In this ICYMI episode of This Is Beacon, Reuben and Brandon are joined by Jamie from Faregrounds to recap a some community work in action. They highlight the Back 2 School Block Party, 138 supply kits distributed, and the 14th Annual I Run Beacon 5K securing their fundraising goal for their Making a Difference scholarship. They introduce Turkey on Every Table and discuss what’s next with community fridges.
Want to support local community fridges or need food today? Visit Fareground.org or contact Jamie Levato at (845) 375-7194
In this episode of This is Beacon, hosts Reuben and Brandon engage in a deep and insightful conversation with Shandi Speller, a seasoned family peer advocate with CoveCare Center for over eight years. Shandi shares her journey from being a classroom teacher in the South Bronx to becoming a family peer advocate. She discusses the importance of addressing children's behavioral issues by involving the entire family, the role of community resources like public libraries and recreation departments, and the necessity of building robust support systems for effective advocacy. Shandi also emphasizes the critical need for parental involvement in special education and the benefits of persistence in navigating available services. Her inspiring stories and valuable advice shed light on how communities can come together to support the mental health and well-being of families.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts
00:43 Meet Shandi Speller: Family Peer Advocate
01:02 Shandi’s Journey to Advocacy
04:21 Hobbies and Personal Interests
10:47 Building a Village: The Importance of Community
14:31 Challenges and Strategies in Family Support
22:39 Advocating for Special Education
34:09 Success Stories and Community Impact
40:20 Teaching Life Skills and Community Engagement
42:29 The Importance of Community Centers
45:02 Supporting Families and Youth
47:46 Community Resources and Services
53:22 Challenges and Success Stories
55:43 The Role of Empathy and Advocacy
58:53 Final Thoughts and Reflections
This episode of 'This is Beacon' features Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon welcoming special guest Courtney Rovere, a licensed clinical social worker and educator, as part of the #Jointheconversation series. Theconversation centers around the importance of mental health, wellness, andCourtney's journey in the field. Courtney shares her experiences working in theHudson Valley, her education in Boston, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemicon her decision to return home. She highlights the need for systemic change inthe mental health field, particularly emphasizing the role of women whoconstitute a majority of the workforce. Courtney discusses her research and thesignificant issues like burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and workforce turnover.She suggests solutions such as creating safe and affirming workspaces,elevating the voices of those with lived experiences, reducing rigid fundingconstraints, and focusing on collective care. The episode underscores theimportance of small, everyday efforts to foster community and support mentalhealth.
In this episode of This is Beacon, part of the #Jointheconversation series, hosts Brooke, Rueben, and Brandon sit down with Licensed Mental Health Counselor JoAnn Streany, whose work spans New York, New Jersey, Florida, Connecticut, and Delaware. JoAnn brings over two decades of experience as a former school counselor and now runs a remote private practice specializing in Integrated Nutrition for Mental Health.
She shares how nutrition, movement, and sleep play a foundational role in mental wellness and elaborates on how she supports clients using Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in partnership with Journey Clinical. Listeners will learn how KAP differs from traditional talk therapy by targeting healing at both the biological and psychological levels.
