Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Piya's project focused on increasing education and awareness around neurodiversity advocacy, a topic that is close to her heart. She began by founding her school's first neurodiversity affinity group, creating a safe space for neurodivergent youth. Piya shared her journey of developing workshops and assemblies for both her peers and teachers, emphasizing the importance of updated training on neurodiversity. With the support of her school's learning support team and feedback from neurodivergent students, she was able to create impactful presentations and a toolkit to help others start similar initiatives across the country. We discussed the challenges she faced, particularly in implementing neurodiversity training at her school, and how she overcame them through persistence and collaboration with school administration. Piya also reflected on the rewarding moments of her project, especially the positive feedback from students who felt represented and heard. In addition to her work with Girl Scouts, Piya is involved in the Miss America organization, where she continues her advocacy for neurodiversity. She highlighted how her experiences in both organizations have empowered her and provided her with unique opportunities to make a difference in her community. Piya encouraged other Girl Scouts to pursue their Gold Award, sharing how her passion for neurodiversity advocacy developed through her previous awards and experiences. She emphasized the importance of exploring interests and taking advantage of opportunities, as they can lead to impactful projects and personal growth. More About Piya: Piya Scielzo is an incoming freshman at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Piya has been an active Girl Scout since 1st grade, and is now a lifetime member. She has earned her bronze, silver, and gold awards. To earn her Gold Award, Piya led a small team in several neurodiversity initiatives to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and reduce stigma. She also created and distributed a comprehensive toolkit with resources for students to replicate creating a safe space and hosting educational workshops in their communities across the country. Piya has served on the Girl Advisory Board for the Nation’s Capital for the past three years. Outside of Girl Scouts, Piya is the current Miss Montgomery County’s Teen, under the Miss America Organization. Piya uses her pageant platform, ‘Think Differently’, to share her neurodiversity advocacy with a wider audience. https://www.instagram.com/missmocosteenmd/ Key Takeaways from this episode: Neurodiversity Advocacy: Piya's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on increasing education and awareness about neurodiversity, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals in educational settings. Community Engagement: Piya successfully engaged with her school's learning support team and neurodivergent students to create effective training workshops for teachers, demonstrating the value of collaboration and feedback in community projects. Empowerment through Leadership: Piya's involvement in both Girl Scouts and the Miss America Organization has allowed her to expand her advocacy work, showing how leadership opportunities can enhance personal growth and community impact. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Mikenna shares how she created a platform to record and share the authentic stories of seniors in her community, which she then uploaded to YouTube and a dedicated website. She also made personalized booklets for each senior interviewed, ensuring they had a tangible copy of their story. Mikenna's journey began with her long-standing visits to a local nursing home, where she built meaningful relationships with the residents. Her project expanded beyond her initial nursing home to include another facility, capturing a diverse range of stories from a Holocaust survivor to a World War II veteran. Choosing podcasting as her medium, Mikenna found it to be a more comfortable and accessible format for the seniors, many of whom were hesitant about being on video. She emphasized the power of hearing someone's real voice and the deep connection it fosters. Throughout the project, Mikenna faced challenges such as understanding the technical aspects of podcasting and navigating legalities like consent forms. She also had to refine her Gold Award proposal multiple times to meet the requirements, learning valuable lessons about planning and execution. One of the most impactful stories she shared was about a Holocaust survivor, whose son helped recount her incredible acts of bravery and kindness. This experience, along with connecting with a young author who also worked with Holocaust survivors, highlighted the intergenerational impact of her project. Mikenna's dedication to her project didn't end with earning her Gold Award. She continues to interview seniors and has even developed an app concept to further her mission. Her story is a testament to the profound difference one can make through passion and perseverance. More About Mikenna: Mikenna has been involved in Girl Scouts for 13 years, where she has enjoyed working with her troop and mentoring younger troops by sharing the knowledge she has gained as a Girl Scout. For her Gold Award, she created a podcast series to interview seniors, giving them a platform to share their stories and ensuring they are remembered. Beyond visiting the nursing home that inspired her project, Mikenna enjoys singing, learning sign language, reading, writing stories, and volunteering. Looking ahead, she plans to continue supporting Girl Scouts, likely as a troop leader, while helping others in college and beyond. Even though her Gold Award project has been completed, Mikenna hopes to continue interviewing seniors as part of her ongoing efforts. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIO25jjEvAoq3m26XWHF7JQ https://sites.google.com/view/silver-stories-40202?usp=sharing Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. The Importance of Storytelling: Mikenna emphasizes the value of sharing authentic stories from seniors in her community through her Silver Stories podcast. This project not only preserves their voices but also connects different generations, highlighting the significance of understanding and valuing the experiences of older individuals. 2. Challenges and Growth in the Gold Award Process: Mikenna discusses the challenges she faced while navigating the Gold Award process, including the need for clear proposals and understanding the logistics of her project. She learned that thorough planning and adaptability are crucial for success, which ultimately helped her grow and refine her project. 3. Impact Beyond the Award: Mikenna’s experience with the Gold Award has inspired her to continue her project beyond its completion. She has taken her initiative further by designing an app to facilitate the recording of seniors' stories, demonstrating that the Gold Award is not just about earning a badge but about making a lasting impact in the community. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Sammie, a remarkable Girl Scout who shares her journey of earning the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award. Sammie's project, Sammy's Toy Drive, was inspired by the tragic shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Initially starting as a simple toy drive, it evolved into a full-fledged nonprofit organization aimed at supporting survivors of gun violence through healing events and community building. Sammie detailed the emotional and logistical challenges she faced, including the initial rejection of her first project proposal and the intense grief associated with her work. Despite these hurdles, her dedication to honoring the 21 victims of the Uvalde shooting kept her motivated. She shared touching stories about the victims and their families, emphasizing the importance of remembering and supporting those affected by gun violence. We also discussed the operational aspects of Sammie's Toy Drive, including how donations are collected and the types of events organized. Sammie highlighted the importance of empathy, patience, and taking breaks to avoid burnout during such emotionally taxing work. In addition to her Gold Award project, Sammie talked about her future plans, including attending trade school to become an esthetician, and her ongoing advocacy work. She also shared her experiences with other Girl Scout awards and her love for Twilight Camp. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community and the importance of supporting survivors of gun violence. Sammie's story is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, showcasing her resilience and dedication to making a difference. More About Sammie: Sammie has been a member of Girl Scouts since the age of six and is now entering her final year this fall. During her time with Girl Scouts, she served as an OWL at Twilight Camp and earned her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. Sammie graduated from high school a year early and will be attending trade school to become an Esthetician this fall. In addition to her studies, she is co-authoring a book with another activist, focusing on the victims of gun violence in schools. https://www.sammiestoydrive.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sammiestoydrive?igsh=bXVxcDhuaXp6bmF2&utm_source=qr Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Community Healing Through Connection: Sammy's project, Sammy's Toy Drive, focuses on providing healing events for communities affected by gun violence, particularly in Uvalde. These events foster connections among families and children, helping them cope with their grief and build friendships. 2. Empathy and Advocacy: Throughout her journey, Sammy emphasizes the importance of empathy when working with families affected by gun violence. She aims to honor the victims by sharing their stories and advocating for awareness around the long-lasting impact of such tragedies on communities. 3. Resilience in Project Development: Sammy faced challenges, including the denial of her initial Gold Award project proposal. However, she demonstrated resilience by pivoting to the toy drive and emphasizing the importance of taking breaks and being patient with oneself during the project development process. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Amelia developed an app called Historic Lamont, a location-aware walking tour app that highlights the hidden historical gems of her hometown, Lamont, a suburb of Chicago. Inspired by a limited-availability walking tour from the Lamont Historical Society, Amelia wanted to make local history more accessible to everyone in her community. Amelia shared fascinating historical facts she uncovered, such as the local metro station witnessing President Lincoln's funeral train and being a site of the Lamont Massacre. She detailed the technical challenges she faced, including learning a new programming language and navigating Apple's stringent App Store approval process. Despite these hurdles, she successfully launched the app with the help of various community members, including the Lamont Historical Society, her history teacher, and students from her school's Historical Honor Society and Art Honor Society. Amelia also discussed the extensive community involvement in her project, estimating that over 1,000 hours were collectively invested. She emphasized the importance of starting early and being thorough in the Gold Award application process. Amelia's project not only made local history more accessible but also significantly boosted her confidence and skills, from writing professional emails to public speaking. Looking ahead, Amelia plans to attend the University of Chicago, majoring in computer science and possibly history or economics. She has already dabbled in AI and machine learning and hopes to integrate these fields with her historical interests. Amelia's story is a testament to the transformative power of the Girl Scout Gold Award, and she encourages other Girl Scouts to pursue their projects with dedication and passion. More About Amelia: Amelia Dunkin is a recent graduate of Lemont High School. She has been a dedicated member of the Girl Scouts for 12 years, progressing from Daisy to Ambassador. Throughout her involvement, she both attended and served as a counselor at her local Girl Scout summer camp. Amelia's Girl Scout journey culminated in earning her Gold Award through the development of an app called *Historic Lemont*, a location-aware iOS app designed to highlight the rich but often overlooked history of her town. In addition to her work with the Girl Scouts, Amelia was actively involved in various academic and extracurricular activities throughout high school. She participated in several honor societies, co-captained the Mathletes team, and played varsity on the Scholastic Bowl, Academic Challenge, and Bowling teams. She also volunteered with Special Olympics and the Northern Will County Special Recreation Association, where she is now employed. This fall, Amelia will attend the University of Chicago, where she plans to major in Computer Science and History. She aims to pursue interdisciplinary studies, particularly in the field of machine learning.   Key Takeaways from this episode: Community Involvement: Amelia's Girl Scout Gold Award project, the Historic Lamont app, was supported by various community members and organizations, including the Lamont Historical Society, local history teachers, and student groups, highlighting the importance of collaboration in community projects. Learning and Growth: The process of creating the app taught Amelia valuable skills, including coding in a new programming language and navigating the app submission process, which contributed to her personal development and confidence. Encouragement for Future Girl Scouts: Amelia emphasizes the transformative experience of pursuing the Gold Award, encouraging others to take on the challenge as it can significantly enhance their skills, self-perception, and community engagement. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Camilla's project aims to build more united communities by educating people about different Asian cultures through workshops, YouTube vlogs, and a beautifully illustrated book. Camilla shared that her project was prompted by the rise in Asian hate crimes during the pandemic, which motivated her to use education as a tool to foster understanding and empathy. She detailed the three components of her project: interactive workshops at YMCA branches, vlogs exploring various Asian communities in Los Angeles, and her book, which she successfully fundraised $6,000 to publish and distribute. We discussed the challenges she faced, particularly in fundraising and public speaking, and how she overcame them by leveraging her network and stepping out of her comfort zone. Camilla also highlighted the importance of persistence and creating opportunities for oneself. One of the most heartwarming moments she shared was a memory from a school presentation where a young boy excitedly talked about his love for pho, showcasing the impact her project had on children. Camilla's story is a testament to the power of passion and dedication in making a positive impact on the community.    