Pop the confetti, cue the countdown, and grab your sparkly hat—it’s time to look back at 2025 and celebrate everything this wild, wonderful year brought us. In this episode, I am reflecting on the highs, the lessons, and the surprises that shaped the past twelve months, and looking ahead to what we’re ready to call in for the fresh new year. Whether you’re a resolutions person, a vision board enthusiast, or just here for the midnight champagne toast, join me as I wrap up the year with gratitude, laughter, and a little sparkle for the road into 2026. 🥂✨

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Cotton-headed ninny muggins, it’s time to get festive! 🎄 In this episode, I am talking about what it means to show up to the holidays with full-on Buddy the Elf energy—sparkles, syrup, snow angels, and all. From turning ordinary days into magical moments to spreading cheer louder than a caroler on a sugar high, I’ll explore how to sprinkle extra joy into every corner of the season. Warning: side effects may include uncontrollable smiling, spontaneous hot cocoa breaks, and an urge to hug random Santas.

For All To Hear:

Elf: The Musical EXCERPT

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In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Gewirtz, Professor and Music Department Faculty Lead at Lansing Community College, to explore the evolving landscape of music education, creativity in the classroom, and the power of interdisciplinary learning. With a career spanning performance, composition, and academic leadership, Jonathan shares his insights into nurturing the next generation of musicians and how community colleges can play a pivotal role in making music education more accessible and innovative.

We dive into his own journey as a musician and educator, the challenges and joys of leading a diverse music program, and how he sees the role of music evolving in both academic and community settings.

Whether you're a music lover, educator, or creative thinker, this conversation offers inspiration and thoughtful perspectives on the intersection of music, mentorship, and lifelong learning.

LCC Music webpage:

https://www.lcc.edu/academics/music/music/

Link to the LCC jazz band last Feb:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x45ylLUQzGs

Link to a website with links to album:

https://thejongewirtzquartet.hearnow.com/

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In this episode, we explore the charm, hustle, and heart behind your neighborhood coffee spots. Whether you're sipping cold brew or pulling espresso, this episode is a warm tribute to the atmosphere and ambiance behind your local coffee shops!

Kate's Honorable Mentions from the Episode:

Haraz Coffee House: https://harazcoffeehouse.com/pages/locations-and-hours

7 Brew: https://7brew.com/location/michigan-lansing-000058

Strange Matter Coffee: https://strangemattercoffee.com/

Château Coffee Company: https://www.chateaucoffeeco.com/

The Coffee Barrel: Https://thecoffeebarrel.com

Main Street Bakery and Cafe: https://mainstbakeryandcafe.com/

Moca & Co.: https://www.mokanco.com/locations/grand-river-ave

517 Coffee Company: https://www.517coffeecompany.com/

Vito’s Espresso: https://vitosespresso.com/

Risen Breakfast and Bakery: https://risenbreakfastbakery.com/

Taste Coffee Company: https://www.tastecoffeecompany.com/

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Have you ever wondered how your presence, words, or even your silence might shape someone else's day—or life? In this episode, we dive deep into the unseen influence we all carry. Whether it's a kind word, a small act of patience, or simply showing up authentically, we often underestimate the ripple effect of our actions.

You may never hear about the time you made someone feel seen, inspired a change in their mindset, or helped them choose hope. But the truth is: you're impacting people, even when you don’t realize it.

YogaConnect: Breathwork

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Ever found yourself lingering longer in a store—or suddenly feeling the urge to splurge—because of the background music? In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology of sound with special guest Vic Veda, Vice President, Communications at Michigan Retailers Association. We will break down how tempo, genre, and even volume can influence what we buy, how long we stay, and how we feel while shopping.

From the science behind supermarket playlists to the strategic soundscapes of luxury boutiques, discover how music is subtly guiding your shopping decisions—whether you realize it or not.

Tune in to learn:

• Why slow jazz might make you spend more in a wine shop
• How brands use curated playlists to craft identity and emotion
• The role of music in online vs. in-store shopping behavior

Press play and get ready to rethink your retail therapy—soundtrack and all.

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In this episode the guest is Katie Smith, Vice President and one of the founding members of The League of Enchantment, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that brings joy, hope, and inspiration to children and families through the magic of cosplay. The League partners with hospitals and community organizations to create powerful, uplifting moments for kids facing serious challenges—proving that a smile, a hug, or a visit from a hero can make a lasting impact. Katie joins us to share the story behind the League, the power of compassion in costume, and how anyone can become a real-life hero.

https://www.leagueofenchantment.org/

https://www.facebook.com/share/16qEBjgfMX/

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What’s it like being in the CRTEC program, juggling online college classes, WTC classes and prom plans at high school? This episode dives into the unique world of dual enrollment through the eyes of our guest Autumn Sanford, a high school student earning college credits while still navigating lockers, lunch periods, and late-night homework. This episode features real stories, honest reflections, and unfiltered conversations about balancing two academic lives — and growing up fast in both. Whether you're in it, considering it, or just curious, this is the double life you didn’t know you needed to hear about.

Website: Wilson Talent Center

Instagram: Autum Sanford

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