This episode explores:
JoAnn’s transition from school counseling to private practice
The intersection of nutrition, sleep, and movement with mental health
The science and safety of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
What Journey Clinical is and how it partners with providers
KAP’s psychiatric medication management model
Key FAQs on KAP, including pricing, modalities, and insurance
Real-life applications of KAP in areas like mental health, athletics, and eating disorders
The importance of adaptability in leadership and communication
How policy, training, and emotional regulation play a role in educational and workplace environments
Why modeling contentment and resilience matters
Whether you're a mental health professional, a leader, or someone seeking better self-care, JoAnn offers practical insights and thoughtful strategies that foster understanding, connection, and growth.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest JoAnn
02:47 JoAnn's Professional Journey and Insights
32:34 The Culture of Productivity and Its Impact
38:53 Balancing Mental Health and Workplace Expectations
40:28 Reevaluating Workplace Priorities
42:26 Balancing Professional and Personal Life
01:01:39 Addressing Emotional Regulation in Education
01:04:09 The Importance of Policies and Training
01:17:20 Understanding Skill Deficits and Choices
In this episode of 'This is Beacon's #jointheconversationseries, hosts Reuben, Brandon delve into an insightful discussion with actress, writer, and director Rachel Handler. As a disability advocate and a recent participant in the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, Rachel shares her inspiring journey in the film industry, her relocation from Jersey City to the Hudson Valley, and the profound impact of authentic disability representation in media. The conversation covers the challenges and triumphs of her career, the significance of the Disability Film Challenge, and the crucial need for inclusiveness in Hollywood. Rachel also highlights her personal experiences and creative endeavors, providing a compelling narrative of resilience, adaptability, and artistic passion.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:33 Meet Rachel: Actress, Writer, and Advocate
01:03 Life in Beacon and Personal Background
09:19 Challenges and Triumphs in the Film Industry
13:01 The Disability Film Challenge Experience
18:53 Community Support and Filmmaking in Hudson Valley
28:51 Backlash and Representation in Media
29:48 Authentic Casting and Inclusivity
31:25 Challenges and Stereotypes in Hollywood
33:04 Intersectionality and Disability
34:08 The Disability Film Challenge
37:10 Promoting the Film Challenge
39:21 Impact and Opportunities from the Challenge
43:24 Personal Experiences and Microaggressions
45:33 Behind the Scenes of Filmmaking
49:05 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
Community Insights & Future Plans: Beacon's Q1 2025 RecapIn this episode of 'This is Beacon,' hosts Reuben and Brandon provide updates on community events, notable achievements, and future plans for Beacon, New York. The episode starts with shoutouts to community members Brooke and Brianna for their personal and business milestones. The hosts share their personal experiences attending local events and discuss the return of Dunkin' Donuts to Beacon, including debates around drive-thrus and traffic concerns. They also highlight Beacon's local donut shops, Glazed Over and Peaceful Provisions.The conversation then shifts to community initiatives, notably the launch of 'Easter Dinner Baskets' as an extension of the 'Turkey on Every Table' program. The hosts thank all contributors and emphasize the importance of community involvement.Upcoming events include the 'Volunteerism: The Fabric of Our Community' panel discussion aimed at encouraging community engagement and volunteering. They also talk about the 'Join the Conversation' series focusing on mental health, with this year's theme centered around building support systems and resilience.The episode closes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the recent loss in the Murphy family due to a tragic fire, and information on how the community can assist with donations. The hosts emphasize the importance of community support during tough times.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:34 Meet the Hosts: Ruben and Brandon00:43 Shoutouts to Brooke and Brianna01:07 Recap of Recent Events02:27 Dunkin' Donuts Debate04:37 Drive-Through Controversy09:10 Community Development and Traffic Concerns13:54 Bicycle Safety and Future Planning18:08 Donut Love: Peaceful Provisions and Glazed Over19:54 First Quarter Reflections and New Initiatives20:18 Shoutout to Junior and Easter Dinner Baskets20:43 Recalibrating Community Efforts21:41 Reintroducing Turkey on Every Table23:22 Easter Dinner Baskets Initiative24:33 Community Support and Gratitude27:03 Upcoming Events and Initiatives28:08 Volunteerism and Community Engagement37:48 Mental Health Awareness Series45:52 Community Tragedy and Support49:29 How to Support This is Beacon
In this episode of the 'This is Beacon' podcast, hosts Brooke, Ruben, Brianna, and Brandon recount the highlights of 2024, share personal growth stories, and discuss their organizational goals for 2025. They talk about the impact of events such as the Back to School Block Party, the I Am Beacon 5K, and the Turkey on Every Table initiative, expressing gratitude to sponsors and community partners. Additionally, they detail their mental health resilience workshops for high school students and adults. Looking forward to 2025, the hosts emphasize the importance of community collaboration, personal well-being, and sustaining growth while maintaining the organization's authentic spirit.
