Blue Sky

Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartener, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon. Chapters: 01:05 Meet Mary McManus Mary McManus is introduced as a remarkable individual with a story of resilience and triumph over adversity. 02:14 Mary's Early Challenges Mary shares her early life experiences, including her diagnosis of polio at a young age and the impact it had on her family dynamics. Despite her paralysis, she describes a profound spiritual connection that provided her comfort during this challenging time. 08:09 The Road to Recovery Mary recounts her journey through physical therapy and the support she received from dedicated professionals who helped her regain mobility. 12:08 Finding Purpose in College In college, Mary discovers her passion for helping others while working in the counseling center. 16:08 A Career with Veterans Mary shares her experiences working with veterans at the VA, highlighting the challenges they faced upon returning from Vietnam 17:02 The Diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome Mary discusses her diagnosis of post-polio syndrome nearly 50 years after her initial polio diagnosis, detailing the physical and emotional challenges she faced. 22:59 Turning Pain into Poetry In a moment of introspection, Mary turns to poetry as a means of healing and self-expression. This creative outlet not only provides relief from her pain but also sparks a new chapter in her life. 24:21 From Poetry to Running Mary shares her transformative journey from writing poetry to setting an ambitious goal of completing the Boston Marathon 29:01 Rebuilding Strength: The Journey Begins Mary shares her initial struggles with physical fitness post-therapy, highlighting her determination to regain strength. With the support of her trainer, she sets ambitious goals, including a desire to run the Boston Marathon. 31:34 The Training Journey: From Walking to Running Mary describes her gradual transition from walking to running, emphasizing the importance of patience and support from family during her training. 35:03 Facing Doubts: The Mental Challenge of Marathon Training As the Boston Marathon approaches, Mary reflects on the mental hurdles she faces, including moments of doubt. However, her unwavering belief in her ability to complete the race, supported by her trainer and family, keeps her focused. 38:10 The Emotional Finish: Crossing the Marathon Line Mary recounts the emotional experience of running the Boston Marathon, including the support from friends and family along the course. She describes the overwhelming joy and healing she felt as she crossed the finish line. 39:57 Life After the Marathon: Trials and Triumphs After the marathon, Mary faces new challenges, including personal loss and health setbacks, yet she remains resilient. 44:33 Resilience Through Adversity: The Power of Poetry and Running Mary discusses her experiences during the pandemic, including health challenges and the therapeutic power of writing poetry. Despite setbacks, she finds motivation to continue running and sets new goals for herself. 46:44 Looking Forward: Embracing New Challenges As Mary reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of resilience and gratitude in overcoming life's challenges. With plans to run a half marathon again, she inspires others to pursue their goals, regardless of obstacles.

Political division in the United States is an issue often cited as contributing to the pessimistic outlook so many of us have. Blue Sky guest Lindsey Cormack believes that our government will only improve if we begin to understand it better and get involved ourselves. As a college professor, when she found that many of her students were remarkably ignorant about how our government works, she decided to do something about it. The result is her latest book, which challenges parents to fill the void left by elementary and high schools that no longer teach these subjects in the classroom. Learn more about Lindsey's book: https://howtoraiseacitizen.com/ Chapters: 02:33 Meet Lindsey Cormack Bill introduces Lindsey Cormack, a college professor and author, highlighting her background, research, and her mission to improve civics education in America. 04:47 The Importance of Understanding Our Government Lindsey discusses the alarming ignorance among students regarding government and civics, emphasizing the need for reform in how civics is taught in schools. 07:06 Parents as Key Players in Civics Education Lindsey argues that parents play a crucial role in teaching civics, as schools struggle to provide adequate education on the subject due to various systemic challenges. 09:30 Navigating Political Conversations The conversation shifts to the challenges parents face when discussing politics with their children, including fears of misunderstanding and differing political views. 12:25 Engaging with Local Government Lindsey emphasizes the importance of local government in everyday life and encourages listeners to get involved, explaining how local actions can lead to meaningful change. 19:56 The Role of Parents in Political Education The conversation focuses on how parents can normalize political discussions at home, fostering an environment where children feel comfortable exploring political ideas. 22:01 Optimism in Civic Engagement Bill and Lindsey discuss the relationship between optimism and civic engagement, emphasizing that understanding politics can empower individuals to make a difference. 26:04 Historical Context of Political Division The conversation explores historical instances of political division in the U.S., drawing parallels to current events and emphasizing the resilience of democracy. 29:16 The Impact of Smartphones on Society Lindsey reflects on how technology, much like junk food, can be seductive and detrimental to children's development. 32:50 Creating a Phone-Free Environment Lindsey discusses her approach to managing smartphone use among her daughter's friends, including implementing a 'phone graveyard' at home. 36:01 Empowering Parents The conversation shifts to how parents can become more engaged in their children's civic education, with Lindsey encouraging them to seek knowledge actively. 40:39 Understanding Political Structures Lindsey emphasizes the value of understanding the political system and encourages parents to explore current events as teaching moments for their children. 41:36 Reflecting on the Role of Technology and History The episode concludes with a reflection on the dual nature of smartphones, acknowledging their benefits while cautioning against their overuse.

