The Community Mic's Podcast

What happens when someone tells you that you won’t amount to anything—and you prove them wrong?Justin Hartman shares his journey from struggling student to community leader, and how mentorship, resilience, and lived experience shaped the way he shows up for others today. From rural social work to real-life barriers families face, this conversation is raw, honest, and deeply impactful.If you’ve ever questioned your path or felt underestimated, this one will hit.

This week on The Community Mic, we sit down with Hillary Vaughn, a third-year pharmacy student whose path started with a coin flip—and somehow led her exactly where she’s meant to be.We talk about trusting your gut, going with the flow while still owning your choices, and how every experience shapes who you become. Hillary also shares her perspective on mental health advocacy, healthcare access, and what it looks like to step into the unknown after graduation.A reminder that not everything has to be perfectly planned to work out. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

“I feel like I’ve lived twice.”In this episode, Roshni Kendall shares her journey from Nepal to the U.S., and the life-changing decision to walk away from a 13-year marriage to reclaim her peace and identity.Through healing, spirituality, and self-reflection, she found the strength to start over—and build a life rooted in purpose and self-worth.

In this episode of The Community Mic, we sit down with Eli Rigatuso — a storyteller, advocate, and creator behind Speaking of Happy, a series focused on uplifting LGBTQIA2S+ voices and organizations in our local community.Eli shares his journey growing up in Nebraska, his Native heritage, and how he came to understand his identity as both transgender and Two-Spirit. From challenging gender expectations as a child to navigating family relationships and discovering himself later in life, Eli speaks openly about the moments that shaped his path.The conversation also explores advocacy, community education, and why sharing real stories matters — especially during a time when LGBTQ+ people are often talked about but rarely truly heard.At its heart, this episode is about dignity, identity, and the power of meeting people where they are.

Kate Gerber, Director of Public Relations for Pottawattamie County, joins The Community Mic for a conversation full of warmth, insight, and reflection.Kate shares her non-linear career journey, the power of recognition in public service, and why being a megaphone for community voices matters. She opens up about navigating job loss, redefining success, and building a life centered on intentional work-life integration.We also dive into Kate’s passion for national parks, raising a “human woman of quality,” and how small moments of wonder and validation can shape who we become.This episode is a reminder that meaningful impact doesn’t have to be loud — it just has to be real.

In this episode, we sit down with Brandy Wallar, CEO of New Visions Homeless Services, for an honest and deeply human conversation about homelessness, dignity, and community.Born and raised in Council Bluffs, Brandy shares how her upbringing and a small moment of empathy as a teenager set her on a 30-year path of service. She offers real insight into low-barrier shelter work, the realities of homelessness in Western Iowa, and why compassion—not judgment—must be the starting point.This conversation will challenge assumptions and remind listeners that people experiencing homelessness are neighbors, not problems.

Join Maria and Stephanie in a captivating episode where they dive into the world of tattoos with tattoo artist Topher Charnley, exploring the artistry, personal stories, and cultural shifts surrounding this unique form of expression. From the emotional connections forged in the tattoo chair to the evolving perceptions of body art, this episode offers a heartfelt and insightful look at how tattoos can transform lives and tell stories. Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or simply curious about the art form, this episode promises to enlighten and entertain. Tune in for a journey through ink, identity, and inspiration.

In this heartfelt episode, Maria and Stephanie sit down with Tiffany Eggett to explore her journey of resilience and community impact. From her roots in Council Bluffs to the challenges of personal loss and triumph, Tiffany shares candid stories of her upbringing, family dynamics, and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. Join us as we delve into the power of storytelling, the importance of community support, and the transformative journey of finding one's voice amidst adversity.Trigger Warning: Suicide and Drug Use

In this episode, Maria and Stephanie explore the complexities of co-parenting, the journey of personal growth, and the challenges of navigating family dynamics with Tony Hajek. Listen in as they share candid insights on balancing work and family life, the importance of setting boundaries, and the humor found in everyday interactions. This conversation is a genuine reflection on life's ups and downs, filled with warmth and authenticity.

Join us on the Community Mic as we dive into Shay's inspiring journey from retail to welding. Discover how a spontaneous hike up Pikes Peak led to a transformative career change, and hear about Shay's experiences as a female welder breaking stereotypes in a male-dominated field. From teaching art classes to leading the Wings of Steel project, Shay's story is one of courage, creativity, and community impact. Tune in for an episode filled with personal growth, unexpected turns, and the power of following your passion.

In this insightful episode, Maria and Stephanie welcome Madison Euse, LIMHP, LPC, NCC, PLADC, to the Community Mic. Madison shares her journey as a mental health therapist and doctoral candidate, offering a candid look into the world of therapy. From humorous anecdotes to deep discussions on mental health, Madison's stories and experiences provide a unique perspective on personal growth and the importance of community support. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, wisdom, and inspiration.

In this episode, Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jackson, a 17-year-old, about the challenges Generation Z faces in achieving the American Dream. They discuss the impact of previous generations' decisions, the importance of education, and the need for unity and understanding across diverse backgrounds. Jackson shares his aspirations, the influence of his family and community, and his views on the current socio-political climate.

Join us on the Community Mic as we delve into the inspiring journey of Zuli Garcia, the founding president of Knock and Drop Iowa, the first Latino food pantry in Des Moines. Born in El Salvador and raised in California, Zuli has dedicated her life to empowering and supporting the Latino community. Discover how her personal experiences and unwavering commitment have driven her to address food insecurity and advocate for change, making a profound impact on countless lives. Tune in to hear Zuli's story of resilience, community service, and the power of showing up for those in need.

In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Stephanie and Maria engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jessica Duncan, an Alzheimer's advocate and program director at the Alzheimer's Association. Jessica shares her personal journey, including her experiences as a caregiver for her father, who suffered from frontotemporal aphasia. The discussion underscores the significance of community engagement, advocacy, and the promise of future advancements in Alzheimer's research. Jessica's story is one of resilience, inspiration, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others affected by dementia.

In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Corey Lewis, a clinical health coach and founder of My City, My Health. Corey shares his personal journey, highlighting the impact of cultural influences on health, the challenges faced within the healthcare system, and the importance of community engagement. The discussion emphasizes the need for action in addressing health equity and the significance of small, meaningful contributions to create lasting change. Corey's story serves as an inspiration for listeners to take action in their own communities and to understand the importance of persistence in the fight for health equity.

In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation about their personal journeys, exploring themes of community, mental health, and cultural identity. Maria shares her experiences as an immigrant from El Salvador, the challenges she faced with racism, and her journey towards finding her voice and advocating for others. Stephanie discusses her own struggles with mental health and the importance of therapy. Together, they emphasize the significance of community connection and the power of sharing stories to foster understanding and support.