How can we bridge the gap and bring equality to education in America? How has COVID impacted students who live in low income areas? What can we do? My guest today, Frank Brown, heads up an organization that is answering the call for how to help those students who are most at-risk for falling behind and not graduating high school. He is Chief Executive Officer of Communities In Schools of Atlanta, Georgia. Atlanta was deemed the income inequality capital two years in a row, prior to Covid. This inequality leads to many more problems, including: housing insecurity, inequality in educational opportunities and lack of appropriate health care. Communities In Schools (CIS) of Atlanta is an award-winning dropout prevention organization that was established in Atlanta, Georgia in 1972. What began in the basement of a modest home in the Grant Park community is now the nation’s largest dropout prevention network with a proven track record of positively impacting graduation rates. Their mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Listen in to hear how CIS is making such a positive impact in Atlanta and throughout the country and how we can get involved supporting such an important mission. Notable Quotes: "I tell my team, if we get it right in Atlanta, it’s a blueprint for the rest of the country, the world, on how to deal with some of the poorest people in this country and get them to become full participants in the American dream." "There was a report that came out in Atlanta that said only 3 out of 10 black kids will be proficient in reading and math after Covid, that’s 30%. We are talking about whole generations lost." "Sometimes people look at poverty, and look at people we serve as inanimate objects. They are human beings, they have dreams and aspirations just like you and I and they want to make clear choices, but there's systematic racism and all types of barriers that they’ve been under for years." "These people sacrifice their own personal good to help these children, to get them to the other side. And the thanks is when you see a child walk across the stage and you know they would never have done it without us." "In Atlanta, depending on what zip code you’re born in, you have a 4% chance of getting out of a poor zip code. Go to Vegas with 4% chances, you’ll never win. But, that’s the child that I work with every day and I believe that 4% is better than 0%." In this episode, you will hear: -The history of Communities In Schools of Atlanta (CIS) and their mission -The three-tier model that CIS uses at different schools -Progress and impact of CIS in Atlanta -Frank’s perspective on education from a global standpoint -How CIS is helping parents to lead their children to better choices -Biggest educational challenges and threats for children -CIS Atlanta’s plans and trajectory for the next 5 years Resources and links mentioned during this episode: For donations and more info, visit Communities in Schools of Atlanta Connect with Communities In Schools of Atlanta on Instagram Instagram, Facebook,  LinkedIn and Twitter. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook . If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Clear Choices Podcast

Ep 54: Frank Brown on Creating a Community of Support for At-Risk Students

When you hear the word racism do you ever think of Asian Americans and how they are treated? Since the pandemic, the rise in hate crimes and violence to Asian Americans has increased by 164%. That is a staggering number but this is not the first experience with racism that the Asian American community has endured in our country.  Today’s guest, Linda Tamura, who is a Sansei (third generation Japanese American) and daughter of a World War II veteran, is talking to us about the racism that Asian Americans experienced in the 1940’s when Japanese Americans were incarcerated in camps because of the war. She is the author of two books on the subject Nisei Soldiers Break their Silence and Hood River Issei. We also discuss the recent rise in hate crimes to the Asian American community and her ideas on what we can do to make things better. A Professor Emerita of Education, Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, she is very involved in projects, exhibits, and organizations educating and celebrating the history of Japanese Americans and inclusion in Oregon. As a former elementary school teacher and university professor, Dr. Linda Tamura is a teacher of teachers and an educational leader.   Notable Quotes: “I think that would be what I try to do as a teacher and what I try to continue to do now and that is simply to be a positive role model and a positive ally to others.” “What can we do to make life better for ourselves but mostly for other people too?”   In this episode, you will hear: - Linda’s history and how she became an advocate for educating and helping Asian Americans - Why she made the choice to write her books - What we can do to make things better for Asian Americans and all people   Resources and links mentioned in this episode: https://lindatamura.weebly.com/linda.html https://www.voanews.com/usa/anti-asian-hate-us-predates-pandemic https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/12/countering-stereotypes http://niseistamp.org/    Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook .  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements.   Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE.   Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/.   **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 53: Dr. Linda Tamura on Asian American Racism from World War II until Now

