us down, whether in the form of bureaucratic red tape or self-imposed obstacles in our personal lives. They explore how a little nudge can help clear the way for smoother paths ahead.

But it's not all about struggle! The conversation takes a delightful turn towards the art of thriftiness. Join the duo as they chat about how being thrifty is more than just pinching pennies; it’s a creative, resourceful, and joyful way to practice self-care. Discover how small actions, like mending clothes or clever kitchen hacks, can be acts of love toward ourselves, our communities, and the planet.

Tune in for a mix of insightful anecdotes and practical tips, offering a fresh perspective on clearing the clutter and embracing simplicity in an ever-complicated world. You'll end feeling inspired to undertake those little projects at home that bring big joy.

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Learn more:
https://www.youtube.com/@HomeRenoVisionDIY

Habitat for Humanity

 

Special thanks:

We ♥️our local libraries! Thank you, Spokane Valley Library, for the use of your Recording Studio in making this episode.

We♥️the Ali & Callie ArtCast and think you will, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

 

The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC and St. Emillion Productions.

Stay curious and keep exploring!

©️2024 Thrive-Learn-Connect

Learn more at ThriveLearnConnect.com

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Unlocking the Secrets of Fight Club with Emily Torres and Sean Barrett

In this powerful episode of Thrive-Learn-Connect, we sit down with educator Emily Torres and counselor Sean Barrett, the minds behind an innovative classroom experience called “Fight Club.” No, not that kind of fight—this Fight Club is a space for students to explore their emotions, build trust, and develop emotional intelligence with the support of a counselor-in-the-classroom model.

Together, Emily and Sean have transformed a traditional English class into a place where trauma-impacted teens learn to process pain, discover shared humanity, and find strength in their stories. From “popcorn days” to TEDx moments, we explore how creating safe spaces in schools can ripple out to create stronger communities.

Tune in to learn how empathy, creativity, and genuine connection can change lives—starting in a single classroom.

Help us spread TLC - like, comment, share, and follow us on:

 

Learn more:
Fight Clubs for School: A Counselor in Every Classroom | Emily Torres & Sean Barrett | TEDx Spokane

Community Resilience Initiative: https://criresilient.org/

 

Special thanks:

We ♥️our local libraries! Thank you, Spokane Public Library, Central, for the use of your Recording Studio in making this episode.

We♥️the Ali & Callie ArtCast and think you will, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

 

The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC and St. Emillion Productions.

Stay curious and keep exploring!

©️2024 Thrive-Learn-Connect

Learn more at ThriveLearnConnect.com

Social media icons by Icons8

Planting P's

We're kicking the week off with some digital decluttering as Jamie and Max share fun and practical tips to "spruce up" your desktop and digital devices for a mini jolt of joy.

Then, roll up your sleeves as we explore planting P's--preparation, patience, and persistence—and how these concepts apply not just to gardening, but to nurturing your personal dreams and goals. Get ready to feel inspired and empowered to create your very own vision board, brimming with potential and possibility. 🌱🌻

Help us spread TLC - like, comment, share, and follow us on:

More about setting goals: Episode #27 Setting Goals for 2025: SMART and NICE

 

We♥️the Ali & Callie Artcast and think you will, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

 

The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC and St. Emillion Productions.

Stay curious and keep exploring!

©️2024 Thrive-Learn-Connect

Learn more at ThriveLearnConnect.com

Social media icons by Icons8