What if you could transform life's messiest moments into laugh-out-loud stories? On this episode of the VIP Cafe Show, we have the pleasure of chatting with Sharla Haun, a seasoned lawyer-turned-humor coach who teaches business professionals to find the funny in life's most stressful situations. Sharla takes us on her journey from a 25-year legal career to teaching English composition with a comedic twist at the University of Akron. We hear about the creative assignments she gave her students, the humor that blossomed from them, and how even those who didn't consider themselves funny learned valuable humor skills.

We also get a sneak peek into Sharla's upcoming book, "Have Fun With Your Faults," which promises to help readers turn their most cringe-worthy moments into comedic gold. Sharla shares her insights on the power of self-reflection, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how embracing our stories can unlock unexpected creativity. Additionally, we dive into stand-up comedy, discussing the importance of storytelling, the nerve-wracking first performance, and the critical distinction between 'punching up' and 'punching down.' Join us for an engaging conversation highlighting how self-acceptance and humor can transform our flaws into our greatest strengths.

How does one go from higher education to becoming the first black female cider owner in Ohio? Meet Hannah Ferguson, the dynamic force behind Dope Cider House and Winery in Youngstown. After facing a tough job market and battling depression, Hannah discovered her passion for wine-making right in her mom's apartment, starting with just 10 gallons of Riesling and Shiraz. Join us as she shares her remarkable story of resilience, creativity, and the journey from academia to cider crafting.

In this episode, we explore the entrepreneurial spirit that propelled Hannah to success. Hear about the unique challenges she faced while establishing her cider house, and how she pivoted from a winery to a cider house after recognizing local market preferences. Discover the creative freedom she enjoys in crafting diverse flavors, the adventures with lesser-known grape varieties, and the continuous learning process in the beverage industry. Hannah also reveals the trials of experimenting with fruit wines, particularly the colorful challenges posed by strawberry wine.

But it's not all business—Hannah reflects on the importance of mentorship, the impact of community support, and a memorable People's Choice award. In a fun rapid-fire segment, we get to know her personal favorites, from music to vacation spots. Finally, Hannah talks about her favorite creation at Dope Cider House, the cherished "diamond wine," and invites listeners to visit her establishment in downtown Youngstown. Don't miss this engaging episode brimming with inspiration, personal insights, and a taste of Hannah's favorite products.

What if you could transform your life from factory floors to motivational stages? Join us as we sit down with John Ruble, a dynamic consultant coach from Achieve Your Dreams, who has done just that. John shares his inspiring journey of how a single book, "The Art of Living" by Bob Proctor, ignited his passion for helping others achieve their goals. Listen as he discusses the importance of setting stretch goals and overcoming the "terror barrier" that often holds people back. You'll hear incredible success stories of clients, including a state representative and entrepreneurs who have expanded their businesses, illustrating the profound impact of mentorship on the path to ambitious dreams.

This episode also delves into the power of small, positive changes in daily habits and mindset shifts. John highlights strategies like waking up an hour earlier for study and shifting from an "I can't" to an "I can" attitude, particularly in resilient communities like Youngstown. The conversation takes a fun twist as Debbie and John share personal preferences and memorable experiences, from favorite pizza spots to childhood jobs at amusement parks. Debbie wraps up with an empowering message about continuously striving for more and not journeying alone. At the same time, John underscores the ongoing adventure of self-improvement and the critical role of a coach in achieving one's dreams.

What if a single act of kindness could change the course of your life? Join us on the VIP Cafe Show as we welcome April Mason, best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and owner of the enchanting Christmas Cafe in Boardman, Ohio. Hosts Greg Smith and Debbie Larson kick things off by recounting Greg's recent trip to the magnificent Gaylord Opryland in Nashville before diving into April's extraordinary journey. You'll hear about April's early aspirations of acting in Los Angeles and the winding path that led her to unexpected life changes and personal growth.

April's story is a powerful testament to resilience and faith. From living in shelters to starting her first business with just $50, she shares her incredible journey through adversity, guided by a prophetic dream and bolstered by community support. Hear how a friend's generosity provided her with a fresh start in Georgia, emphasizing the transformative power of kindness. This episode is rich with touching moments, including the theft of her handmade gift baskets and how she turned every hardship into an adventure for her children.

Finally, bask in the magical ambiance of April's Christmas Cafe, a haven for people from all walks of life. Hear heartwarming tales of patrons finding joy and solace within its cozy walls, and stick around for a lively discussion on favorite foods and local recommendations. From debates about the best French fries in Youngstown to the charm of April’s cafe, this episode is a heartwarming and inspiring look at the power of determination, community, and a dash of holiday spirit.

Feel the pulse of Youngstown's jazz heartbeat as Jeff Green, president of Jazz in the Park, takes us on a melodious journey through the event's 31-year history. Wick Park comes alive in our conversation, echoing the soulful notes of generations of musicians and the laughter of families that have transformed this local celebration into a unifying force. We pay tribute to the seasoned artists whose legacies reverberate through the community and explore how this jazz fest has become a symphony of unity, joy, and artistic expression.

