<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a>What if kindness isn’t a bonus trait but the backbone of how we build, lead, and create? We sit down with Minneapolis-based multidisciplinary artist Joe Charley—model, actor, musician, choreographer—to explore how empathy becomes skill, how structure unlocks flow, and why tenderness is a form of courage in high-stakes spaces. Joe traces his journey from child performer to intentional creator, sharing the moment he stopped trying to outgrow his past and started forgiving it. That self-empathy, he says, saved him from shame and freed him to practice with focus. He explains how acting taught him that every character believes they’re right, a lesson that transformed how he argues and collaborates: listen first, find the missing piece, then move together. Along the way, we dive into community care as three working parts—structure, joy, and accountability—and how he turns that into real opportunities for young people through organized troupes, deadlines, and stages that treat them like teammates, not tokens. We also talk about curiosity as fuel: not just travel, but everyday exploration—new foods, neighborhood conversations, the stories behind small businesses—that becomes choreography, melody, and story on stage. Joe critiques spaces that perform progress without tenderness and shares a sharper frame: compassion isn’t optional; compassion is infrastructure. Without it, systems collapse. He opens up about projects on the horizon, from singing the national anthem in St. Paul to a summer of new music, and names his north star for audiences: leave feeling seen, energized, and less alone, like you just spoke with someone not trying to win. If this conversation moved you, tap follow, share it with a friend who leads with heart, and leave a review so more people can find us. What’s one limit you’ll set this week to become limitless?This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you’re just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit <a href='https://maydaymedianetwork.com'>maydaymedianetwork.com</a>You can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our <a href='https://www.zazzle.com/collections/the_so_do_you_collection-119986366763994322'>merch store</a>, picking up a copy of my <a href='https://a.co/d/02YEaz6P'>book</a>, or joining us on <a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/kindness.matters.pod'>Buy Me a Coffee</a>. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.“Intro music: ‘Human First’ by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com”<a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod">Support the show</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new"&gt;Send us Fan Mail&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What if kindness isn’t a bonus trait but the backbone of how we build, lead, and create? We sit down with Minneapolis-based multidisciplinary artist Joe Charley—model, actor, musician, choreographer—to explore how empathy becomes skill, how structure unlocks flow, and why tenderness is a form of courage in high-stakes spaces.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Joe traces his journey from child performer to intentional creator, sharing the moment he stopped trying to outgrow his past and started forgiving it. That self-empathy, he says, saved him from shame and freed him to practice with focus. He explains how acting taught him that every character believes they’re right, a lesson that transformed how he argues and collaborates: listen first, find the missing piece, then move together. Along the way, we dive into community care as three working parts—structure, joy, and accountability—and how he turns that into real opportunities for young people through organized troupes, deadlines, and stages that treat them like teammates, not tokens.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;We also talk about curiosity as fuel: not just travel, but everyday exploration—new foods, neighborhood conversations, the stories behind small businesses—that becomes choreography, melody, and story on stage. Joe critiques spaces that perform progress without tenderness and shares a sharper frame: compassion isn’t optional; compassion is infrastructure. Without it, systems collapse. He opens up about projects on the horizon, from singing the national anthem in St. Paul to a summer of new music, and names his north star for audiences: leave feeling seen, energized, and less alone, like you just spoke with someone not trying to win.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;If this conversation moved you, tap follow, share it with a friend who leads with heart, and leave a review so more people can find us. What’s one limit you’ll set this week to become limitless?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you’re just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit &lt;a href='https://maydaymedianetwork.com'&gt;maydaymedianetwork.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;You can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our &lt;a href='https://www.zazzle.com/collections/the_so_do_you_collection-119986366763994322'&gt;merch store&lt;/a&gt;, picking up a copy of my &lt;a href='https://a.co/d/02YEaz6P'&gt;book&lt;/a&gt;, or joining us on &lt;a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/kindness.matters.pod'&gt;Buy Me a Coffee&lt;/a&gt;. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Intro music: ‘Human First’ by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us Fan Mail What if kindness isn’t a bonus trait but the backbone of how we build, lead, and create? We sit down with Minneapolis-based multidisciplinary artist Joe Charley—model, actor, musician, choreographer—to explore how empathy becomes skill, how structure unlocks flow, and why tenderness is a form of courage in high-stakes spaces.  Joe traces his journey from child performer to intentional creator, sharing the moment he stopped trying to outgrow his past and started forgiving it. ...

