An album. A song. An artist. Not necessarily in that order. New episode every week on Tuesdays.
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Teaching about properties of minerals Cover art photo provided by Nathan Anderson on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/@nathananderson
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Welcome to the Thinking Critically podcast, where amazing things happen. Cover art photo provided by Jason Leung on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/@ninjason
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Your one stop shop for creative ideas and inspiration. Each week on The Spark File podcast, Susan Blackwell and Laura Camien reach into their spark files and share stories, ideas and fascinations to ignite your imagination. Obsessed with creativity, Blackwell and Camien also talk with artists and makers, movers and shakers who have taken the spark of inspiration and fanned it into a flame. Hear from inspiring creatives like Lin-Manuel Miranda, Sara Bareilles, Eric Stonestreet, Jonathan Groff ...
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Join bestselling romance author Kayley Loring as she has fun, casual conversations with her audiobook narrators and interesting people from the romance audio community--focusing on the talented people behind the scenes of romance audiobooks. That’s not all! Kayley is also writing bonus scenes for her characters and having her narrators read them. Multiple Eargasms will leave your ears and hearts happy. Because one is not enough!
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Our mission is to make sure every Zachary resident feels heard and engaged! Hosts Mike and/or Jen Gennaro facilitate candid conversations with local leaders, influencers and innovators in Zachary, Louisiana and beyond with the help of producer Mike Holt. New episode every other Monday at noon!
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This week on The Town Hall Spark Sessions, we welcome luminary actress and singer Laura Benanti. Best known for her revolutionary performance in the 2008 revival of Gypsy, for which she won the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical, Benanti made her broadway debut at 18 playing Maria in the Sound of Music on Broadway. She has also starr…
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Royal Blood | Have You Seen My Prefrontal Cortex? - A Great Big Pile of Leaves | Yesterday by Atmosphere
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49:35Send us a text Today we talk about cereal. And music. But mostly cereal. Zac talks about a rad British duo, Royal Blood, Daniel talks about a wacky and whimsical album with a gargantuan name, Have You Seen My Prefrontal Cortex by A Great Big Pile of Leaves, and Jaden talks about a suprisingly deep song, Yesterday by Atmosphere. Follow us on Instagr…
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Andrew McMahon | The Second Stage Turbine Blade - Coheed and Cambria | Love Song by Sara Bareilles
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48:53Send us a text Jaden is a filthy cheater and decided to triple dip today by talking about Andrew McMahon, who has fronted more bands than can be counted by humans. Zac gets real defensive about The Second Stage Turbine Blade by Coheed and Cambria, and Daniel talks about Love Song by Sara Bareilles. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https…
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S6E5 - Sofronio Vasquez / The Town Hall Spark Sessions
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17:49This week, we welcomed the golden-voiced Sofronio Vasquez, winner of NBC’s The Voice Season 26. With his championship win, Sofronio became the first Filipino and Asian man to win a major singing competition in the United States. Join us as we discuss Sofronio’s thrilling rise in the music industry. He shares his secret to remaining positive and his…
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Gin Wigmore | Lights and Sounds - Yellowcard | Dead and Gone by I Am The Avalanche
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48:10Send us a text Turns out we're all just made of dots man. Today Daniel talks about Gin Wigmore, who doesn't really sound like an human being (in a good way), Jaden talks about one of his favorite albums, the lesser-known Lights and Sounds by Yellowcard, and Zac talks about some random punk song again, Dead and Gone by I Am The Avalanche. Follow us …
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Foxy Shazam | Deltron 3030 - Deltron 3030 | Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand
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51:04Send us a text Hey listener, what video game has the best soundtrack? Let us know on the Instagram. Today Jaden talks about a bunch of wackos called Foxy Shazam, Zac time travels into the future with Deltron 3030, and Daniel gets historical with Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.com/t…
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S6E4 - Griffin Newman / The Town Hall Spark Sessions
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23:43In this week’s episode of The Town Hall Spark Sessions, we were thrilled to welcome Griffin Newman. For a decade, with his co-creator David Sims, Griffin has hosted the wildly popular podcast Blank Check with Griffin and David. Join us as Griffin discusses the Blank Check origin story, and how a film critic and an actor/comedian became longstanding…
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Bloodywood | Burnout Days - Flipturn | 2AM by Bear Hands
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50:12Send us a text Should Daniel buy a 1987 Rolls Royce? I think so. He'd be pretty stupid not to, in fact. Today Daniel talks about the Indian Nu Metal band Bloodywood, Jaden talks about his favorite album of the year so far, Burnout Days by Flipturn, and Zac surprises everyone with a relatively normal song, 2AM by Bear Hands. Follow us on Instagram i…
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S6E3 - Sean Mayes / The Town Hall Spark Sessions
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18:20In this week’s Town Hall Spark Session, we welcomed Sean Mayes, the visionary conductor and founder of Pops of Color, as he takes us behind the scenes of creating an orchestra that’s building bridges and breaking barriers. Join us as Sean shares how Pops of Color sparked from idea to inception. We discuss the impact of the orchestra’s unique progra…