More About Camilla: Camilla Chan is an Asian American who has been in Girl Scouts for 13 years. Her favorite Girl Scout activities are those associated with the outdoors: hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, etc. Outside of Girl Scouts, Camilla enjoys playing the violin, playing table tennis and pickleball, and drawing. For her Gold Award project, Camilla hosted workshops, vlogged local Asian communities, and wrote a children’s book in order to educate others about Asian cultures and build more united communities. She aims to publish a second children’s book that follows a similar theme. As a prospective computer engineering major at UCLA, she hopes to protect individuals from cyber attacks and contribute to a world with safe AI regulations. Whether it is through Girl Scouts or college, Camilla aims to hold true to the Girl Scout motto “Make the World a Better Place.” Website: hiddenjewelsofasia.com Instagram: @hiddenjewelsofasia Youtube Channel: www.youtube.com/@chicken6215   Key Takeaways from this episode: Camilla's Girl Scout Gold Award project, "Hidden Jewels of Asia," aimed to build more united communities through workshops, YouTube vlogs, and a published book. Camilla overcame challenges with funding and public speaking by finding passion in working with children and seeking support from her team, including her parents, teachers, friends, and community partners. Camilla's project had a global reach, with viewers from 21 states and 14 countries visiting her website, showcasing the impact and reach of her project. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Neha's project, centered around dogs and the issue of overcrowded shelters, led her to create a nonprofit called Pawprints. The nonprofit focuses on raising awareness about the importance of microchipping and GPS tracking collars to prevent dogs from getting lost and ending up in shelters. Neha shared her personal connection to the project, including her experience rescuing her dog Aggie, who was saved from euthanasia at an overcrowded shelter. She discussed the educational materials she created, which include information on properly registering microchips and options for GPS tracking collars. One of the biggest challenges Neha faced was her fear of public speaking, which she overcame by preparing thoroughly and diving into the experience. She credited her mom, project advisor Kelly Carey, and council advisor Marty Hall for their support throughout the project. Neha also reflected on her growth through the project, particularly in public speaking and time management, as she balanced her project with school and other activities. She encouraged future Girl Scouts to pursue their Gold Award despite the challenges, emphasizing the rewarding nature of the process. Neha shared her future plans, including her goal to become a dentist, and her hopes for the continuation of her nonprofit. We wrapped up with a fun question about how she makes her s'mores, revealing her preference for slightly burnt marshmallows.   More About Neha: After adopting her senior dog from a shelter, Neha understood the severity of overcrowding in animal shelters. While most people focus on pet adoption as a solution to overcrowding, she wanted to address the problem of people losing their pets, which often end up in shelters until they are found. Neha identified microchips and GPS collars as an easy but underutilized solution for lost pets. She spoke at shelters and created pamphlets, social media accounts, and a website to share information on GPS collars and encourage pet owners to purchase one for their pets. Neha has been in Girl Scouts since she was a Daisy in Kindergarten and plans to continue until she graduates from high school this upcoming school year. Through school, she is involved in the speech and debate team as well as the varsity bowling team. Outside of school, Neha enjoys participating in Krav Maga and playing the piano. After she graduates, she plans to pursue a career in dentistry.   Key Takeaways from this episode: Addressing Root Causes: Neha's Gold Award project focused on addressing the root causes of overcrowded shelters by promoting the use of microchips and GPS tracking collars to prevent dogs from getting lost and ending up in shelters. Personal Connection: Neha's personal connection to the project stemmed from her love for dogs, particularly her own rescue dog, Aggie, who was saved from being euthanized at an overcrowded shelter. Overcoming Challenges: Neha faced and overcame her fear of public speaking through her project, which ultimately helped her grow and become more confident in speaking engagements. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Adoriam, a passionate Girl Scout, shares her inspiring journey of earning the Girl Scout Gold Award. Adoriam’s project focused on addressing the declining bird population in Houston, a city that ranks as the second worst in America for migratory birds. Through her project, she aimed to educate the community about the importance of being bird-friendly by conducting workshops, creating videos, and providing resources. Adoriam’s interest in conservation was sparked by her involvement in the Glenn Miller Agriculture Program, where she connected with professionals in the field. This led her to collaborate with various organizations such as the YMCA, Houston Audubon, and the Nature Heritage Society. She conducted workshops teaching people how to make bird feeders and birdhouses from recycled materials and emphasized the importance of turning off lights at night to protect migratory birds. Throughout the episode, Adoriam shares the challenges she faced, including meeting deadlines and managing large events, and how these experiences helped her grow in networking and leadership skills. She also highlights the support she received from her family, mentors, and community, which was crucial to her success. Adoriam’s passion for conservation and her dedication to her project have not only earned her the Gold Award but also inspired many others in her community. She offers valuable advice to other Girl Scouts considering the Gold Award, encouraging them to pursue their passions and make a difference. We also get a glimpse into Adoriam's other Girl Scout experiences, including a memorable Costa Rica trip fundraiser and her love for camping and outdoor activities. She concludes with a fun and detailed description of how she makes the perfect s'more. More About: Through Adoriam's 13-year Girl Scout journey, she has had some amazing experiences. From volunteering at events in Houston to earning her Gold Award, where she learned the power of service and dedication. Creating a virtual walkathon and Halloween carousel fundraiser for her Costa Rica trip taught her leadership skills and communication. Besides Girl Scouts, Adoriam has been a part of school clubs like BPA, Speech and Debate, and Student Council. After graduating high school, she now attends Texas A&M University as part of the class of 2027, studying Bioenvironmental Science. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adoriam_dewalt?igsh=MW1pNmoxcnBkdzh6Yw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Articles:  https://houstonaudublog.org/2023/01/30/diy-water-feature-with-drip/ https://houstonaudublog.org/2023/01/17/diy-bird-feeder/ https://aframnews.com/two-girls-educate-community-on-agriculture/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adoriam-dewalt-7aa21b26b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_con   Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Dorian's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on addressing the decreasing bird population in Houston due to urbanization and industrialization. 2. Dorian connected with various organizations and partners, such as the YMCA, Glenn Miller Foundation, Houston Audubon, and Nature Heritage Society, to educate communities about bird conservation. 3. Dorian's experience with the Girl Scouts, including fundraising for a Costa Rica trip, organizing virtual events during COVID, and participating in camping and outdoor activities, has shaped her passion for sustainability and conservation. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Savannah, a dedicated Girl Scout who shared her journey of earning the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award. Savannah's project focused on improving the trails at her local animal shelter. She identified the need for better-marked trails to help volunteers and visitors navigate the area more easily. Her project involved cleaning up existing trails, adding new ones, naming them, and creating a detailed map with mileage information. She also developed a pamphlet for new volunteers to help them understand the shelter's rules and how they can contribute. One of the unique aspects of Savannah's project was the creation of color-coded signs for the trails. Despite some challenges with the durability of the materials, she learned valuable lessons about project management and material selection. Savannah's dedication to her project, even while juggling a busy high school schedule, is truly commendable. Savannah also shared her experiences with time management, the importance of teamwork, and the support she received from her family, friends, and fellow scouts. She emphasized the significance of the global link in the Gold Award process, connecting her project to broader issues like volunteerism and health. In addition to her Gold Award project, Savannah continues to support her Girl Scout troop, helping younger members with their own awards and serving as a role model. She is currently a sophomore at Austin Peay State University, studying engineering technology with a concentration in mechatronics, and is actively involved in various roles on campus. Savannah's story is a testament to the impact of the Girl Scout Gold Award and the importance of perseverance, planning, and community support.    More About Savannah: Savannah has been a Girl Scout since she was in the second grade. Her mom became her troop leader when she was a first-year junior. Savannah earned her Silver Award in 2019. She is the first Girl Scout from her service unit to earn her Gold Award in 11 years and is the fourth Girl Scout to age out from her service unit within the same amount of time. As a senior in high school, she was part of many clubs but still found time to complete her Gold Award and lead the Girl Scout Seniors in earning badges. During the fall of 2023, she was a leader to the Brownies. Now, Savannah is mentoring the different age groups through their courses of earning the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. When she had her last badge ceremony as a Girl Scout, her troop surprised her with a lifetime membership. This summer, Savannah is working as a nature counselor at Camp Sycamore Hills. She is attending Austin Peay State University and pursuing her bachelor's degree in engineering technology with a concentration in Mechatronics. At the university, she is also a writing tutor and a lab assistant for the engineering technology department.   Key Takeaways from this episode: Importance of Time Management: Savannah highlighted the challenge of time management during her Gold Award project, especially while juggling multiple responsibilities in high school. She emphasized the need to write everything down to keep track of hours and tasks effectively. Teamwork and Collaboration: Savannah's project involved a team effort, including volunteers, family, friends, and even Boy Scouts. The collaboration and support from her team members were crucial in successfully completing the project. Continuous Improvement and Adaptation: Despite facing challenges with the signage for the trails, Savannah remained resilient and open to feedback. She iterated on the design based on input from the animal shelter, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation in her project. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  We had the pleasure of speaking with Elizabeth, a freshman in college who recently completed her Girl Scout Gold Award project. Elizabeth's project, titled "Wisdom Wings," aims to support survivors of sexual abuse by providing care packages to police stations. These packages include stress toys, journals, pens, and informational pamphlets to help victims navigate the reporting process. Elizabeth shared her personal connection to the project, revealing her own experience with abuse as a child and the challenges she faced in reporting it. This deeply personal journey inspired her to write a children's book, "Lee Learns a Lesson," which teaches kids about consent and boundaries. The book is available on Amazon, and all profits go towards funding the care packages. Throughout the episode, Elizabeth discussed the various challenges she faced, including coordinating with police stations and writing a children's book. She also highlighted the support she received from her illustrator, Holly Perda, and the Orange County Mental Health Organization. Elizabeth's project has received positive feedback from both police officers and survivors who have benefited from the care packages. She also shared her favorite memories from the project, including her first public speaking event and receiving the first physical copy of her book. In addition to her Gold Award project, Elizabeth talked about her previous Girl Scout achievements, including her Bronze and Silver Awards. She also offered advice for other Girl Scouts considering similar projects, emphasizing the importance of passion and perseverance. Elizabeth's story is a powerful example of how personal experiences can inspire meaningful change. Her dedication to supporting survivors of sexual abuse and her passion for writing and public speaking are truly inspiring. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to share her journey on the Hearts of Gold podcast. More About Elizabeth: I’ve been in Girl Scouts since I was in first grade. I’ve completed my Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award. Through my Fold Award I have found my passion for writing a children’s book, speaking out about my story, and supporting survivors of sexual abuse. I’m currently finishing my last week of my freshman year of college at Suny Cortland with a dual major in Business Economics and Communication. In addition, I have had my book placed in three libraries; Bruggemeyer Library (Monterey Park, CA), Alhambra Civic Library (Alhambra, CA), and Queens Public Library (Queens, NY). You can also find the eBook on my website at hiddenjewelsofasia.com. Website Link: https://linktr.ee/wisdomwings?utm_source=linktree_profile_share Link to ebook: www.hiddenjewelsofasia.com   Key Takeaways from this episode: Elizabeth's Girl Scout Gold Award project, Wisdom Wings, focuses on supporting survivors of sexual abuse by providing care packages and a children's book called "Lee Learns a Lesson." Elizabeth's personal connection to her project stems from her own experience of being abused as a child, which inspired her to create resources to help others in similar situations. Elizabeth's project has received positive feedback, with care packages being helpful to survivors and her book receiving support and praise. She has also expanded her project to college campuses and is continuously working to grow and sustain it. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  We had the pleasure of speaking with Haley about her impactful Girl Scout Gold Award project. Haley's project focuses on raising awareness about the dangers of distracted walking, particularly in her hometown of Houston, Texas. She observed that many people, especially younger generations, are often engrossed in their phones while walking, which poses significant safety risks. Haley shared how her project was inspired by the lack of attention given to pedestrian safety compared to the numerous campaigns on distracted driving. She created a website, brochure, and a Public Service Announcement (PSA) to educate students, particularly those in driving schools, about the importance of staying aware of their surroundings while walking. Haley's project was a collaborative effort, involving her mother, a video creator who served as her Gold Award advisor, and representatives from the Houston Police Department and Metro Rail. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Haley successfully completed her project with the support of her team. We also discussed the roles of a project advisor and a council mentor, and how Haley's advisor, with her video editing skills, significantly strengthened the project. Haley emphasized the importance of choosing a project advisor who can fill in the gaps in your skill set and provide valuable guidance. Haley reflected on the challenges she faced, including balancing her project with her senior year of high school and overcoming doubts about the project's importance. She shared her favorite memory of the project, which was the collaborative and fun process of editing the PSA video. In addition to her Gold Award project, Haley talked about her long-standing involvement with Girl Scouts, her experiences with volunteering, and a memorable destination trip to Los Angeles where she learned about filmmaking. She highlighted the importance of choosing a project that you are passionate about and the fulfillment that comes from making a positive impact on the community. Haley is currently a senior in college, pursuing a degree in computer science with a focus on data analytics. She plans to continue her involvement in volunteer and charity work while exploring her creative interests. To wrap up the episode, Haley shared her unique way of making s'mores, preferring a lightly toasted marshmallow with a honey graham cracker and a Hershey's bar. Thank you for joining us today, and be sure to follow or subscribe to stay updated on new episodes. If you have a Gold Award story to share, reach out to us at growandshareatoutlook.com. Catch up on previous episodes on your favorite podcast platforms or watch the full video versions on YouTube. More About Hailey: Hi! My name is Hailey, and I'm a proud Girl Scouts of San Jacinto County alum. I've been a Girl Scout from 2009 to 2022, and I've been awarded the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award. I've also been awarded the Senior and Cadette Journey Summit Award, and the Silver & Gold Torch Award. I'm currently in my senior year of college studying Computer Science at the University of Houston Clear Lake, and I plan on graduating this December 2024. Website Link: https://www.petextriansafety.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haileyrthomas01 Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Haley's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on raising awareness about distracted walking, especially among younger generations. 2. Haley emphasized the importance of finding a project advisor who complements your skills and fills in your weak points to make the project stronger. 3. Haley shared her future plans of pursuing a degree in computer science and working in data analytics, while also expressing a desire to continue volunteering and charity work. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Valerie's Girl Scout Gold Award project addressed the critical issue of cat overpopulation in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. Partnering with her local Humane Society, HAWS, she contributed to their Project Guardian initiative by building weather-resistant cat shelters and creating an educational video presentation on the causes and effects of cat overpopulation. Valerie shared her journey, from her initial inspiration driven by her love for animals to the challenges she faced, particularly with the technological aspects of her project. She emphasized the importance of communication and leadership, skills she honed throughout her project. Valerie also highlighted the support she received from her project advisors, her troop, and her family, which was instrumental in her success. We delved into her favorite memories, including building the shelters with her troop and the satisfaction of seeing her project come to fruition. Valerie also offered valuable advice for other Girl Scouts considering their Gold Award, encouraging them to take the leap and reassuring them of the support available throughout the process. Currently studying mass communications with an emphasis on public relations at Winona State University, Valerie aspires to work for an organization that positively impacts the community, potentially even Girl Scouts. More About Valerie: Valerie has been a part of Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast since 1st grade. Her troop created birdhouses for the Chinook Program Center for their Bronze Award and organized a community game night at their middle school to collect supplies and raise awareness for veterans for their Silver Award. Now, she and her troop return to day camp as alumni volunteers. In addition to her involvement in Girl Scouts, Valerie has participated in the National Honor Society, the Girls Golf team, and the marching band at her high school. She is currently studying Mass Communications with an emphasis on Public Relations at Winona State University, where she is also a member of Delta Phi Epsilon. With her degree, she hopes to work for a business that gives back to the community, such as a local news station or her local Girl Scout council. Project Link: https://hawspets.