Why Empathy Wins: Joe Charley On Art, Community, And Courage

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a>What if Alzheimer’s didn’t close a life, but opened a new way to see it? That’s the question at the heart of our conversation with author and advocate Marilyn Raichle, whose book “Don’t Walk Away: A Care Partner’s Journey” chronicles how a reluctant daughter discovered joy, humor, and dignity alongside her mother living with dementia. We move from fear to curiosity as Marilyn shares the moment a simple painting class changed everything—the hum of focus, the pull of community, and the art that silenced stigma with beauty. Together we explore how language shapes care. Saying “living with dementia” invites partnership; saying “suffering from” reduces people to symptoms. Marilyn breaks down the practical shifts that follow: stop asking “Do you remember?” start asking open questions; measure success by connection, not recall; design small rituals—walks, music, Scrabble—that build attention and trust. Her mother’s creativity becomes a north star, showing that purpose and pleasure can bloom even as memory fades. The result is a human, hopeful roadmap families can use right away. We also zoom out to the systems level. Marilyn’s exhibits for The Art of Alzheimer’s drew thousands and sparked the most powerful response of all: “I had no idea.” That spark fuels her work with Maud’s Awards, which fund innovative Alzheimer’s care and publish free handbooks so anyone can adopt ideas that work. From drumming circles to intergenerational programs, these solutions prove that when we see value, we invest—and when we invest, people thrive. If you’re a caregiver, a health professional, or simply someone who wants to show up better for others, this episode offers tools you can use today: smile first, ask before telling, create low-barrier choices, and protect dignity at every turn. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs hope, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find stories that change the way we care. What small ritual will you try this week to spark joy for someone you love?This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you’re just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit <a href='https://maydaymedianetwork.com'>maydaymedianetwork.com</a>Still Changing a World: Small Acts of Kindness That Make a Big Difference invites you to notice the quiet, everyday moments where you can change someone’s day—and maybe their life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by outrage and noise but still believe in human connection, this book will encourage you to keep showing up with courage, compassion, and practical kindness. Grab your copy <a href='https://a.co/d/09c4r3Ml'>here</a>:Join the movement of kindness! When you shop The So Do You Collection, you’re not just getting inspiring merch—you’re helping make a difference. A portion of every purchase supports local and national nonprofits that spread kindness where it’s needed most. Explore the <a href='Join%20the%20movement%20of%20kindness!%20When%20you%20shop%20The%20So%20Do%20You%20Collection,%20you’re%20not%20just%20getting%20inspiring%20merch—you’re%20helping%20make%20a%20difference.%20A%20portion%20of%20every%20purchase%20supports%20local%20and%20national%20nonprofits%20that%20spread%20kindness%20where%20it’s%20needed%20most.%20Explore%20the%20collection%20now:%20https:/www.zazzle.com/collections/the_so_do_you_collection-119986366763994322.'>collection</a> now.“Intro music: ‘Human First’ by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com <a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod">Support the show</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new"&gt;Send us Fan Mail&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What if Alzheimer’s didn’t close a life, but opened a new way to see it? That’s the question at the heart of our conversation with author and advocate Marilyn Raichle, whose book “Don’t Walk Away: A Care Partner’s Journey” chronicles how a reluctant daughter discovered joy, humor, and dignity alongside her mother living with dementia. We move from fear to curiosity as Marilyn shares the moment a simple painting class changed everything—the hum of focus, the pull of community, and the art that silenced stigma with beauty.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Together we explore how language shapes care. Saying “living with dementia” invites partnership; saying “suffering from” reduces people to symptoms. Marilyn breaks down the practical shifts that follow: stop asking “Do you remember?” start asking open questions; measure success by connection, not recall; design small rituals—walks, music, Scrabble—that build attention and trust. Her mother’s creativity becomes a north star, showing that purpose and pleasure can bloom even as memory fades. The result is a human, hopeful roadmap families can use right away.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;We also zoom out to the systems level. Marilyn’s exhibits for The Art of Alzheimer’s drew thousands and sparked the most powerful response of all: “I had no idea.” That spark fuels her work with Maud’s Awards, which fund innovative Alzheimer’s care and publish free handbooks so anyone can adopt ideas that work. From drumming circles to intergenerational programs, these solutions prove that when we see value, we invest—and when we invest, people thrive.