Living the Dream with Curveball

High Stakes & Hidden Truths: Derrick Jackson's Journey from Jet Mechanic to Special Agent

Send us Fan MailIn this riveting episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we sit down with Derrick Jackson, a 21-year Air Force veteran whose career reads like a high-stakes thriller. From his beginnings as a jet engine specialist to becoming a special agent with the Office of Special Investigations, Derrick shares his incredible journey filled with danger, intrigue, and personal growth. He discusses his transition from the technical world of aircraft maintenance to the complex realm of federal law enforcement, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. Derrick also introduces us to his book series, *Shadow 1*, which is inspired by his experiences in the military and offers a fictional yet authentic glimpse into the life of a special agent. As he navigates themes of grief, identity, and the cultural dynamics between African Americans and Africans, Derrick emphasizes the importance of emotional depth in storytelling. Join us as we explore his insights on counterintelligence, the complexities of military life, and the creative process behind his writing. This episode promises to inspire and entertain, showcasing how Derrick is using his experiences to engage readers and spark meaningful conversations.Want to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600Support the showderrickmjackson.comSupport the show

Family, Faith, and Fortitude: Larry Agee's Commitment to Disaster Relief and Recovery

Send us Fan MailIn this impactful episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Larry Agee, co-founder and executive director of Disaster Aid USA, a nonprofit organization that has provided an astounding $2.5 million in disaster relief over the past year. Larry, a U.S. Army veteran and seasoned financial planner, shares his journey from military service to disaster relief, driven by a passion for helping communities in crisis. With experience in over 70 disaster missions across the globe—from Ukraine to Haiti and South Sudan—Larry offers invaluable insights into the chaos of disaster response, the importance of empathy, and the role of community engagement in recovery efforts. He discusses the intricacies of mucking and gutting homes after floods, the emotional toll of witnessing devastation, and the profound moments that reaffirm the necessity of this work. Larry also highlights the significance of training local volunteers and fostering leadership within communities to amplify their impact. Tune in to learn how you can support disaster relief efforts and make a difference in the lives of those affected by calamities.Want to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600Support the showwww.disasterusa.orgThe Fresh Patch Podcast - Where Good Pets Get It. Welcome to the Fresh Patch Podcast where we talk about everything, from dog...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the show

Courageous Conversations: Chris Rivers' Journey Through Service and Civic Engagement

Send us Fan MailIn this compelling episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Chris Rivers, a former US Army officer and combat veteran whose journey spans military leadership, US diplomacy, and corporate strategy. Chris shares his insights from serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, his education at West Point and Georgetown, and his experience running for state office, where he knocked on an impressive 9,000 doors. Through his book, *You Shouldn't Have to Kill to Get Ahead*, Chris delves into the harsh realities of the American dream and the systemic issues that hinder true meritocracy. He discusses the disconnect between hard work and economic mobility, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and rebuilding trust in our institutions. Tune in to learn how we can all be part of the change, the significance of belonging in leadership, and practical steps to reconnect with our communities for a brighter future. Discover how Chris's experiences can inspire you to take action and make a difference in your own life and the lives of others.Want to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600Support the showwww.chrisrivers.comSupport the show

Nourishing Connections: Lisa Parda's Journey from Food as Fuel to Food as Self-Care

Send a textIn this engaging episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Lisa Parda, co-host of *Lisa and Robin on the Mic* and author of *My Love Language is Food*. Lisa shares her transformative journey of reframing food as an essential component of self-care, especially during midlife transitions. With her background as a real estate broker and a lifelong passion for cooking, Lisa discusses how her personal experiences, including a health scare, led her to embrace the Mediterranean diet and prioritize nutritious meals. She emphasizes the importance of cooking as a ritual and offers practical tips to make mealtime a joyful experience rather than a chore. Listeners will gain insight into building meaningful connections through food, the significance of shared meals, and how to incorporate cooking into busy lifestyles. Lisa also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming cookbook, filled with unique recipes designed for every schedule. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the power of food to nourish both body and soul!Want to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600Support the showSupport the show

Nurturing Futures: Shabnum Bi's Vision for Transformative Early Education

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Shabnum Bi, founder and director of the award-winning Early Nurture Preschool in Birmingham, England. Shabnum shares her remarkable journey from becoming a single mother in 2001 to establishing a preschool that focuses on early intervention and attachment-based learning for children with special educational needs and disadvantaged backgrounds. She discusses the philosophies and daily practices that have earned her preschool an outstanding rating, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with children and their families. Shabnum highlights the critical gaps in early years education that motivated her to specialize in SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and how early identification can lead to better outcomes for children. Tune in as she shares her insights on balancing leadership with nurturing care, the role of parents in early education, and her vision for future changes in the sector. With a commitment to empowering others and a passion for making a difference, Shabnum's story is sure to inspire listeners to value themselves and pursue their dreams in education and beyond.Support the show