Over the past two years, we all probably know someone who had a mild case of COVID but how about someone who barely survived it? My guest today, Rick Barde, joins us to tell us about his experience surviving and recovering from COVID-19. Rick is a recently retired school teacher who spent nearly two months in the hospital battling this disease. His case was so severe, he was placed on ECMO (advanced life support equipment called Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) where 40% do not make it off and was placed in an induced coma to rest his lungs. He is truly thankful to be alive. He credits his recovery to all of the support he received from his wife, his school community, and the amazing nurses and doctors. You will hear about his experience through the worst parts of this disease, his recovery that he is still dealing with today, how this has changed him, and what he wants others to learn from his experience. Notable Quotes: “When I know how many hundreds of thousands of people have died, and I didn’t, and mine was such a bad case, I am fortunate, I am thankful, I am grateful to anybody and everybody who has been a part of my recovery.” “If I can impact one person to make a choice to better the world by taking the vaccine or wearing a mask or whatever it may be, then I feel I am doing my job. We have to have more people out there who are making a clear choice to wear a mask and get vaccinated. It’s the only way we are going to get through this. I have hope that we’ll get there.” “It’s changed me in that I am much more grateful for life. I get emotional about how close I was to not making it.” “If people are thinking about getting vaccinated, I say ‘ I had COVID and you do not want to get what I got.’ ” In this episode, you will hear: - What Rick went through and what he remembers while battling COVID - His recovery and the symptoms he still deals with today - How COVID has changed him - What he wants others to learn from his experience Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook .  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements.   Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE.   Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 52: Rick Barde on Surviving and Recovering from COVID-19

Do you know what your purpose is? Do you love what you do and are you happy? The reality is that most people don’t. My guest today, Stu Massengill, is on a mission to change the statistic that 80% of people don’t love what they do. He wants to help people find their true passion in life and give them the beautiful gift of waking up every morning excited to tackle and live a life of passion and fulfillment. Stu is a Peak Performance Strategist and National Trainer for non-other than Tony Robbins. He is the Founder of Finding Direction University and Podcast where he helps people go from being lost in life to a life of passion and fulfillment. Listen in to hear about Stu’s life journey from creating successful organizations to battling cancer to how he found his purpose; and how he is now helping others find theirs. Notable Quotes: “Every single day I’m looking at how can I find happiness in that I have air in my lungs, how can I find happiness that I woke up today, that my eyes are opened.” “I am such a believer that the seeds in our mind grow and that creates our life.” “There’s 3 decisions you make every single moment of your life, it’s 1.What are you going to focus on? 2. What’s the meaning that you give that? 3. Ultimately, what are you going to do from that?” “One day I had this massive realization that if I’m successful in this business, it’s my fault. And if I’m not successful, it’s also my fault. And I think that transcends to life. If you’re happy, that’s your fault.” In this episode, you will hear: - How Stu finds happiness and joy especially with the backdrop of 2020 - How having cancer shaped Stu’s life and view on happiness - His advice and how he guides people to find their joy and passion - What choices you can make to live a happy life right now Connect with Stu: Websites- https://www.stumassengill.com/ https://www.findingdirectionuniversity.com/ Podcast- https://www.stumassengill.com/findingdirection 3 Steps to Finding Direction in Under 10 Minutes- https://www.findingdirectionuniversity.com/3steps   Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook .  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE.   Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/.   **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 51: Stu Massengill on Finding Happiness and Purpose in Your Life