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2021_HAWS_TattleTails_AUGUST_forWeb.pdf Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Valerie's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on addressing cat overpopulation in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, by creating shelters for feral cats and educating the community about the issue. 2. Valerie learned the importance of communication, leadership, and time management skills throughout her project, highlighting the support and guidance available to Gold Award candidates. 3. Starting her project in the sophomore year allowed Valerie to develop skills and passion for her project, although she acknowledged that working with shorter timeframes might have helped her prioritize tasks more efficiently. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Kaylee, an inspiring young woman who has achieved remarkable feats both in her Girl Scout journey and in her athletic endeavors, shares the story of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, where she built over 100 feet of wooden bridges on the John P. Saylor Trail in Gallitzin State Forest. This project was inspired by her own experiences running on the muddy trails and aimed to improve the trail for all users. She discusses the challenges she faced, and how she overcame them with the help of her friends and the local community. Kaylee also delved into her passion for ultra marathon running, revealing that she started running ultras at the age of 14 and recently became the youngest person to complete the Badwater 135, known as the world's toughest foot race and the crucial role her support crew played in her success. Throughout our conversation, Kaylee emphasized the importance of leadership, teamwork, and communication, skills she honed through both her Gold Award project and her ultra running. She also shared her future aspirations, including her double major in biology and secondary education, and offered encouraging words for future Gold Award Girl Scouts. Kaylee's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community support, and the impact of Girl Scouts beyond just selling cookies. Her dedication to her projects and her sport is truly inspiring, and I am grateful she took the time to share her journey with us. More About Kaylee: Kaylee started Girl Scouts as a Daisy in Kindergarten and remained an active member all the way through her senior year of high school as an Ambassador. She was also very active in extracurriculars and sports at Conemaugh Township, including soccer, track and field, cross country, Rotary Interact Club, Jazz Band, and Spanish Club. Kaylee is a CrossFit Level One Trainer and an avid ultra-marathon runner outside of school. She is attending the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown to obtain a double major in biology and secondary education and a minor in chemistry with hopes of becoming a high school biology teacher. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaylee.frederick.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frederick.kaylee/ Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Kaylee's Gold Award project involved building wooden bridges on a local trail to improve the experience for hikers and runners. 2. Kaylee's experience running ultra marathons, including completing the challenging Badwater 135 race, showcases her determination and endurance. 3. Kaylee's involvement in CrossFit and coaching at a local gym demonstrates her commitment to fitness and helping others achieve their goals. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Isabel has been in Girl Scouts since kindergarten. Isabel and her troop have plans to stay together with her friends until they graduate from High School. They are saving all their cookies and fall products proceeds for a cruise in 2027. Some of Isabel's best memories in Girl Scouting were the photo booth they had at their Bronze Award Community Pet Care Fair, doing a baking class over zoom during COVID, and going to Universal and Savannah with her troop. Scouting has given her plenty of memories to share with others like camping in the low 30’s in the treehouses at Indian Echo, attending the National Girl Scout Convention in Orlando where she met scouts from all over the World, all the fun they had renovating the Heritage Room for the Marines as part of their Silver Award, and many more. Through Girl Scouts, Isabel has been able to travel too… Last summer she went to Tallahassee, Helen, and Savannah Georgia, and Asheville North Carolina. After this spring break she'll be going to India; she can't wait for that trip. Besides Girl Scouts, she’s also an active member of BSA. With them, she gets to camp every month and try outdoor activities like canoeing, tubing, outdoor cooking, hiking, etc. She also gets to meet scouts from other schools and try other things. Isabel's plans include attending college to pursue a STEM career like engineering. This summer she will attend a summer program training that would help her not only explore college campuses but also determine which type of engineering she likes. https://sites.google.com/view/isabels-gold-award-project/home?fbclid=IwAR3pDi5HySifOcCznVQ86bCkCCQWafI876v9O6Y5WtS-mQargrE8LT-k2RM Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Isabel's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on water conservation, including replacing shower heads, installing rain barrels, and educating others on water efficiency. 2. Isabel learned the importance of accepting help from others during her Gold Award project, emphasizing that leadership involves collaboration and support. 3. Isabel shared her experience at Lowe's, highlighting the challenges of public speaking and the importance of persistence in engaging with the audience. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Isabel has been in Girl Scouts since kindergarten. Isabel and her troop have plans to stay together with her friends until they graduate from High School. They are saving all their cookies and fall products proceeds for a cruise in 2027. Some of Isabel's best memories in Girl Scouting were the photo booth they had at their Bronze Award Community Pet Care Fair, doing a baking class over zoom during COVID, and going to Universal and Savannah with her troop. Scouting has given her plenty of memories to share with others like camping in the low 30’s in the treehouses at Indian Echo, attending the National Girl Scout Convention in Orlando where she met scouts from all over the World, all the fun they had renovating the Heritage Room for the Marines as part of their Silver Award, and many more. Through Girl Scouts, Isabel has been able to travel too… Last summer she went to Tallahassee, Helen, and Savannah Georgia, and Asheville North Carolina. After this spring break she'll be going to India; she can't wait for that trip. Besides Girl Scouts, she’s also an active member of BSA. With them, she gets to camp every month and try outdoor activities like canoeing, tubing, outdoor cooking, hiking, etc. She also gets to meet scouts from other schools and try other things. Isabel's plans include attending college to pursue a STEM career like engineering. This summer she will attend a summer program training that would help her not only explore college campuses but also determine which type of engineering she likes. https://sites.google.com/view/isabels-gold-award-project/home?fbclid=IwAR3pDi5HySifOcCznVQ86bCkCCQWafI876v9O6Y5WtS-mQargrE8LT-k2RM Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Isabel's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on water conservation, including replacing shower heads, installing rain barrels, and educating others on water efficiency. 