Sam Pressler has a strong track record of bringing people together and working to rebuild the civic infrastructure of the United States. In addition to being a researcher and writer, he is also the founder of the Armed Services Art Partnership and Connective Tissue, a collection of projects designed to help people understand how they might go about creating connections in their own towns and civic organizations. Chapters: 02:20 Making Grandmothers Proud Sam shares the inspiration behind his mantra of making his grandmothers proud, discussing the significant influence they had on his life and values, particularly in relation to community and intellectual engagement. 04:30 The Birth of the Armed Services Arts Partnership Sam recounts the inception of the Armed Services Arts Partnership, detailing how his passion for humor and service led to the creation of a stand-up comedy class for veterans, which blossomed into a national nonprofit. 08:02 The Impact of the Armed Services Arts Partnership Reflecting on the success of the Armed Services Arts Partnership, Sam discusses its growth and ongoing mission to connect veterans with the arts, fostering community and purpose in their lives. 14:44 Exploring Community and Connection Sam reflects on his academic journey at Harvard, where he delved into themes of community, spirituality, and the importance of reconnecting people to the commitments that give life meaning. 15:45 The Challenge of Rebuilding Civic Life Discussing the generational work needed to address the decline of community, Sam emphasizes the importance of cultural and structural change in rebuilding civic life and fostering connections. 19:08 Rethinking Technology's Role Sam and Bill engage in a conversation about the impact of technology on community engagement, exploring how to repurpose digital tools to foster connection rather than isolation. 25:07 Collective Action for Change As they discuss the lingering effects of the pandemic, Sam highlights the potential for collective action to reshape community engagement and emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards in-person connections. 32:20 The Isolation of Remote Work Sam discusses the isolating nature of remote work and its impact on social connections, particularly for younger individuals who rely on workplace relationships for friendship.. 34:32 Government's Role in Community Building Transitioning to policy discussions, Sam introduces his comprehensive 182-page framework aimed at enhancing government involvement in fostering community connections. 37:10 Creating Pathways for Young Adults Sam highlights the critical period of adult transition and the lack of structured pathways for those not attending college. 41:13 Micro Grants for Community Interaction In this chapter, Sam shares examples of successful community initiatives, such as micro grants for block parties and neighborhood dinners, that encourage social interaction. 44:00 The Shift Towards Community Engagement The conversation shifts to the importance of viewing residents as community members rather than clients, with suggestions for local governments to enhance engagement. 46:24 From Individualism to Community Sam reflects on the cultural shift from individualism towards a more communal mindset, emphasizing the need for social connections that foster a sense of belonging. The chapter concludes with a discussion on the importance of feeling needed within a community. 50:01 Connective Tissue: A Newsletter for Community Insights Wrapping up the episode, Sam introduces his 'Connective Tissue' newsletter, which shares insights and practical ideas for community building.

On the heels of the "Arts Educators Save the World" feed swap episode with Jonathan Groff and his elementary school music teacher, Linda Tough, Bill Burke reflects on the role of teachers and mentors in helping us all be optimistic. He shares his own influences and those of many Blue Sky guests, while encouraging us to think of our own and consider being mentors ourselves.

