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As we step into a new year, we’re taking a moment to look back at some of the most meaningful conversations from 2025. This New Year reflection episode revisits standout moments from Find Your Cause, highlighting voices that challenged narratives, strengthened communities, and grounded hope in evidence, culture, and human connection. From rehumanizing youth through hip hop and building economic pathways to prevent exploitation, to redefining resilience after trauma and pushing back against fear driven health misinformation, these conversations continue to offer insight as we move forward. Timestamps 00:13 - E180: Marlon Richardson on rehumanizing Black and Brown young people through hip hop arts education 00:50 - E181: Dr. Kisha Roberts Tabb on economic intelligence, transferable skills, and prevention pathways 02:57 - E182: Khafre Jay on Flow Lounge, hip hop community, and creating spaces for vulnerability and healing 05:15 - E183: John Gardner on using music to build respect across cultures and cultural understanding 06:03 - E184: Diana M. Canant on resilience as becoming better than bouncing back after trauma 07:16 - E185: Spencer Lalk on evidence based health information and empowering qualified medical voices

In this episode of Find Your Cause, Joseph talks with Dr Spencer Lalk, founder of Med Story Studio, about how evidence based medical stories can compete with fear based health influencers. Spencer shares the story of his mom’s cardiology scare, why she left a long awaited visit more confused than before, and how that moment led him to create clearer, more human health education. They dig into rushed appointments, insurance pressure, lawsuits, and why so many people now look to influencers before clinicians. You will hear how Med Story Studio helps doctors become trusted storytellers, where AI fits in, and how patients and clinicians can both share better health stories online. Chapters 00:01:19 | What problem is Med Story Studio trying to solve00:01:43 | How did Spencer’s mom’s health scare lead to Med Story Studio00:05:10 | Why do patients leave appointments confused and afraid00:06:13 | How do the system and insurance limit what doctors can do00:11:16 | Why do US health and happiness outcomes lag other countries00:12:18 | What could a better health care model look like00:15:52 | How is AI changing doctor visits and patient prep00:19:30 | How did Med Story Studio actually get started00:20:43 | How does Med Story help doctors become storytellers00:21:26 | Why do human stories matter in a digital health care world00:22:02 | Why is recording doctor visits so complicated00:23:18 | If Spencer could redesign health care, what would he change first00:24:56 | Where is Med Story Studio going next00:27:18 | What does evidence based medicine really mean00:28:23 | How can we tell if a health influencer is dangerous00:32:08 | How can patients vet health information for themselves00:33:25 | How can clinicians get involved with Med Story Studio00:34:05 | What is Spencer’s invitation to patients and doctors MedStory Media links: Website: https://medstorymedia.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-lalk-dpt-/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/medstory-podcast/id1804185340 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lalkhealth/?hl=en Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19UwCxHTbUtH7POBm0HM9L YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MedStoryMedia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567995375537# Visit gtzp.org for more info.

In this episode, Diana M. Canant, Executive Director of LifeSpheres, shares how people heal through presence, guided dialogue, and community support rather than advice or isolation. She explains the Peer Community Co Care Program, a process that helps individuals resolve trauma safely, rebuild resilience, and support one another through structured, one-on-one sessions. Diana breaks down the psychobiology of trauma, why presence is more powerful than advice, and how healing becomes possible when people feel seen and understood.Her insights offer a new way to think about trauma and the importance of not facing it alone.Timestamps: 00:02:22 | What does resilience really mean 00:05:41 | What kinds of trauma do communities experience 00:06:17 | Introduction of the Peer Community Co Care Program 00:07:23 | Why Diana focuses on young people and the elderly 00:09:46 | How the program teaches presence and listening 00:13:14 | Orientation, commitment, and how the program begins 00:16:18 | How individual plans are created 00:18:46 | How healing sessions work 00:21:23 | How participants complete the program 00:23:27 | What makes Life Spheres’ method effective 00:28:43 | What trauma informed practice really means 00:30:46 | How exposure therapy should and should not be done 00:35:22 | Why healing should not be done alone 00:40:48 | The future of Life Spheres and scaling impact 00:48:39 | Where to find Life Spheres 00:51:10 | Closing remarksRelevant links from LifeSphere:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifespheres/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turningthetideoftrauma/ Website: https://www.lifespheres.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurningTheTideOfTrauma/

