Realizing Rural

09/30/2024

Our thoughts are with all those impacted by Storm Helene.
The widespread damage and disruption caused by this storm are a harsh reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the resilience required of rural communities.

Together, we will overcome this challenge and emerge stronger than ever.

We hope everyone is Safe!

09/05/2024

New episode alert! Join us on Realizing Rural as we chat with Representative Neal Collins, a true patriot and public servant. From his childhood fascination with politics to his uncles' sacrifices in the line of duty, Neil's story is a testament to the power of family and community. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

Watch now on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeYMNzgn1wc

09/05/2024

ICYMI: New Realizing Rural Podcast Episode! 🎙️

In case you missed it, our latest episode features a conversation with Representative Neal Collins from Easley, SC, where we tackle some of the biggest challenges in South Carolina’s education system. We discuss the rural-urban education gap, the urgent need for fair funding, and the role early childhood education plays in shaping our future.

Rep. Collins shares some valuable insights that you don’t want to miss, especially if you care about the future of education in our state. 🎧

📺 Watch the full episode now and join the conversation!

08/26/2024

Get ready to rethink the way we approach education funding! Our latest episode of Realizing Rural is out now, featuring Representative Neal Collins sharing his bold ideas for a politics-free education system. From Finland's innovative approach to a statewide millage solution, Neal drops some knowledge bombs! Tune in to learn more and join the conversation!

Watch now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeYMNzgn1wc

08/09/2024

🎙️ New Episode Alert!🎙️

In our latest episode of the Realizing Rural Podcast, we sit down with Representative Neal Collins from Easley, SC, to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities surrounding education in South Carolina. From the rural-urban education divide to the critical need for equitable funding, Rep. Collins offers candid insights into how we can improve our state's education system.

We also explore the importance of early childhood education and the struggles many families face in accessing affordable, quality childcare. This episode is packed with valuable perspectives that every South Carolinian needs to hear!

📺 Watch the full episode now! Don't forget to like, share, and comment your thoughts on how we can work together to create a brighter future for our children.

08/09/2024

Check out this sneak peak of our upcoming episode of Realizing Rural as we sit down with Representative Neal Collins to dive into the critical topics of education, governance, and finance in South Carolina. Rep. Collins shares his candid insights on the current state of education financing, highlighting the need for a more equitable approach. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how local resources impact education funding and the consequences of a system that is based on county resources.

07/31/2024

Meet Chief Tony Dicks, a fire service veteran with a passion that's burning bright! In this episode of Realizing Rural, Tony shares his journey from childhood fascination to a lifelong career in firefighting. From volunteer to leader, hear the stories that shaped his path.

Tune in now on YouTube https://youtu.be/fbIa73Un7Gs

07/28/2024

Get the inside scoop on the making of a state-of-the-art fire station with Chief Tony Dicks! From training facilities to communication antennas, we're taking you on a tour of what makes this rural fire station stand out!

Watch now on YouTube https://youtu.be/fbIa73Un7Gs

07/25/2024

Ever wondered what it takes to keep a rural community safe? Chief Tony Dicks gives us a sneak peek into the making of a top-notch fire station! From heavy equipment to specialty vehicles, get the inside scoop!

Watch Full episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/fbIa73Un7Gs

07/22/2024

Meet the leader behind the scene! Join us on this episode of Realizing Rural as we chat with Chief Tony Dicks, former chief of the Barnwell Fire Department! We'll take a trip down memory lane, exploring the history of the department and the crucial role of volunteers in rural areas. And, we'll get exclusive updates on the new fire department that's got everyone buzzing!

Catch the full episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/fbIa73Un7Gs

07/19/2024

Rural firefighting just got a whole lot smarter! Chief Tony Dicks shares his expertise on building a state-of-the-art fire station, from innovative solutions to firefighter wellness.

Don't miss this inspiring conversation on YouTube https://youtu.be/fbIa73Un7Gs

07/03/2024

🚒🎙️ Dive into the Heart of Community Safety with Former City of Barnwell Fire Department Chief Tony Dicks! 🚒🎙️

Chief Dicks shares the rich history, challenges, and triumphs of our fire department, highlighting the vital role of volunteers and the exciting features of our new fire station.

You will not want to miss his stories!

01/08/2024

01/01/2024

🎉🌟 A New Year, A New Journey! 🎙️✨

On the first day of 2024, we reflect on the incredible moments of 2023 and express our sincere appreciation to Mayor Blake Sanders for gracing our "Realizing Rural" podcast!

In this extraordinary episode, Mayor Sanders, from the charming town of West Pelzer, took us on a journey through the magic of small-town collaboration. As we embrace the New Year, we also celebrate Mayor Sanders' transition and his decision to run for State House. We wish him the very best on this exciting path of public service.

In West Pelzer, neighbors aren't just neighbors; they're collaborators, working together to support and uplift their community. From shared event calendars to cross-promoting local treasures, it's all about collective progress.

But the magic doesn't stop there! Mayor Sanders sheds light on how mayors from various towns come together regularly to discuss local policies, opportunities, and successes. It's a network of knowledge that benefits not only small towns like West Pelzer but also larger cities like Pendleton.

Don't miss this eye-opening episode on the incredible power of small-town collaboration. Tune in now on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRxjwW7notM or Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6RB20Dl2r3vksHGaEQ0iA7

Let's continue learning, growing, and supporting our communities together!

12/30/2023

As we wrap up this incredible year, we're taking a moment to revisit some of our top "Realizing Rural" podcast episodes. Today, we'd like to express our gratitude to Bob Snead, CEO of Southern Palmetto Regional Chamber, for being part of our journey.

Bob's passion for empowering local leaders and fostering positive momentum in Barnwell County and Allendale has been truly inspiring. We appreciate his dedication to our community.

Catch the highlights on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MT-PTDWdEvo

Listen to the full episode on Spotify: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/CkH4bzRKRBb

12/30/2023

As we reminisce about 2023's finest moments, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mike Jackson for gracing our "Realizing Rural" podcast!

Mike's unwavering love for his hometown, Barnwell, and his relentless dedication to its growth have been nothing short of inspiring. His wisdom on rural community development is priceless.

In this episode, we dug deep into the crucial elements of rural success: harnessing available resources, fostering awareness, and nurturing relationships that bridge the gap between local efforts and state-level support.

Join us in celebrating Mike's remarkable journey from Barnwell to the South Carolina Ports Authority , where his profound ties to his roots continue to steer his professional pursuits.

Catch the highlights on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9FL6OVY2y_I

Listen to the full episode on Spotify: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/q8UNJTQCmCb

12/29/2023

As we bid farewell to 2023, let's revisit one of the most touching episodes of "Realizing Rural." Wil Alexander's decision to return to his roots in Barnwell, South Carolina, is a tale of homecoming and family bonds. 🎧🏡

This episode captures the essence of why rural living is so special, as Wil not only built his law firm Alexander & Alexander Attorneys at Law in Barnwell but also chose to raise his family there. Join us in celebrating the beauty of rural life and the deep connections it fosters. 🌟👨‍👩‍👦

12/19/2023

🚀 Ready for an inspiring journey into the world of STEM education and community empowerment? Join us in this captivating episode featuring Steven Brown Este'ban, the visionary founder of Dreams Imagination & Gift Development Program - D.I.G.

🌟 Discover the incredible impact DIG has made in rural communities, providing mentorship, summer STEM camps, and opportunities for growth. Steven shares the organization's evolution over the past decade, inspired by his experiences in Afghanistan.

🎙️ Tune in now for a dose of inspiration!

Let's unlock the potential of rural communities together! 💡🌱