Stories That Move

In this episode of Stories That Move, hosts Matt and Erica Deuel engage with Sea Grandon, a contemporary art advisor and director of Atelier, an art gallery in Warsaw. They explore the significance of art in shaping community culture, Sea’s journey from law to art, and the challenges and opportunities in making art accessible. Sea shares her insights on fostering creativity, the organic growth of her advisory business, and the vibrant community engagement surrounding her gallery. This conversation explores the transformative power of art within communities, focusing on the importance of immersive experiences, the empowerment of young artists, and the role of art in emotional processing and mental health. Keywordsart, community, creativity, contemporary art, Warsaw, Sea Grandon, Atelier, art advisory, cultural impact, accessibility, art, community, creativity, mental health, young artists, immersive experiences, empowerment, accessibility, exhibitions, WarsawFIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Todd and Cindy Schoenbarger, who redefine what it means to transition into retirement. With a compelling narrative around their journey into "Life 2.0," they showcase how a new phase of life can be filled with purpose, growth, and innovation. From their well-established careers in IT and engineering, the Schoenbargers made a conscious decision to seek deeper meaning beyond the corporate world. Influenced by the thought-provoking book "Halftime," Todd began to search for significance over success, prompting both Todd and Cindy to reevaluate their paths and set intentional goals for the next chapter.In this engaging conversation, we explore their planning process, emphasizing the necessity of intentionality in navigating life’s transitions. From developing a strategic document outlining their aspirations to pursuing volunteer opportunities with Operation Mobilization, they illustrate how purpose-driven living can foster incredible impacts. Their innovation in elder care, especially during the pandemic, highlights the power of creativity born from personal experience and passion.Mentorship plays a pivotal role in their story, where they share the importance of fostering relationships and seeking guidance from others who can inspire and support growth. Todd and Cindy reflect on how their journey encourages listeners to consider their own legacies and the impact they wish to leave behind.This episode provides a rich tapestry of insights into navigating life’s transitions with intention, fostering a spirit of service, and embracing the continual journey of growth. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt discussion that invites everyone to reflect on their purposes, aspirations, and the legacy they wish to create! Tune in and be inspired to craft your own "Life 2.0."FIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/

In this episode of "Stories that Move," we’re talking all about trust in the nonprofit world with James Bladel, Chief Strategy Officer of Historic. James shares his years of experience helping nonprofits tackle challenges and make a real impact.He breaks down the two types of trust every nonprofit needs: relational trust, which builds collaboration and understanding within teams, and functional trust, which focuses on accountability and getting things done. Balancing both is key to long-term success.Plus, James dives into how nonprofits can thrive by using empathy and smart strategy, and why a design thinking approach is a game-changer when it comes to connecting with beneficiaries and donors.If you’re ready to rethink trust in your own organization and learn practical steps to drive change, this episode’s for you. Hit play, subscribe, and drop a review—let us know what you think!FIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/

What happens when your soul is as parched as the world around you? Join us as we sit down with Mindy Caliguire, founder and president of Soul Care, to unravel the profound necessity of soul care and spiritual formation in times of crisis.Our conversation explores the shifting tides of spiritual formation, recounting the journey to integrate soul care into various organizational settings. From strategic roles and collaborations with the Willow Creek Association to the insights gained from the Reveal study, we explore the evolution of discipleship and church transformation. We also delve into the post-pandemic transition to digital tools, which has significantly enhanced our approach to fostering spiritual well-being. This journey underscores a long-standing vision to nurture individuals' spiritual growth, highlighting the increasing awareness of the need for soul care.We also embrace the realities of 2025, acknowledging the challenges of burnout and the societal pressures that often hinder spiritual growth. Our dialogue emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, patience, and holding space for others' pain without the compulsion to fix it. With references to traditions like sitting shiva, we underscore the need for self-care to offer genuine support. As we share updates on future projects, including Whisper Ranch, and celebrate personal milestones, we invite you to explore the abundant resources available for your spiritual journey, reminding you that hope and renewal are always within reach.FIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/

Micah LeMasters, a world traveler and educator focused on rewilding land in Indiana, shares captivating tales from his adventures. He reflects on his transformative time in Madagascar, where he learned the value of community amidst challenges. Micah highlights the beauty of embracing discomfort through travel, including an exhilarating sailing trek to Cuba. His insights on nature's resilience and the importance of cultural connections inspire listeners to appreciate the richness of shared experiences and personal growth.

Judge Linda Davis, a distinguished public servant from Michigan, joins us to share her transformative journey in understanding addiction. From her beginnings as a teacher to her impactful career as a prosecutor and judge, Judge Davis reveals how her views shifted from seeing addiction as a moral failing to recognizing it as a chronic disease. Her personal connection runs deep, with her daughter's battle with heroin addiction serving as a catalyst for her advocacy. Through candid stories, she illustrates the power of empathy and education in reshaping addiction recovery systems.As we explore Judge Davis's story, we uncover the stigma that often surrounds addiction and the shortcomings of traditional punitive measures. Her experiences in the legal system and as a mother led her to champion initiatives like Families Against Narcotics and Face Addiction Now. Judge Davis's insights into the importance of compassion in judicial solutions are both poignant and inspiring, emphasizing the need for a supportive community that understands addiction's complexities.Throughout this compelling conversation, we delve into the broader implications of treating addiction with the same seriousness as other chronic health issues. By advocating for programs like Stronger Together and harm reduction sites, Judge Davis highlights the necessity of creating environments where recovery is attainable. Her unwavering commitment to breaking down stigma and implementing effective, compassionate approaches serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience needed in the fight against addiction. Join us for this impactful discussion that promises to challenge societal perceptions and inspire positive change.FIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/