What if music could break down racism?John Gardner, Executive Director of the World Music Foundation, has dedicated his life to proving that it can. In this episode, John shares how music creates real human connection across cultures, dissolves prejudice, and opens doors to understanding that conversations alone often cannot. From global touring to community work in Chicago, his mission is simple and powerful: use music to build respect across cultures. You’ll hear personal stories, community impact, and the practical ways the Foundation is changing lives one performance at a time. Full Episode Highlights 01:20 - How lack of exposure fuels prejudice and why the Foundation tackles it02:00 - John’s lived experience with racism and how it shaped his cause06:00 - Creating a multicultural performance space in Chicago07:20 - Why music is the most powerful connector across cultures08:10 - The India story the moment music overcame language and culture barriers11:06 - Founding the nonprofit after witnessing real unity through music15:00 - The Foundation’s measurable impact increasing empathy and reducing intolerance18:40 - From global touring to deep local community work in Edgewater19:30 - Designing events that intentionally foster cross cultural respect21:20 - Everyday cultural exchange Joseph’s Uber playlist22:10 - Future plans monthly concerts, community singing, cultural holidays23:10 - Food as the next bridge the Foundation’s pop up restaurants and hot sauce23:50 - How to attend free events, join the newsletter, and support the mission24:50 - Why finding a cause matters for purpose, community, and mental health26:00 - How anyone can participate talk to people at live events and build human connectionLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgardner-wmf Website: https://theworldmusicfoundation.org/ Podcast: https://wmfpodcast.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWorldMusicFoundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theworldmusicfoundation Find Your Cause. Greater Than Zero Percent.Listen, learn, and take one small step toward a more connected world.Visit https://www.gtzp.org/ for more info.

What if hip hop could heal communities?In this episode, Joseph sits down with Khafre Jay, Executive Director of Hip Hop For The Future, to explore how he’s using hip hop to tackle public health, misinformation, and systemic inequity across the Bay Area. From raising nearly $250,000 to fund grassroots health programs, to creating safe spaces like Flow Lounge where people use rap as therapy, Khafre shares how music can restore connection and dignity in communities that have long been overlooked.He breaks down the real impact of representation, the dangers of cultural misappropriation, and what it means to fight dehumanization through art. You’ll also hear about his powerful movement that transforms open mics into spaces for healing and hope.Keypoints of this episode:• The intersection of hip hop, health, and activism• Building community through culture• Black maternal health and grassroots change• Art as a tool for truth and healingLearn more:hiphopforthefuture.orgWant to learn more, donate, or get engaged?LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khafrejay/Website: https://www.khafrejay.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khafrejay/Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/khafrejay?_rdc=1&_rdr#YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgdT-NwYK5DYNLMCAVY-lKwTimestamps:00:22 — Mission Statement01:21 — Why He Took on the Mission01:41 — The Corporate Takeover of Hip Hop02:05 — Building Platforms for Local Artists03:25 — Turning Disillusionment into Action04:50 — Hip Hop as a Weapon for Public Health06:45 — Therapy Through Hip Hop07:12 — Grassroots vs. Corporate10:24 — Dehumanization and Media Portrayal12:18 — Responsibility to Know and Connect15:31 — Doing What He Can Do17:13 — Having Hard Conversations19:40 — Confronting Privilege in Public Spaces22:04 — Disrupting Comfort, Speaking Truth24:52 — Knowing Where to Spend Your Energy28:45 — What’s Next for Hip Hop For ChangeWatch more episodes of Find Your Cause for stories of people creating hope and change around the world.

Most people think human trafficking looks like the movie Taken. Dr. Kisha Roberts-Tabb says it’s often much closer to home. In this episode of Find Your Cause, host Joseph Smalzer talks with Dr. Kisha, community psychologist, founder of the Social Butterflies Foundation, and creator of Girls Night Out Chicago, about what trafficking really looks like in our neighborhoods, why victims rarely see themselves as victims, and how community collaboration can truly save lives. They discuss: How homelessness and survival often lead to exploitation Why economic empowerment is the key to prevention How trauma-informed care rebuilds trust and hope What families and communities can do to make a difference Listen and learn from one woman’s mission to bring healing, empowerment, and long-term change to Chicago. Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged? WebsiteFacebookLinkedInLearn more at gtzp.org Timestamps / Chapters 00:00  Introduction and Joseph’s welcome 00:49  What drives Dr. Kisha’s mission 01:29  Early experiences in juvenile court 03:58  Seeing the link between justice and trafficking 05:27  Creating Girls Night Out to reach survivors 07:55  Expanding impact across Chicago 10:45  What trafficking really means 13:08  Why victims don’t recognize exploitation 15:15  Building trust before intervention 19:40  How collaboration saves lives 21:51  Long-term solutions through education and work 35:10  Key hotlines and community resources 44:11  Rethinking blame and promoting compassion 45:35  Staying committed to the cause 46:09  Closing message and call to action Presented by Greater Than Zero Percent and Fluent Radio