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;If you’re a caregiver, a health professional, or simply someone who wants to show up better for others, this episode offers tools you can use today: smile first, ask before telling, create low-barrier choices, and protect dignity at every turn. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs hope, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find stories that change the way we care. What small ritual will you try this week to spark joy for someone you love?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you’re just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit &lt;a href='https://maydaymedianetwork.com'&gt;maydaymedianetwork.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Still Changing a World: Small Acts of Kindness That Make a Big Difference invites you to notice the quiet, everyday moments where you can change someone’s day—and maybe their life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by outrage and noise but still believe in human connection, this book will encourage you to keep showing up with courage, compassion, and practical kindness. Grab your copy &lt;a href='https://a.co/d/09c4r3Ml'&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Join the movement of kindness!&lt;/b&gt; When you shop &lt;em&gt;The So Do You Collection&lt;/em&gt;, you’re not just getting inspiring merch—you’re helping make a difference. A portion of every purchase supports local and national nonprofits that spread kindness where it’s needed most. Explore the &lt;a href='Join%20the%20movement%20of%20kindness!%20When%20you%20shop%20The%20So%20Do%20You%20Collection,%20you’re%20not%20just%20getting%20inspiring%20merch—you’re%20helping%20make%20a%20difference.%20A%20portion%20of%20every%20purchase%20supports%20local%20and%20national%20nonprofits%20that%20spread%20kindness%20where%20it’s%20needed%20most.%20Explore%20the%20collection%20now:%20https:/www.zazzle.com/collections/the_so_do_you_collection-119986366763994322.'&gt;collection&lt;/a&gt; now.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Intro music: ‘Human First’ by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us Fan Mail What if Alzheimer’s didn’t close a life, but opened a new way to see it? That’s the question at the heart of our conversation with author and advocate Marilyn Raichle, whose book “Don’t Walk Away: A Care Partner’s Journey” chronicles how a reluctant daughter discovered joy, humor, and dignity alongside her mother living with dementia. We move from fear to curiosity as Marilyn shares the moment a simple painting class changed everything—the hum of focus, the pull of community,...

Art, Memory, And The Power Of Care;

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a>Ever feel like you’re sprinting through life in the wrong shoes? We sat down with inner glow coach and author<a href='https://www.runninginslippers.com/meetangie'> Angie Hawkins</a> to unpack how compassion, boundaries, and vulnerable honesty can move you from chasing approval to living with grounded confidence. Angie’s memoir, <a href='https://www.runninginslippers.com/book'>Running in Slippers</a>, becomes a vivid metaphor for growth: sometimes playful, sometimes painful, always real. She opens up about the childhood patterns that fuel people pleasing and perfectionism, then shares how an emotional rock bottom led her to rebuild from the inside out. We dig into the difference between forgiveness and self-compassion, especially when “forgive and forget” feels like erasing harm. Angie explains why starting with kindness toward yourself can reduce reactivity, reveal the grief under anger, and allow you to see others’ behavior without excusing it. From there, we get practical: what compassionate boundaries sound like, how to check your tone without watering down your line, and why your emotional safety is non-negotiable. You’ll hear a powerful workplace story where shifting to empathy uncovered hidden fear and transformed a tense relationship—proof that clarity plus care can change outcomes. This conversation also reframes leadership. Compassion isn’t a soft skill; it’s a stabilizing force in teams, relationships, and communities. We explore how to practice empathy without self-abandonment, how observation builds emotional regulation, and why calm presence can elevate a room more than outrage ever will. Whether you’re healing after a breakup, shedding perfectionism, or trying to lead with heart at work, you’ll walk away with tools to protect your light and still see the human in front of you. If the conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a quick review—what’s one boundary you’ll set this week? Your reflections help others find the show and keep this kindness-forward community growing.This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you’re just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit <a href='https://maydaymedianetwork.com'>maydaymedianetwork.com</a>Still Changing a World: Small Acts of Kindness That Make a Big Difference invites you to notice the quiet, everyday moments where you can change someone’s day—and maybe their life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by outrage and noise but still believe in human connection, this book will encourage you to keep showing up with courage, compassion, and practical kindness. Grab your copy <a href='https://a.co/d/09c4r3Ml'>here</a>:Join the movement of kindness! When you shop The So Do You Collection, you’re not just getting inspiring merch—you’re helping make a difference. A portion of every purchase supports local and national nonprofits that spread kindness where it’s needed most. Explore the <a href='Join%20the%20movement%20of%20kindness!