Our guest today, Terre Steinbeck, shares her story of riches to rags to riches again (and truly finding herself!). She was riding the real estate market wave back in the early 2000’s- driving a Range Rover, living in the best part of town, and wining and dining her friends and clients, when the market crash of 2008 hit. All of a sudden, she had no income coming in and with no savings, she faced decisions and choices she never thought she would have to make.  She talks with us about her darkest days, the choices she made to turn her life around, and how even though it was a painful experience, she is grateful for the experience. She also gives advice for what someone can do if they find themselves in a similar situation. Notable Quotes: “Your head just takes you in horrible, horrible places when you are going through something you’ve never gone before.” “My advice would be- exactly what I did- grab a hold of your friends, it doesn’t matter who they are, and if you’re homeless, grab a couple of homeless people. Figure out your goals, where do you want to be?” “Having a group of people in the same spot that you’re in is truly helpful- and everybody is good at something.” “Living within your means is paramount. I mean, that is something I was never taught how to do, and now I do it. I’ve been doing it for 10 years and I tell you, I can sleep at night.” In this episode, you will hear: - Terre’s story of having it all, losing it all and finding her true self - The choices Terre made to turn her life around - The importance of living within your means - Her advice to others who may be in a similar situation Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook .  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 50: Terre Steinbeck on How learning to Live Within Her Means Changed Her Life

2020, COVID-19, Pandemic- these words have such profound meaning on our whole world and what we have all experienced this past year. For seniors in high school, this has meant a lot of change, disappointments, and loss. Their last year of high school has not turned out the way they had once expected it would.  Today we are going to hear it straight from the words of five high school seniors who talk to us about this past year, their experiences, and what it has been like being a senior in high school while living through this pandemic. They talk through what has been the most difficult for them, the impact of social media and their usage, the positives about the pandemic, how they have changed, and what they have learned through this unique year that no one will ever forget. Notable Quotes: “I feel like there’s no closure because I’m not going to be able to have my senior activities and have my last year on campus.” Julia “School was really tolerable and I really enjoyed school because of the social aspect and I got to see all my friends so it made it really hard to just be locked up in my living room with my teacher assigning essays.” Jake “I feel like I’ve grown up a lot in a short span of time.” Sami “I’ve used a lot of social media even prior to the pandemic and I think this just kind of boosted it to a point where it’s a little bit even unhealthy.” Nick “I’ve accomplished a lot of things I’d been putting off for a long time because of school.” Matt In this episode, you will hear: - What has been the most difficult thing about this past year - How they have used social media to stay connected and what effect it has had on them - The positives from the pandemic and what they have learned through this year - How they now have a different outlook on the world and a new sense of appreciation for what they have If you are a teenager, please seek out support and help if you need it. And if you are a parent, please make sure and talk to your kids. Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook .  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 49: High School Seniors Surviving 2020

Immigration. America is a country made up of immigrants. My parents are immigrants and probably many of your parents or grandparents are as well. It is an important topic and my guest today is the stories of immigrants. Sankar Raman, an immigrant himself who came to America to attend college, ended up working and retiring here. It was around the time of the 2016 election that Sankar was preparing to relax and enjoy his retirement. When he heard the anti-immigration rhetoric and the theme of scapegoating immigrants and immigrants of color, he knew he could not sit back and watch. He had to take action and do something. Sankar started interviewing and telling immigrants stories to counteract the rhetoric of hate and negativity against immigrants. He has now interviewed over 180 immigrants and, through these stories, is able to hold true to his mission- to foster empathy and build a more inclusive community by sharing immigrant stories. Notable Quotes: “A lot of times we don’t take the time to understand our neighbors.” “I think if you look at the common theme, these folks are resilient. To give up everything to come, to come to a new country without knowing the language. In most cases bringing a dollar or two with them, that’s what America.” “And I think that is the beauty of human nature. And I think people are helping each other, giving a hand, at the same time once you are in a position to help, you return the favor.” “This America is full of stories of all of us. You know, your story, my story, everyone’s story is what is the America’s story.” In this episode, you will hear: - Why he started the Immigrant Story program and what he hopes to accomplish through it - Some of the profound changes he has seen with the conversations - The common themes through the different immigrant stories - Changes he would like to see regarding policy on immigration Resources and links mentioned during this episode: Link to my parent’s stories: https://theimmigrantstory.org/holocaust/?fbclid=IwAR1Hr_yM2pon0kFyrEEpviRUZipu-lJxQA_MV6tjHZ6IUkuyMS_asztn7Hs Website: https://theimmigrantstory.org/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/many-roads-to-here/id1534252582 https://theimmigrantstory.org/manyroads/ Sankar is always looking to interview immigrants to share more stories. If you would like to tell your story, drop a note through the contact form on their website: https://theimmigrantstory.org/contact-us/ Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook . If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 48: Sankar Raman on the Importance of Sharing Immigrant Stories

Get your pen and paper ready because you are going to want to take notes from today's episode! I am joined by another great guest who will surely motivate and inspire you, Chris Bello. Chris is a college graduate, who quit his corporate job after three years, wanting to take reins of his life and write his own story. After struggling with one side hustle after another, he went all in on residential real estate, where he's quickly caught momentum. He's also the host of the top rated business podcast The Entrepreneur Motivation Podcast, where he documents his journeys and interviews incredible guests. His motto is less dreaming, more doing! Today, Chris shares the story of his career and all the lessons he learned that helped him make better choices along the way. Memorable Quotes: "Everybody has something worth sharing and learning, and I constantly find myself writing down notes.It's just constant training." "Money can't buy happiness and it really takes making the money to realize that. And once you're there, you realize: I still have this empty feeling, I guess it's not about the money. But when you don't have it, all you can focus on is the money; when we get it, that's when you realize there's other things to life, that are more important probably to you." "Oftentimes, we only see what we can see, what is our reality, what we understand. Things that are the answers that we need, may be invisible to us until someone opens our eyes to the possibilities." "Whatever those goals are- business or personal, write them down, put them in a place where you're not going to forget about them, review them and then check in from time to time. Maybe they're not really your goals, and you can adjust and course correct as needed." "Say yes to the things that truly matter to you. But to do that you have to be very clear and define what's important to you." In this episode, you will hear: -Chris’ career in podcasting and what attracted him to entrepreneurial work environment -How to put advice into action, and know whose advice to follow -Chris’ program to coach and support others in achieving their success -Why it’s important to let go, outsource and delegate as an entrepreneur -Overcoming limiting beliefs and how to focus on your zone of genius -How to compensate when you get off track with your goals   Resources and links mentioned during this episode: Connect with Chris on Instagram-https://www.instagram.com/chrisbello_/ Connect with Chris on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbello/ Connect with Chris on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/chris.r.bello/ Chris’s Entrepreneur Motivation Podcast- https://chrisbello.libsyn.com/ For more info visit Chris’ website- https://chrisbello.com/ Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown- https://www.amazon.com/Essentialism-Disciplined-Pursuit-Greg-McKeown/dp/0804137382 Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE.   Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/.   Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook . If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements.   **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 47: Chris Bello on How to Implement Advice and Keep Track of Your Goals

News is made and distributed faster than ever. Often, unfortunately, the news cycle is also more negative than ever. In the midst of this, how can we choose to focus on the positive and bring more light into the world? My guest today, Rabbi Yossi Mintz, has been able to do it and has advice for how we can do it as well. Rabbi Yossi is a renowned communal leader and spiritual guide. In 1995, he established the Jewish Community Center of the South Bay that has reached the entire landscape of diverse cultures providing everything from counseling and financial help for people in need to teaching leadership and volunteerism for those who are more fortunate. A unique place in his heart has always belonged to children with special needs which led him to establish the Friendship Foundation, an organization that provides for over 1,800 children with special needs and their families while involving the entire community. Join us in today’s episode to learn more about his journey and why he believes that every human being has their own special needs. Memorable Quotes: "I was instilled at a very young age the impact that each one of us has, a responsibility that we're not just here for ourselves. There is a purpose for each one of us in this world. And how we can impact this world and make it a better place, and the years we live on this earth, that we do not know, but every day we must not take it for granted." "You can make a difference in the life of somebody else. You are fortunate to have all your abilities, be grateful and make those choices to inspire someone else’s life to make it better." "When they know that we’re proud, that we know how to answer and we are not afraid of them, they melt away. Because their base is false." "Let’s make this world a better place, bring light to the world. Remember one thing - a little light, which is joy and universal acceptance, takes away so much darkness and this world is so dark today." In this episode, you will hear: -What inspired Rabbi Yossi in his choice to become a Rabbi -Activities for youth and children provided at the Jewish Community Center of the South Bay by Rabbi Yossi and his team -What can we do better in regards to antisemitism, immigration and Black Lives Matter Movement? Resources and links mentioned during this episode: For more info visit Jewish Community Center https://www.jccmb.com/ For more info visit The Friendship Foundation https://www.friendshipfoundation.com/ Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook . If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 46: Rabbi Yossi Mintz on Bringing More Light into the World

