PozCast: The Positively Milwaukee Podcast with Shannon Sims

PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.

PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.Have you ever driven past a building and wondered what happens inside? That's exactly how Positively Milwaukee host Shannon Sims felt about the Wisconsin Community Services (WCS) building on Wisconsin Avenue—until she sat down with CEO Clarence Johnson.This 113-year-old organization quietly serves 17,000 people annually across 60 programs with nearly 600 staff members.Founded in 1912 as the Society for the Friendless to help incarcerated individuals re-enter society, WCS has evolved into a comprehensive provider addressing the deep connection between behavioral health and justice involvement. Their work spans youth residential programs like the Bakari Center, foster care services, mental health support, and re-entry programs.The most inspiring part? WCS believes in the power of lived experience. Johnson shared the story of a Joshua Glover Center resident who spoke at a board meeting—and was hired two years later. Today, nearly a decade later, he's still empowering others as a peer specialist."What keeps me coming back every day is being inspired by the people doing the work and watching them have a positive impact on children, adults, and families," Johnson explains.WCS represents Milwaukee at its best: neighbors lifting up neighbors, second chances becoming success stories, and quiet giants creating extraordinary change.Learn more about WCS here.

Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson brings two decades of disability services experience to her new role as CEO of MyPath Companies, celebrating 40 years of service. In the latest Positively Milwaukee PozCast with Shannon Sims, Wilson shared her inspiring leadership journey and vision for the future.MyPath serves approximately 2,000 individuals with significant disabilities and mental health challenges across multiple states through specialized education, residential care, and community support services. "We don't believe that people have disabilities," Wilson explained. "We believe that there's some level of ability in everyone.”Wilson's path to leadership began early. Her HBCU education at Benedict College and Clark Atlanta University built confidence to compete "with the very best." After 20 years with organizations like Goodwill, she joined MyPath's board before becoming CEO.Her book "You Can Lead" encourages others to recognize their leadership potential, inspired by young people who told her they'd never seen leaders who looked like them.Learn more about the services MyPath provides here. https://www.mypathcompanies.com

Episode 20:  Ben Jarvis's Courageous JourneyLast November, we had the privilege of celebrating Ben Jarvis as he was recognized as the 2024 TMJ4 Positively Milwaukee Inspiring Veteran. During that initial feature, we highlighted his remarkable accomplishments and tireless volunteer work advocating for veteran mental health and suicide prevention—causes that have become central to his life's mission.Now, Ben returns to the TMJ4 studios for Episode 20 of the Positively Milwaukee PozCast, bringing with him an even more personal and powerful story. This time, he's not just speaking as an advocate for other veterans—he's sharing his own raw, unfiltered journey of struggle and ultimate victory over the demons that nearly claimed his life.PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.2024 Positively Milwaukee Awards:https://youtu.be/soRr4pWJ8m4?si=AbZIA9DaWE0-WnYCInspiring Veteran of the Year - 2024 [Extended Cut]:https://youtu.be/qOSZpUccT74?si=8DoHh-cunRcG2I70

PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.Episode 19:What happens when you combine 25 years of educational innovation with a leader who refuses to let any child fall behind? You get SHARP Literacy—and their incredible story unfolds in the newest Positively Milwaukee episode.Host Shannon Sims welcomes SHARP Literacy President and CEO Lynda K. Welsh for a fascinating conversation about how this Milwaukee nonprofit is changing the game for students who need it most. Welsh doesn't just talk about educational equity—she's living it, ensuring that public, charter, and choice schools receive cutting-edge STEAM programming absolutely free.The transformation has been remarkable. What started as a literacy-focused organization has evolved into a comprehensive STEAM powerhouse, responding to what Welsh saw as a critical need: preparing students for a rapidly changing workforce. The results speak for themselves—students are developing creativity, sharpening critical thinking skills, and discovering new passions through hands-on learning experiences.Listen to how SHARP Literacy continues to brighten children's futures through experiential learning that makes education both engaging and relevant.

PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.Episode 18:A Conversation with Mark Shapiro of the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community CenterIn the latest episode of Positively Milwaukee Pozcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Mark Shapiro, President and CEO of the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center. Our conversation revealed not just a dedicated community leader, but a man whose personal journey through health challenges has deepened his understanding of authentic leadership.Personal Challenges, Professional GrowthOne of the most powerful parts of our conversation centered on Mark's recent health challenges during his tenure as CEO. With remarkable openness, he spoke about how facing personal adversity has influenced his leadership approach and deepened his empathy for others going through difficult times.These experiences have shaped his philosophy that authentic leadership requires vulnerability and genuine connection with the people you serve. It's a perspective that has clearly resonated throughout the JCC community and beyond.Building Community ImpactUnder Mark's leadership, the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center has become more than just a community center—it's a hub for wellness, education, and cultural connection that serves people from all backgrounds across Milwaukee.Looking ForwardAs our conversation wrapped up, Mark's optimism for the future was infectious. Despite the challenges he's faced personally and professionally, his commitment to the JCC's mission and to the Milwaukee community remains unwavering.His story serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership isn't about avoiding difficulties—it's about how we grow through them and use those experiences to better serve others.

PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.Episode 17:From Unexpected Gift to Cultural Innovator: Our Inspiring Conversation with Nkenge AdamsWhat happens when an unexpected gift completely transforms your life's trajectory? That's exactly what we explored in the recent Positively Milwaukee PozCast episode with Nkenge Adams, the visionary founder of Nkenge's Gallery.A Journey of Self-DiscoveryNkenge's story is one of those beautiful examples of how life's surprises can lead us to our true calling. During our conversation, she opened up about how a single unexpected gift became the catalyst for a profound journey of self-discovery. What started as a simple ask evolved into something much deeper - a path that would eventually make her a keeper of cultural artifacts and a bridge between traditional African artistry and modern innovation.The Power of Cultural StewardshipOne of the most moving parts of our conversation was when Nkenge talked about being a cultural steward. It's not just about displaying beautiful art - it's about honoring the traditions, stories, and people they represent.Her approach to cultural stewardship goes beyond preservation. Through interactive exhibits and educational programs, she's creating meaningful connections between people, fostering community, and celebrating our shared human experience.

In this episode of the PozCast, host Shannon Sims introduces Dr. Anna Gaddy, a nephrologist from the Medical College of Wisconsin.She's not just a chronic kidney disease specialist, but also a life-saving kidney donor. After witnessing the devastating impact of kidney failure, Dr. Gaddy took a bold step in January 2024, donating her kidney and saving a life.Today, she continues to champion live organ donation, advocating for its potential to improve health outcomes.In this episode, Dr. Gaddy will share her inspiring journey to organ donation and discuss the local efforts to combat chronic kidney disease.

In this episode of the PozCast, host Shannon Sims introduces Bob Burmeister, the founder of Mr. Bob’s Under the Bridge.A Story of CompassionThe journey to support the less fortunate began long before Mr. Bob’s Under the Bridge became a 501(c)(3) in 2012. According to Burmeister, it all started in 2007 with six backpacks filled with personal hygiene products, which he distributed with love to friends in the city.A Thriving CommunityFast forward 14 years, and Mr. Bob’s Under the Bridge has blossomed into a vibrant community of volunteers and donors who come together every Saturday morning at Kosciuszko Park to feed and clothe those in need.PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.

In the latest episode of the Positively Milwaukee Pozcast with Shannon Sims, listen to an inspiring conversation with Executive Chef Gregory León of Amilinda, a renowned restaurant celebrated for its Spanish and Portuguese cuisine and community focus.Beyond the kitchen, León is a fervent advocate for social causes. Chef León shares his multifaceted journey, one that weaves together his passion for food, his commitment to philanthropy, and his advocacy for HIV awareness.PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.

This week’s guest on the PozCast is the inspiring Analena Peterson. As a senior at Catholic Memorial High School, Analena is on a mission to help young readers through her literacy campaign. But it wasn't always easy for her. During her early school days, reading out loud was so challenging that she'd sometimes escape to the bathroom, crying in humiliation. Despite this, she's now spreading her love for books and recently won TMJ4's Positively Milwaukee Inspiring Youth award. Hear her chat with host Shannon Sims about her journey and passion for making reading accessible to all!PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.

PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.Episode 12: At First Stage, one of their guiding principles is learning life skills through stage skills. For the past 32 years, this nonprofit theater has provided a platform for youth to unleash their creativity through the First Stage Theater Academy. To ensure accessibility for families, they are offering this enriching experience at five locations this year. Recently, Academy Director J.T. Backes joined host Shannon Sims on The Positively Milwaukee Pozcast to discuss the vital role that creative arts play in participants' development. He highlighted one of their many programs, Next Steps, that gives children on the autism spectrum the opportunity to perform on stage and discover their creative voices in theater.

Nicole Goins established Pretty Girls are Educated to empower young girls with the skills to manage their emotions, boost their confidence, and emphasize the value of higher education. Her dedication to this cause has broadened her mission in Milwaukee to reaching girls in Jamaica, and most recently Nigeria. Last November, Goins was recognized during TMJ4's Positively Milwaukee Awards as our Unsung Hero recipient, and won the Most Inspirational award.  In this latest episode of the Positively Milwaukee Pozcast, host Shannon Sims catches up with Nicole on life after the Poz Awards.   PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.

