Beyond the Board: Using Games to Build Leadership and Connection (featuring Chris Barrows)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Chris Barrows, host of the Why I Social podcast and co-creator of Traveling Boards. This organization uses board games as tools for leadership development, team building, and education. We dive into Chris’s passion for gaming and explore how board games can go far beyond being just a hobby—they can strengthen communication, foster collaboration, and inspire personal and professional growth. This conversation is a reminder that play isn’t just for fun—it’s a powerful way to learn, lead, and connect with others. Shout Outs and Plugs...
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Local Leadership, Lasting Impact (featuring Dan Helmer)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode, I’m joined by local politician Dan Helmer, who represents Virginia’s 10th District in southern Fairfax County. I first met Dan when he visited my son’s Boy Scout troop, and I’ve seen firsthand how dedicated he is to serving the Northern Virginia community. In this conversation, we explore his journey into public service, the realities of working in local government, and his practical advice for everyday people who want to get involved and make a difference. This episode serves as a powerful reminder that civic engagement begins locally and that anyone can play a role...
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Behind the Words: The World of Ghostwriting (featuring Jeff Raderstrong)
Positive Philter Podcast
In Episode 385 of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Jeff Raderstrong, a professional ghostwriter who has helped CEOs, political leaders, and community activists bring their stories to life. Jeff shares his journey into ghostwriting, what it means to be part of the creative process while remaining behind the scenes, and valuable advice for aspiring ghostwriters. This episode pulls back the curtain on a unique career path that blends storytelling, collaboration, and purpose. Shout Outs and Plugs Jeff's Website: Jeff's LinkedIn Profile: If you have a question for the podcast call 571-336-6560...
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Dreams, Shadows, and Service: A Trailblazing Journey in Education (featuring Dr. Emma Violand Sanchez)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I sit down with Dr. Emma Violand-Sanchez, a fellow Mount Vernon High School alum, immigrant, and first-generation scholar. Her journey—from arriving in the U.S. as a teenager with limited English to becoming the first Latina to chair a Virginia school board and founding The Dream Project—is nothing short of inspiring. Dr. Violand-Sanchez’s story highlights resilience, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to immigrant and refugee communities. This conversation was so impactful that a follow-up episode may be on the horizon. Don’t miss it! Shout Outs...
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Higher Education Then and Now (featuring Dr. Nolan Cabrera)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Dr. Nolan Cabrera for a powerful conversation about the history of higher education and its impact on today’s academic landscape. We explore how colleges and universities were not originally built with people of color in mind, and what that means for equity, access, and hiring today. Dr. Cabrera also sheds light on the current climate of higher education, including how political policies shape diversity, inclusion, and the future of learning. This episode is a thought-provoking look at where we’ve been, where we are, and where...
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From Music to Finance: A Journey of Reinvention (featuring Dr. Linh Trinh An)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by a fellow George Mason University alum to discuss her inspiring journey from Vietnam to the U.S., her academic path in music, and her unexpected career shift into finance. We explore themes of resilience, adaptability, and staying open to new opportunities—even when they lead in a completely different direction than planned. Shout Outs and Plugs Dr. Linh Trinh An's LinkedIn: GMU Dewberry School of Music Website: GMU Dewberry School of Music Facebook Page: GMU Dewberry School of Music Instagram: If you have a question for the podcast...
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From Vision to TEDx: A Journey of Resilience (featuring Chris Fitzpatrick)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this powerful episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by my good friend and fellow TEDx speaker, Chris Fitzpatrick. Chris is a passionate public speaker, mentor, and proud alumnus of Montclair State. We dive deep into our paths to the TEDx stage—what inspired us, the challenges we faced, and the resilience it took to turn a long-held dream into reality. Fresh off his recent talk at TEDxMontclair, Chris shares insights into the preparation, pressure, and pride that come with achieving such a meaningful goal. If you've ever had a dream that took years to realize, this episode is for you....
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Reviving the Oldest (featuring Frank Bonner)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I sit down with my fraternity brother, Frank Bonner, for a candid discussion on the topic of reclamation within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. We explore the reasons why some brothers struggle with sustained engagement and the barriers to bringing them back into active participation. While our conversation centers on Alpha, these issues are relevant to many service-based organizations working to re-engage and retain members. Through personal experiences and reflections, we examine how organizations can better support long-term involvement and active...
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The Ripple Effect of Kindness (featuring Randy McNeely)
Positive Philter Podcast
In a world where it's easy to feel disconnected, what if the simple act of kindness holds the key to building a more compassionate and empathetic society? In this episode, the Prince of Positivity, Philip Wilkerson, sits down with Randy McNeely, the self-proclaimed "Captain Kindman" and author of "The Kindness Givers' Formula 2.0." Join us for an uplifting conversation about the profound impact of intentional kindness. Philip and Randy explore why spreading kindness is more crucial than ever and how it can be a powerful tool to increase our ability to connect with and understand one another....
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An Academic Career with Political Science (featuring Dr. Jennifer Victor)
Positive Philter Podcast
In this episode of Positive Philter, I’m joined by Professor Jennifer Victor from George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government. We explore her path in political science and how the discipline helps foster understanding and informed dialogue. At a time when thoughtful conversations are more critical than ever, Professor Victor shares how data and research can bridge divides and support meaningful civic engagement. Shout Outs and Plugs Dr. Jennifer Victor LinkedIn: Schar School of Policy and Government Website: Schar School of Policy and Government Instagram: Schar...
info_outlineI wanted to follow up with the listeners about how intergenerational living has gone for us since we recorded an episode about it two years ago. I hope this episode helps for those considering the decision to combine homes with family members.
Shout Outs and Plugs
Intergenerational Living Episode with Jeff
https://positivephilter.libsyn.com/podcast-with-jeff
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Outro music provided by Ryan Rosemond. Check out his Soundcloud channel here: https://soundcloud.com/brothersrosemond/albums
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Jeff’s Anti-Hunger Fund
The Positive Philter Podcast is dedicated to Jeff Kirsch. A long-time supporter of the show and a major influence on this show's growth. Please support the careers of future advocates by donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy. This fund was named after Jeff Kirsch for his decades of service in fighting hunger and inequality. Link to fund: https://frac.org/kirschfund
Pats for Patriots
If you are a member of the #MasonNation, please consider sending a Pats for Patriots. Pats for Patriots are a free and easy way to thank, recognize, show appreciation for a Mason colleague or student who has taken the time to do something kind, generous or thoughtful towards others. For more information, visit: https://forms.office.com/r/HRZGvhdJEA
We have received more than 1,000 nominations from the Mason community so far. Keep those nominations coming in!