In this special episode for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are honored to sit down with Tara Simmons, founder of Flip It for Life and a powerful voice for change. Tara shares her personal journey, shedding light on the challenges she has faced, the strengths she has discovered along the way, and what drives her to help others overcome adversity. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and empowerment, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss. Join us as we dive deep into...

In this episode, Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon chat with Beaconite Command Master Chief from Submarine Squadron One. With a distinguished career in the US Navy, Command Master Chief shares his remarkable journey and offers deep insights into leadership and personal development. Discover how his experiences have shaped his leadership philosophy and how he’s now channeling these lessons into his podcast, Leadership State Of Mind, co-hosted with Armon Owens. Tune in to learn how you can explore...

On this episode of This Is Beacon, Reuben, Brooke, and Brandon are back with the latest updates from Beacon. They recap the I Am Beacon Making A Difference Scholarship, discuss the Elks 100th Celebration Parade, and the Brain and Body Coalition's Mental Wellness event. The team also explores the current discussion surrounding Veteran Banners. - Register for the Back to School Block Party: https://iambeacon.org/beacon-back-to-school/ -Register for I Run Beacon 5K:...

In this episode, Brandon and Brianna welcome two Beacon talents, Teron Wright and Devon Howard. Teron Wright, a visual artist, shares his journey from Beacon to rediscovering his passion for art. Follow his work on Instagram at thewrightexpressions. Devon Howard, also known as Noetic, discusses his music and entrepreneurial career, emphasizing community support. Connect with him on Instagram at noetic_pclawd and safecreatives. Listen as Teron and Devon talk about their experiences, the...

In this episode, we talk with JC Calderon, a Beacon resident and architect, about the critical role of good architecture and urban spaces in community development. JC shares his journey from Brooklyn to Beacon and discusses the importance of city planning that prioritizes public benefit. As chair of the Fishkill Avenue Corridor Ad Hoc Committee, JC provides insights into upcoming projects and the vision for Beacon’s future. Join us to learn about the impact of thoughtful urban planning on...

In this episode, lifelong Beacon resident and music aficionado Bosco Faison, along with passionate community advocate and organizer Star Gorton, share their unique perspectives on growing up in Beacon and the importance of preserving community spirit. They reflect on the rich history and cherished traditions of their city, and dive into the significance of the upcoming Juneteenth festival. From their personal stories and community involvement to the challenges of organizing large-scale...

Welcome back to another episode of "This is Beacon," part of our #JoinTheConversation series, where we break down the stigmas surrounding mental health. Today, we're joined by a very special guest, Michael Hanrahan. Michael's incredible journey from a diverse upbringing in Upper Manhattan to a dedicated career in mental health counseling is nothing short of inspiring. Michael shares his unique path, including his time as a college student, his struggles with alcoholism, and his...

In this episode of our #jointheconversation series on "This is Beacon," aimed at ending the stigma surrounding mental health, we are thrilled to welcome Jeff Hartford. Jeff, a lifelong athlete and a professional dedicated to the study and teaching of wellness practices, brings over 20 years of experience as a licensed massage therapist and fitness trainer. From his initial plans to become an elementary teacher to his profound shift towards health and wellness due to economic and personal...

In this compelling episode of "This Is Beacon," part of our #jointheconversation series aimed at ending the stigma surrounding mental health, we delve into the life of Allison, a holistic healer, registered nurse, Reiki practitioner, and spiritual life coach from Newburgh . Amidst lively exchanges and the sound of air horns, Allison shares her journey from growing up in the challenging environment of Newburgh to embracing motherhood and navigating the complexities of mental health in...

Join the conversation in this episode of This is Beacon as hosts Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon welcome special guest Aditya. Part of the #jointheconversation series, Aditya shares his fascinating journey from India to Harlem to Beacon, shedding light on the significance of names and the essence of belonging. Delving into Aditya's background in computing and his transition to functional medicine, they explore the intricate landscape of health and wellness. From the profound impact of social...