%20When%20you%20shop%20The%20So%20Do%20You%20Collection,%20you’re%20not%20just%20getting%20inspiring%20merch—you’re%20helping%20make%20a%20difference.%20A%20portion%20of%20every%20purchase%20supports%20local%20and%20national%20nonprofits%20that%20spread%20kindness%20where%20it’s%20needed%20most.%20Explore%20the%20collection%20now:%20https:/www.zazzle.com/collections/the_so_do_you_collection-119986366763994322.'>collection</a> now.Intro music: ‘Human First’ by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com<a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod">Support the show</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new"&gt;Send us Fan Mail&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Ever feel like you’re sprinting through life in the wrong shoes? We sat down with inner glow coach and author&lt;a href='https://www.runninginslippers.com/meetangie'&gt; Angie Hawkins&lt;/a&gt; to unpack how compassion, boundaries, and vulnerable honesty can move you from chasing approval to living with grounded confidence. Angie’s memoir, &lt;a href='https://www.runninginslippers.com/book'&gt;Running in Slippers&lt;/a&gt;, becomes a vivid metaphor for growth: sometimes playful, sometimes painful, always real. She opens up about the childhood patterns that fuel people pleasing and perfectionism, then shares how an emotional rock bottom led her to rebuild from the inside out.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;We dig into the difference between forgiveness and self-compassion, especially when “forgive and forget” feels like erasing harm. Angie explains why starting with kindness toward yourself can reduce reactivity, reveal the grief under anger, and allow you to see others’ behavior without excusing it. From there, we get practical: what compassionate boundaries sound like, how to check your tone without watering down your line, and why your emotional safety is non-negotiable. You’ll hear a powerful workplace story where shifting to empathy uncovered hidden fear and transformed a tense relationship—proof that clarity plus care can change outcomes.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;This conversation also reframes leadership. Compassion isn’t a soft skill; it’s a stabilizing force in teams, relationships, and communities. We explore how to practice empathy without self-abandonment, how observation builds emotional regulation, and why calm presence can elevate a room more than outrage ever will. Whether you’re healing after a breakup, shedding perfectionism, or trying to lead with heart at work, you’ll walk away with tools to protect your light and still see the human in front of you.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;If the conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a quick review—what’s one boundary you’ll set this week? Your reflections help others find the show and keep this kindness-forward community growing.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you’re just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit &lt;a href='https://maydaymedianetwork.com'&gt;maydaymedianetwork.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Still Changing a World: Small Acts of Kindness That Make a Big Difference invites you to notice the quiet, everyday moments where you can change someone’s day—and maybe their life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by outrage and noise but still believe in human connection, this book will encourage you to keep showing up with courage, compassion, and practical kindness. Grab your copy &lt;a href='https://a.co/d/09c4r3Ml'&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Join the movement of kindness!&lt;/b&gt; When you shop &lt;em&gt;The So Do You Collection&lt;/em&gt;, you’re not just getting inspiring merch—you’re helping make a difference. A portion of every purchase supports local and national nonprofits that spread kindness where it’s needed most. Explore the &lt;a href='Join%20the%20movement%20of%20kindness!%20When%20you%20shop%20The%20So%20Do%20You%20Collection,%20you’re%20not%20just%20getting%20inspiring%20merch—you’re%20helping%20make%20a%20difference.%20A%20portion%20of%20every%20purchase%20supports%20local%20and%20national%20nonprofits%20that%20spread%20kindness%20where%20it’s%20needed%20most.%20Explore%20the%20collection%20now:%20https:/www.zazzle.com/collections/the_so_do_you_collection-119986366763994322.'&gt;collection&lt;/a&gt; now.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Intro music: ‘Human First’ by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us Fan Mail Ever feel like you’re sprinting through life in the wrong shoes? We sat down with inner glow coach and author Angie Hawkins to unpack how compassion, boundaries, and vulnerable honesty can move you from chasing approval to living with grounded confidence. Angie’s memoir, Running in Slippers, becomes a vivid metaphor for growth: sometimes playful, sometimes painful, always real. She opens up about the childhood patterns that fuel people pleasing and perfectionism, then shares ...

