hello community®

Catherine Jura
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  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Do you wish you had more connection and community in your life? Do you wonder how to move from feeling isolated and lonely to having a sense of belonging? Welcome to hello community®, a safe space where guests share their heartfelt, relatable stories of how they create the life of connection, community, and belonging they so desire. I am Catherine Jura, your host for this podcast, and I am so glad you found us! It is my utmost hope that you feel a connection to my guests. Therefore I intentionally choose guests of varying age, sex, ethnic and cultural background as well as ability and health status. Equally important is that guests are willing to share their stories of creating connection, in a vulnerable and meaningful way. So every other week you will hear real life stories with actionable ideas that you can try out in your personal life, home, workplace, campus life, community, and beyond. I am a Community Health Educator and my life’s work has been to support others to be healthier in every way. In 2023, the US Surgeon General reported that Americans are experiencing an epidemic of isolation and loneliness. If you are experiencing a sense of not belonging, it doesn’t make you different—but it might feel that way. I understand because I have felt these feelings too. Please join us and learn how to create the life of connection, community, and belonging that you so desire. I am happy you are here! __________________________ Click the Subscribe button to receive the most current hello community® episode

Episodes

  1. Will You Be My Neighbor?

    DEC 10

    Will You Be My Neighbor?

    Will you be my neighbor? This episode of the “hello community®” podcast is a bold invitation to rethink what a neighborhood is and how loneliness can open the door to connection--wherever you live. Join host Catherine Jura as she welcomes social worker and director of the Albany NNORC Kyra Alte, to discuss loneliness and some practical questions listeners can use to explore their own experiences. They also discuss how loneliness is a universal human experience like hunger or thirst. In this episode: - Learn why it is important to understand the three types of loneliness: interpersonal, societal, and existential - Come to understand why naming our loneliness is the first step toward healing - Explore why we can’t get out of loneliness alone—and why that’s okay - Learn how to intentionally build community in traditional and non-traditional neighborhoods (renting apartments on the same floor; family and friends living in the same cul-de-sac; NNORC) - Discover how Albany, NY turned a neighborhood into a vibrant hub of connection for seniors: NNORC: Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community From naming our experience of loneliness to taking the first brave step—perhaps knocking on a neighbor’s door—this episode empowers listeners to become community builders wherever they live. Note from Catherine: I am glad you are here! I hope you found some tips and inspiration to help you move towards the connection and community you desire! If you found this episode helpful please share it with others, so together, we can build a world where everyone has the connection and community they need and want! If you would like to be updated on new episodes please subscribe. Last but not least, reviews are really important for getting the word out about “hello community®”! We sure would appreciate your thoughts: thank you! Till next time! _______________________________________________________________ Chapters/Timestamp Introduction to Social Isolation - 00:00:00 Understanding NORCs - 00:03:00 Types of Loneliness - 00:09:00 Normalizing Loneliness - 00:15:00 Creating Community in Neighborhoods - 00:21:00 Resources and Support - 00:27:00 ____________________________________________________________________________ Kyra’s Biography: Kyra is a geriatric social worker by trade, state licensed (LMSW), and has a background in care management. To contact Kyra or NNORC please visit http://jfsneny.org (NNORC link under "programs" tab) ________________________________________________________________ Looking for more information?: “hello community” link tree takes you in one click to our Facebook Page and all our episode platforms http://lnk.bio/hellocommunity Project Unlonely: http://www.artandhealing.org/project-unlonely/

    39 min
  2. Yes! A Path to Connection!

    AUG 20

    Yes! A Path to Connection!