In this very special "feed swap" edition, Blue Sky Alum Erica Halverson interviews award-winning Jonathan Groff and his inspirational elementary school music teacher, Linda Tough, on the "Arts Educators Save the World" podcast. Learn more about Erica's podcast here: https://www.artseducatorspodcast.com/ Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Feed Swap In this special edition of the Blue Sky podcast, the host introduces the concept of a Feed Swap with Erica Halverson and highlights the upcoming conversation with Jonathan Groff, a celebrated actor known for his roles in Broadway and film. 01:16 The Power of Teaching The conversation begins with a reflection on the duality of teaching, emphasizing the balance between challenge and joy, and how these elements contribute to personal growth in education. 02:02 Introducing Jonathan Groff and Linda Tuff Erica Halvorson introduces Jonathan Groff and his former music teacher, Linda Tough, detailing their impressive careers and the significant impact Linda had on Jonathan's education and passion for music. 05:00 First Memories of Collaboration Jonathan and Linda reminisce about their first interactions in the fourth grade, highlighting memorable moments that laid the foundation for their strong teacher-student relationship. 12:11 Fostering a Love of Learning The discussion turns to the importance of fostering a love for learning, with Jonathan reflecting on how Linda's teaching style inspired his passion for music and education, and Linda sharing her philosophy on creating a joyful classroom environment. 21:20 The Art of Teaching and Preparation Linda discusses her teaching philosophy, focusing on the balance between high expectations and creating a supportive environment, while also exploring the importance of preparation and performance in teaching and life. 35:09 Finding Joy and Building Trust This chapter focuses on the relationship between difficulty and joy in learning, emphasizing the significance of creating a supportive environment, building trust between teachers and students, and embracing discomfort as part of growth. 47:15 The Lasting Impact of Mentorship The discussion reflects on the enduring relationships formed between mentors and mentees beyond the classroom, sharing personal stories about how these connections continue to influence their lives and careers. 55:00 Advocating for the Arts in Education This chapter focuses on the critical role of arts education in schools and the ongoing fight to preserve these programs, urging listeners to support arts education for fostering human connection and creativity. 58:35 Reflecting on the Power of Arts Education In the closing chapter, the speakers summarize key takeaways from their conversation, emphasizing the transformative power of arts education in shaping lives and the importance of high expectations.

Martin Gutmann is an expert on the history of business and has written extensively about styles of past leaders. In this episode, he shares his thoughts on everything from today's political climate, to whether he thinks Ernest Shackleton is overrated (spoiler alert – he does), to the underrated excellence of less well-known figures in history. Chapters: 02:27 Meet Martin Gutmann Bill welcomes Martin Gutmann to the podcast, exploring his diverse background and extensive experience in various countries. Martin shares how his journey has shaped his understanding of different cultures and leadership. 04:24 The Role of History in Leadership Martin discusses how historical insights can inform contemporary challenges, particularly in leadership and management. He emphasizes the necessity of understanding history to navigate present issues effectively. 07:06 Lessons from the Past The conversation shifts to how past solutions have created today's problems, with Martin referencing the Industrial Revolution and its consequences. He highlights the importance of learning from history to find modern solutions. 10:11 The Optimism of Youth Bill and Martin reflect on the idealism of younger generations regarding climate change and sustainability. They discuss how engaging with young people can inspire hope for the future. 14:02 The Qualities of Great Leaders Martin shares insights on the characteristics of effective leaders, emphasizing their ability to envision possibilities that others cannot see. He contrasts this with the qualities of less favorable leaders. 16:11 Reevaluating Historical Figures The discussion turns to notable historical figures, with Martin expressing a preference for lesser-known leaders who have made significant impacts. He critiques the common narratives surrounding famous leaders like Thomas Jefferson. 20:04 Unseen Leaders and Their Impact Martin elaborates on the contributions of unseen leaders, using the example of Vasily Archipov during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He illustrates how individual actions can alter the course of history. 27:01 Churchill: The Crisis Manager Explore Winston Churchill's complex legacy as a leader during World War II, where he was thrust into a crisis not of his making. This chapter delves into the nuances of his leadership style, contrasting crisis management with the ability to foresee and avoid crises. 35:12 The Unseen Leader: Shackleton vs. Amundsen Martin Gutmann discusses the concept of the 'unseen leader' through the lens of explorers Shackleton and Amundsen. While Shackleton's dramatic story captivates audiences, Amundsen's meticulous planning and authentic leadership provide deeper lessons in effective leadership. 42:55 The Challenge of Leadership in Media In this chapter, the conversation shifts to the media's portrayal of leadership, emphasizing how crises and scandals often overshadow the quiet, effective leaders. Martin and Bill reflect on the disparity between public admiration for dramatic leaders versus those who exemplify humility and competence. 46:26 A Global Perspective on Leadership Martin shares his insights on the political climate in Europe and how it resonates with the current events in the U.S. He discusses the resilience of democratic institutions and the importance of good leadership amidst rising concerns about political extremism. 50:01 Optimism in the Next Generation Ending on a hopeful note, Martin reflects on the optimism he sees in younger generations, highlighting their ability to dream big without the constraints of cynicism. This chapter underscores the importance of nurturing this optimism as a counterbalance to the challenges faced in today's world.

