Episodios

  • Zaneta Ellison on Teaching Children Self-Awareness and Building Emotional Intelligence
    Aug 13 2024
    In this insightful segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Zaneta Ellison, a distinguished licensed mental health counselor, certified life coach, author, and public speaker, to discuss the importance of building emotional intelligence and self-awareness in children, providing them with the tools and strategies needed to manage their mental and emotional health. She emphasizes the significance of teaching children to understand their triggers, advocate for themselves, and navigate adversity. Zaneta also highlights her community-focused approach, partnering with organizations to make mental health resources accessible and relevant. Learn about the impactful initiatives, including the annual Mental Health Youth Empowerment Summit, aimed at empowering families and youth with essential skills and support. RESOURCES: Zaneta N. Ellison LMHC, CEO New Vision Behavioral Health Inc 727-687-0997 | www.newvisionbehavioralhealth.org St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college X | @spcnews Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/
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    2 m
  • 11: Helping Students Cross the Stage: How Dawn Joyce is Ensuring Student Success During and After College
    Aug 6 2024
    In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Dawn Joyce, an esteemed English Professor at SPC Clearwater campus, to delve into effective teaching strategies for diverse learners. Dawn shares her journey to becoming an educator and the innovative methods she employs to engage her students meaningfully. Dr. Williams and Dawn discuss the critical role of understanding each student's unique background and needs, the responsible use of emerging technologies like AI, and the significant value of passionate and supportive faculty members in higher education. The conversation also touches on the importance of online learning, scholarships, and study abroad opportunities, all aimed at enhancing student retention and success. Tune in to learn how personalized instruction and building strong relationships with students can lead to transformative educational experiences. KEY POINTS: [02:31] - The reason why Dawn Joyce chose to become an educator [04:00] - Different teaching strategies in high school and college [07:15] - The unique way of Dawn for learning methods [12:57] - On recognizing the emerging technologies like AI tools in education [16:15] - How Dawn stands in the gap as a professor [19:23] - The importance of faculty in higher education [26:08] - On navigating online learning [32:25] - SPC’s priority: new student learning system and faculty support QUOTABLES: “ChatGPT has some great qualities, and so does AI, but it's not going to work for everything.” – Dawn Joyce “A big part of your role as faculty is just changing lives and helping people go from poverty to prosperity. And what they're learning is not just the actual lesson you're teaching, but what they're learning about themselves.” – Dr. Tonjua Williams “To be an online student, you have to have some self-discipline because there is a little bit of having to work at your own pace.” – Dawn Joyce GUEST RESOURCES Dawn Joyce LinkedIn | @dawn-joyce RESOURCES St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college X | @spcnews Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/
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    37 m
  • Leading Through Crisis: Insights on Resilience and Risk Management from Dr. Tonjua Williams & Melissa Seixas
    Jul 30 2024
    In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams and Melissa Seixas discuss their experiences and strategies for navigating through crises. Dr. Williams shares her challenges and leadership lessons learned during hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of team collaboration, adaptability, and the support of her board, faculty, and staff in overcoming these crises. Melissa Seixas, who has extensive experience in crisis management, discusses the importance of risk analysis and preparedness, particularly in the context of natural disasters. She highlights how her team’s dedication and teamwork have been crucial in managing and mitigating the impacts of such events on their community and customers. Both leaders share valuable insights on maintaining resilience and making decisive actions during times of crisis. Listen to the full episode here Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep7-the-power-of-mentorship-and-community/id1736752420?i=1000658551785 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3f1F2zyR2VBDv2cMRF6zUI?si=9bb737482aad422d Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seIaxkOiTq8 GUEST RESOURCES Melissa Seixas LinkedIn | @melissa-seixas RESOURCES St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college X | @spcnews Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/
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    8 m
  • 10: Leading with Heart: Gary Hartfield on Service, Entrepreneurship, and Social Justice
    Jul 23 2024