    How do I find the community and connection I so want? On this episode of the hello community podcast with Catherine Jura, meet Lynn Underhill, a woman who built her career and a life of connection—by saying one bold word: YES! By repeatedly stepping into the unknown Lynn built meaningful relationships, a career in art and design, and a life of purpose and belonging. •Discover the difference between alone and lonely? •Lynn offers practical tips for uncovering the communities all around you. •Never underestimate the possibilities from making one phone call. •Be inspired as Lynn transforms a volunteer mural project into a thriving design career. •Learn how one small act of human connection brought hope to Lynn’s grief after the loss of her husband. Community isn’t always found—it’s built one yes at a time. If you’ve ever felt unsure where to begin, this episode offers gentle encouragement: trust yourself, take a step, and just say yes! ___________________________________________________________ A Note from Catherine: If you find this episode helpful, please share it with others so together we can build a world of connection. Thank you! If you’d like to get the most up to date bi-weekly episodes on creating connection and community, please subscribe to this podcast. Till next time ___________________________________________________________ Timestamp: Don’t have time for the whole episode, or want to re-watch/re-listen to a favorite part—the timestamp lays out the episode for you 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:56 Meet Lynn Underhill: Building Connections 01:43 The Power of Saying Yes 03:50 Finding Solitude in Community 06:09 Navigating Loneliness and Connection 10:05 Creating Community Through Family and Activities 14:05 Overcoming Tragedy and Expanding Community 17:12 Embracing New Experiences with Children 19:53 Embracing Solitude and Art 20:14 Volunteering and Discovering a Passion for Art 21:40 Turning Art into a Career 22:33 Community and Personal Growth 25:03 The Ronald McDonald House Project 32:49 Reflections on Life and Hope 36:58 Final Thoughts and Resources

    38 min
  3. Three Generations of Community!

    AUG 6

    Three Generations of Community!

    Might an intergenerational community be a place of connection for you? Welcome to the hello community® podcast with Catherine Jura. In this inspiring episode, we meet the Peters family—Sue, Justin, Lucas and Sam—who share how three generations have found belonging and connection through the Scouts. Together, they explore what community really means—across ages, genders, and backgrounds. From Girl Scouts to Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA to adult leadership, discover how a youth organization can foster emotional growth, connection, and community—for kids and adults alike. In this episode: •Sue shares how the Girl Scouts community provided a safe haven for self-expression. •Justin reflects on how leadership of the Scouts community supported healing his social anxiety. •Lucas and Sam, the newest generation, talk about adventure, learning, service projects, and feeling seen. •The family highlights how Scouting fosters intergenerational friendships and leadership (no matter your age). •Learn how today's Scouts embrace gender inclusion, teamwork, and growth. This episode will touch your heart. It reminds us that connection isn’t just about common interests—it’s about shared experience, showing up for each other, and the courage to be seen. From quiet kids finding their voice to adults healing through leadership, this is community in its truest form. A Note from Catherine: If you find this episode helpful, please share it with others so together we can build a world of connection. Thank you! If you’d like to get the most up to date bi-weekly episodes on creating connection and community, please subscribe to this podcast. Till next time ___________________________________________________________ Timestamp: Don’t have time for the whole episode, or want to re-watch/re-listen to a favorite part—the timestamp lays out the episode for you 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 00:52 Meet the Peters Family 02:24 Sue's Scouting Journey 05:43 Sam's Scouting Experience 06:28 Justin's Perspective on Scouting 10:27 Lucas's Scouting Story 11:21 Understanding Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA 12:52 Scouting in the Modern Era 16:26 Building Community Through Scouting 17:46 Building a Community Through Scouts 18:33 Parental Involvement in Cub Scouts 20:11 Transitioning to Scouts BSA 21:00 The Role of Den and Pack Leaders 22:58 The Value of Mixed-Age Interactions 25:27 Experiences with Different Leaders 28:18 Volunteer Opportunities in Scouting 30:33 Personal Reflections on Leadership 32:16 Community Service Projects 32:59 Final Thoughts on Community

    36 min
  4. Making Connections: It’s Only Hard The First Time!

    JUL 23

    Making Connections: It’s Only Hard The First Time!