2. Isabel learned the importance of accepting help from others during her Gold Award project, emphasizing that leadership involves collaboration and support. 3. Isabel shared her experience at Lowe's, highlighting the challenges of public speaking and the importance of persistence in engaging with the audience. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Sarah Bland is a high school senior from Richmond, Virginia, where she lives with her mom, dad, and brother. Sarah runs cross country and track year round, and she has been an active member of her Girl Scout troop for 13 years. In her free time, she loves exploring new restaurants, hiking with friends, baking, and working as a lifeguard. After graduation, she plans to attend university and study health sciences. Several years ago, Sarah experienced iron deficiency, which impacted her performance as an athlete and her health overall. After learning how common it is in female athletes, she decided to dedicate her Girl Scout Gold Project to educating others about iron deficiency in athletes. Her goal was to inform athletes, parents, and coaches about the importance of iron, and how to prevent and treat iron deficiency, so they can be healthy and reach their full potential. https://www.energetichealthyathlete.com/  https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/iron-deficiency-jan-18-2024 Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Iron Deficiency in Athletes: Sarah's Gold Award project focused on spreading awareness about iron deficiency in athletes, particularly female athletes. Up to 35% of female athletes may experience this condition, which is often overlooked by doctors. Sarah's project aimed to educate coaches, parents, and athletes about the signs and importance of getting tested for iron deficiency. 2. Creating Awareness through Infographics and Videos: Sarah utilized tools like Canva to create infographics and Doodly to make videos to explain the key information about iron deficiency. These visual aids helped in effectively communicating the message and educating the audience about the importance of iron levels in the body. 3. Persistence and Passion in Achieving Goals: Sarah's project took over 200 hours to complete, highlighting the time-consuming nature of the Gold Award process. Despite the challenges faced in creating a website, video, and conducting research, Sarah's passion for informing others about iron deficiency kept her motivated. She learned that with dedication and persistence, she could achieve her goals and make a positive impact in her community. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Watch the full episode! https://youtu.be/Z4CUJSXgLOw Sophia shares her inspiring Girl Scout Gold Award project, "Beyond the Attic Boutique," aimed at providing formal and special occasion wear for foster youth without the need to disclose their foster care status. She discusses how she collected donations, the process for foster children to access the boutique, and the heartwarming feedback she received. Sophia also reflects on her previous bronze and silver award projects, her experiences as a National Girl Scout Convention delegate, and the valuable skills she gained through Girl Scouting. She offers advice for Girl Scouts pursuing their Gold Award and highlights the importance of resilience in the face of rejection. Additionally, Sophia talks about her future plans in nursing and the support she received from her team. Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with empowerment and determination. More from Sofia: My name is Sofia Martinez and I’m from Las Vegas, Nevada. I started Girl Scouts in the second grade going in as a Brownie and ended as an Ambassador after I graduated and have moved on to being a lifetime member. Since then, I’ve gone on to receive my Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award and become involved in many other Girl Scout related activities such as Being selected as a Delegate for the National Girl Scout Convention, Dessert before Dinner, and more. Aside from Girl Scouts, I’ve played soccer my whole life and am an avid reader. Throughout high school, I was involved in many clubs such as Medical Society, NHS, and Key Club. Currently, I’m a freshman at the University of Alabama majoring in Nursing with plans to pursue a Master’s degree and become a Nurse Practitioner. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MIJu-7QXu0 Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4y

Erika shares her journey from her Gold Award project to becoming a mental health advocate, speaker, and author. Erika's Gold Award project combined her passion for dance with her desire to work with children, leading her to teach dance to underserved kids in Chicago. This experience not only fulfilled her goal of exposing children to the arts but also taught her invaluable lessons about love, leadership, and the impact of creative outlets on mental health. Erika opened up about her personal struggles with clinical depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety, which she has been dealing with since childhood. Her journey through these challenges led her to become an NBA cheerleader for the Chicago Bulls, a role that played a significant part in her path to recovery. Erika's experiences have fueled her mission to educate and empower others about mental health and wellness. She has since authored middle-grade books that weave mental health themes into engaging stories for young readers. Her books, "Squad Goals," "Cookie Monsters," and the upcoming "Insta Famous," aim to provide children with the language and tools to navigate their mental health and to normalize therapy. Erika's work is a testament to the power of channeling one's struggles into positive change for oneself and others. More about Erika: Erika J. Kendrick is a bestselling author, an award-winning national speaker, and a mental fitness expert. She earned a psychology degree from Stanford University and an MBA in marketing and international business from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Erika was an NBA cheerleader for the Chicago Bulls before writing her novels, Confessions of a Rookie Cheerleader and Appetite (Random House). She is currently touring her bestselling middle grade novels, Squad Goals and Cookie Monsters (Little, Brown Publishing). Her next novel, Instafamous, has a fall 2024 publication date. After battling her brain pain, Erika founded Mental Fitness for Life where she launched her Mental Fitness book tour, “Who Moved My Happy?” While talking to audiences of all backgrounds and ages, Erika shares her story of brain pain and inspires hope by creating safe spaces for life-saving conversations. She has presented, keynoted, and guest lectured at colleges and universities across the country as well as the US Army and Air Force, national sororities and fraternities, middle and high schools, conferences, and Fortune 500 corporations. She has toured with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and is a speaker with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) where she has been