    In this episode, award-winning serial entrepreneur, leader, author, and philanthropist Gary Hartfield joins Dr. Tonjua Williams as they delve into his commitment to standing in the gap for the elderly, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and his employees. As the president and CEO of six residential group homes across Florida and the founder of Serenity Village Insurance & Consulting, Gary has made significant strides in multiple industries, including healthcare, real estate, and insurance. He also shares his passion for community involvement, emphasizing the balance between business and social impact. Gary delves into his journey of self-discovery, highlighting his dedication to standing in the gap for the elderly and individuals with intellectual disabilities. He discusses his leadership initiatives, such as the TOBA Leadership Institute and the All Hart Foundation, emphasizing the importance of serving others, understanding policies' impacts, and addressing community needs. Tune in to hear how Gary's commitment to integrity and empowerment has shaped his impactful career with a purpose today. KEY POINTS: [01:48] - Finding balance in community involvement and entrepreneurship [09:05] - The importance of standing in the gap for employees and clients [12:02] - Leading by example and serving others [16:39] - The vital role of business plan and dedication for aspiring entrepreneurs [22:28] - Overcoming adversity and leading with integrity [26:15] - Gary’s journey of self-discovery and desire to serve the community [28:16] - The vital role of understanding policies' impact on family [29:49] - The importance of addressing the needs of families and educators QUOTABLES: “It has to be something that's called: beyond just that moment. It has to be something that resonates with your heart. One of the things that resonates with our heart is social justice.” – Gary Hartfield “It's important for me to be able to understand the implications of policies from our different county and state agencies, but also our local agencies that directly impact my family, my staff, as well as my fellow community members.” – Gary Hartfield GUEST RESOURCES Gary Hartfield Website | https://garyhartfield.com/ RESOURCES St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college X | @spcnews Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/
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    33 m
  • The Power of Partnerships in Bridging the Gap Between Education and Employment | Dr. Cynthia Johnson
    Jul 16 2024
    In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams and Dr. Cynthia Johnson discuss the vital relationship between St. Petersburg College (SPC) and the economic development of Pinellas County. Dr. Johnson, the Director of Economic Development at Pinellas County, highlights how SPC and other educational institutions are integral to creating a skilled workforce. This partnership ensures that the training provided aligns with the needs of employers, thereby driving economic mobility and growth in the region. They delve into the collaborative efforts of the One Pinellas Business Alliance, which brings together industry leaders, education partners, and community stakeholders to address current and future workforce demands. This conversation underscores the importance of bridging the gap between education and the workforce to foster a thriving community Listen to the full episode here Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep6-the-economic-power-of-education-how-education/id1736752420?i=1000651141468 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0LDALSjVoaFxC1gWFIvKv9?si=b7e56c5a5c4d4467 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Af1f_JtD0W4 RESOURCES: Dr. Cynthia Johnson LinkedIn | dr-cynthia-johnson Pinellas Country Economic Development Website | pced.org St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college X | @spcnews Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/
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    6 m
  • 9: From Cybersecurity to Saving Lives: Stan Liberatore on Tech, Mentorship, and Serving Others
    Jul 9 2024
    In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Stan Liberatore, CEO of No Limit Technology and founder of the Save The Kids Foundation, as he brings us along his unique journey of standing in the gap for businesses in need of tech talent and cybersecurity expertise, discussing the motivations that led him to this critical work. The episode also highlights the mission of the Save The Kids Foundation, detailing Stan's efforts to support children, particularly in the realm of pediatric cancer treatment. The conversation also explores the profound impact of giving back, both in business and personal life. Tune in to learn about the significance of discovering and fulfilling your life purpose and the importance of authenticity in leadership and serving others. Tune in for an inspiring episode that delves into leadership, mentorship, and the transformative power of giving back. KEY POINTS: [02:10] - How Stan stands in the gap for businesses and children [07:18] - The importance of mentorship [08:40] - What does a great mentor mean for Stan? [10:49] - Finding purpose and helping others find theirs [17:13] - The story behind the Save the Kids Foundation and its mission [21:53] - On funding and awareness for pediatric cancer treatment [26:19] - Healthcare tech and grant opportunities [32:30] - Standing in the gap for others, being authentic, and prioritizing life's lessons [43:21] - What keeps Stan grounded? QUOTABLES: “When you focus more on delivering quality service, and actually giving love, empathy and compassion; and not objectifying a business or people in a business — the universe blesses you and works in your favor.” – Stan Liberatore “Awareness of oneself is [the] most important. Some of my biggest gifts are also my flaws.” – Stan Liberatore GUEST RESOURCES Stan Liberatore LinkedIn | @stanliberatore RESOURCES St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college X | @spcnews Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/