In this episode of the Greater Than Zero Podcast, Joseph speaks with Marlon Richardson, Executive Director of Hip Hop For Change, Inc. Based in Oakland, this nonprofit uses grassroots activism and hip hop culture to educate about socio economic injustices and advocate solutions. For over 12 years, Hip Hop For Change has reclaimed hip hop as a vehicle for education, empowerment, and employment, reaching more than 50,000 participants with programs that inspire personal growth, social justice, and workforce development. Timestamps: 00:00 – What is Hip Hop For Change and why was it created?04:15 – How did Marlon Richardson step into this movement?09:30 – Why is hip hop an effective tool for education and social justice? 16:20 – What challenges do grassroots organizations like Hip Hop For Change face? 22:55 – How are youth and marginalized communities impacted by their programs? 29:40 – How does art and culture help dismantle harmful stereotypes? 35:10 – What can listeners do right now to support Hip Hop For Change? Learn More & Support Hip Hop For Change Website: www.hiphopforchange.org Donate: Become a monthly donor – https://hiphopforchange.networkforgood.com/projects/125291-become-a-monthly-donor-today Phone: (510) 350-7730 Email: [email protected] Instagram: www.instagram.com/hiphop4change LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hip-hop-for-change Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/61568529146858/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/hiphopforchange

What if generosity could be part of your daily life, not just a once-a-year act? In this episode, Joseph Smalzer speaks with the founders of Bgiving, a social impact platform designed to make giving simple, transparent, and personal. The team shares how they are using technology to connect donors, volunteers, and nonprofits in one seamless ecosystem where every contribution matters. From supporting grassroots projects to helping local communities grow through consistent micro-giving, Bgiving is proving that small, intentional acts can create large-scale change. Tune in to Find Your Cause to discover how Bgiving is inspiring a new generation to give smarter, live kinder, and build a world where generosity is the norm. Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged? LinkedIn page Visit GTZP.org to learn more.

What happens when housing, mental health, and employment come together under one mission? In this episode, Joseph Smalzer speaks with Patty Capouch and Vince Henigan of Impact Behavioral Health Partners, an organization helping people with mental illness live independently through safe housing, clinical care, and job support. Founded during the deinstitutionalization era, Impact has grown from a single building in 1988 to serving over 1,100 participants today. Patty and Vince share personal stories of why they joined this work, what “trauma-informed care” really means, and how stable housing can transform lives. Listen to Find Your Cause to learn how Impact Behavioral Health Partners is redefining mental health housing and proving that stability starts with compassion. Visit Impact Behavioral Health Partners: WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedIn Visit GTZP.org to learn more.

When families are forced to flee their homes, starting over in a new country can feel impossible. In this episode, Joseph Smalzer speaks with Shawn Smith, Executive Director of Global Impact Initiative, about how his team helps refugees rebuild their lives in Central Texas. From finding housing and learning English to gaining employment through CDL training and the Refugee Sewing Collective, GII provides the support needed to turn survival into stability. Shawn shares the realities of refugee resettlement, the cultural challenges many families face, and how his organization is creating real pathways to independence. Listen to Find Your Cause to learn how Global Impact Initiative is helping refugees not just adapt, but thrive. Visit Global Impact Initiative using the following links: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramFacebook Visit GTZP.org to learn more.