00:00 Welcome to This is Beacon
00:31 Reflecting on 2024: Personal Growth and Achievements
11:51 Community Events Recap: Highlights and Successes
28:50 Mental Health Initiatives: Workshops and Impact
36:47 Community Foundation of Hudson Valley
36:49 Early Days and Impact
37:50 Challenges and Successes
39:06 Reflecting on Growth
41:31 Collaboration and Community
46:07 Looking Ahead to 2025
52:48 Authenticity and Inclusivity
01:06:27 Gratitude and Support
In this special episode for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are honored to sit down with Tara Simmons, founder of Flip It for Life and a powerful voice for change. Tara shares her personal journey, shedding light on the challenges she has faced, the strengths she has discovered along the way, and what drives her to help others overcome adversity. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and empowerment, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss. Join us as we dive deep into Tara's mission to uplift and inspire those impacted by domestic violence.
In this episode, Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon chat with Beaconite Command Master Chief from Submarine Squadron One. With a distinguished career in the US Navy, Command Master Chief shares his remarkable journey and offers deep insights into leadership and personal development. Discover how his experiences have shaped his leadership philosophy and how he’s now channeling these lessons into his podcast, Leadership State Of Mind, co-hosted with Armon Owens. Tune in to learn how you can explore new avenues for personal growth.
To learn more about Leadership State Of Mind and gain insights from seasoned Navy leaders, visit: Leadership State Of Mind" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer nofollow"><a href="Insert URL here">Leadership State Of Mind</a>
On this episode of This Is Beacon, Reuben, Brooke, and Brandon are back with the latest updates from Beacon.
They recap the I Am Beacon Making A Difference Scholarship, discuss the Elks 100th Celebration Parade, and the Brain and Body Coalition's Mental Wellness event. The team also explores the current discussion surrounding Veteran Banners.
- Register for the Back to School Block Party: https://iambeacon.org/beacon-back-to-school/
-Register for I Run Beacon 5K:
https://iambeacon.org/i-run-beacon-5k/
- Learn more about the Brain and Body Coalition: https://brainandbodycoalition.org/
- Check out City Council meetings and recordings: https://youtu.be/ybw9xdfH0sk?si=MkzWW-ORH42sKK55
Welcome back to another episode of "This is Beacon," part of our #JoinTheConversation series, where we break down the stigmas surrounding mental health. Today, we're joined by a very special guest, Michael Hanrahan. Michael's incredible journey from a diverse upbringing in Upper Manhattan to a dedicated career in mental health counseling is nothing short of inspiring.
Michael shares his unique path, including his time as a college student, his struggles with alcoholism, and his transformative experience working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation. His candid storytelling offers a deep dive into his time at Beacon High School, where he pioneered the role of a student assistance counselor, advocating for students and creating safe spaces for those in need.
Through heartfelt anecdotes and powerful insights, Michael discusses the importance of non-judgmental listening, the impact of creating supportive environments for adolescents, and his ongoing commitment to mental health even in semi-retirement. Join us for this engaging conversation as we explore the vital role of mental health support in schools and communities.
Tune in to hear about Michael's legacy and the lasting impact he has had on countless lives. This episode is a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and the importance of breaking down mental health stigmas. Don't miss it!
Call to Action: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, remember that help is available. Reach out, talk to someone, and know that you are not alone. #JoinTheConversation
In this episode of our #jointheconversation series on "This is Beacon," aimed at ending the stigma surrounding mental health, we are thrilled to welcome Jeff Hartford. Jeff, a lifelong athlete and a professional dedicated to the study and teaching of wellness practices, brings over 20 years of experience as a licensed massage therapist and fitness trainer. From his initial plans to become an elementary teacher to his profound shift towards health and wellness due to economic and personal revelations, Jeff's journey is a testament to following one’s passion and the deep interconnection between mental and physical health.
Today, Jeff will share insights on the influence of mindset on physical health, the critical roles of the nervous system, including the vagus nerve in wellness, and practical advice on incorporating breathwork, gut health management, and exercise into daily routines. His holistic approach not only encompasses physical health but extends to emotional and mental well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of our entire body system.
