In this chat, Myke, a dedicated fundraiser for St. Jude, shares insights from a recent successful podcast-a-thon. The hosts reflect on joyful milestones, like a special recognition plaque, and explore generous acts within the stationery community. They dive into favorites like fountain pens and discuss craftsmanship with Waltham pens. The conversation takes a turn to community tensions regarding accountability and LGBTQIA advocacy, emphasizing the importance of ethics in consumer choices and fostering inclusivity.
The podcastathon for St. Jude raised over $130,000, marking a record high in donations and community impact during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
A new Family Commons facility at St. Jude was highlighted, created based on parent feedback to enhance relaxation for patients and families during treatments.
The podcast emphasized the importance of accountability for brands regarding their affiliations, advocating for inclusivity and community values in light of recent controversies.
Deep dives
Successful Fundraising Efforts
A recent fundraising event for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital was highly successful, raising over $130,000 during a 12-hour podcastathon. This achievement marks a record high for donations made during such events, contributing to a total of nearly $850,000 raised in the current year. The hosts expressed gratitude to participants and viewers, highlighting the significant impact made on children's lives through these efforts. Engaging activities and special guests during the livestream were part of the event's success, making it a memorable occasion for everyone involved.
Personal Reflections on St. Jude
Time spent at St. Jude was deeply fulfilling, with the atmosphere and the mission of the hospital leaving a lasting impression on one of the podcast hosts. The experience coincided with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, fueling further motivation to support the ongoing work of St. Jude. The new Family Commons facility at the hospital, designed for patients and their families to relax away from clinical settings, was highlighted as a significant development. Feedback from parents contributed to creating this space, underscoring the community's involvement in enhancing the patient experience.
Recognition and Awards
As the podcast celebrated its 10th anniversary, special service awards were introduced for team members, reflecting the organization's growth and appreciation for long-term contributors. The recognition took the form of personalized plaques, presented to various team members, including the hosts. This initiative was initially a light-hearted concept but evolved into a meaningful way to honor dedication and commitment within the company. The plaques serve not only as awards but as reminders of the company's journey and the importance of teamwork.
Response to Community Concerns
The podcast addressed recent controversies surrounding a well-known pens brand whose association with a church that harbors extreme views has raised concerns within the community. The delay in the company's response and the nature of their communication have been criticized, with many calling for a clear disavowal of hateful beliefs. The discussion highlighted the importance of businesses being accountable for their affiliations and the potential repercussions of failing to address community grievances. The hosts emphasized their support for inclusivity and the necessity of standing against hate, reinforcing the values embraced within their community.
New Product Launch: Ajoto Pocket Pen
A new product launch for the Ajoto Pocket Pen was introduced through Kickstarter, showcasing a design that diverges from Ajoto's typical luxurious style. The pen features an engaging mechanism reminiscent of a flick knife, appealing to the everyday carry (EDC) market. While this design might not resonate with traditional Ajoto enthusiasts, it presents a unique option for those who prioritize portability. The hosts shared their excitement over the construction quality expected from Ajoto, while acknowledging that this particular product may not align with their usual preferences.
