Shining Stars

LCC Connect

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Shining Stars: Voices of Service, Hope & Change spotlights nonprofits and changemakers transforming communities across the nation. Each episode shares stories of service, resilience, and impact, amplifying the voices advancing opportunity, strengthening families, and creating lasting change. Discover the organizations and individuals turning compassion into action and making a meaningful difference every day.

Jun 23

Fenner Nature Center, Pt. 2: A Different Kind of Urban Environment

Daedalian continues his conversation with Sam, Tina, and Abigail in two-part episode of Shining Stars. This time, the group dives a little further into their personal connections to nature and the transformative moments that affirm their commitment to nature education. The discussion also explores the importance of embracing nature for its myriad benefits to mental health and societal well-being, especially in the context of contemporary challenges. Website: Fenner Nature Center Related Podcast: Shining Stars - Fenner Nature Center, Pt. 1: A Classroom for All Ages

27 min
Jun 16

Fenner Nature Center, Pt. 1: A Classroom for All Ages

On this episode of Shining Stars, Daedalian sits down with three team members from Fenner Nature Center. They talk about the many ways Fenner connects people with nature, from its miles of trails and educational programs to its innovative outdoor preschool. The conversation explores how children and adults alike learn through hands-on experiences in the natural world, why spending time outdoors matters, and how Fenner has become a place where people can discover, explore, and feel a sense of belonging. Whether you're a longtime visitor or hearing about Fenner for the first time, this episode offers a closer look at a place that been helping Lansing connect with nature year-round. Website: Fenner Nature Center

24 min
Apr 28

The Diminutive Ukulele's Big Impact: Mighty Uke Day 16

After a bit of a hiatus from Shining Stars, I'm thrilled to resume the podcast with a focused on the transformative power of music. On this episode, I (Daedalian) had the opportunity to connect with Ben Hassenger, the founder of Mighty Uke Day (MUD). Moving into its 16th year, this fun event is a celebration of community and connection fueled by the diminutive, yet mighty ukulele. Whether you're a uke virtuoso or just a beginner, the upcoming MUD invites participants of all ages and skill levels to immerse themselves in music-making and communal joy. Website: Mighty Uke Day, May 8-10, 2026 Website: Music is the Foundation YouTube: Jake Shimabukuro playing "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" YouTube: Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoʻole - Over The Rainbow' & 'What A Wonderful World' Medley

31 min
11/19/2024

Transforming Communities Through Art: A Spotlight on MICA

This episode shines a spotlight on the Michigan Institute for Contemporary Arts (MICA), exploring its vital role as a catalyst for community transformation through quality arts programming. Daedalian discusses with event coordinator Melissa Marciniak the importance of art in reducing stress and fostering connections within the community. They delve into various events organized by MICA, including festivals and jam circles, emphasizing how these initiatives enhance social engagement and creativity. Melissa shares her personal journey with MICA, reflecting on the joys and challenges of her role in coordinating events and exhibitions. Website: Michigan Institute for Contemporary Arts

16 min
08/31/2024

Big Event for Small Talk CAC With Claire Redmer

Claire Redmer, Development Director for Small Talk Children's Advocacy Center, stops by Shining Stars to tell listeners about their extraordinary work in our community and the details behind their upcoming Auction for Advocacy. Auction for Advocacy: Saturday, September 13th at 5:30 p.m. Website: Small Talk Children's Advocacy Center Facebook: Small Talk Children's Advocacy Center Instagram: Small Talk Children's Advocacy Center X: Small Talk Website: Children's Advocacy Centers of Michigan Website: Darkness to Light

21 min
04/01/2023

One Center, One Community With Joe Garcia

For over 50 years, Cristo Rey Community Center (CRCC) has been a provider of basic needs to members of our community with an emphasis on access to medical care, mental health services, food, and financial counseling. Cristo Rey CEO, Joe Garcia joins me (Daedalian) on this episode of Shining Stars to explain the role of CRCC in Lansing, provide insight into their services, and he explains how the organization was instrumental in helping him and his family. Website: Cristo Rey Community Center

20 min
02/11/2023

Experience Builds Knowledge With Yanice Jackson

The guest on this episode of Shining Stars is a prime example of the expression, experience builds knowledge. The life difficulties that she experienced were provided her the knowledge necessary to become an advocate for social justice and positive change. Yanice Jackson is a lifelong resident of Lansing and wears many hats including publisher The Chronicle News, host of the radio-podcast show, The Sunday Chronicle, and she is the founder of a local non-profit known as The Lansing Catalyst, an organization that connects people with resources to help facilitate change. Website: The Lansing Catalyst Website: The Sunday Chronicle Website: The Chronicle News

28 min
01/21/2023

Finding Happiness With Rev. Mary Mitchell

Happiness. What is it and how do we get some of that stuff? Is it an elusive concept or is it closer than we think? I (Daedalian) connect with Dr. Rev. Mary Mitchell who is a public speaker, prison minister, teacher, author and co-author of several books. Over the years, Mary has helped prisoners find inner peace and purpose by utilizing the power of our mind and the power of positive thinking. My Search for Ancient Wisdom: One Prisoner’s Journey of Transformation on Amazon

31 min

Shining Stars: Voices of Service, Hope & Change spotlights nonprofits and changemakers transforming communities across the nation. Each episode shares stories of service, resilience, and impact, amplifying the voices advancing opportunity, strengthening families, and creating lasting change. Discover the organizations and individuals turning compassion into action and making a meaningful difference every day.

Creator

LCC Connect
Years Active

2023 - 2026
Episodes

32
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Copyright 2026 LCC Connect
Show Website

Shining Stars