What do individuals need from their built environment in order to not just survive but thrive? In this episode, we are discussing housing solutions and the need to have access to safe, affordable, reliable housing options. The champions of this work are not only assisting individuals but also impacting future policy for housing solutions. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Memphis Public Interest Law CenterThe Black Clergy Collaborative of MemphisThe Greater Memphis Housing Justice Project U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (also referred to as HUD)Guide to Eviction CourtSocial Determinants of Health (which includes Built Environment)Dwayne Spencer's 2023 TEDxMemphis Talk titled "What My Childhood in Substandard Housing Taught Me About Health" This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

What could Memphis look like if we from imagination to activation? Hear from leaders at Seeding Success and More for Memphis about how collaboration is the key to working toward a better Memphis together. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Celebrate What's Right: Public Space for Common GoodNew Memphis Digital Communications SurveySeeding SuccessMore for MemphisThe More for Memphis PlanPlayhouse on the SquareChoose901First 8 MemphisPorter LeathStart Co.EDGEGreater Memphis ChamberMore for Memphis Letter of Support This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

What supports are in place for students and faculty stressors? Hear from Dr. Jessi Gold (UTHSC and University of Tennessee) and Dr. Justin Lawhead (University of Memphis) about how universities are intentionally creating access to resources for help-seekers in a culture of competition among highly competitive world of undergraduate and graduate students and faculty. Demonstrating a community of care translates into all areas of workforce development and helps retain talented, connected changemakers to the city. Resources mentioned in this episode include: TEDxMemphisUniversity of MemphisDr. Justin LawheadDr. Jessi GoldUTHSCUniversity of TennesseeFrosh Camp"How Do You Feel" by Dr. Jessi GoldNew Memphis activation work This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

Do you know the areas in which the Memphis medical field is a leading innovator in lifesaving research being used across the globe? If your answer was “childhood cancer,” you are correct...but only partially! Dr. Michelle Taylor (Shelby County Health Department) and Elizabeth Propst (St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital) join us for a conversation to expand our understanding of the global innovations in public health that are needed to shape healthy communities and how those connect to Memphis and the Mid-South. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Memphis 101 on September 17TEDxMemphis on September 28Shelby County Health DepartmentSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital's HIV ProgramEnd HIV 901Connect 2 Protect (C2P)Memphis Flyer's August article on HIV/Syphilis surgeThe Daily Memphian's July article on HIV/Syphilis surgeHope HouseFriends for All Partnership to End AIDS Status (PEAS)CHOICESTennessee General Assembly 2012 "Gateway Law"Planned ParenthoodCommunity Care Fairs This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

Does volunteering really matter? In today's fast-paced culture of instant news cycles and drive-thru living, is setting aside time to invest my time and talent (not just my treasures) really impactful? Lori Evans of Junior League of Memphis and Jeremy Park of cityCURRENT share how volunteerism is the backbone of thriving cities and how to not only find but also power the good in Memphis. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Teachers' LoungeMemphis 101TEDxMemphisJunior League of MemphisRegional One HealthcityCURRENTNew Memphis FellowsNew Memphis LDIJunior League's Repeat BoutiqueWLOKHope HouseChildren's Museum of MemphisVolunteer OdysseyS3E11 "Let's Go VTO"S3E9 "Mobilizing Members to Impact Memphis" This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"We all have these tools inside of us, we just need to learn how to use them." What if something you rarely think about had the power to transform your life and your health? As a supplement to medically based healthcare, mindful wellness programs can have a positive impact on productivity, effectiveness, and the general health of individuals, organizations, and communities. Joining us to talk about that today are Taylor Sommerville founder of Symmetry and Kemp Conrad, Principal at Commercial Advisors. We cover everything from breathing techniques and the importance of "The Symmetry Six" to how mouth-taping might be the key to more restful sleep. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Teachers' LoungeMemphis 101TEDxMemphisCushman Wakefield Commercial AdvisorsSymmetryXPTContrast Therapy ("heat or fie and ice")Blue Zones"Live to 100: Secrets of Blue Zones" on NetflixNon-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR)The Health & Human Performance FoundationPURE AcademyBreathing for Kids resourceJaws: The Story of a Hidden Epidemic bookBreath: The New Science of a Lost Art bookWhy We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams book"The Breathing Diabetic" website and InstagramWhat Doesn't Kill Us: How Freezing Water, Extreme Altitude, and Environmental Conditioning Will Renew Our Lost Evolutionary Strength book This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