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    39 m
  • The Reading Revolution: Chris Sprowls on Leading Florida's Literacy Moonshot
    Jul 2 2024
    In this compelling segment, guest Chris Sprowls discusses his passion for literacy and the New Worlds Reading Initiative. As former speaker and policy maker in Florida, Chris shares the alarming statistics that drove him to action, aiming to eradicate illiteracy among children through targeted initiatives and community involvement. Highlighting the importance of reading and its lifelong impact, he unveils the success and challenges of this groundbreaking literacy program. Listen to the full episode here Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep4-innovating-tomorrow-chris-sprowls-on-building-a/id1736752420?i=1000653999906 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3SB1ltBawltNTQMuB6e0uE?si=207bc26dfeed44e0 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wl0gcBDH5ZY RESOURCES: Chris Sprowls LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-sprowls-06a7194/ X | https://twitter.com/ChrisSprowls YouTube | Chris Sprowls Workforce Innovation Hub Reveal - https://youtu.be/yEpO_01H6rA?si=VTAWCDk0KmuiYE_y St. Petersburg College Website | www.spcollege.edu Facebook | facebook.com/stpetecollege IG | instagram.com/stpetersburgcollege YouTube | youtube.com/@SPC LinkedIn | linkedin.com/company/st--petersburg-college X | x.com/spcnews Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/
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    8 m
  • 8: The Power of Hope: How Zaneta Ellison is Transforming Lives Through Mental Health Awareness
    Jun 25 2024
    In this episode, we are joined by distinguished licensed mental health counselor, certified life coach, author, and public speaker, Zaneta Ellison. As the founder and CEO of New Vision Behavioral Health Incorporated (NVBH), Zaneta has built a reputable group practice with locations in Tampa Bay, FL, and Houston, TX, known for delivering exceptional mental health and addiction counseling services, especially for youth. And today, she sits down to share her journey and the challenges she faced in starting her mental health business, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness among youth. She offers valuable strategies for empowering young individuals and discusses the ongoing mental health challenges they encounter. With her expertise in facilitating post-traumatic growth, Zaneta provides deep insights into understanding and addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Throughout the episode, Zaneta highlights the signs of mental health struggles in adults and reflects on the lessons she has learned from supporting youth mental health. Join us for this enlightening conversation with Zaneta Ellison, and learn how you too can stand in the gap for others by promoting mental health and well-being in your community. Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about suicide and addiction, which may be distressing to some listeners. KEY POINTS [1:21] - What inspired Zaneta Ellison’s mental health journey [4:32] - Challenges faced in starting a mental health business (and what kept Zaneta going) [7:43] - Encouraging everyday adults & youth to seek help [11:06] - How to find mental health support for youths and ways to identify if your child is in crisis [12:46] - Tools & strategies for youth mental health management and empowerment [16:40] - Why Zaneta choose to stand in the gap for youth access to mental health [19:38] - Mental health areas that require more growth and attention [21:55] - Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder [24:42] - The importance of integrating mental health and physical health [26:48] - How to identify signs of mental health struggles [29:01] - Biggest lessons learned from supporting youth mental health QUOTABLES “Life is stressful, it ebbs and it flows, and some people aren't equipped to handle the ebbs and flows of life, especially our young people. We are seeing less and less resilient young people.” - Zaneta Ellison “When you find yourself looking for peace outside of yourself, that may be a sign that there's some need for some mental health support.” - Zaneta Ellison “We can't change your family dynamics. We can't change some of the stresses you have in your life, but we can give you hope.” - Zaneta Ellison RESOURCES: Zaneta N. Ellison LMHC, CEO New Vision Behavioral Health Inc 727-687-0997 | www.newvisionbehavioralhealth.org St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college X | @spcnews Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/
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    34 m