    I’m lonely but where do I start? In this inspiring episode of the hello community ® podcast with Catherine Jura, guest Marilyn Dyer reflects on how community isn’t built all at once—it’s grown, often through loss and courage. If you’ve ever felt scared to walk into a room full of strangers, or like you've lost your place in the world, this conversation will gently walk with you toward belonging. Marilyn shares her profound journey of losing and rebuilding community multiple times throughout life—after a big move, through marriage and motherhood, as a pastor's wife for 25 years, and eventually, in widowhood. Marilyn shows that community can be grown at any age, in any place, and sometimes with just one brave first step. · Discover how changes that seem exciting—like a big move or having a baby—can bring loss and loneliness as well. · What does community—and the loss of it—feel like · Ordinary moments can become extraordinary bridges. Learn how joining a group that seems interesting—i.e. a fitness group--just might be the beginning of lifelong friendships · Deepen friendships by adding a focus, purpose, or service based activities · Learn tips for joining new groups or activities even when it feels scary Whatever life events have brought you to a place of isolation and loneliness, this conversation gives practical insights into overcoming the fear of starting over and cultivating connection and community. Marilyn reminds us that starting over is possible—at any age. And sometimes, it really is only hard the first time. A Note from Catherine: If you find this episode helpful, please share it with others so together we can build a world of connection. Thank you! If you’d like to get the most up to date bi-weekly episodes on creating connection and community, please subscribe to this podcast. Till next time ___________________________________________________________ 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:54 Guest Introduction: Marilyn Dyer 01:17 Defining Community 02:50 Losing and Rebuilding Community 06:08 Creating Community Through Shared Activities 09:37 Life as a Pastor's Wife 13:02 Coping with Loss and Transition 20:40 Overcoming Fear to Build Community 28:43 Final Thoughts and Resources ___________________________________________________________ Connect with Marilyn on Facebook

    31 min
  5. The Power of Curiosity: Creating Connections

    JUL 9

    The Power of Curiosity: Creating Connections

    Can curiosity help me when I am feeling lonely? On this heartfelt episode of the hello community® podcast, host Catherine Jura talks with Ellen Cosgrove about her journey of moving from loneliness to connection by being both curious and brave. Ellen’s spellbinding, wise, and funny stories of building community will take you around the globe: Belfast, Ireland, Italy, NYC, and Albany NY In this episode: · Discover how curiosity is a powerful remedy for fear, and supports connection · Learn how loneliness requires bravery, not perfection · Come to understand that connection requires that we be both courageous enough to ask questions and present enough to listen · Uncover new strategies that can encourage conversation · Learn how to use food to break barriers and spark meaningful connections through the Dinner in Dialogue initiative This episode isn’t just about conversation—it’s about transformation. It is a tender and powerful reminder that we don’t have to be perfect to belong—we just have to be brave. Ellen’s warmth and wisdom shine throughout as she encourages us to embrace curiosity, ask questions, and listen to others as a path towards connection and community. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others so together we can build a world of connection. Till next time, Catherine PS If you’d like to get the most up to date bi-weekly episodes on creating connection and community, please subscribe to this podcast. _______________________________________________________________ Timestamps: Want to re-watch/re-listen to a favorite part–or don’t have time for the whole episode—the timestamp lays out the episode for you 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:54 Meet Ellen Cosgrove 02:21 Ellen's Personal Journey 04:08 Professional Experience and Community Building 08:21 The Importance of Listening 12:17 Impact of COVID on Social Connections 15:58 Personal Reflections on Loneliness 18:45 Building Community and Overcoming Loneliness 20:43 Embracing Curiosity in Social Situations 21:19 The Influence of a Science Teacher Mom 21:55 The Power of Curiosity Over Fear 22:56 Using Food to Foster Connection 25:38 Creating Safe and Brave Spaces 28:33 Humanizing Everyday Interactions 33:48 Practical Tips for Building Community 37:24 Conclusion and Resources _______________________________________________________________ Ellen’s biography: Ellen Cosgrove, MA Founder and CEO, Community In Context Ellen Cosgrove is a trauma-informed facilitator with over fifteen years’ experience in community-building and conflict resolution. Her diverse background spans peacebuilding, advertising, non-profit management, and eating delicious food. After working with PeacePlayers International on peacebuilding initiatives in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Ellen pursued her Master's in Coexistence and Conflict at Brandeis University. There, studying alongside international practitioners, she witnessed firsthand how shared meals created powerful spaces for authentic connection. This insight led Ellen to launch Dinner & Dialogue following her work with several non-profits. Her innovative bridging model leverages the transformative power of communal dining, storytelling, and active listening to cultivate social bonds, empathy, and community. Through themed conversations connecting food, life, and society, participants discover common ground. Ellen is dedicated to creating environments where people recognize each other's humanity and develop mutual trust. She believes these intentional interventions can help heal societal divisions while fostering greater understanding. Through her company, Community In Context, Ellen now facilitates impactful community-building programs for both non-profit organizations and corporate clients. Connect...