Do you know someone who has been affected by war either by serving in the military or by getting caught in the crossfire? Have you heard their stories of how war affected them? My guest today, Ken Buckles, a retired high school teacher and football coach, has seen first hand the importance of hearing the stories from a diverse group of veterans and others affected by war. Ken is the son of a Marine who experienced combat during the Korean War, returned home experiencing symptoms of PTSD, and committed suicide when Ken was just 30 years old. We will discuss how this caused ripple effects on him and his family but how ultimately, it inspired him to start a program at his high school called Living History Day, which allowed veterans and others affected by war to engage with his teenage students and tell their stories. As Ken began recording the many stories he was hearing, this ultimately morphed into a book with three volumes, the first titled, Remembrance Volume I: Remembering My Veteran Friends and Guests From Living History Days. It is a page turner to say the least and after hearing him speak with me today, is something that you will definitely want to get your hands on. He has opened a door allowing Veterans and others affected by war to share their stories and the atrocities they’ve had to face and conquer in his book with more volumes on the way. Listen in to learn all about the adversities that Ken has had to overcome, all of the ways he has stayed positive, and the impact he has made on countless people over the years.  Memorable Quotes:  “So many people, they need to realize that you got to hang on to hope and you got to know there’s better times ahead, we can get through this and there’s so many lessons to be learned, you know, the choice is which way do you want to go?” “When you accomplish something, no one can ever take it away from you.” “I’m so proud of them, and they’ve carried that with them into their careers and raising their kids.” “Coached a lot of kids who played at the college level whether it’s football or other sports, and one who ended up playing in the NFL.” In this episode you will learn: All about Ken’s background and what made him into the man he is today. How he overcame adversities in his life and how we have the power to decide our own fate, despite going through hard times. The importance of perspective and how seeing things from a different lens can positively impact your life. All about Ken’s days as a D1 Athlete, High School Teacher and Football Coach The amazing program he started for his students to learn from Veterans and more. How Ken became an author of the book Remembrance Volume I: Remembering My Veteran Friends and Guests From Living History Days.   Ken Buckle’s book:  Remembrance Volume I: Remembering My Veteran Friends and Guests From Living History Days Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/REMEMBRANCE-Remembering-Veteran-Friends-History/dp/B08KQR5545 Book Reviews: “The whole weekend he wouldn’t put it down.” “I hate reading, I never read books, but I couldn’t put yours down!” Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook.  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 45: Ken Buckles on the Importance of Remembering and Learning from the Stories of War

How hard do you need to work to conquer your goals and reach your dreams? Do you have the drive, determination, and discipline to do whatever it takes? Joining me today is a man who has done it. Ryan Sherriff is a Tampa Bay Ray who earned his right to pitch in the 2020 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Why is this important? Because he made it to the major leagues at an older age than most and he had to overcome challenges after challenges, including Tommy John surgery. Listen in to hear the inspiring story of how a man reached his dreams through discipline and hard work and the lessons that he has learned along the way. Memorable Quotes: “I really have to work hard if I want this.” “I’m more in love with the process of getting better than I am with baseball.” “Everything I had to do, I had to do to prove myself.” In this episode, you will hear: - Ryan’s story of growing up and playing baseball - The lessons he has learned along the way that have helped him become successful - Why discipline and hard work can help you overcome your challenges and obstacles Are you ready to start a podcast? Use, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook . If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 44: World Series Pitcher Ryan Sherriff on Choosing Discipline and Hard Work to Reach His Dreams