Discover the journey of John Ratliff, a dynamic entrepreneur who transformed his childhood knack for business into the foundation of Apple Tree Answers, a call center company that grew to 24 locations and over 650 employees. John reveals how his early ventures, from selling cotton plants to managing a ski resort snack bar, instilled a deep understanding of leadership and business dynamics. His insights into scaling a company, building strong teams, and navigating exit strategies provide a treasure trove of knowledge for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to learn from someone who's excelled in the art of business growth and sales.Learn how John's innovative DreamOn program revolutionized company culture at Apple Tree by addressing employee turnover and morale. Inspired by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, this initiative focused on fulfilling staff dreams to create a supportive work environment, leading to remarkable improvements in retention. Through these stories, John conveys the critical importance of storytelling and culture in mergers and acquisitions, demonstrating how a compelling narrative can significantly enhance a company's value and ensure a successful sale.John also shares his perspective on the current economic landscape, underscoring the importance of resilience and precision in business operations. By embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, he highlights how middle-market companies can thrive amid economic adversity. Throughout the episode, John's passion for storytelling and strategic excellence shines, offering listeners an engaging exploration of entrepreneurship and the powerful impact of effective leadership.FIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/

What would you do if a life-altering event pointed you towards a path you never intended to take? Josh Wildman, CEO of Wildman Business Group, takes us on a remarkable journey from a career-ending wakeboarding injury to leading a thriving family business. Josh shares his story of embracing marketplace ministry and cultivating a purpose-driven company ethos that extends beyond mere profit. Discover how balancing "gas and brake" dynamics helps maintain a healthy company culture while expanding from one location to seven in just four years.Josh reflects on the 72-year legacy of Wildman Business Group, sharing how faith and a strong set of core values have been integral to its growth and success. With over 11,000 customers across the Midwest, the company is dedicated to making a meaningful impact both internally and within the community. Josh opens up about learning high-level negotiations and acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of empowering employees through unique cultural initiatives like life coaching and the "Love Works" program.In our conversation, Josh delves into his personal journey from reluctance to leadership, highlighting how important mentors and a focus on purpose have shaped his path. He offers practical advice on cultivating a work culture that prioritizes life-changing impact and influence. From the evolution of his passion in sports to running a successful business, Josh's insights provide valuable lessons in balancing personal and professional aspirations while nurturing a faith-driven approach to life. Join us to explore the art of fostering a thriving, purpose-driven business that focuses on influence over mere growth.FIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Michael Tsangaris, a leading pediatric pulmonologist from Riley Hospital for Children, who opens up about his remarkable journey from facing medical school rejection to becoming a specialist in pediatric lung diseases. Dr. Tsangaris shares how his initial interest in orthopedic surgery evolved into a passion for pediatric pulmonology, sparked by his experiences in the emergency room. His story is one of resilience and dedication, offering a unique perspective on overcoming setbacks and the power of persistence.We delve into the art and science of listening in medicine, a skill he has mastered to improve both patient care and personal fulfillment. Discover how investing time to truly understand a patient's story results in more effective treatment plans, especially in complex cases involving anxiety. The conversation sheds light on the systemic constraints healthcare providers face and the importance of empathy, highlighting the invaluable role of mental health resources for the next generation of medical professionals.Finally, explore the profound impact of anxiety on physical health, illustrated by poignant stories from Dr. Tsangaris' practice. As mental health demands soar, particularly for children, we examine the link between anxiety and physical symptoms. Dr. Tsangaris shares practical advice for managing anxiety and fostering empathy, emphasizing the importance of listening in a noisy world. This episode is a powerful reminder that attentive listening and empathy are crucial in navigating today's medical and emotional challenges.FIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/

Join us for a captivating conversation with Karen Polkinghorne, president of Network Partners, as she takes us through her extraordinary career from packaging engineer to a leader in the orthopedic industry. Discover how Karen's adventurous spirit, embodied in her unique lifestyle of RV travels across the country, influences her personal and professional life. With insights into her leadership journey and the importance of adapting communication styles, Karen shares valuable lessons that are instrumental in achieving successful collaborations and career growth. Her remarkable story promises to inspire anyone looking to elevate their career path by going the extra mile.This episode delves into the creation of a transformative training program for entry-level engineers in life sciences packaging, spotlighting the success story of Tyler Boyd. Karen recounts her experience in shaping novices into industry-ready professionals, highlighting the rewarding transition from consumer packaging to life sciences. We'll explore the intricate art of medical device packaging, emphasizing efficiency and sterility as key components that ensure patient safety. Through personal anecdotes, Karen reflects on her own career trajectory, illustrating the profound impact of strategic career decisions and the rewarding nature of life sciences.Karen's narrative takes an unexpected turn as she shares the story of her ski accident and recovery, offering a poignant reflection on life's fragility. Despite the physical clearance to ski again, the mental hurdle remains a significant consideration, underscoring the delicate balance between adventure and safety. Coupled with this, Karen and her husband Chad's adventurous journey living and working remotely from their RV, equipped with Starlink, illustrates how embracing change can lead to exciting new experiences. Finally, we discuss the significance of soft skills in career success, providing strategies to develop emotional intelligence and communication competencies that can set you apart in today's tech-reliant work environments.FIND US ON THE SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamonstudios.ioFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamOnStudios574LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreamon-studios/