inducted into their Hall of Fame. Erika is a recipient of several “Who’s Who” honors, a Rising Icon honor, and several Awards of Excellence. Erika has taken the stage for TEDx, appeared on Good Morning America, NBC News, CBS News, The Wendy Williams Experience, national television and radio segments, and a host of other media outlets. She has been featured in several publications, including Page Six of The New York Post, The Huffington Post, The Chicago Tribune, and various magazines and digital media. https://www.instagram.com/erikajkendrick/ https://www.facebook.com/erikakendrick/ http://xoerika.com/ Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Sarah wrote a children's book interviewing girls from different countries. She connected with girls across the world to showcase how our lives may differ, but we share common interests and humanity. Sarah worked on this project all through high school and published the book on Amazon - what an impressive accomplishment! She shares her thought's on cross-cultural connections, youth leadership development, or taking on big creative projects. More from Sarah: I joined girl scouts as a daisy in 1st grade. I have been with the same troop since 2nd grade to graduation, they are all my best friends! I earned my silver award in 2018 for my project on water conservation. I began working on my Gold Award in my freshman year of high school, and I earned it my senior year. I currently attend Texas State University and I am double majoring in English and German. I am the Community Service Director for my sorority, Chi Omega. I am also apart of the women's rugby team. In the future I'd like to work in education or publishing! https://www.amazon.com/Girls-Around-World-celebration-illustrated/dp/B0BVPFKQRP https://sarahhennig01.wixsite.com/girls-around-the-wor Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Elsie created a wildlife habitat at Council Ground State Park. Discover how she built a butterfly garden, birdhouses, and a bat house, and engaged the community through educational sessions. Listen as she reflects on the challenges she faced, the support she received, and the impact of her project on wildlife. Her love for animals shines through as she discusses her studies in animal and veterinary biosciences and her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation filled with tips on how you can help wildlife in your own backyard. Follow along as she shares her experiences and encourages listeners to take action and make a difference. More from Elsie: Hi! I'm Elsie and I've been in Girl Scouts since kindergarten; I even have my "lifetime membership"! In addition to my Gold Award, I have also earned my Bronze and Silver awards. Another highlight of my Girl Scout background was my troop's trip to New York City when I was in high school. Outside of scouting, I am involved in dance and orchestra. More importantly, I have a strong passion for animal welfare. I am currently studying Animal & Veterinary Biosciences at the University of Wisconsin - Madison with the goal of attending vet school in the future. I hope my passion for welfare shined through my Gold Award as I worked to engage my community in wildlife conservation. https://www.facebook.com/WildlifeHabitatsWI https://sites.google.com/view/wildlifehabitatswi/home Key takeaways from the episode: Passion for Animal Welfare: Elsie's deep passion for animals and animal welfare shines through in every aspect of her project. From building a butterfly garden to educating the community on wildlife conservation, her dedication to helping wildlife is truly inspiring. Overcoming Challenges: Despite facing time constraints and navigating red tape at the state park, Elsie persevered and successfully completed her project. Her ability to stay organized, focused, and adaptable in the face of challenges is a testament to her determination and commitment. Community Engagement: Through educational sessions and outreach efforts, Elsie was able to engage the community and inspire others to take action in their own backyards. By sharing resources and practical tips, she empowered others to make a difference and support wildlife conservation efforts. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable, already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Afton, a former Girl Scout Gold Award recipient, shares her experience of completing her project in 2007, which involved collecting toiletries for domestic shelters in Knoxville, Tennessee. She reflects on the impact of her Girl Scout troop and her mother, who was the troop leader, in shaping her passion for community service and politics. Afton discusses how her Gold Award project influenced her career as a community organizer and state representative in Tennessee, where she advocates for voting rights and eliminating the grocery tax. She emphasizes the importance of pursuing projects that align with one's passion and encourages young women to make a difference in their communities.  More about Aftyn: Representative Aftyn Behn is the newest member of the Tennessee House of Representatives, serving House District 51, where she is the first female representative in over 50 years. She is the youngest serving woman in the Tennessee House and the only woman representing Nashville. She's currently the Campaign Director for RuralOrganizing.org, overseeing the organization's electoral strategy and execution and shaping the political and policy landscape impacting small towns and rural communities. Previously, she worked at the Indivisible Project as the Distributed Organizing Manager, building out national programs, including Indivisible's national rural program, one of the largest in the country. She also supported Indivisible's distributed network in long-term power building as the former senior regional organizer for Kentucky and Tennessee. Before Indivisible, she organized with the Tennessee Justice Center in 2017 during the national Medicaid and Affordable Care Act congressional fights. In 2016, she consulted with Switzerland's United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), developing community-based protection policies for special-interest refugee groups. Aftyn is from East Tennessee, a Girl Scout Gold Award winner, and received her MSW from the University of Texas at Austin Steve Hicks School of Social Work, specializing in public policy. http://instagram.com/aftynbehn https://twitter.com/AftynBehn Key takeaways from the episode: 1. Initiative and Resilience: Afton's Gold Award project required her to take initiative and show resilience by organizing and executing a toiletry donation drive for domestic shelters in Knoxville. 2. Impact of Girl Scouts: Afton's experience in Girl Scouts, including camping, learning about feminism, and community service, influenced her career path as a social worker and state representative, emphasizing the importance of the skills and values gained through Girl Scouts. 3. Community Engagement: Afton highlighted the importance of engaging with the community and using platforms like social media to amplify the impact of projects, emphasizing the need for passion and involvement in projects that address issues that resonate with the individual. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable, already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter’s YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