MyFESTUS.com Conversations

👮🏼‍♂️💙🛒First Responders Respond to Family Needs with Jeffco Shop with a Cop: a Conversation with Captain Lewis Pippin

👮🏼‍♂️💙🛒First Responders Respond to Family Needs with Jeffco Shop with a Cop: a Conversation with Captain Lewis Pippin:
 
Summary
In this podcast episode of the MyFESTUS.com Conversations show, host Sara speaks with Captain Lewis Pippin of the Festus Police Department about the Jeffco Shop with a Cop program. They discuss the origins of the nonprofit, its growth over the years, and the positive impact it has on underprivileged children during the holiday season. Lewis shares heartwarming stories from the community, the importance of first responders creating positive experiences for children, and how the community can get involved to support this impactful initiative. Their conversation emphasizes the significance of community connection and support.
 
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
Jeffco Shop with a Cop started to help underprivileged kids during Christmas.
The program has grown from serving 17 kids in 2017 to nearly 600 kids in 2024.
Counselors from local schools help identify children in need.
The program fosters positive interactions between children and first responders.
Community involvement is crucial for the success of the program.
Events and fundraisers can be organized to raise money for the initiative.
Every dollar donated makes a difference in a child's life.
The experience of shopping with first responders is memorable for kids.
Community is seen as family and a source of positivity. 
 
Quotable Sound Bites
 
"We started running that program together."
"We answered some prayers all year long."
"It's a fun, positive energy."
"Community is family."
 
💙Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.💙
 
Learn how to connect with Jeffco Shop with a Cop + read another story I wrote about this impressive, miraculous local nonprofit organization:👮🏼‍♂️💙🛒⬇️
MyFESTUS.com/Jeffco-Shop-with-a-Cop
 
👮🏼‍♂️Thank you for SHARING this to SPREAD THE WORD as you CONNECT more people to SUPPORT a generous and compassionate community.👮🏼‍♂️
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to MyFESTUS.com Conversations
01:07 Meet Captain Lewis Pippin
03:26 Understanding Jeffco Shop with a Cop
08:07 Growth and Impact of the Program
10:27 Heartwarming Stories from the Community
12:45 The Experience of Shopping with First Responders
16:06 Community Involvement and Support
18:26 The Meaning of Community to Lewis Pippin
 
Keywords
MyFESTUS, community, Jeffco Shop with a Cop, local leaders, Festus Missouri, police department, nonprofit organization, community support, holiday giving, first responders
 
#jeffcoshopwithacop #myfestus #ittybitty #jeffersoncountymo #festuspolice #festus #festusmissouri #festusmo #jeffersoncounty #jeffersoncountymo #jeffersoncountymissouri 
 

☀️📸🌿Anxiety Cannot Exist When…

☀️📸🌿Anxiety Cannot Exist When…
Summary
In this short and sweet solo podcast episode, Sara reflects on her experience with creativity and its positive impact on anxiety. Inspired by a talk from Gabby Bernstein, she shares how engaging in creative activities, like photography, allowed her to experience moments of flow and joy, free from anxious thoughts. She emphasizes the importance of carving out time for creativity in daily life to nourish the soul and enhance emotional well-being.
 
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
Listening to inspirational talks can spark creativity.
Creativity can help alleviate anxiety.
Engaging in creative activities fosters a state of flow.
Small, itty-bitty moments of creativity can have a big impact on our mental state of mind.
Mindfulness and creativity are interconnected.
Capturing beauty in everyday life can be therapeutic.
Incorporating creativity into daily routines is beneficial.
Nature and seasonal changes can inspire creativity.
Intentional moments of creativity can nourish the soul.
 