Blayne Smith and Brandon Young are two US Army combat veterans who came together in civilian life to start their own company. They've now published a new book, co-authors of Perseverance > Endurance: Lead with Resilience. Grow Through Adversity. Win Together., in which they describe invaluable lessons that they've learned from their training, the battlefield, and life since their time in the service. Chapters: 01:04 Introducing Blayne Smith and Brandon Young Bill introduces the guests, Army Combat veterans Blayne Smith and Brandon Young, who co-authored the book Perseverance > Endurance and discuss their impressive backgrounds and experiences. 04:04 How They Met and Bonded Blayne and Brandon share the story of how they met after their military service while working at a company that actively sought to hire veterans, highlighting their initial feelings of being out of place. 06:26 Transitioning from Military to Nonprofit The conversation shifts to their early experiences in the nonprofit sector, where they both contributed to helping veterans transition back into civilian life and the challenges they faced. 10:00 Founding Applied Leadership Partners Blayne and Brandon discuss the founding of Applied Leadership Partners, a consulting firm aimed at helping organizations navigate growth and adversity through effective leadership. 14:00 The Importance of Leadership in Organizations The duo emphasizes that many challenges in organizations stem from leadership issues, and they aim to provide practical frameworks to enhance leadership effectiveness. 15:21 Exploring Their Book: 'Perseverance is Greater Than Endurance' Blayne and Brandon delve into the key themes of their book, discussing the critical distinction between endurance and perseverance, especially during times of uncertainty. 18:35 Training for Perseverance The conversation focuses on how to cultivate perseverance, contrasting it with endurance training and discussing practical ways to adapt and grow through challenges. 24:44 The Role of Optimism in Leadership Blayne and Brandon reflect on the importance of optimism and hope in leadership, discussing how these qualities can inspire teams and foster resilience during difficult times. 30:02 The Power of Perspective In this chapter, the guests discuss how extending our time horizon can foster optimism, reminding us that difficult moments are temporary. They emphasize the importance of focusing on the mission rather than the discomfort of the present. 33:03 Frameworks for Perseverance The conversation shifts to the five factors that define perseverance: change, uncertainty, acceptance, choice, and growth. The guests delve into how these elements interconnect and provide a roadmap for navigating challenges. 37:25 Training for Perseverance Here, the guests explore the role of hope and purpose in developing perseverance, sharing personal anecdotes and insights. They discuss how understanding one's character and values can guide individuals through tough times. 41:01 Integration Over Balance The discussion turns to the concept of life integration versus work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of being a whole person in all aspects of life. The guests encourage listeners to manage their energy and presence rather than merely their schedules. 46:14 Facing Challenges with Clarity In this chapter, the guests reflect on the significance of having a clear mission and priorities during crises. They share a powerful story about a leadership decision made during a critical moment, illustrating the impact of purpose on navigating adversity. 54:03 The Veteran Perspective The episode concludes with a reflection on the resilience and perseverance of veterans, highlighting their unique experiences and insights.

