Change Starts With U
Join us on a journey through the heart of Okaloosa and Walton counties in our podcast, where we share inspiring tales of unity and progress. Each episode dives into the United Way Emerald Coast's efforts to enhance health, education, and financial stability, spotlighting the individuals and organizations that make it happen. From addressing critical community issues to celebrating everyday heroes, this podcast is a tribute to the power of collective action and the spirit of community. Tune in to be part of a movement where every voice matters, and together, we make lasting change.
Episodes
In this episode of Change Starts with You, Diana Health joins United Way Emerald Coast to discuss the importance of accessible women's healthcare, mental wellness, and community partnerships. The conversation explores how collaborative care models and initiatives like Women United and the Galentine's Day Mental Health Workshop are helping create supportive spaces where women and girls can thrive. Together, they're working to reduce...
In this episode of Change Starts with You, host Jenn Williamson, UWEC"S Director of Impact, chats with Haley Davenport, UWEC's Development Manager, about two incredible programs that connect volunteers of all ages — ReadingPals and Retire United.
Haley shares how ReadingPals helps preschool and kindergarten students across Okaloosa and Walton counties build early literacy skills through weekly one-on-one reading sessions with...
Deborah Lawson from United Way Emerald Coast talks with Bernard Johnson from FPL and Albert Sousa from Mortgage Apex about the 40 Under 40 Awards. They discuss how the program recognizes young professionals who make an impact through their work and community involvement. Albert shares his experience as a past honoree and how meaningful the recognition was. Bernard, a longtime supporter and selection committee member, talks about FP...
Kelly Jasen President and CEO of UWEC sits down with Ed Burns, Community President of United Fidelity Bank Emerald Coast, to talk about the power of community banking and volunteerism. Ed shares why his team is proud to serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the upcoming United for Impact, a Non-profit Conference, highlights their annual Community Day, and reflects on leading by example as he joins the UWEC board.
In this episode of Change Starts with U, we sit down with Tiffany Bechard, the powerhouse behind Emerald Coast Vibe & The Place on Beal. Tiffany shares her journey from café owner at 26 to leading a full-service event team, all while balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. She opens up about the challenges of running a small business, the importance of delegation, and how she manages stress—lessons she learned as early...
On this episode of Change Starts with U, interior designer, business owner, and community advocate Sean Devlin joins Deborah Lawson to talk about intentional design, personal growth, and the value of showing up. He shares how reconnecting with Walton County’s young professionals group and joining Project Lead helped him build stronger community ties and grow as both a leader and entrepreneur.
In this episode of Change Starts with You, Sara Greco, Vice Chair of Women United, joins Deborah Lawson to reflect on the mission behind Women United—supporting mental health for women and girls in Okaloosa and Walton counties. They recap the success of Brunch & Bubbly, share impact stories from EmpowHER, and highlight how Women United is creating safe, empowering spaces through vulnerability, connection, and community ca...
In this episode of Change Starts with U, we’re joined by Todd Jackson, CEO of HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital; Kelly Jasen, President & CEO of United Way Emerald Coast; and Tammy Barrientos, UWEC Impact Coordinator. Together, they dive into the heart of Volunteer Week—a special time when volunteers unite to support local nonprofits, schools, and municipalities through meaningful service projects. Todd shares why HC...
In this episode of Change Starts with You, Marlee Tucker, former Director of Development at United Way Emerald Coast, sits down with Danica, the local owner of Fish Window Cleaning. Discover how a chance meeting led to an impactful partnership, turning everyday window cleaning into a creative way of giving back to the community. Danica shares her journey from small business owner to a community advocate, her involvement with Projec...
In this episode of Change starts with U, Kelly Jason, President & CEO of UWEC, and Hong Potomski, Market Leader at Florida Blue, discuss their long-standing partnership focused on health equity and community impact. Hong shares her journey from serving on UWEC’s Equity Team to becoming a Board member and highlights the success of initiatives like the ALICE simulations and ProjectLEAD. They dive into how these programs hav...
In this episode of Change Starts With You, Marlee Tucker welcomes Mona Ponder, local real estate broker and owner of Real Estate Empowered. Mona shares her journey of helping others uncover their purpose and giving them the permission they need to pursue it. Together, they discuss the incredible impact of Women United initiatives like Brunch & Bubbly, Courageous Conversations, EmpowHER, and crisis kits, which are transforming l...
In this episode of Change Starts With You, Marlee Tucker welcomes Jenny Brunson, Public Relations Specialist at Okaloosa Gas District. Jenny shares her journey from healthcare to leading community initiatives at Okaloosa Gas, a company that’s been serving Northwest Florida for over 70 years. Discover the benefits of natural gas, Okaloosa Gas' commitment to community involvement, and how partnerships like Mission United are ma...
Episode Notes
In this inspiring episode of "Another Change Starts With You," host Kelly Jasen sits down with Neko Stubblefield, Senior VP of Membership & Community Development, and Laura Cole, VP of Marketing & PR at Eglin Federal Credit Union. Join us as we dive into Eglin Federal Credit Union's 70-year journey of growth, from its humble beginnings on Eglin Air Force Base to becoming a community cornerstone with o...
In this episode of Change Starts with You, Marlee Tucker, Director of Development at United Way Emerald Coast, sits down with Anne-Marie, also known as the Board Chef. Anne-Marie shares her journey as a charcuterie and catering expert, her creative approach to food presentation, and her partnership with United Way.
They reflect on their collaborative efforts, from memorable events like Brunch and Bubbly to creative initiatives duri...
Episode Notes
Check out our latest podcast episode, "Publix and United Way Emerald Coast: Transforming Community Service and Impact."
Thomas Everidge, Store 1461 Manager, and Tracy Johnson, Store 1303 Manager, share their behind-the-scenes stories and reveal how Publix’s commitment is driving positive change in our community.
Episode Notes
Get ready for a new episode of "Change Starts With U"! In Episode 14, we dive deep with Marlee Tucker and Mark Noon from LEADERSHIPTEN as they explore the power of storytelling and effective communication strategies. Don't miss out on their insights and tips for connecting with your audience! Like and subscribe on YouTube to stay updated with our latest episodes. #ChangeStartsWithU ...
Episode Notes
🎙️✨Tune in to 'Change Starts With U' featuring Aubrey Robbie and Bobby Parker from Parker Gene Creative.
Hear their tips for standing out in the 40 Under 40 applications by sharing your why and your story.
Listen now!🎧
ChangeStartsWithU #Podcast #CommunityImpact #40Under40 #ParkGeneCreative #uwecimpacts
Episode Notes
In this podcast episode, Kelly Jason, President and CEO of United Way, and Ted from the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce discuss the Chamber's mission, vision, and member benefits. They highlight community involvement, the One Hopeful Place homeless shelter, and success stories of chamber members. Key projects like Project Lead graduation, board member training, and the 40 under 40 awards are dis...
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