☀️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.☀️
 
More creativity flowed after this creative photoshoot. Read that and find out where you can get this fantastic Festus mug + a succulent like this on: ☀️📸🌿👇
MyFESTUS.com/Anxiety-Cannot-Exist
 
🌿Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people to eliminate or reduce anxiety
as we all SUPPORT a creative community.🌿
 
Chapters
00:00 Embracing Creativity to Combat Anxiety
05:07 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
Keywords
creativity, anxiety, Gabby Bernstein, mindfulness, self-care, personal growth, inspiration, photography, fall decor, emotional well-being
 
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festus #festusmo #ittybittyanything #sundayreflections #gabbybernstein #treeoflife

💛🥫❤️Carmelita Davidson’s Daily Dozen

💛🥫❤️Carmelita Davidson’s Daily Dozen:
In this 14-minute surprise tribute episode on the MyFESTUS.com Conversations, I (Sara) introduce Carmelita Davidson, a community leader generously serving in Jefferson County, Missouri. I share how Carmelita has made significant contributions to our local area through various initiatives, including the Ozark Food Pantry. 🥫
Enjoy learning about the fascinating highlights of Carmelita's inspiring journey from the Philippines to the U.S., her dedication to service, and the principles she lives by, collectively coined and referred to (by me!) as the “Davidson Daily Dozen.”💛
These itty-bitty, yet impactful principles emphasize gratitude, kindness, and community engagement, specific to each of us. 
What is your favorite principle? ❤️
I am so excited for you to listen and share what inspires you, in the comments.
I also share what you might be able to do if you feel called to help the hungry folks in our community through the Ozark Food Pantry. 🥫
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to SPREAD THE LOVE for Carmelita + CONNECT more people as we all SUPPORT an inspired community.✨
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
Carmelita Davidson is a respected community leader.
Her journey from the Philippines to the U.S. is inspiring.
She has been actively involved in local initiatives for years.
The Ozark Food Pantry serves hundreds of families weekly.
Carmelita's enthusiasm and optimism are contagious.
The “Davidson Daily Dozen” consists of 12 life principles.
Gratitude and kindness are central to her philosophy.
Conversations can foster deeper connections and understanding.
Everyone has unique gifts to contribute to the world.
Community engagement is vital for personal and collective growth.
 
Quotable Sound Bite
"You are needed in this world."
 
❤️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.❤️
 
More Information on all:
⁠MyFESTUS.com/OzarkFoodPantry⁠
⁠MyFESTUS.com/CarmelitaDavidson⁠
 
SOOO many more inspiring LOCAL leaders and stories under the “Friends” category on: 💛🥫❤️👇
⁠MyFESTUS.com⁠
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Carmelita Davidson
02:56 Carmelita's Journey and Community Impact
05:48 The Davidson Daily Dozen: Principles of Living
11:56 The Power of Connection and Community Engagement
Keywords
Carmelita Davidson, community leader, Ozark food pantry, gratitude, daily principles, personal growth, volunteerism, leadership, Festus Missouri, inspiration
 
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festusmo #jeffersoncounty #jeffersoncountymo #jeffersoncountymissouri #ozarkfoodpantry #feedourpeople #carmelitadavidson

🎃🐿️💡Itty-Bitty (Disguised) Seeds of Wisdom

🎃🐿️💡Itty-Bitty (Disguised) Seeds of Wisdom:
 
Summary
In this solo episode, Sara reflects on the beauty of fall in Festus, Missouri. She shares a personal story about a squirrel and a pumpkin. Through this reflection, she draws life lessons about noticing small, itty-bitty, unexpected moments that can create joy, and finding nourishment in challenges. Perhaps we can find wisdom in struggles and fuel in unexpected places.
 
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
We often overlook the beauty around us due to our busy lives.
Creating space to look outside can bring an unexpected smile.
Life lessons can come from nature and simple interactions.
Perspective shifts can help us navigate struggles more easily.
Challenges can hide valuable, nourishing lessons.
 
🎃Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.🎃
 
More nourishing mindful reflections to fuel you under the “Mind” category on: 🎃🐿️💡👇
MyFESTUS.com/Mind
 
🐿️Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people as we all SUPPORT working our way through challenges to find the itty-bitty (disguised) seeds of wisdom.🐿️
 
Keywords
pumpkins, life lessons, nature, joy, perspective, challenges, nourishment, reflection, mindfulness, seasons
 
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festus #festusmo #ittybittyanything #sundayreflections 

🎵✌️👀 Donna and Ben: The Power of Binoculars! THE Dynamic Duo Shares Stories of Shenanigans

In this episode of the MyFESTUS.com Conversations show, host Sara engages with guests Donna Litton and Ben Brown, exploring their history, musical preferences, and their current roles in the Economic Development Corporation of Jefferson County. The conversation highlights the importance of community connections, the joys of working with playful shenanigans, and the impact of local initiatives on fostering a thriving environment in Jefferson County.
 
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
The Economic Development Corporation plays a vital role in local business growth.
Connecting people is a fundamental part of their mission.
Building relationships is key to community success.
Visibility and outreach are important for all local organizations.
Jefferson County is a great place to live, work, play, and shop.
Quotable Sound Bites
"We like the shenanigans."
"We are THE dynamic duo."
 
❤️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.❤️
 
More about Donna and Ben + more fun conversations and stories that share shenanigans on: 🎵✌️👀👇
MyFESTUS.com/DonnaAndBen
MyFESTUS.com/Conversations
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people as we all SUPPORT a community who loves shenanigans.✨
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to MyFESTUS.com and the Host, Sara
03:01 The Musical Journey of Donna and Ben
05:48 Reconnecting Through Work: A Shared History
09:01 The Role of the Economic Development Corporation
11:53 Building Community Connections
15:13 The Dynamic Duo: Community and Collaboration
 
Keywords
MyFESTUS, community, economic development, Jefferson County, local connections, music, relationships, podcast, small business, collaboration
 
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festus #festusmo #myfestusconversations #edc #economicdevelopmentofjeffersoncounty #benbrown #donnalitton #dynamicduo

❤️📅⏰Just for today, I choose to feel…

❤️📅⏰Just for today, I choose to feel…SummaryIn this solo conversation, I discuss my challenges of feeling overwhelmed in my daily life and I share my process to managing these feelings through small, intentional shifts. I emphasize the importance of identifying how one wants to feel each day and creating personal mantras to guide our own emotional well-being. By focusing on 'itty-bitty' changes, sometimes with fun aligned acronyms that are meaningful to us, we can cultivate a more positive mindset within our day.Itty-Bitty, Inspirational Takeaways- Overwhelm can stem from various external and internal pressures.- Small, intentional shifts can lead to significant changes in mindset.- Choosing how to feel each day can be liberating.- Creating personal mantras helps solidify desired feelings.- Gratitude can be expressed through unique personal definitions.- It's important to acknowledge feelings of anxiety and frustration.- Sharing experiences can foster connection and support.- Mindfulness practices can enhance emotional well-being.- Itty-bitty habits can accumulate to create lasting impact.- Perception shapes our reality and emotional responses.Quotable Sound Bites"I believe in itty-bitty anything.""It's all what we perceive."
❤️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.❤️
More feel-good, mindful reflections on: ❤️📅⏰⬇️MyFESTUS.com/Mind
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people as we all SUPPORT an intentionally positive community.✨ Chapters00:00 Navigating Overwhelm in Daily Life02:57 The Power of Itty Bitty Shifts06:01 Intentional Feelings and Mantras09:10 Connecting Through Shared ExperiencesKeywordsoverwhelm, anxiety, gratitude, intentional living, mindfulness, daily habits, emotional well-being, self-care, personal growth, positive mindset, MyFESTUS.com, itty-bitty, just for today#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #ittybittyanything #justfortoday #GRATEFUL #alignedacronyms

💁🏻‍♀️🙋🏽‍♀️💁🏼‍♀️Nicole: Find Your Voice

💁🏻‍♀️🙋🏽‍♀️💁🏼‍♀️Nicole: Find Your Voice 
In this vulnerable episode, local resident, Nicole Tucker Ingram, shares a tender glimpse through her journey of finding her own voice as a woman in this world.
She shares what she is doing to empower, connect with, and support other women (and men) so they can also find their own voice in whatever personal or professional community they live in.
 
Summary
In this episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara engages with Nicole Tucker Ingram, exploring the themes of community, empowerment, and finding one's voice. Nicole shares her personal journey of overcoming challenges, discovering her identity, and the importance of building connections with others. The conversation emphasizes the significance of supporting one another and advocating for oneself within ANY community.
 
Takeaways
Community is about connection and support.
Finding your voice is a journey of self-discovery.
Women often struggle to advocate for themselves.
Building relationships is key to personal growth.
Self-awareness can be enhanced by seeking feedback.
Empowerment comes from helping others find their voice.
Networking can lead to new opportunities and insights.
It's important to evaluate your support system.
Personal growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone.
Community success is tied to individual well-being.
Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit for an inspiring impact in your life.
Learn more about Nicole on:💁🏻‍♀️🙋🏽‍♀️💁🏼‍♀️👇🏾
MyFESTUS.com/NicoleFindYourVoice
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people as we all SUPPORT an empowered community.✨
 
Quotable Sound Bites
"I had to take off my mask"
"What am I good at? What do I love doing?"
"It's literally about getting to know people"
"It's okay if it's not all positive"
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to MyFESTUS.com Conversations
01:06 The Power of Voice and Community
02:56 Finding Your Voice: Personal Journey
08:41 Identifying Your True Self
12:54 Building Connections and Relationships
16:13 Empowerment Through Community
18:09 The Essence of Community
 
Keywords
MyFESTUS, community, empowerment, voice, personal growth, connection, women empowerment, identity, networking, support system
 
#MyFESTUS #ittybitty #MyFESTUSConversations #Festus #FestusMO #FestusMissouri #JeffersonCounty #JeffersonCountyMO #JeffersonCountyMissouri

🙋🏼‍♀️💗✨The Power of Intention and Positivity

🙋🏼‍♀️💗✨The Power of Intention and Positivity: 
 
Summary
In this episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversation Show, your host, Sara, shares her journey of embracing discomfort and personal growth. She discusses the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone, the power of intention and positivity, and encourages listeners to navigate their own life transitions with courage and an open mind.
 
Takeaways
Embracing discomfort is essential for personal growth.
It's okay to not have all the answers when starting something new.
Having a positive intention can lead to better outcomes.
Showing up with curiosity can enhance the learning experience.
Life transitions can be challenging but are often rewarding.
The journey of self-improvement can positively impact others.
Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial during uncomfortable times.
Courage and positivity can help navigate life's changes.
Every new chapter brings opportunities for growth.
Community support can make transitions easier.
 
Quotable Sound Bites
"Everything will work out. It always does." 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to MyFESTUS.com and Personal Growth
01:07 Embracing Discomfort for Growth
03:33 The Power of Intention and Positivity
04:58 Encouragement for Life's Transitions
 
💗Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit for a BIG impact in your life.💗 
Enjoy this “itty-bitty bit” and find more episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube.com/@My_FESTUS, or wherever you listen to podcasts. For more information on ALL, check out:🙋🏼‍♀️💗✨👇MyFESTUS.com/Conversations
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people as we all SUPPORT an intentionally positive community.✨
 
Keywords
MyFESTUS, personal growth, discomfort, intention, positivity, life transitions, community, encouragement
 
#MyFESTUS #ittybitty #MyFESTUSConversations #Festus #FestusMO #FestusMissouri #JeffersonCounty #JeffersonCountyMO #JeffersonCountyMissouri
 

🎶🚴🏻‍♂️😂The Podcast Pilot with a Purpose-Driven Pair: Scott Seek and Andy Held

What an entertaining first interview episode! Through our hilarious conversation, local Festus residents, Scott Seek and Andy Held, share when and how they really met, why they connected over biking in their unique way, and what they have done to create and support a bike/cycling community in our area.
 