    39 min
  6. Finding Community in Surprising Places!

    JUN 28

    Finding Community in Surprising Places!

    Building connection and community can feel like an overwhelming undertaking sometimes. But maybe not if it is done one smile, one conversation, one helping hand at a time. Welcome to the hello community podcast with Catherine Jura. In this deeply touching episode, we sit down with Jim Macris, who has found a lifetime of connection in everyday human interaction. In this episode: ·       Learn how Jim’s definition of community is radical in its simplicity: everyone, everywhere, is part of it. Even people he may never see again.  ·       His faith and Christian spirituality fuel his desire to listen, serve, and connect.     Service is not an obligation but an opportunity to build connection and community ·       His acts of kindness range from helping strangers at the grocery store to starting a conversation with the often overlooked in our society ·       He proves that age  isn’t a barrier to meaningfully contributing to the world Whether you're struggling with isolation or wondering how to find purpose in your day-to-day life, Jim’s wisdom will remind you that reaching out—however small—can create profound connection. Tune in for a soul-filling story that proves community can be found in the most surprising places. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others so together we can build a world of connection. Till next time, Catherine PS If you’d like to get the most up to date episodes, please subscribe to this platform. ______________________________________________________________ What We Discuss: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:11 The Epidemic of Loneliness 01:31 Meet Jim Macris 02:39 Jim's Philosophy on Community 03:55 The Impact of COVID-19 12:22 Volunteering and Helping Others 20:14 Jim's Reflections on Life and Community 30:18 Closing Thoughts and Resources ________________________________________________________________ Jim’s biography: Born in 1940 Jim’s career includes motion picture theatre management, FM radio announcer, sales rep. and general manager of a local Muzak office, Lutheran Liturgical and Preaching Deacon. Jim is proud of his granddaughter who is a family counselor in Boulder Colorado. ________________________________________________________________ You can find Jim on Facebook

    34 min
  7. Keep Rolling On: From Loneliness to Connection!

    JUN 14

    Keep Rolling On: From Loneliness to Connection!