This episode explores the work of Echoing Green, an international non-profit that invests in social entrepreneurs and their dreams and ideas. An accomplished leader and executive herself, Cheryl Dorsey explains how she first came to the organization and the great work they continue to do under her leadership. Chapters: 02:22 Meet Cheryl Dorsey Cheryl Dorsey, president of Echoing Green, shares her journey from being a social entrepreneur to leading a nonprofit that supports emerging social innovators. 04:30 The Origin of Echoing Green Cheryl explains the inspiration behind the name 'Echoing Green,' rooted in a William Blake poem that celebrates youth and the potential for change. 06:11 Investing in Young Leaders Cheryl discusses Echoing Green's unique approach of investing in young social entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of nurturing leadership alongside funding. 09:12 The Fellowship Experience Cheryl outlines the structure of the Echoing Green fellowship, highlighting the community, support, and resources provided to selected fellows. 11:04 The Importance of Community Cheryl reflects on the significance of community among entrepreneurs, sharing how Echoing Green fosters connections that help fellows navigate their journeys. 13:34 Addressing Inequality in Funding Cheryl addresses the challenges faced by underrepresented leaders in securing funding, emphasizing Echoing Green's role in leveling the playing field. 16:22 Spotting Potential in Social Innovation Cheryl shares examples of successful Echoing Green fellows, illustrating how the organization identifies and supports innovative ideas that drive social change. 19:55 Qualities of a Successful Entrepreneur Cheryl discusses the essential characteristics Echoing Green looks for in applicants, including optimism, resilience, and the ability to inspire others. 23:11 Navigating the Selection Process Cheryl explains the rigorous selection process for Echoing Green fellows, highlighting the collaborative efforts of volunteers to identify promising leaders. 26:01 Finding Hope in Adversity Cheryl shares her personal journey of optimism and resilience, inspired by the stories of Echoing Green fellows who overcome significant challenges. 29:55 The Battle of Ideas: Social Innovation vs. Populism Cheryl Dorsey discusses the contrasting ideologies of social innovators and populists, emphasizing the need for resources to empower those who seek to improve society. 30:45 Inspiration from the Next Generation Reflecting on the potential of today's youth, the conversation highlights the importance of intergenerational connections and the inspiring qualities of young leaders. 32:47 Hopeful Pessimism: A Realistic Outlook Cheryl introduces her concept of 'hopeful pessimism,' balancing optimism with the recognition of ongoing challenges in social equity. 34:02 Getting Involved: Supporting Social Innovators Cheryl outlines various ways individuals can support Echoing Green and its mission, from applying for fellowships to volunteering and funding. 36:40 The Power of Mentorship and Community The discussion shifts to the importance of mentorship and community support for young social innovators, highlighting the role of experienced professionals in guiding the next generation. 38:50 Success Stories: Transformative Impact of Echoing Green Cheryl shares inspiring success stories from Echoing Green fellows, showcasing how their initiatives have made significant impacts in their communities. This chapter highlights the ripple effects of social innovation and the potential for change. 42:16 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Social Innovation As the conversation wraps up, both Cheryl and Bill reflect on the optimism that stems from the work being done in social innovation.