Summary
In this episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, your host, Sara, engages with guests Scott Seek and Andrew “Andy” Held, exploring their friendship, shared experiences in cycling, and the importance of community in Jefferson County. The conversation flows from nostalgic discussions about 90s music to the origins of their cycling adventures and the creation of local events that foster community connections. The guests emphasize the significance of collaboration and shared goals in building a vibrant community.
 
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
The podcast aims to encourage communication and connection within the community.
90s music serves as a nostalgic backdrop for personal stories and connections.
Friendships can form in unexpected ways, often through shared experiences.
Cycling has become a means to build community and promote local tourism.
Creating events like the Tuesday Night Ride fosters inclusivity and participation.
Community is defined as a woven fabric of like-minded individuals.
Collaboration is essential for achieving common goals in the community.
Local businesses and events contribute to the vibrancy of Jefferson County.
Personal stories and experiences enrich the understanding of community.
Engaging with the community can lead to meaningful connections and experiences.
 
Quotable Sound Bites
"This is what it's all about."
"We want people to come and see."
"It's a woven fabric of like-minded individuals."
 
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFestus.com Conversations
02:21 Exploring 90s Music and Personal Connections
04:45 The Origins of a Unique Friendship
10:13 Cycling Adventures and Community Building
14:57 Creating a Cycling Culture in Jefferson County
18:20 Defining Community and Its Importance
 
For more information on ALL, check out:🎶🚴🏻‍♂️😂👇
MyFESTUS.com/Andy-Scott
 
Keywords
MyFestus, community, cycling, friendship, 90s music, Jefferson County, local events, personal stories, connection, tourism
 
#MyFESTUS #ittybitty #MyFESTUSConversations #Festus #FestusMO #FestusMissouri #JeffersonCounty #JeffersonCountyMO #JeffersonCountyMissouri
 

🤔🤭😆It’s Okay To Be Nosy!

I’m excited to explain this new podcast thing!
 
😆 It’s fun to be nosy and simply listen in to; however, if you want to be nosy with your reading, check out these:
AI-Generated Episode Show Notes:
🤭 Summary:
In this conversation, Sara, the creator of MyFESTUS.com, discusses the importance of being curious and nosy about the content we consume. She introduces her new podcast, which aims to connect listeners with local stories and people from her community in Festus, Missouri. The podcast will feature interviews and shorter episodes, all designed to inspire and encourage listeners. Sara emphasizes the importance of community engagement and invites listeners to explore her website for more content and connection opportunities.
 
🤔Takeaways:
- It's okay to be nosy about the content you consume.
- You should be choosy about what you listen to, or read.
- The podcast aims to unravel who people are in a positive way.
- Sara's journey includes a craving for community and connection.
- Expect interviews with local leaders and residents.
- Interview episodes will range from 15 to 30 minutes in length.
- The podcast will be available on multiple platforms.
- Engagement with the audience is encouraged through social media.
- A “Midweek Motivator” email will provide additional community insights.
- Creating itty bitty habits of listening and learning can have a big, significant impact.
 
😆Chapters:
00:00 Embracing Curiosity: The Power of Being Nosy
02:23 Introducing MyFESTUS: A Journey of Connection
05:46 Podcast Format and Content: What to Expect
08:36 Accessing the Podcast: Where to Find It
11:58 Engagement and Community: Staying Connected
🤔Sound Bites/Sara’s Quotes:
"It's okay to be nosy."
"This podcast is all about being nosy."
"You have full permission to be nosy."
 
Be nosy, be curious, and learn more about the NEW MyFESTUS.com Conversations Podcast on: 🤔🤭😆👇
MyFESTUS.com/Conversations
 
😆Keywords
podcast, MyFESTUS, community, connection, interviews, local stories, inspiration, encouragement, curiosity, engagement
 
#MyFestus #ittybitty #Festus #FestusMO #FestusMissouri #JeffersonCounty #JeffersonCountyMO #JeffersonCountyMissouri