Imagine an event where the smooth allure of jazz meets the rich bouquet of fine wine. That's the vibrant scene we paint as we discuss the upcoming Jazz and Wine Fest at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheater. We go behind the scenes, giving a nod to the musicians who pour their heart into every performance, and the unsung heroes like Cheryl who make these events possible. Dive into the eclectic blend of tunes and tastes awaiting at the amphitheater, and hear about the innovative ideas, like a barbecue battle, that add a flavorful twist to the experience.

As our episode winds down, we highlight the importance of community support and engagement with Jazz in the Park. Discover how you can get in tune with these cultural events through our website and social media, and join us in fostering young talent within the arts. We tease the possibility of an extended evening of jazz and wine on July 3rd, ensuring an experience that resonates beyond the final note. And, while we express our gratitude to Havana House for being a gracious host, remember that the true spirit of jazz lies in the connections we make and the support we show for the arts in Youngstown.

Ever wondered how the strategic game of chess can unveil life’s grander strategies? That's just a slice of what we unpacked with Mr. McGeorge, the soul behind Warriors Inc, the Chess House, and Eagle Christian Preschool and Child Care. His story, from a challenging childhood to becoming a Marine, evokes the essence of resilience. During our heart-to-heart, Mr. McGeorge opens up about how his own trials sparked a fiery dedication to nurturing the community's youth and fathers in Youngstown. His words are not just inspiring—they're a call to action for anyone who's ever faced adversity and searched for ways to give back.

Our conversation took an enlightening turn when we broached the subjects of mentorship and leadership, especially for young women. Mr. McGeorge's initiatives empower daughters to lead, setting an example that encourages sons to follow suit. Within the welcoming walls of the Chess House, he's crafted a sanctuary where life lessons are learned over black and white squares. It's here that the communities of Youngstown, Warren, and Lisbon find common ground, and it's through these programs where children absorb values that will shape the adults they'll become.

But it's not all heavy topics and life lessons. We also get a glimpse of Mr. McGeorge's lighter side in a "rapid-fire" session that uncovers everything from his snack preferences to what gets under his skin. Through this intimate and spirited discussion, we're reminded of the human touch that lies at the heart of community service—proving that even warriors have their favorite pizza toppings. Tune in for an episode that's as much about the bonds we forge as the battles we fight, all while drawing wisdom from the board to the broad spectrum of life.

Have you ever wondered what truly connects us as human beings? This week, Debbie Larson and Greg Smith, discuss Retired Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann's knowledge to uncover the intricate tapestry of human connection through storytelling. With Scott's insight into the M-E-S-S-S of our nature—our search for meaning seeking, emotional landscapes, social bonds, and storytelling prowess, and struggles—we traverse the emotional undercurrents that drive every decision and conversation. Our exchange highlights how these threads are woven into our lives, from personal interactions to grander social dynamics.

Struggle, an experience as common as the air we breathe, is a profound connector in our journey. We share a poignant narrative about a student's tragic loss, which steers our dialogue into the realms of empathy and understanding. By embracing our vulnerabilities, we discuss how we can relate to one another and build bridges of rapport. Through the lens of adversity, we see that our shared experiences, no matter how varied in magnitude, speak a universal language that calls for empathy and a supportive community.

As we wrap up our conversation, the role of government and its delicate dance with individual agency takes center stage. We reflect on California's policies, the boundaries between societal support and personal responsibility, and how cultural values are vital to balancing this complex relationship. Finally, we consider the importance of dealing with our challenges without transferring the weight onto others and how this resilience shapes our societal fabric. Join us in this compelling narrative journey, where we shine a light on the power of our shared stories and the essence of what it means to be human.

When we sat down with Juan Santiago to reminisce about TEDx Youngstown, it struck us how many stories go unheard in our bustling community. Our conversation quickly branched out to the fascinating banking world beyond the vaults and interest rates—the vital community outreach and sponsorship that breathe life into our neighborhoods. Juan, with his rich family history and passionate work in community development, illuminated the transformative effects of the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977. It's not just about loans and savings; it's about providing a 'hand up' to entrepreneurs and homebuyers who dream of a better tomorrow.

Ever wonder what keeps the heart of America beating strong? It's the sturdy middle class, and community banks like Farmers Bank, founded in 1887, have been their unsung heroes. These institutions have been pivotal in empowering families and small businesses by sticking to local decision-making and fostering personal connections. In our chat, we delved into the crucial role a thriving middle class plays in fostering economic stability, comparing the societal structures of the U.S. and China and celebrating the community banks that help make the American Dream a reality.

Wrapping things up, we shifted our gaze to Youngstown's evolving economic scene. Steel mills and factories may wax and wane, but the spirit of growth adapts and endures. We shared our ties to the area, from its vibrant diversity to the warm and familiar sense of community. And, because no gathering is complete without some good eats, we wrapped things up with a playful debate over food favorites and a nod to local culture—proving that every community's heart lies a shared table and stories waiting to be told.