In this special episode of the "This Is Beacon" podcast, hosts Reuben and Brandon engage in a reflective and candid conversation about the evolution of their podcast and its role within the broader mission of the "I Am Beacon" organization. They discuss the origins of the podcast, its development over the years, and its current format which aims to capture the voice of the city and connect its community members. Throughout the episode, they reminisce about past episodes, the initial...

📣 Welcome back to Beacon's West End Story! 🏙️ In this episode, Reuben and Brooke share their reflections on the enlightening discussion with Professor Hochfelder and Connie Whitener Perdreau. We take a trip down memory lane into the experiences of West End residents, offering a glimpse into the vibrant community that once thrived. To stay connected with our ongoing journey through the rich tapestry of Beacon's West End, don't forget to subscribe! But that's not all; be sure to...

Welcome to Beacon's West End Story! Join us on an extraordinary journey through time as we delve deep into the intricate history of Urban Renewal and its profound impact on the community of Beacon's West End. On this first episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with historian and University at Albany Professor, David Hochfelder. Together, we navigate the complex landscape of Urban Renewal, exploring its multifaceted aspects. Professor Hochfelder acts as our guide, leading us through...

Heather Ann Pitcher, founder of The Brain and Body Coalition, joins us to discuss the significance of BB Moore BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month. We explore the importance of self-care and upcoming events planned by the coalition to celebrate the month. Heather highlights the unique challenges faced by BIPOC individuals and emphasizes the need for cultural sensitivity in mental health initiatives. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to engage with the...

On this episode of the #JoinTheConversationSeries, we spotlight “This is Beacon’s “ own Brandon Lillard. Brandon shares his 20 year professional experience in mental health. We chat about his journey, his insight, working with youth and more.Without further ado, this is Brandon. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iambeacon/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iambeacon/support

This is Beacons 100th episode!!!! Like Subscribe Review --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/support

Happy Veterans Day! In celebrating our local heroes, we sat down with Beacon's own Tina Grover to hear about her military career serving 30 years to our country and what she is up to in retirement. We talk about her decision to join, experience as a woman in the military, and learn about her new adventures in retirement with meditation and reiki!  If you'd like to get in touch with Tina, please reach out to us directly at [email protected] or... - Check out Sister Soldiers on...

On this episode, Christian Campbell stops by! We discuss his background, journey to Beacon and dive in to learn about the upcoming Beacon Bonfire Music & Arts Festival happening November 4th and 5th!  To find more information and to grab your tickets to Beacon Bonfire check out: beaconbonfire.com  #Beacon #Community #BeaconBonfire #Festival #Music #Art #iAmBeacon #ThisIsBeacon #BeaconNY --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/message Support this podcast:...

In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party - Check out this episode as we hear from the Pastor Nikki with Open Arms Christian Ministries International - learn about their mission, services and ways you can be involved! #IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/support

In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party - Check out this episode as we hear from the Rombout Middle School! #IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/support

I am beacon is turning 10 and we’re celebrating in style! On October 6 join us at the Roundhouse in Beacon, New York for our 10 year anniversary gala. We’ll have drinks, food, music, and silent auctions throughout the night. Our community is full of amazing people who make a difference every day. This event will be a time to honor some of those individuals and all they’ve done for our community. This is the time to celebrate all that I Am Beacon has to offer the residence,businesses...

In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party -  Check out this episode as we hear from the Children's Home of Poughkeepsie - learn about their mission and services and ways you can be involved! #IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/iambeacon/support

On this episode, the team recaps the latest happenings with I Am Beacon.  As we kick off our busy season here, listen in to learn about our Making A Difference Scholarship, iGotGame eGaming League, and Digital Art Program. The team also touches on our annual events Back to School Block Party and I Run Beacon 5K and more...   To learn more about I Am Beacon visit us: www.iambeacon.org Follow us at Facebook.com/iambeacon Instagram @i.am.beacon #iambeacon #thisisbeacon #Beacon #community...