In this episode of Transformed Lives, Making an Impact with Farmer Banks Helfrich, we explore the power of grassroots connection and its real impact on communities. Host Jeremy sits down with Banks Helford, a passionate Lake County sustainability advocate and community leader. Banks shares his journey from personal adversity to becoming a transformative force in his community. He discusses his belief in the importance of local government, the significance of listening and serving first, and his personal experience with sobriety. Banks also touches on his transformation from a comedian to a community-focused farmer and his vision for creating a synergy between people. Join us for an inspiring conversation about living generously, the richness of giving, and the importance of being solution-minded. Don't miss the insights on sustainability and how Banks opens his farm to the public, fostering a sense of community and intentional living.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Grassroots Connection

00:24 Meet Farmer Banks: A Community Leader

02:13 The Importance of Local Government

08:56 Personal Transformation and Sobriety

14:35 Engaging with the Community

17:00 Embracing Compassion in Everyday Life

17:43 Finding Joy in Helping Others

19:17 The Importance of Self-Care

20:52 Navigating Life's Transformations

23:22 The Origin of Jiggle Man

27:50 The Joy of Giving and Community Building

In this episode of 'Transformed Lives', host Jeremy Elliot sits down with Donna Kirtland, the Executive Director of the LiveWell Foundation of South Lake, to discuss how the foundation and community partnerships are making a significant impact in Central Florida. Donna shares her journey into philanthropy, highlighting the importance of collaboration among nonprofits to address health, mental health, homelessness, and food scarcity in the community. The conversation emphasizes the power of cross-collaboration and community-driven solutions to transform lives, with specific insights into the Empowerment Grant awarded to New Beginnings.

00:00 Introduction to Transformed Lives Podcast

00:51 Meet Donna Kirtland: A Journey of Purposeful Reinvention

03:55 Donna's Early Inspirations and Community Impact

06:38 Addressing Urgent Community Needs

10:44 Empowerment Grant and New Beginnings

16:56 Collaborative Efforts and Community Synergy

19:06 New Beginnings: Programs and Services

29:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this heartwarming episode of 'Transformed Lives, From Introvert to Inspiration: Teresa Harper's Journey' host Jeremy Elliott sits down with Theresa Harper of the Harper Family Charitable Foundation to discuss her incredible journey. Theresa shares how dance helped her discover her own identity beyond being recognized as her grandparents' granddaughter. She delves into the impactful work of the foundation, which focuses on the health, maintenance, well-being, and education of children and adults with disabilities in Central Florida. Through personal stories and experiences, Theresa highlights the importance of supporting special needs communities, her transformation journey, and the foundation's efforts in uplifting families facing disabilities, food insecurity, and homelessness. The episode underscores the power of community, genuine human connection, and the importance of putting oneself first to serve others effectively.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey

00:14 Meet Theresa Harper

00:53 The Harper Family Charitable Foundation

01:41 Supporting Special Needs and Disabilities

03:08 Grant Application Process

04:30 Community Impact and Collaboration

07:18 Personal Reflections and Experiences

15:04 Overcoming Initial Doubts

15:43 Finding Identity Through Dance

16:33 Competitive Dancing Journey

17:38 Supporting Charitable Causes

22:02 The Importance of Self-Care

23:17 Special Needs Community Involvement

24:42 Fun and Personal Questions

26:27 Conclusion and Farewell