How One Man’s Mission Fed 200,000+ Kids with Tom Cottar
Life’s Checkmark: Life Stories for Personal Growth and Self-Improvement
Release Date: 03/03/2026
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info_outlineHow One Man’s Mission Fed 200,000+ Kids with Tom Cottar EP | 191
In this episode of Life’s Checkmark, I sit down with Tom Cottar, the heart behind Backpack Friends, a grassroots effort that’s provided food security for over 200,000 kids in Texas. We talk about Tom’s personal childhood as one of “those kids” in need, the challenges and mistakes along the way, and how something small grew into a movement that fills not only bellies, but lives. Tom shares practical advice, the huge impact that simple actions make, and stories guaranteed to move you. Whether you're looking to serve your neighborhood or start building a bigger purpose, this episode will encourage you to step up, figure it out, and trust the gifts only you can bring.
5 Key Takeaways:
- Real numbers behind childhood hunger in our own neighborhoods
- Why "just saying yes" is the key to starting anything meaningful
- Simple steps to launch a local impact project
- The ripple effect of helping even one child
- How to keep going when things feel overwhelming
Connect with Tom Cottar: Website: https://www.backpackfriends.com
Podcaster's Hub: https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714/about
Life’s Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7