Kindness Isn’t A Soft Skill, It’s A Power Move

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a>What if a warm cup and a square of chocolate could turn fear into trust? We sit down with speaker and community builder <a href='https://chocolateandcoffeebreak.com/about-us/'>Andrea Putting</a>, the heart behind Chocolate and Coffee Break, to explore how small, shared rituals help people feel safe, heard, and human again. Born from the aftermath of the Sydney siege and the #IllRideWithYou wave of solidarity, Andrea’s simple practice has grown from a single day into a year-round movement that workplaces, neighborhoods, and friends can use to bridge differences. We unpack why familiar rituals matter: holding a cup signals safety, scent and taste soften defenses, and a slow tempo gives room for honesty. Andrea makes a clear distinction between listening to reply and listening to understand, showing how presence, gentle questions, and even shared silence help people tell the stories they rarely voice. From conversations across faiths to a moving account of a transgender guest finding space to heal, she shows how attention, not argument, changes outcomes. You’ll hear practical steps for creating safe space—put away the phone, start with common ground, use noninvasive “heartwarming” prompts—and how to scale the ritual from one-on-one to group gatherings and even fundraisers. We talk about belonging as prevention: noticing the person at the edge before harmful groups offer their counterfeit version of community. The result is a quiet, durable form of kindness that anyone can practice today. If you’re ready to replace division with presence and curiosity, this conversation offers a map you can use on your next break. Subscribe for more thoughtful stories, share this with someone who needs a gentle nudge toward connection, and leave a review to help others find the show. Who will you invite for your next Chocolate and Coffee Break?This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you’re just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit <a href='https://maydaymedianetwork.com'>maydaymedianetwork.com</a>Still Changing a World: Small Acts of Kindness That Make a Big Difference invites you to notice the quiet, everyday moments where you can change someone’s day—and maybe their life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by outrage and noise but still believe in human connection, this book will encourage you to keep showing up with courage, compassion, and practical kindness. Grab your copy <a href='https://a.co/d/09c4r3Ml'>here</a>:Join the movement of kindness! When you shop The So Do You Collection, you’re not just getting inspiring merch—you’re helping make a difference. A portion of every purchase supports local and national nonprofits that spread kindness where it’s needed most. Explore the <a href='Join%20the%20movement%20of%20kindness!%20When%20you%20shop%20The%20So%20Do%20You%20Collection,%20you’re%20not%20just%20getting%20inspiring%20merch—you’re%20helping%20make%20a%20difference.%20A%20portion%20of%20every%20purchase%20supports%20local%20and%20national%20nonprofits%20that%20spread%20kindness%20where%20it’s%20needed%20most.%20Explore%20the%20collection%20now:%20https:/www.zazzle.com/collections/the_so_do_you_collection-119986366763994322.'>collection</a> now.Intro music: ‘Human First’ by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com<a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod">Support the show</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new"&gt;Send us Fan Mail&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What if a warm cup and a square of chocolate could turn fear into trust? We sit down with speaker and community builder &lt;a href='https://chocolateandcoffeebreak.com/about-us/'&gt;Andrea Putting&lt;/a&gt;, the heart behind Chocolate and Coffee Break, to explore how small, shared rituals help people feel safe, heard, and human again. Born from the aftermath of the Sydney siege and the #IllRideWithYou wave of solidarity, Andrea’s simple practice has grown from a single day into a year-round movement that workplaces, neighborhoods, and friends can use to bridge differences.