_ "When you empower Memphians to be innovators, you solve Memphis problems becasue you see what you're closest to."_ Is Memphis fertile ground for innovators? Entrepreneurship is rooted in innovation and job creation, two things that are critical to economic development and economic mobility. We’re chatting with experts on how collaboration and access are transforming the ways that Memphians are moving and shaking whole industries. Joining us for this conversation are Anthony Young of Epicenter Memphis and Audrey Willis of Code Crew to dig deeper into how collaboration and training can prepare a pipeline of talented individuals to live, work, play, and thrive right here in the 901. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Teachers' Lounge on September 10Memphis 101 on September 17TEDxMemphis: The miXtapeEpicenter MemphisCode CrewLITE MemphisJunior AchievementPrevious conversation S3E30 on the ethics of AIAudrey Willis was named as the Community Leader of the Year in Memphis magazine's MEMTech AwardsCongressional App ChallengeCode Crew's Annual HackathonZeroTo510Patents2Products Post-Doc program at The University of MemphisFrayser ConnectMedHaul This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

As a new school year begins, we want to take a deeper dive into the data of where Memphis is shining in the education sector, what challenges are at play, and how creative solutions are being implemented. To do this, we will be referencing the 2024 Memphis State of Education Report created by Memphis Education Fund. Tune in to get fired up about opportunities to create solutions for the future of Memphis. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Memphis Education Fund2024 Memphis State of Education ReportMemphis LiftTennesseeCANTennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) FormulaMemphis Shelby County Schools Volunteer informationMemphis Shelby County SchoolsDepartment of Education TN This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