The nonprofit organization Fishing for the Heart is a heartfelt project led by Caleb Niedfeldt. This educator and fishing enthusiast established the organization during a challenging period in his life.In this episode of the Positively Milwaukee PozCast, he discusses the obstacles he encountered and how his faith provided guidance, ultimately leading to a more hopeful future.This journey spanning more than 20 years combines his passion for fishing with his skills as an educator, allowing him to teach students not only how to fish, but also essential life skills to navigate their journeys.PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims.PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee.

PozCast is a podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims. PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee. Episode 9: Hope Street Ministries is all about bringing hope and support to people looking to get back on their feet. Led by a group of passionate women and volunteers, they're like a nurturing greenhouse for the community right at 26th and Capitol. In this episode of the Positively Milwaukee podcast, host Shannon Sims engages in a conversation with CEO Ashley Thomas to explore the organization's strategies for fostering growth and success at Hope Street.

There are numerous career paths that do not require a four-year degree and offer young people the opportunity to excel.  Milwaukee Public Schools features a distinctive program that provides high school students with hands on experience in the trades, ranging from carpentry to plumbing. Giles Patterson serves as the administrator for the apprenticeship program. Under his guidance, he has successfully graduated over three dozen students. Patterson, along with a program graduate, joins PozCast host Shannon Sims for an enlightening discussion about this "positively" fantastic opportunity.

PozCast is a new podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims. PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee. Episode 7: The Greater Milwaukee Foundation has been a beacon of hope in the community for over 100 years, thanks to the generosity of its donors. Over the years, the demand for support has increased, prompting the Foundation to reconsider its approach to philanthropy in the past two decades and focus on creating a more significant impact within our city. Recently, Gregory Wesley was appointed as the new CEO of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. In this week's episode of the Positively Milwaukee PozCast, Wesley discusses the Foundation's innovative approach to philanthropy and its commitment to prioritizing communities in order to foster a stronger Milwaukee where everyone can thrive.

PozCast is a new podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims. PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee. Episode 6: Feeding the needs of those that are food insecure wasn't the career path Rochelle Gamauf thought she would be on 5 years ago. Friends with Food started with a pot of spaghetti and a warm heart ready to serve. It has grown from an act of kindness during the pandemic to a food pantry that serves hundreds of families and seniors a month. In the 6th episode of the Positively Milwaukee Pozcast, Gamauf shares why her food pantry model is much different than the traditional food pantry we may be accustomed to knowing. I also learned how her work is expanding from Waukesha to Milwaukee.

PozCast is a new podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims. PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity, and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee. Be the Village is the vision that Natalie Anderson aimed to bring to life when she established Fostering Community two years ago. This nonprofit organization provides support for foster and adoptive families. Anderson effectively utilizes her connections and resources to create enjoyable activities that foster a sense of community among children and parents. In its short existence, Fostering Community has already attracted the attention of Giannis Antetokounmpo's wife, Mariah, who is eager to support the mission. Discover more about the needs and how you can contribute in this episode of the Positively Milwaukee PozCast. 

PozCast is a new podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims. PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity, and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee. Dionne Grayson is making sure students feel seen in children's books they read. Her book series has young readers exploring the world through a lens of self acceptance.  In episode 4 of the Positively Milwaukee PozCast, Grayson shares how her relationship with her father, her faith, and a fearless career shift led her to become a children's book author.

PozCast is a new podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims. PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee. Episode 3: Katina Shaw is no rookie. She's been with the Milwaukee Brewers for 18 seasons! A few years ago, the team's VP of Community Relations faced an opponent like no other. She shares her powerful and inspiring story with TMJ4 News Anchor Shannon Sims.

PozCast is a new podcast from TMJ4 News and Positively Milwaukee, hosted by Shannon Sims. PozCast focuses on everyday individuals creating opportunity, overcoming adversity and improving lives. They're not seeking the spotlight. They're seeking change that's Positively Milwaukee. Episode 2: The founders of Pride Rides Wisconsin set out to provide an inclusive motorcycle riding experience. For the last six years these motorcycle enthusiasts have created a safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. "I feel confident where every I am, but I have never been able to show up as my full self. That is when sometimes if something doesn't exist you help create the thing you need," said Johnny Wade, Pride Rides Wisconsin vice president. However, Pride Rides Wisconsin does more than hit the open road for recreational rides. The group is also about supporting much needed causes. In this week's episode learn how Pride Rides Wisconsin is creating a space were all are welcomed.

She's a trafficking survivor, advocate, author and founder of Fresh Start Learning Inc., "Where New Beginnings Happen". Nancy Yarbrough gives us an astonishing look inside the world of human sex trafficking and how she's helping turn victims... into survivors. The Positively Milwaukee PozCast is available on most streaming services. Read more at TMJ4.com: https://www.tmj4.com/news/positively-milwaukee https://www.freshstartlearninginc.org/ https://iamnancyyarbrough.com/