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;We unpack why familiar rituals matter: holding a cup signals safety, scent and taste soften defenses, and a slow tempo gives room for honesty. Andrea makes a clear distinction between listening to reply and listening to understand, showing how presence, gentle questions, and even shared silence help people tell the stories they rarely voice. From conversations across faiths to a moving account of a transgender guest finding space to heal, she shows how attention, not argument, changes outcomes.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;You’ll hear practical steps for creating safe space—put away the phone, start with common ground, use noninvasive “heartwarming” prompts—and how to scale the ritual from one-on-one to group gatherings and even fundraisers. We talk about belonging as prevention: noticing the person at the edge before harmful groups offer their counterfeit version of community. The result is a quiet, durable form of kindness that anyone can practice today.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;If you’re ready to replace division with presence and curiosity, this conversation offers a map you can use on your next break. Subscribe for more thoughtful stories, share this with someone who needs a gentle nudge toward connection, and leave a review to help others find the show. Who will you invite for your next Chocolate and Coffee Break?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you’re just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit &lt;a href='https://maydaymedianetwork.com'&gt;maydaymedianetwork.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Still Changing a World: Small Acts of Kindness That Make a Big Difference&lt;/em&gt; invites you to notice the quiet, everyday moments where you can change someone’s day—and maybe their life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by outrage and noise but still believe in human connection, this book will encourage you to keep showing up with courage, compassion, and practical kindness. Grab your copy &lt;a href='https://a.co/d/09c4r3Ml'&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Join the movement of kindness!&lt;/b&gt; When you shop &lt;em&gt;The So Do You Collection&lt;/em&gt;, you’re not just getting inspiring merch—you’re helping make a difference. A portion of every purchase supports local and national nonprofits that spread kindness where it’s needed most. Explore the &lt;a href='Join%20the%20movement%20of%20kindness!%20When%20you%20shop%20The%20So%20Do%20You%20Collection,%20you’re%20not%20just%20getting%20inspiring%20merch—you’re%20helping%20make%20a%20difference.%20A%20portion%20of%20every%20purchase%20supports%20local%20and%20national%20nonprofits%20that%20spread%20kindness%20where%20it’s%20needed%20most.%20Explore%20the%20collection%20now:%20https:/www.zazzle.com/collections/the_so_do_you_collection-119986366763994322.'&gt;collection&lt;/a&gt; now.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Intro music: ‘Human First’ by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us Fan Mail What if a warm cup and a square of chocolate could turn fear into trust? We sit down with speaker and community builder Andrea Putting, the heart behind Chocolate and Coffee Break, to explore how small, shared rituals help people feel safe, heard, and human again. Born from the aftermath of the Sydney siege and the #IllRideWithYou wave of solidarity, Andrea’s simple practice has grown from a single day into a year-round movement that workplaces, neighborhoods, and friends can...