We all know the impact that COVID-19 has had on our lives. But have you ever wondered what the medical professionals are thinking when it comes to it? I want to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Brett Levine, Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist in Southern California, who has seen first hand what this unpredictable disease can do, shedding his light from the inside! Graduate of USC School of Medicine, Dr. Levine has his own private practice and conducts surgeries in local hospitals in the South Bay of California. Although COVID-19 has brought on an abundance of stress, loss, and hardships for people to deal with, it is even more amplified for medical professionals. With seeing over 8,000 patients during this worldwide pandemic, how has he managed to do it you may be wondering? One of Dr. Brett’s main philosophies resonates with having a positive mindset and intentional gratefulness towards what we do have, as opposed to focusing on all of the negatives in our lives. Let him take you on a journey of hard facts, real life worries, and his own selfless project of breaking the cycle when it comes to dealing with your mental health and stepping outside of your comfort zone.  Come and join us to listen in and hear what Dr. Levine has to say. It might not only help you change your perspective but you may learn a thing or two about COVID-19 and the importance we all have to play.  Memorable Quotes: “If you want to change your life, you have to change your mind.” “Covid-19 is real. It is NOT the flu. In my 25 years of practice, I have never seen a hospital I’ve worked for close down because they don’t have the capacity of oxygen or ventilators or beds.” “The minute I think differently, I act differently, and then I see changes in my life.” “The explosion of telemedicine and medicine I think is a positive for the future.” In this episode, you will learn: The effect COVID-19 has had on medical professionals and their practices Hard facts related to COVID-19 and whether they are TRUE or FALSE What you need to remember about this disease and the importance of self-discipline Dr. Brett’s selfless project that he created to not only help people, but make their everyday lives better by shifting their mindset. How stepping out of one’s comfort zone, although scary, can be the most beneficial for your mental health To connect with Dr. Brett Levine: beachcitiesents.com To learn more about Dr. Brett’s amazing project: Q4DailyInspiration.com Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook.  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 43: Dr. Brett Levine on COVID-19 from a Medical Perspective and How to Focus on the Positive

It is an honor and privilege to bring you this episode with the college and professional football player who helped change the game of football forever. Joining me today is Sam “The Bam” Cunningham who played for the University of Southern California. On Sept. 12, 1970, his USC football team made history by becoming the first integrated team to play and defeat the segregated University of Alabama team at Denny Stadium. This changed football in America forever. We talk through his experience as well as the social justice issues still facing us today. Sam went on to play another year at USC and was drafted 11th overall in the 1973 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. He became the team’s all-time leading rusher with over 5,400 yards and finished his career with 43 rushing touchdowns.   Listen in to hear historical details first hand as well as some fun stories from his professional and personal life. Notable Quotes: “We look at football now and we see what it looks like, and a lot of what it looks like is a direct result of that game in 1970.” “I truly believe that individually you try to make strides, in whatever neighborhood or community you are in, you try to break it down a little piece at a time.” “With anything you do in life, not just athletic sports, there’s lessons to be learned and hopefully you’re better at it 5- 10 years down the line then you were when you started.” In this episode, you will hear: - The significance of the game Sam played in versus Alabama in 1970 - Sam’s perspective on civil rights and our current climate - How athletics and competition help prepare people for life - What he has done after his football career To see more from Sam, check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dFW5MmJrNs Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook .  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 42: Sam "The Bam" Cunningham on Making College Football History and His Life Afterward