    Have you been wishing for a path to building community but don’t know where to start? On this inspiring episode of hello community®, Shameka Andrews, shares with host Catherine Jura, how she journeyed from a life of isolation to a life of global connections: one step, one book, one bus ride, one friendship at a time. · Shameka’s story is a masterclass in uncovering how your current life may actually be guiding you towards the connections you desire ·   Discover how social media--when used with discernment and balance—can lead to a global community of friends ·   Shameka offers strategies on using boundaries to create a community that is nourishing—and not draining ·   Learn how using a gratitude journal can be part of a comforting spiritual life ·   Shameka shares how important it is to admit, ask for, and accept help: including therapy Shameka has used a wheelchair for mobility her whole life—and this indeed impacts her daily life--but nevertheless she has blossomed into a traveling, dancing, vibrant women who revels in community building. Her spunk is captured in her contribution to the title of this podcast-- “Keep Rolling On: From Loneliness To Connection!” If you found this episode helpful please share it with others Subscribe to “hello community ®” podcast for more bi-weekly stories of connection and belonging ________________________________________________________________ What we discuss (timestamp): 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:21 Meet Shameka Andrews 02:35 Shameka's Early Life and Challenges 05:46 The Power of Books and Education 09:24 Discovering Social Media and Building Connections 15:41 Spirituality and Community 29:16 The Importance of Boundaries 36:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Information ________________________________________________________________ Shameka’s biography: Shameka Andrews is the community outreach coordinator for the Self Advocacy Association of NYS she also the founder of Disability Empowerment Consulting where she provides disability workshops on self-care, self-advocacy and disability awareness In 2006 she won the title of Ms. Wheelchair NY, and she has been the coordinator of the program since 2013. 2017 she wrote her first children’s book butterfly on wheels She serves on the NYS Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, Developmental Disability Advisory Council for OPWDD and the NYS Human Rights Disability Committee Follow and Contact Shameka at: Email: disabilityempowered@gmail.com YouTube--https://www.youtube.com/@shamekaandrews FB-- https://www.facebook.com/ShamekaLAndrews Instagram--https://www.instagram.com/disabilityempowered/ Linkedin--https://www.linkedin.com/feed/ Books Shameka Has Written:  Behind the smile: 15 Women Who Survived the Storma...

    43 min
  8. I Didn't Know I Was Lonely!

    MAY 28

    I Didn't Know I Was Lonely!

    Could I possibly be lonely? On this deeply moving episode of hello community®, host Catherine Jura talks with Andrew Barnes on how he came to recognize loneliness within himself and the steps he has taken to re-build connection. Andrew realizes that although he appears to “have it all” on the outside he is silently struggling on the inside Discover how isolation can disguise itself as something usefulSmall moments matter: During an unexpected conversation with a stranger, Andrew realizes how disconnected—and lonely—he has been feelingLearn about the three types of loneliness and how Andrew uses this knowledge to uncover possibilitiesFollow Andrew’s story as he re-builds the life he once loved: meaningful connection with others and a life of purpose Andrew’s story isn’t about dramatic life changes—it’s about how even one conversation can awaken your inner world. Let Andrew’s powerfully vulnerable story remind you that a life of connection begins with honesty. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:22 Meet Andrew Barnes 02:37 Andrew's Journey in Human Services 05:33 The Revelation of Loneliness 08:34 Understanding Different Types of Loneliness 10:39 The Impact of a Simple Conversation 16:15 Moving Forward and Finding Purpose 24:30 Final Thoughts and Resources

    26 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

Do you wish you had more connection and community in your life? Do you wonder how to move from feeling isolated and lonely to having a sense of belonging? Welcome to hello community®, a safe space where guests share their heartfelt, relatable stories of how they create the life of connection, community, and belonging they so desire. I am Catherine Jura, your host for this podcast, and I am so glad you found us! It is my utmost hope that you feel a connection to my guests. Therefore I intentionally choose guests of varying age, sex, ethnic and cultural background as well as ability and health status. Equally important is that guests are willing to share their stories of creating connection, in a vulnerable and meaningful way. So every other week you will hear real life stories with actionable ideas that you can try out in your personal life, home, workplace, campus life, community, and beyond. I am a Community Health Educator and my life’s work has been to support others to be healthier in every way. In 2023, the US Surgeon General reported that Americans are experiencing an epidemic of isolation and loneliness. If you are experiencing a sense of not belonging, it doesn’t make you different—but it might feel that way. I understand because I have felt these feelings too. Please join us and learn how to create the life of connection, community, and belonging that you so desire. I am happy you are here! __________________________ Click the Subscribe button to receive the most current hello community® episode

Information

  • Creator
    Catherine Jura
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Catherine Jura
  • Show Website
    hello community®