Join us as we delve into how small changes in perspective and behavior can lead to significant life enhancements. Welcome, Jeff Hartford, to "This is Beacon." Let’s dive into this enriching journey together and continue our conversation on mental health.
In this special episode of the "This Is Beacon" podcast, hosts Reuben and Brandon engage in a reflective and candid conversation about the evolution of their podcast and its role within the broader mission of the "I Am Beacon" organization. They discuss the origins of the podcast, its development over the years, and its current format which aims to capture the voice of the city and connect its community members.
Throughout the episode, they reminisce about past episodes, the initial challenges of starting a podcast, and the unexpected joys and insights gained from engaging with the community. Brandon reflects on the podcast's impact, noting how it has served as a platform for local heroes to tell their stories and how it has evolved to include discussions on broader community issues.
They also explore the growth of the "I Am Beacon" organization, its new membership program, and their personal roles within the restructured entity. The conversation reveals their dedication to fostering community connections and the significant role the podcast plays in achieving this goal.
Reuben and Brandon's dialogue is interspersed with thoughts on future plans, including continuing to feature diverse community voices and furthering their outreach through special series and community events. The episode encapsulates their commitment to using the podcast as a tool for community engagement and social change.
📣 Welcome back to Beacon's West End Story! 🏙️
In this episode, Reuben and Brooke share their reflections on the enlightening discussion with Professor Hochfelder and Connie Whitener Perdreau. We take a trip down memory lane into the experiences of West End residents, offering a glimpse into the vibrant community that once thrived.
To stay connected with our ongoing journey through the rich tapestry of Beacon's West End, don't forget to subscribe!
But that's not all; be sure to explore the exhibits that highlight this vital piece of our history:
🏛️ At Beacon Historical Society, the exhibit is open now until February 2024. Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of the West End.
📚 At Howland Public Library, the exhibit opens on Saturday, October 14th. Be among the first to discover the West End community.
Join us for these exciting live events:
🗓️ Tuesday, October 24, 7 PM | Panel Discussion: Beacon's West End Story, Community Perspectives at Springfield Baptist Church, 8 Church Street, Beacon, NY
🗓️ Wednesday, November 15, 2 PM | Community Sharing, Beacon's West End Story at Dutchess County OFA Friendship Center, 1 Forrestal Heights, Beacon, NY
If you're passionate about preserving our community's history and would like to contribute by sharing your voice, photos, or artifacts from the West End, please reach out to us at iambeacon.info@gmail.com.
Learn more about this collaborative project with Beacon Historical Society, Howland Public Library, Highlands Current, and I Am Beacon at beaconlibrary.org/westendstory. 🌐
Let's celebrate our community's history and the vibrant West End together! 🌟📜 #Community #iAmBeacon #BeaconWestEnd #UrbanRenewal
Welcome to Beacon's West End Story! Join us on an extraordinary journey through time as we delve deep into the intricate history of Urban Renewal and its profound impact on the community of Beacon's West End.
On this first episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with historian and University at Albany Professor, David Hochfelder. Together, we navigate the complex landscape of Urban Renewal, exploring its multifaceted aspects. Professor Hochfelder acts as our guide, leading us through the maze of funding sources, policy decisions, and urban planning strategies that shaped the course of Urban Renewal. We'll peel back the layers, unraveling the complexities of this historical phenomenon, and examine its intentions, successes, and the far-reaching consequences it left in its wake.
But this episode isn't solely about historical analysis; it's about personal experiences too. We're honored to welcome a special guest, Connie Whitener-Perdreau, a former resident of the West End. Connie shares her unique perspective, providing a personal lens through which we can gain insight into the profound impact of Urban Renewal on Beacon's West End neighborhood.
Subscribe now to stay connected with our ongoing journey through the rich tapestry of Beacon's West End. If you're passionate about preserving the history of our community and would like to contribute by sharing your voice, photos, or artifacts from the West End, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at iambeacon.info@gmail.com.
Join us in celebrating the spirit of our community, exploring the complexities of Urban Renewal, and preserving the invaluable stories that define the Beacon's West End. 🏡📚 #Community #iAmBeacon #BeaconWestEnd #UrbanRenewal
