It's hard to believe that another year has come and is almost gone. What has never left, though, is the love I have of interviewing, meeting new people, hearing their stories and bringing them to you... It truly never gets old or boring! If my Grandpa Applegate could see me now... he would be beaming with pride! He was my mom's dad. He was always such a stable, caring man in my life! I was proud to call him one of my grandparents! He was the one I was sitting with in my living room the day I decided I was going to be in news. When I looked back at him and said: "Grandpa, I want to be a news anchor", I knew that I would have his support. He's been gone for 22 years and still to this very day, I wish I could call him or sit with him and celebrate the achievement of the goal of doing what I love! He was my loudest cheerleader and my most sought after support...just like my mom is....her daddy taught her well! How I was raised and how my family treated me and others around them, really shaped not only myself as a person, but also the kind of anchor I have become. I was always included in family activities, never excluded, but loved, and very much embraced. In all the interviews I do, that is the mindset I come in with, striving to make the person feel at ease. An interview style that allows the the person's voice and story to shine through, showing them dignity and empathy, as the story takes shape and starts to unfold. Reflecting over this past year, my emotions and heart are always touched to see the resilience of the human spirit and the determination of those whom I have the pleasure of meeting. I want you to know that all the interviews I've done this year and for the past 7 years, have all had a great impact on me.
Another major milestone of the Arc of Indiana, was the opening of the Erskine Green Training Institute and Teaching Hotel in Muncie. It's been the first year for the training program to teach students a variety of skills in the hospitality industry. It's been amazing to see what this institute has done for all those who have taken the leap to climb out of their comfort zone and realize what they are truly capable of. It's been incredible to see!
THANK you so much to all of you who have listened to the podcast over these last seven years. I'm truly grateful for all of you! Thank you for allowing me to bring you the important issues and inspiring stories that the podcast covers. Thank you for taking the time to meet me and telling me why you listen to the podcast and how it has brought a smile to your face!!
Thank you to ALL of the Arc staff and especially my team... my producer Sally Morris and my sound engineer Bryce Dickerson. Thank you for making my work so rewarding...we are truly a team! I can't imagine this podcast without you! You bring stability to me when I'm nervous and a pat on the back when I'm unsure of myself (which happens more often than not..right? haha!!) The best medicine we throw in though, is laughter!! Thank you as always...The Arc is VERY special to me!!
To my Mom: You had the hardest job: raising me! Your love, confidence and hilarious humor has always gotten us though! I will always be forever grateful for your support!
Here's to more podcasts and much more in 2017!
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