How Chocolate And Coffee Spark Safer, Kinder Communities

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a>New to The Kindness Matters Podcast? Start here.If you’re looking for uplifting podcast episodes, real stories about kindness, or inspiring conversations that restore hope, this episode is the perfect place to begin.With over 150 episodes, we’ve pulled together 5 of the most impactful, meaningful, and inspiring stories that truly represent what The Kindness Matters Podcast is all about—kindness in action, real people making a difference, and hope in a world that needs it. <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/16263372'>From “Me” to “We”</a> Discover how shifting your mindset from individual success to community impact can transform lives. A powerful conversation about empathy, connection, and purpose. <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/16824578'>Brewing Hope</a> How coffee, community, and compassion come together to create real change. This episode highlights how small ideas can lead to big impact. <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/16501433'>The Ripple Effect of One Good Deed</a> One act of kindness can create a chain reaction. Learn how simple actions can spread positivity further than you ever imagined. <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/12779027'>Stamps4Hope</a> A unique story of turning passion into purpose. See how creativity and generosity can make a lasting difference in people’s lives. <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/16234595'>Heartfelt Stories of Loss, Love, and Libraries</a> An emotional and inspiring conversation about grief, healing, and finding connection in unexpected places. Why Listen to The Kindness Matters Podcast?This podcast is for anyone who:<ul><li>Feels overwhelmed by negativity in the world</li><li>Is searching for positive, uplifting content</li><li>Wants to hear real stories of kindness and compassion</li><li>Believes small actions can make a big difference</li></ul>Each episode features individuals, nonprofits, and organizations working to create meaningful change through kindness.Support &amp; Share KindnessIf these stories inspire you:<ul><li>Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode</li><li>Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement</li><li>Leave a review to help more people discover these stories</li></ul><a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod">Support the show</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/fan_mail/new"&gt;Send us Fan Mail&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;New to The Kindness Matters Podcast? Start here.&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’re looking for &lt;b&gt;uplifting podcast episodes&lt;/b&gt;, &lt;b&gt;real stories about kindness&lt;/b&gt;, or &lt;b&gt;inspiring conversations that restore hope&lt;/b&gt;, this episode is the perfect place to begin.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;With over 150 episodes, we’ve pulled together 5 of the most impactful, meaningful, and inspiring stories that truly represent what &lt;em&gt;The Kindness Matters Podcast&lt;/em&gt; is all about—&lt;b&gt;kindness in action, real people making a difference, and hope in a world that needs it. &lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/16263372'&gt;&lt;b&gt;From “Me” to “We”&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; Discover how shifting your mindset from individual success to community impact can transform lives. A powerful conversation about empathy, connection, and purpose. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/16824578'&gt;&lt;b&gt;Brewing Hope&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; How coffee, community, and compassion come together to create real change. This episode highlights how small ideas can lead to big impact. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/16501433'&gt;&lt;b&gt;The Ripple Effect of One Good Deed&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; One act of kindness can create a chain reaction. Learn how simple actions can spread positivity further than you ever imagined. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/12779027'&gt;&lt;b&gt;Stamps4Hope&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; A unique story of turning passion into purpose. See how creativity and generosity can make a lasting difference in people’s lives. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542607/episodes/16234595'&gt;&lt;b&gt;Heartfelt Stories of Loss, Love, and Libraries&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; An emotional and inspiring conversation about grief, healing, and finding connection in unexpected places. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Why Listen to The Kindness Matters Podcast?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This podcast is for anyone who:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Feels overwhelmed by negativity in the world&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Is searching for &lt;b&gt;positive, uplifting content&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Wants to hear &lt;b&gt;real stories of kindness and compassion&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Believes small actions can make a big difference&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;Each episode features individuals, nonprofits, and organizations working to create meaningful change through kindness.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Support &amp;amp; Share Kindness&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If these stories inspire you:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Leave a review to help more people discover these stories&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://buymeacoffee.com/Kindness.Matters.Pod"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us Fan Mail New to The Kindness Matters Podcast? Start here. If you’re looking for uplifting podcast episodes, real stories about kindness, or inspiring conversations that restore hope, this episode is the perfect place to begin. With over 150 episodes, we’ve pulled together 5 of the most impactful, meaningful, and inspiring stories that truly represent what The Kindness Matters Podcast is all about—kindness in action, real people making a difference, and hope in a world that needs it.&n...

New Here? Listen to These First: 5 Stories That Will Restore Your Faith in Humanity | Kindness, Hope & Real Stories

So. Much. Division. Let's talk about how to change that. Re-engage as neighbors, friends, co-workers and family. Let's set out to change the world. Strike that. Change A World. One person at a time, make someone's life a little better and then do it again tomorrow and the day after that, through kindness. Kindness is a Super-Power that each of us has within us. It is so powerful it has the potential to change not only your life but those around you, too. Let's talk about kindness.

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