David McCullough got the idea for The American Exchange Project (AEP) after a cross-country trip showed him how diverse and accepting were the people he met. Today, AEP creates opportunities for recent high school graduates to experience life in a different part of the US, building bridges of understanding and creating lifelong friendships. It's McCullough's hope that these trips will someday be as common for high schoolers as the senior prom. Chapters: 02:17 Growing Up in a History-Minded Family David reflects on how his family's rich history and values shaped his understanding of American identity and the importance of learning from the past. 06:09 Historical Amnesia and Current Divides Bill and David discuss the current polarization in America, emphasizing the need for historical literacy to navigate complex societal issues. 07:16 A Life-Changing College Experience David recounts a pivotal trip he took during college that opened his eyes to the realities of education and the deep divides within the country. 14:11 The Birth of the American Exchange Project David shares how his transformative experiences during his travels led to the creation of the American Exchange Project, aimed at fostering understanding among youth. 16:11 Exploring the American Exchange Project David explains the mission of the American Exchange Project, which facilitates domestic exchanges for high school students to experience different American cultures. 22:01 Building Bridges Through Shared Experiences The importance of empathy and understanding is highlighted as David discusses how students learn to see commonalities despite differences during their exchanges. 29:07 Confronting Political Discontent David addresses the challenge of political polarization, emphasizing the need for respectful dialogue and the role of the American Exchange Project in fostering meaningful connections. 31:12 The Lasting Impact of Exchange Reflecting on the transformative experiences of past participants, David highlights how The American Exchange Project fosters lasting connections and changes in perspectives. He emphasizes the significance of these exchanges in shaping young adults' futures. 34:01 Expanding the Model The conversation shifts to the potential for expanding the AEP model to college students and beyond. David hints at exciting developments in collaboration with universities to create similar experiences for incoming freshmen. 36:10 The Value of Shared Experiences David reflects on the importance of shared experiences in fostering friendships and understanding among diverse groups. He draws parallels between The American Exchange Project and historical coming-of-age rituals that unite young people. 40:01 Building a Sustainable Future Discussing the financial model of the American Exchange Project, David explains how donations and volunteerism sustain the initiative. He shares his vision for the program's growth and its potential to become a staple in American education. 44:35 The Edict of the Optimist In the concluding segment, David emphasizes the importance of taking action to create positive change, embodying the 'edict of the optimist.' The conversation wraps up with a call to support The American Exchange Project and get involved.

While studying acting in college, Erica Halverson decided that while she loved the theater, being on stage would not be for her. Instead, she moved into different areas and now is teaching arts education at the University of Wisconsin. She also hosts a terrific podcast, "Arts Educators Save the World," on which artists are joined by teachers and mentors to reflect on the transformative impact that these people had on them. Chapters: 02:49 Meet Erica Halverson Erica shares her background as a professor and her passion for arts education, discussing her book and her podcast that aim to transform teaching and learning through the arts. 03:57 From Actor to Educator Erica reflects on her journey from aspiring actor to educator, detailing the pivotal moment when she realized her passion lay in teaching and facilitating creative expression. 09:11 The Competitive Nature of Performing Arts Bill and Erica discuss the competitive landscape of the performing arts, emphasizing the importance of finding fulfilling roles outside of traditional performance careers. 12:49 The Importance of Arts Education Erica passionately advocates for the inclusion of arts education in schools, questioning why the arts are often the first programs to be cut during budget constraints. 16:22 The Impact of Standardized Testing The conversation shifts to the effects of standardized testing on education, with Erica explaining how a focus on reading and math has marginalized the arts and other subjects. 21:05 Arts as a Pathway to Inclusion Erica discusses how arts education can create inclusive learning environments, allowing students to express themselves and feel welcomed in educational spaces. 22:47 Evaluating Creativity in Education The discussion highlights the differences in evaluation between arts and traditional subjects, emphasizing the importance of open-ended expression and self-evaluation in the arts. 25:00 Training Future Educators Erica shares insights on how she prepares aspiring teachers to incorporate arts education into their classrooms, despite the challenges posed by current educational policies. 29:57 The Art of Engagement in Education In this chapter, Erica discusses the transformative power of arts in education, emphasizing the importance of engaging students in creative experiences amidst the distractions of modern technology. 33:36 Arts Educators Save the World Erica introduces her podcast, 'Arts Educators Save the World,' where she pairs influential artists with their mentors to explore the profound impact of arts education. 37:17 Expanding the Definition of Mentorship In this segment, Erica shares how her podcast expands the concept of mentorship beyond traditional settings, including relationships formed in higher education and adult collaborations. 41:18 The Ripple Effect of Recognition Bill and Erica discuss the emotional impact of reconnecting artists with their former teachers, highlighting the importance of recognition in the teaching profession. 46:14 Looking Ahead: The Future of Arts Education As the conversation nears its end, Erica shares her vision for the future of arts education, expressing optimism about the resilience of creative programs despite challenges. 51:30 The Lasting Impact of Arts in Education In the final segment, Erica's passion for arts education shines through as she reflects on the ripple effects of her work. Bill emphasizes the importance of recognizing the mentors who shape successful individuals, reinforcing the idea that the arts play a vital role in personal and professional development.