Thrive-Learn-Connect

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/

 

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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!

©️2024 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.

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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!

©️2024 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.

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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

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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. 🌱🌻

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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

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Unlocking the Power of Flow: Insights on Finding Your Bliss

Welcome to the latest episode of Thrive, Learn, Connect! This week we're exploring the theme of "flow" and how it fuels creativity and productivity. Dive into the world of poetry, as we celebrate World Poetry Day with inspiring verses from William Ernest Henley and Jamie's own heartwarming piece about the flow of watercolor paint.

Discover the magic of being in the moment, the joys of mindfulness, and how letting go can transform your daily activities. Whether you're an artist, a communicator, or just someone seeking harmony in their daily life, tune in for a conversation that feels like a lasting embrace.

Don't forget to follow, like, and share to help others join the Thrive-Learn-Connect community. Let's keep the creativity flowing! 🎨✨

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

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

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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The Secret to Happiness

Hey there! 😊 Welcome to the latest episode of Thrive-Learn-Connect where it's all about finding those little moments that light up your soul! Today, Max and Jamie dive into what truly makes us happy, from the warmth of sunshine on a morning drive to the simple joy of sipping your favorite cup of coffee. It's not just about finding happiness in grand gestures, but in embracing the small, everyday moments that fill our lives with joy.

Join us as we chat about breaking the myths surrounding happiness—turns out, it's not about losing those ten pounds or snagging that big promotion. Instead, happiness is often found within, through connection, gratitude, and even a tick-tocking antique alarm clock. So, let's redefine what success and happiness mean, tune into our inner joy, and spread it all around! 🌈

And remember, happiness is contagious! By sharing your smile and allowing yourself those moments of genuine delight, you just might inspire someone else to do the same. So, let's celebrate International Day of Happiness (March 20) in style, tune into those mini meditations, and above all, let's go forth and find what makes us truly happy. 🎉

The Ali & Callie Artcast makes us happy, and we and think you will make you happy, too! Look for it wherever you get your podcasts.

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

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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