On the heels of a sold out New Memphis Leadership Summit last week, it got us thinking about other leadership lessons we’ve learned along the way. Some have come from amazing facilitators, others from workshops, and more still from the TEDxMemphis stage. As Memphis gears up for another TEDx event on September 28, we wanted to focus in on a few of the lessons that are not only impactful to leadership at every stage, but also lessons for community activation and growth. Resources mentioned in this episode include: 2024 TEDxMemphis on September 28Leslie Lynn Smith's 2016 TEDxMemphis TalkAriana Glantz's 2020 TEDxMemphis TalkEso Tolson's 2021 TEDxMemphis TalkPurchase tickets for 2024 TEDxMemphis hereNew Memphis leadership development programsSpillit "Marathon Not a Sprint" on August 22Memphis 101 on September 17 This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"You shouldn't have to travel outside of our city to have this multi-dimensional experience and playground, and I like to nickname it the multiverse of Memphis." How do global technological advancements impact local entertainment and tourism? It may come as no surprise, but Memphis is once again at the forefront of trends in the entertainment industry. The tech-savvy team behind Baron Von Opperbean and The River of Time joins us for a behind-the-scenes conversation about the diverse range of local talent coming together to blend technology, artistry, history and imagination to build an innovative, immersive experience that's reflective of the Buff City in more ways than one! Tune in to hear how this innovative amenity is putting Memphis on the map for traveling adventure-seekers and locals alike! Resources mentioned in this episode include: Live From MemphisBaron Von Opperbean and The River of TimeBVO: Quadrant 360Downtown Memphis CommissionChristopher ReyesWhat is extended reality? via Forbes magazineMud Island's Mississippi River MuseumMemphis River Parks Partnership (MRPP)Tom Lee ParkCity Museum in St. Louis, MissouriMeow Wolf Immersive Art Exhibitions LibertylandArea 15Afrofuturism This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"We knew that we had an opportunity to be the difference. It is a challenge for those 18 to 25 years old currently; I need them to see themselves [in their elected officials]. They have the opportunity to be the change." It is election season, mane! This topic is mission critical all year long, but the need for courageous conversations is always heightened during this season. We're chatting with Shelby County Commission Chairwoman Miska Clay Bibbs about the nuances of the job, the need activation, and where and how citizens of Memphis and Shelby County can take that action. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Previous episodes focusing on civic opportunities include: Rock the Vote: Ballot Basics 101, On The Record: Ballot Basics 102, and A Conversation with Elected OfficialsState and federal primary and county general elections are just around the corner._ _For election details and a sample ballot, click here.Shelby County CommissionersMemphis Shelby County School BoardFive Black women advance to general election, changing landscape of Shelby County CommissionTeach for America MemphisTeach PlusNew Memphis Fellows and LDI programsMemphis ChallengeJohn Gaston Hospital that became Regional One HealthMichael Whaley will be the next chairman of Shelby County CommissionContact information for Chairwoman Clay Bibbs includes email Miska.ClayBibbs@shelbycountytn.gov and phone number 901-222-1000 This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"If we're looking at long term solutions, the changes need to be within the systems that prevent people from realizing the opportunities they can have." How would our city change if we collaborated more? New Memphis convened a series of  conversations with leaders from three visionary organizations who are revolutionizing the way Memphis develops and implements solutions. Hear how these big visions for big change are coming to life and learn how you can get involved to amplify access in this week's episode! Resources mentioned in this episode include: New Memphis Leadership Summit on August 9, 2024TEDxMemphis on September 28, 2024More for MemphisSlingshot MemphisThe Collective BlueprintS4E18 Explore the ExperiencesBlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"You borrow things from your neighbors, and the library is everyone's neighbor. We lend you our books, our space; why not lend other stuff, too?" They say don’t judge a book by the cover, but what about libraries? Memphis is full of unique libraries that create access and opportunity, not only for knowledge, but experiences. Today we’re chatting with Anthony Lucatelli and Jenna Pertl of Memphis Public Libraries to share about the access made possible through collaboration, specifically their Library of Things. Resources mentioned in this episode include: New Memphis Leadership SummitTEDxMemphis 2024Memphis Public LibrariesLibrary of ThingsSeed LibraryCloud901 Teen Learning LabYouth Action CouncilBRIDGESS4E7 "Leadership at Every Age"Language Learning at Memphis Public LibrariesCossitt Library Memphis Botanic GardenS4E16 "Not-So-Secret Garden"UT Agricultural Extension OfficeThe Works Inc.S4E26 "Full Bellies and Full Hearts"LINC 2-1-1Memphis Library FoundationFriends of the LibraryMemphis Area Legal ServicesMemphis Shelby County Room This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"The need is there; people are hungry. We will continue to provide resources, but we have to also figure out a way to truly make it attainable with the education piece and policy, too. We continue to be reactive rather than proactive... food should be a true right attainable to everyone." New Memphis has had several conversations about how social determinants of health all rely on each other for optimal community health. Research indicates a link between chronic diseases — such as heart disease, cancer, asthma, diabetes, and kidney disease — and low food security. This topic is often discussed around the holiday season, but it is of critical importance during the summer months, particularly for youth. Joining us to discuss the essential stopgaps as well as what is needed to address basic, structural problems, are Ann Perry Wallace of First Congo and Karen Bernard of The Works Inc. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Memphis 101 on July 112024 New Memphis Leadership Summit on August 92024 TEDxMemphis on September 28Memphis-Shelby County Schools Nutrition Services' Summer Meal Program through August 2, 2024. For a full list of participating sites, text "SummerMeals" to 97779, call 1-866-348-6479 or visit SCSK12.org/summermeals.MIFA's Meals on Wheels programming for seniorsThe Memphis Dream Center food resourcesThe Memphis Flyer article "The Fight for Food"The Works, IncFirst Congo ChurchMeanwhile in Memphis S3E47Food Swamps vs Food DesertsMid-South Food BankMid-South Food Bank's Mobile PantrySouth Memphis Farmers MarketMeanwhile in Memphis S3E11 This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

What does the path to public office look like at the local level? New Memphis recently hosted a live event at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art to explore this question and more...and we're bringing audio from the event to your inbox today! In a series of short, nonpartisan conversations in which elected officials interviewed each other, this week's episode gives some insight into what drew some our community's leaders – from mayors to State Representatives – to serve in public office, what motivates them to do the work, and what they hope will inspire other leaders to take an active role in the community. Additional resources to utilize include: S3E34: "Rock the Vote: Ballot Basics 101" on the importance of votingS3E39: "On the Record: Ballot Basics 102" on the role of journalism in politicsNew Memphis is proud to partner with Leadership for Educational Equity (LEE), a diverse, nonpartisan network of equity-minded leaders, to connect you to the training and tools that can get you ready to lead in public office or organize in your community.City of Memphis Mayor Paul YoungShelby County Commissioner Brandon MorrisonSchool Board Representative Amber Huett-GarciaState Representative Torrey HarrisShelby County Mayor Lee Harris This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