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Gnome | Dear Me - OWEL | The Way Home by Mo Lowda and The Humble
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48:22Send us a text Daniel has a real crisis today. Listen to find out the juicy deets. Today we discuss the raddest of all the garden gnome-based stoner rock bands from belgium: Gnome, the violin-heavy record Dear Me by OWEL, and the song The Way Home by Mo Lowda and The Humble. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.com/the…
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Jellyfish | Keep Me Fed - The Warning | Sleeping on the Blacktop by Colter Wall
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44:11Send us a text You ever heard of Jellyfish? Didn't think so. Good thing you're here, because were talking about them today. We also discuss Daniel's favorite album of 2024, Keep Me Fed by The Warning, as well as Sleeping on the Blacktop by Colter Wall. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.com/theplaylisterspod/…
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S6E2 - Eisa Davis / The Town Hall Spark Sessions
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19:15For our second round The Town Hall Spark Sessions award-winning actor, writer, and singer-songwriter, Eisa Davis. In addition to co-writing the Warriors concept album with Lin-Manuel Mirana, she wrote and starred in Angela’s Mixtape, and was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Drama for her play Bulrusher. Join us as we discuss Eisa’s approach to …
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Dirty Loops | Sound and Color - Alabama Shakes | Vapors by Biz Markie
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45:19Send us a text After Daniel adjusts his mic stand for 20 fiscal minutes, he talks about the inhuman Swedish trio Dirty Loops, Jaden talks about the psychedelic sophmore album by Alabama Shakes, Sound and Color, and Zac talks about the classic track Vapors by the diabolical Biz Markie. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagr…
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S6E1 - Lin-Manuel Miranda / The Town Hall Spark Sessions
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23:11Surprise! We’re back, with some hot, fresh creative sparks for you—and this time, we’re at the Town Hall! In the first episode of The Town Hall Spark Sessions, we’re thrilled to feature a new conversation with Lin-Manuel Miranda about legacy, creativity, and the upcoming Spring Shout at the Town Hall—a benefit performance honoring him! As one of to…
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The Town Hall, New York City’s landmark cultural venue, is teams up with The Spark File, the acclaimed creativity podcast hosted by Susan Blackwell and Laura Camien, in this brand-new podcast series: The Town Hall Spark Sessions. The Town Hall Spark Sessions will spotlight creatives, musicians, comedians, artists, advocates, cultural creators and c…
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Tyler Childers | Energy - Operation Ivy | 99 Luftballons by Nena
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44:33Send us a text How many times have you, dear listener, said that you listen to all types of music, just not country? Don't lie. We've all said it. Today we talk about one of the best artists currently making music, Tyler Childers. We also talk about the granddaddy ska-punk album Energy by Operation Ivy, and the German cover of a Goldfinger song, 99…
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Anderson .Paak | Pure Heroine - Lorde | Sit and Sink by The Graduate
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41:57Send us a text Today we discuss the life and career of a young man called Brandon Anderson. Also known as Anderson .Paak. We also take a look at the youthful hubris of Lorde's debut album "Pure Heroine", and a song by The Graduate, "Sit and Sink". Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.com/theplaylisterspod/…
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Beastie Boys | Separation - Balance and Composure | Run Away With Me by Carly Rae Jepson
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41:47Send us a text Today we talk about the anxiety inducing/super rad rap-rock group Beastie Boys (who everyone should already know about, come on now), the moody album Separation by Balance and Composure, and the absolute banger, Run Away With Me by Carly Rae Jepson. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.com/theplaylisters…
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Mayor McDavid Update: Home Rule Charter Updates on the Ballot May 3rd
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38:53Send us a text Mayor David McDavid brings decades of public service expertise to this revealing conversation about Zachary's governmental evolution. After examining the city's 15-year-old Home Rule Charter, McDavid recognized the need for updates that would clarify operations and improve efficiency as Zachary continues its growth trajectory. The pr…
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Busty and the Bass | Pink Flag - Wire | Feel Like That by Sublime
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41:58Send us a text Today we take a looksie at the killer genre-bending Canadian band, Busty and the Bass, the divisive album Pink Flag by Wire, and the breath of fresh air that is the new song by Sublime, Feel Like That. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.com/theplaylisterspod/…
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Deca | Suicide Season - Bring Me The Horizon | the 1 by Taylor Swift
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43:48Send us a text Today we crack open a cold one and talk about possible prophet/alien rapper Deca, Bring Me the Horizon's metalcore debut Suicide Season, and Zac's favorite Taylor Swift song, the 1. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.com/theplaylisterspod/By DWDM Industries
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Streetlight Manifesto | Songs in the Key of Life - Stevie Wonder | Bambi by Hippo Campus
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37:03Send us a text Today we dive into one of the best ska bands out there, Streetlight Manifesto, one of the most important works of American music, Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder, and the song Bambi by Hippo Campus. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.com/theplaylisterspod/…
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MF DOOM | The Black Parade - My Chemical Romance | Sinner by The Last Dinner Party
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44:42
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44:42Send us a text Oh boy, we're back and better than ever. Featuring a new name, a new format, the same ol Daniel, and a brand new outlook on life. Today we discuss the villian of hip-hop, MF DOOM, the masterpiece album The Black Parade, and the song Sinner by The Last Dinner Party. Follow us on Instagram if that's your thing: https://www.instagram.co…
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From Soldier to Nutrition Advocate: Alexis Motley's Mission to Transform Community Health
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32:19Send us a text Join us for a conversation with Alexis Motley, founder of the My Kid Plate Foundation, as she takes us on her journey from US Army veteran to a powerhouse in nutrition education and community health. Alexis wears a lot of hats—wife, mom, and dietetic internship director at Southern University—but at the heart of it all is her passion…
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The Toy Store Transformation of Brittany Anderson
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24:30Send us a text Transform your perspective on entrepreneurship with Brittany McMills Anderson, the captivating third-generation business owner who traded her dental scrubs for the vibrant world of toys and pools. Brittany's journey from dental hygiene to taking the helm at Funtime Pools and launching the Zachary Toy Store during the tumultuous COVID…
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After 20 spark-filled episodes, we’re wrapping up the season with a celebration! Join us as we look back at this remarkable season of spark, discuss highlights, and share just how we made this season happen. Bringing Season 5 of the Spark File podcast was a challenge. We were wrestling between our desire to make a perfect product and our hope to ge…
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What's On Your Backburner with Albert Pellissier
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44:25Send us a text Get ready to uncover the secrets of reigniting your dormant dreams with the inspiring Albert Pelletier, a motivational speaker dedicated to helping others find fulfillment. Discover how Albert's transformative Man Camp Retreat series has been making waves by empowering dads to become more present and positive in their families. We'll…
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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Susan Blackwell and Laura Camien
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Recently, we learned that the beloved Blue Man Group will be closing their New York City and Chicago companies in 2025. This news was bittersweet, to say the least. Blue Man Group has impacted each of our personal and professional lives in many ways; not the least of which was the 25 years Laura dedicated to building the Blue Man Group brand as the…
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We know that writing a book is hard work—longform creativity takes patience, stamina, and an extraordinary drive to make it to the finish line. That’s why, this week, we’re celebrating our dear friend Jenny Clift, whose new book Thriving Artist: How Musicians, Performers, and Creatives Can Use EFT Tapping to Achieve Balance, Career Growth, and Succ…
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As the New Year barrels on, bringing an abundance of uncertainty with it, we wanted to return to a topic that has sparked us many times before: Making change. In this week’s episode of The Spark File podcast, we reflect on the work of scientists and experts who study the circuitry of the brain, and offer some tangible tips for how to make change in…
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When Oxford revealed its annual “Word of the Year” earlier this month, we had some questions—and not just because “Brain Rot” is two words. The truth is, we scroll past hundreds of images, sounds, and writings every day, pumping into our brains faster than any information has ever moved before. We absorb things that are neither meaningful nor thoug…
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We have found that the more we tap into our creativity, the more we enjoy the holiday season. In this week’s episode of The Spark File Podcast, we explore creativity in the form of gift-giving. Join us as we discuss the history of giving tangible gifts and why the tradition continues. We’ll explore some of the incredible gifts given (and received!)…
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This week, we’re exploring an experience shared by more than half of the world’s population: Menopause. If you are thinking to yourself, “Oh, that topic isn’t for me.” We’re here to tell you the truth: menopause impacts everyone. If you have had a period in your life, or if you love a person who has had a period, this episode is for you. (Spoiler: …
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Insights from Zachary Community Schools with Superintendent Ben Necaise
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31:04Send us a text What if your child could thrive in a school district that prioritizes both academic excellence and community engagement? Join us as we chat with Ben Necaise, Superintendent of Zachary Community Schools, who shares his insights on navigating educational rankings, implementing innovative teaching strategies, and preparing our schools f…
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Like many artists, we deeply empathize with the world around us. It can be hard to manage all the tough feelings that come up. A lot is happening in the world—a lot to laugh about, cry about, shout about, and rage about. Sorrow can bring joy, anger can bring calm, and it can all feel impossible to face. And, like it or not, we believe there is one …