How are your relationships doing and how is this pandemic affecting them? Do you feel closer to your partner or is spending so much time together wearing on you both? I’m thrilled to have clinical psychologist, Dr. Karen Stewart, on the show today to discuss the ripple effects the pandemic has had on our society and relationships as a whole. We’ve all had to deal with more stress and challenges, and then add to that, we are around the same people (or possibly by ourselves) for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Karen talks to us about the challenges she has seen people face and some tips to help all of us take care of ourselves and our relationships during this difficult time. Dr. Karen Stewart is a nationally renowned clinical psychologist and featured expert specializing in sexual dysfunction, sexual disorders, relationship counseling and couples issues. She has appeared on numerous media outlets as a featured expert/psychologist discussing sexual therapy, relationship/couples therapy, addiction, stress/anxiety and current events. She practices in two locations in both Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, CA, and virtually. Notable Quotes: “The biggest thing (problem) has been reconnecting with your partner when you are spending 24/7 with them.” “My little FYI for people considering couples therapy, do it before it turns into crisis mode.” “It’s very cliche but communication is key. If there’s something either partner said, talk about it.” “When we are on easy street or we’re comfortable, we don’t excel.” In this episode, you will hear: - Karen’s choice to become a psychologist and how she chose her specialty - How the pandemic is affecting relationships and some tips to help - Advice for people wanting to make positive changes in the new year To connect with Karen: https://www.drkarenstewart.com/ Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook . If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 41: Dr. Karen Stewart, Clinical Psychologist, on How to Prioritize and Navigate Relationships During the Pandemic

Welcome to 2021! To kick off this new year, I have my first return guest on the podcast ever, Paul Walker. If you haven’t listened to Episode 4, go back and take a listen. https://link.chtbl.com/paulwalker You will hear all about how he made the choice to sell his successful business of 20 years solely to run a youth soccer organization that helps underprivileged kids. The reason I invited him back is to get his insights on how COVID has impacted not only youth sports but young adults in general. It is appropriate that the title to his previous episode was “Win or Lose, You Always Have to Come Back” as Paul is a fighter. He is able to get through challenging times as he has done in the past with his organization Total Futbol Academy. With COVID and this very challenging time that we have all been going through, it is helpful to hear his perspective of how he is getting through it and what that means to his organization and the kids and young adults he is impacting. Notable Quotes: “Find solutions. Don’t sit around complaining and don’t shut down and don’t fall apart. Find solutions because there are solutions if you just sit down and get creative.” “When I’m feeling stressed out, I know the only way to alleviate that is to come up with solutions, then it puts your mind at ease a bit.” “There’s always a way to fight through, whatever it is, whatever the adversity is. And this is a great lesson for all these kids.” In this episode, you will hear: - The major changes and effects COVID has had on his futbol academy - How he had to get creative to be able to provide training and some normalcy for the youths and their families - Pauls’ choices and how he stays positive during challenging times - The positives and negatives that have come out of COVID for his organization   To support Paul’s organization Total Futbol Academy and other resources mentioned in this episode: https://www.totalfutbolacademy.com/page/show/3469083--thank-you- Books: Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans  Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell  Are you ready to start a podcast? Use Libsyn, the podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004 and you can start for just $5 a month. Go to https://libsyn.com/ and enter the code “choices” for more than a month for FREE. Coaching Information: If you would like more information on the Clear Choices business and life coaching program, please e-mail me at rob@robaigner.com or go to our website at https://clearchoices.live/. Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find me on Instagram @clearchoicespodcast and on Facebook .  If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. **This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click one and decide to make a purchase, we receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you. We only share products and services we have tested and used ourselves!**

Ep 40: Paul Walker on COVID and Its Effect on Youth Sports

Welcome to the Clear Choices podcast! This podcast is designed to guide you to make more conscious and powerful choices to create a positive change in your life. The idea was borne from the visceral history of two holocaust survivors, Eva and Leslie Aigner, as told by their son and your Clear Choices host, Rob. Their harrowing yet inspirational journey provides important historical context to the experiences of survivors, and also gives insight into how some of us make choices that can quite literally change the world. Rob will interview a wide variety of guests who have made the bold choices necessary to elevate their lives and create a positive impact on the world. By hearing their stories, we hope you walk away more motivated and more inspired to do the same.

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Clear Choices Podcast

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