Whether or not you're a sports fan, there is something we can all learn from the way a team functions. Luckily for Memphis, there are some dedicated city champions who are working collaboratively to help the community evolve. Not only are they working to attract global sporting talent for locally-hosted events, they also work hard every day to shine a light on the city where the champions want to play: Memphis. Today's guests are: Joe Tomek | Executive Director, FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipJJ Greer | Director, Memphis Tourism's Sports Council Related Episodes and Resources include: S4E15: The Heartbeat of the CityS3E53: Trust the ProcessMemphis Sports and Events CenterTPC SouthwindLeftwich Tennis CenterThe Links at GallowayPGA's Equipment Grant ProgramMemphis Sports Experience & Hall of Fame This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"We do see real estate breathe new life into communities and neighborhoods where they go." How do residential and commercial real estate work together to create an attainable city? Hear what makes our city attractive to investors, renters, home-owners, and varied industries alike as Landon Williams and Worth Jones share trends, barriers, and exciting projects on the horizon. Resources mentioned in this episode include: New Memphis Summer ExperienceNew Memphis Leadership SummitNew Memphis Fellows Landon Williams of Cushman Wakefield Commercial AdvisorsWorth Jones of Ware Jones RealtorsLearn more about adaptive reuse in our conversation here.MBJ's Top 40 under 40 F3 MemphisAdvance Memphis Memphis Teacher ResidencyWolf River ConservancyMemphis Inner City Rugby (BONUS: Learn more about MICR in our conversation here)Memphis ranks above D.C., Chicago, Philadelphia and more in list of Top Metros in the U.S.Shelby Farms Park and Memphis River Parks (BONUS: Learn more about our city's 3 signature parks in our conversation here)Memphis Botanic GardensDixon Gallery and GardensCrosstown ConcourseThe Standard in GermantownNorthSide SquareOrange Mound Library in the space of former Melrose High buildingBlue Oval CityMemphis as a hub for Black Tech TalentLiberty Park This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

Does behavior and mindset impact medical outcomes? We discuss how holistic care is a critical piece of the healthcare sector with Leighanne Soden of the West Cancer Foundation and Dr. Marian Levy of The University of Memphis' School of Public Health. Together they share the confidence-building the resources available to Mid-South patients and caregivers that provide grow confidence and take back their own story from their diagnosis. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Celebrate What's Right: Big Visions for Big ChangeNew Memphis Leadership SummitUniversity of Memphis School of Public HealthWest Cancer FoundationDr. Marian LevyShe to SeaRide to RosemaryWest Fight On This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"As a kid I spent so much time trying to not be different, but I finally realized being different is my superpower." Today's conversation takes a closer look at inclusive, healthy communities -- how they're created, why visible leadership is critical, and their impact to city livability. For communities to thrive, all members must be valued, safe, and respected. Renee Parker Sekander and Fire Chief Gina Sweat share their experiences in their respective career paths, the economic impact of diverse communities, and what it means to be visible advocates of inclusion. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Renee Sekander named City of Memphis LGBTQ+ LiaisonGina Sweat named City of Memphis first female Fire Chief in 2016OUTMemphisFriends for All TN Equality ProjectThe Queer Joy ProjectPrevious "Meanwhile in Memphis" podcast conversations about equality and inclusion can be found here, here, and here. This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

"There is an age where [young people] stop believing they can do anything and start to develop language about comparison. We need mentors, who are not the parent or caregiver, there to help young people grow in self respect, develop resiliency, and get back to believing in themselves." Do extracurricular activities impact student success in the classroom? Giving young people tools to manage stress, reach goals, and create community early in life is helping the next generation of Memphis leaders focus on total wellness. LeaRaya Cole and Joanna Lipman share how their respective organizations are keeping young people's social, emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing in check to ensure a lifetime of success both inside the classroom and in the game of life. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Celebrate What's Right: Big Visions for Big Change on June 11Bevo Boys Fitness AcademyCoach KennyMemphis Amateur Sports Hall of FameGirls on the Run MemphisNew Memphis activation workvolunteer opportunities with Bevo Boys Fitness Academyvolunteer for Girls on the Run MemphisDonate to Bevo Boys hereDonate to Girls on the Run Memphis here This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.