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Transforming Your Winter Garden with Native Plants: Insights and Tips from Brett Auttonberry
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51:07Send us a text Discover the secrets of transforming your winter garden into a sustainable haven with native plants, guided by our expert guest, Brett Auttonberry. Brett shares his profound knowledge of native gardening, revealing how to create resilient landscapes that require less water, support local wildlife, and minimize maintenance efforts. Li…
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In our opinion, creating a connection with others is the most singularly powerful tool any creative has in their armory. Unfortunately, a lot of us find that it’s easier said than done. This week, Susan and Laura explore Molly Beck’s book Reach Out: The Simple Strategy You Need to Expand Your Network. Join us as we discuss Molly’s research-based gu…
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Lately it feels like so many of us are longing for belonging, but finding it harder than to connect. But why? In this week’s episode of The Spark File podcast, we dig in to find the answer. Join us as Laura examines the work of social scientist Bob Putnam, whose book Bowling Alone: the Collapse and Revival of American Community connects the decline…
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Multiple Eargasms with Kayley Loring Special Edition with Emma Wilder and Teddy Hamilton S1 E 1.5
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4:04Narrators Emma Wilder and Teddy Hamilton surprised Kayley with a recording of them singing #TonightYouBelongToMe while Emma strummed her uke. In this tiny bonus episode you can hear their beautiful version of this popular song, along with Kayley’s introduction to it.By Kayley Loring
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From Rescue Dogs to Real Estate: Carrie Godbold’s Journey, Insights, and Humor
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26:05Send us a text Ever considered dogs as your home security system? Join us for a vibrant chat with Carrie Godbold, a dynamic realtor and community enthusiast from Zachary, as she humorously shares her top home security tip: her rescue dogs. We'll take you on a journey from Akron, Ohio, to Baton Rouge, and finally to Zachary, highlighting Carrie's li…
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The weight of the world felt heavy this week, but tough moments are when we feel luckiest to have this incredible community. Like we always say, everyone is creative but smart creative people do not go it alone! So this week, we did what we so often recommend to our coaching clients when the path ahead feels cloudy: We reached out to all the brave …
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Here at the Spark File, creativity is a way of life and a way of being in the world. In this week’s episode of The Spark File Podcast, Laura digs into Rick Rubin’s book The Creative Act: A Way of Being. A profoundly successful American record producer, Rubin is the co-founder of Def Jam recordings, founder of American Recordings and former co-presi…
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StrongHeart: Insights from Jill Rigby Garner of Manners of the Heart
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54:32Send us a text Discover how to foster respect and kindness in today's world with insights from Jill Rigby Garner, founder of Manners of the Heart. Jill shares her transformative journey from personal challenges to establishing a nonprofit that’s influenced over 200,000 students, schools, and families globally. We delve into her latest book, "Strong…
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Have you ever found yourself giggling at the most unexpected insult, like "sparrow's fart"? Join us as we kick off this episode of The Spark File with laughter and a light-hearted exchange that sets the stage for a journey through creativity and introspection. We'll explore the wonderful world of "spark files," those magical little tools for captur…
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Cozy Len's journey from Zachary to "The Voice"
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29:31Send us a text Cozy Len, a remarkable musician from Zachary, Louisiana, is stepping into the spotlight on the national stage as a contestant on season 26 of NBC's "The Voice" with Team Gwen. Join us as we connect with Cozy to explore his transition from aspiring basketball player to soulful singer, a journey redirected by a wrist injury that led hi…
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In this week’s episode of the Spark File podcast, we head back to the beautiful Saunders Farm in Ottawa, Canada, where we were fortunate to host our almost annual SPARKFest. This week, on the eve of Halloween, we’re embracing the spooky season. Listen on to hear directly from Spark File community members. In this week’s episode you’ll hear sparks t…
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Every so often we hear the question: what is that “special sauce” that helps make up this “warm clan of creatives.” The truth is, a healthy culture and community requires a commitment to that mission from every single person involved. As educators, we’ve spent years learning about what conditions are most optimal for connection and community. As cr…
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In this week’s episode, you’ll get an extra special glimpse into SPARKfest 2024, our Spark File community retreat, held last fall at the beautiful Saunders Farm in Ottawa, Canada. When we say that The Spark File is a warm and wonderful clan of creatives, this is what we mean! Listen in and you’ll feel the live-in-front-of-a-crackling-fire ambience …
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As we grieve the loss of our dear friend Gavin Creel, Susan called out for memories, wisdom, and lessons learned from Gavin, and we were touched by the outpouring of love from all across the globe. In this week’s episode, titled “WWGD? (Learning from Gavin Creel)," we hear from people who learned something from Gavin over the years—in rehearsal hal…
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