In this episode we interview Livi Kerszenbaum, Senior Director of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Orange County United Way. Orange County United Way’s mission is to improve lives in Orange County by delivering measurable long-term solutions to complex issues in education, financial stability, health and housing.  Orange County United Way’s unique approach comes from an understanding that the community’s most critical issues are interrelated and must be tackled in an interconnected way to provide long-term solutions that break the cycle. Orange County United Way is focused on four key initiatives:  United to End Homelessness United for Financial Security United for Student Success 2-1-1 OC.  Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged? Donate: https://givebutter.com/orange-county-united-way  Phone: +1 (949)660-7600 Email: https://www.unitedwayoc.org/contact-us/  Website: https://www.unitedwayoc.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWayOC/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unitedwayoc/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/orange-county-united-way/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ocunitedway  Guest Information Guest Name: Livi Kerszenbaum Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/livi-kerszenbaum/ 

In this episode we interview Isaac Esene, Founder/Director at GoodWorks. GoodWorks’s belief is clear: to create safer communities, we must foster a more informed and proactive generation. Beyond just witnessing, we are cultivating a generation equipped to act, ensuring fewer preventable deaths and injuries in emergencies. Through tailored workshops, strategic partnerships, and cultural engagement, we simplify crucial life-saving concepts like bleeding control, opioid overdose response, harm reduction, and CPR. Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged? Donate: https://givebutter.com/iVR97h Email: [email protected] Website: www.goodworkshealth.org Instagram: @dagoodworks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/86925972/

In this episode we interview Robb Munger, Founder & President of Exodus Place. Exodus Place’s mission is to Glorify God by meeting each man where they are. We provide a hand up rather than a handout by equipping these men with physical, emotional, mental and spiritual tools for successful reintegration into the community.  Exodus Place is the largest transitional Housing Facility for men in Michigan. Transitional Housing is a stepping stone for homeless people who need temporary residence until they can afford long term or permanent housing. Exodus place can house up to 135 men at a given time and we call our residents members. We provide our members with a hand up not a hand out. Members pay low monthly dues (not rent) to live here. These dues include access to case management, education & job training, meal program, spiritual counseling, medical care and more. Although we deal primarily with the homeless population, we are not a homeless shelter. We're different for the following reasons:  We never put an expiration date on a member's stay. Members pay low monthly dues to live here. We offer programs to assist in our members' development. At Exodus Place, we understand that problems require big solutions that's why we're different from a shelter. We don't treat the symptoms for homelessness, we provide the cure.  Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged? Donate: https://www.exodusplace.org/donate.html Phone: +1 616-242-9130 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.robbmunger.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExodusPlace/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exodus.place.gr/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/exodus-place/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMrDXQpIbWhBJbOV-dhJQZA Guest Information Guest Name: Robb Munger Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbmunger/

In this episode we interview Elizabeth Cushing, CEO at Playworks. Playworks’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. Playworks is the leading national nonprofit leveraging the power of play to transform children’s physical and emotional well-being. With more than 25 years of experience, the organization aims to bring out the best in every kid and hopes that one day, every child in America will get to play every day. Through direct-service coaching of youth and providing training and consultation for adults working with kids, Playworks partners with elementary schools, districts, and community-based organizations to bring games and youth development practices. With an emphasis on social, physical, and emotional skill-building, students feel included while being active and developing valuable skills needed to thrive in and out of the classroom. During the 2023-2024 school year, the nonprofit is ensuring more than 600,000 youth in over 1,300 schools and community partners experience safe and healthy play during and beyond the school day nationwide. Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged? Donate: https://donate.playworks.org/give/46209/#!/donation/checkout Website: https://www.playworks.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MakeRecessCount Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playworksrecess/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/playworks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/playworksorg Twitter: https://twitter.com/Playworks

In this episode we interview Diana Canant, Founder and CEO at LifeSpheres. LifeSpheres’s mission is to To build resilience that empowers people to thrive by resolving trauma in peer-communities globally. LifeSpheres, a California 501(c)(3) Public Charity and a South African NPO, facilitates trauma healing through a community program. They create safe spaces for deep listening and mutual support, addressing trauma effectively and affordably. Their PeerCommunity CoCare Program serves diverse communities, offering workshops on deep listening skills and tailored CoCare sessions. Graduates can further support others and access resources through follow-up workshops. Operating on a commitment-based model, LifeSpheres offers free services with support from donors who share their mission. Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged? Donate: https://www.turningthetideoftrauma.org/contact Phone: 1.650.275.2537 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.lifespheres.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurningTheTideOfTrauma/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turningthetideoftrauma/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianacanant/