LifeWorks: Lives We Love

In this powerful episode of the Lives We Love podcast, we hear from Jeff Johnson, a former hip-hop artist turned advocate for marginalized youth, to explore the intersection of music, mentorship, and social change. 🔑 Key Topics Covered: Jeff’s inspiring journey from music to youth advocacy. His 14-year relationship with LifeWorks and efforts to provide stable housing and community youth in Austin. How creative expression, like spoken word and hip-hop, is used to empower young people. The challenges facing youth in Austin post-COVID and how LifeWorks is adapting to meet their needs. The transformative power of hope and its role in disrupting the status quo. Join us for an inspiring conversation about breaking cycles of trauma, building community, and using creativity to foster growth and change. 🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the Lives We Love podcast. #LivesWeLovePodcast #YouthEmpowerment #AustinAdvocacy #HipHopForChange #LifeWorks

Join us for an inspiring conversation with longtime Austin leader and LifeWorks Board Vice Chair, Trey Salinas. From his early days as Chief of Staff to Mayor Bruce Todd to founding his own government relations firm, Trey has been at the forefront of Austin's evolution for decades. In this episode, Trey reflects on: His deep connection to Austin and its transformation over the years How his journey brought him back to LifeWorks to tackle youth homelessness The groundbreaking Works III Apartments project and its potential to transform lives His vision for a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive Trey’s passion for building a more equitable Austin is infectious, and his insights are a must-hear for anyone invested in the future of our city. 💡 Highlights: LifeWorks’ impact in addressing youth homelessness Why Trey believes Austin’s business community can do more What legacy Trey hopes to leave for Austin’s youth ✨ Don’t miss this episode of Lives We Love! Like, comment, and subscribe to join the conversation and stay updated on future episodes. #LivesWeLove #EndYouthHomelessness #AustinTexas #LifeWorksAustin #TreySalinas

In this lively episode of Lives We Love, host Kyle Ali sits down with Bree Torres, a passionate advocate dedicated to ending homelessness in Austin. Bree shares her unique journey, fueled by her commitment to making housing accessible for all, and offers insights into the city's housing challenges and triumphs. She discusses her personal connection to the youth she serves and how her experiences as a young mother influence her advocacy work at LifeWorks. Bree also delves into her exciting pilot project with direct cash transfers, empowering young people to create their own housing plans. With her infectious optimism, Bree explains why she believes ending homelessness in Austin is within reach, leaving listeners both inspired and hopeful.

In this inspiring episode of Lives We Love, host Kyle Ali sits down with Eboni Melton, LifeWorks Housing Lead Case Manager, to discuss Eboni’s remarkable journey through homelessness. Hear how her resilience, passion for cosmetology, and her drive to support youth today are shaping her impactful role in the rapid rehousing program. This is a heartfelt conversation about joy, purpose, and the power of community in transforming lives.

In the latest episode of "Lives We Love," our special guest is Liz Schoenfeld, Ph.D., our new CEO, and a cherished member of the LifeWorks community for over a decade. Dr. Liz shares her inspiring journey from intern to CEO, highlighting the pivotal moments and personal experiences that shaped her path.Hosted by KY Ali, this episode delves into Dr. Liz's commitment to transparency, the joy of her new puppy, Scribble, and her family's unwavering support. She reflects on the profound impact LifeWorks has had on her, both professionally and personally. She discusses her vision for the future, including exciting initiatives like the new apartment complex project.Liz's story is one of resilience, passion, and dedication to making a meaningful difference. Tune in to hear her heartfelt insights and plans for leading LifeWorks into a bright and impactful future.👉 Listen and subscribe now and be inspired by Dr. Liz's journey and vision for LifeWorks#LifeWorksAustin #LivesWeLove #Leadership

Dive into a special episode of the "Lives We Love" podcast, with new host Kyle Ali, Board Chair, as he sits down to interview Susan McDowell as she concludes her time as LifeWorks CEO. After a remarkable 29-year journey, McDowell reflects on leading LifeWorks, an organization at the forefront of empowering youth and transforming communities in Austin. This episode is not just a look back at the milestones and the innovative programs like "Impactful Voices," but also a forward-gaze into the promising future under the guidance of Dr. Liz Schoenfeld. Hear firsthand the stories of courage, innovation, and unwavering dedication that have made LifeWorks a beacon of hope for countless individuals. McDowell shares how the organization has mastered the art of listening to the community it serves, leading to impactful changes and a legacy built on trust. Discover the indelible marks of a leadership rooted in compassion and the transformative power of genuinely believing in the potential of youth. This moving episode is a testament to what unwavering commitment and visionary leadership can achieve, offering insightful lessons on making a tangible difference in people's lives. It's a compelling invitation to all listeners to join the journey, be inspired, and possibly change a life by engaging with LifeWorks. Don't miss this inspirational episode that not only honors a legacy of impactful leadership but also illuminates the path forward for LifeWorks and its mission. Subscribe to the "Lives We Love" podcast now, for stories of hope, courage, and transformation that will motivate you to be a part of something genuinely life-changing.

In this heartfelt episode of "Lives We Love," Susan McDowell, CEO of LifeWorks, hosts a conversation with Lisa Richardson, LifeWorks' Vice Chair and future Board Chair. They explore Lisa's inspiring journey from Texas Workforce Commission to her extensive involvement with LifeWorks and the philanthropic community. Highlighting the importance of youth advocacy and supporting young adults, they discuss Lisa's passion for uplifting the community and her dedication to creating positive change. Together, they reflect on the legacy they want to leave and the transformative power of helping others find a life they love. Tune in to be inspired by their unwavering commitment to change and find out how you can get involved.

Discover the heartwarming journey of Rob Thurlow in the latest episode of "Lives We Love" by LifeWorks Austin. As a dedicated director of Community-Based Services, Rob shares his experiences spanning 18 years with a focus on supporting youth and young adults in their mental health journeys. From peer support to nurturing the next generation of mental health professionals, Rob emphasizes self-care and the power of relationships in the field. Join us in celebrating his commitment to empowering youth voices and creating a legacy of lived experience guiding the way forward. Don't miss out on this insightful and inspiring conversation! 🌈💬 #LifeWorks #MentalHealth #YouthEmpowerment #PeerSupport

In the latest episode of "Lives We Love," Susan McDowell sits down with Marc Martinez, Program Director for our High School Equivalency (HSE) Program. Susan and Marc discuss as shared love of long-distance running, recent innovations and successes within the HSE Program, and the legacy that Marc hopes to be a part of in the future. This episode is a testament to the impact of LifeWorks in the education community and our compassionate and thoughtful staff that make it happen:

Discover the compelling conversation between Cloteal Haynes, a revered LifeWorks board member and longtime community leader, and Susan McDowell, LifeWorks CEO. Cloteal shares her remarkable journey, discussing her role as a Grammy to her 6-year-old granddaughter, the significance of her volunteer work with The Precursors, and her insights on addressing cultural and economic issues impacting Austin's diverse community. Join them as they delve into the impact of inclusive initiatives and empathetic action plans to create a thriving and compassionate city. Watch now for an enlightening discussion on community, resilience, and the power of collective action. #LifeWorks #CommunityLeadership #Inclusivity.

In this enlightening episode of "Lives We Love," host and LifeWorks CEO Susan McDowell sits down with Sunny Henriquez, a dedicated case manager in the rapid rehousing program. Sunny shares her journey to LifeWorks, her passion for social work, and the intricacies of the rapid rehousing program, which plays a pivotal role in supporting youth and young families experiencing homelessness in Austin. The conversation delves into the importance of routine, meditation, and personal joy, providing a unique perspective on balancing personal well-being and professional commitment. This episode is a testament to the impact of LifeWorks in the community and the compassionate individuals behind its success.

In this episode of "Lives We Love," LifeWorks CEO Susan McDowell talks with Eddie Blackwell, Sr. Global Director, Telco, Media & Entertainment at Snowflake and LifeWorks Board member. Eddie discusses his journey, the importance of family, community, and his work with LifeWorks. He shares how LifeWorks' approach and leadership impacted him, emphasizing the power of vulnerability and long-term relationships. This episode explores Eddie's commitment to LifeWorks and his vision for impactful work.

In this episode, we hear from two LifeWorks clients with lived experience being homeless in Austin, and are now working for LifeWorks as Impact Specialists and Generalists in our innovative Impactful Voices program.

In this episode, LifeWorks CEO Susan McDowell talks with Lynn Sherman, one of the crucial community leaders during the formation of LifeWorks 25 years ago.

In this episode, Susan McDowell talks with Sara Canaday, an exceptional leadership consultant and LifeWorks Board Member. We discuss the traits that make up a great leader, and how LifeWorks is cultivating leadership as an agency.

In this episode of the Lives We Love Podcast, we hear from Tony Antonio, Lifeworks Talent Acquisition Specialist for Human Resources. Tony discusses our recruitment and job interview process and our unique work culture.

In this episode, on the 25th Anniversary of LifeWorks, CEO Susan McDowell sits down with two staff members who have been there since the beginning: LeShawn Arbuckle, Division Director of Counseling Services, and Wendy Varnell, Chief Strategy Officer. We hear about how the agency and Austin have changed since 1998, and how our mission remains as strong as ever.

In this episode of the "Lives We Love" podcast, LifeWorks CEO Susan McDowell discusses our Service Philosophy with Shawndi Johnson, Director of Evidence-Based Programming for LifeWorks.

In our fourth episode of the Lives We Love Podcast, we talk to LaShun Gaines, a client from over 25 years ago who has since earned multiple degrees and is now a trailblazer in education, working as an Intervention Coordinator for HAYS CISD. As we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of LifeWorks, LaShun is the ideal example of fearless youth advocacy.

In our third episode of LifeWorks: Lives We Love, Susan talks to the current leaders of our Board of Governors- Ashley Thomas and Kyle Ali. We hear about the importance of having a diverse Board, how big corporations like Google can impact the housing crisis in Austin, and what is on the horizon for the Board for the rest of 2022.

In this episode, we hear about Nicki Tripp's journey that led her to LifeWorks. Her story began in Detroit, and moved on to Austin as a young women experiencing homelessness. She connected with LifeWorks services and is pursuing a life she loves as a mother and recently began working for LifeWorks as an Outreach Navigation Specialist. 

Welcome to the first episode of the Lives We Love Podcast! In our first episode, LifeWorks CEO Susan McDowell sits down with a staff member from the shelter, Alfredo Guerrero. Alfredo is a Youth Care Worker III and Manager at one of our shelters. Join us for an insightful discussion with a staff perspective on the challenges facing young people experiencing homelessness, Alfredo's surprising career path, and what brings us joy.