Sammie Smiles Podcast (2024)

11/01/2023

Season 3 Episode 1: Ryan Hickman

It's season 3 of Sammie Smiles podcast and her first guest is Ryan Hickman who was Sammie’s very first guest on season one!

Back for more fun with these 2 friends that care about helping the environment and being goofy too! Sammie and Ryan got to meet in person back in June after being pen pals for over 4 years. They talk about that visit and their tour of POLYWOOD a company that makes amazing furniture out of recycled #2 plastics!
You won't want to miss a minute of these two friends fun chat. One this is for sure, these two are out to change the world and doing a great job of it at such a young age. Find out what Ryan has been up to and what makes both Sammie and Ryan smile.

This is a great way to kick off season 3 of 🎉

Watch on Youtube https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4u4UiAsfeQ0
or listen on &

18/10/2022

Season 2 Episode 29:Sammie Q&A

To wrap up season 2 and year 2 of Sammie Smiles Podcast, Sammie answers your questions and reflects back on the past year!
She has had some amazing guests and this is her 83rd episode over all!!

What episode made you smile?

Check out her latest here:
YouTube
https://youtu.be/MbBOTboJDP8

Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1mXkpmi2NVKFojOhebrfol?si=FiLfTiPkSAKJ1HOntAdtqQ

Apple Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000582831267

Reviews are much appreciated

19/09/2022

Season 2 Episode 28: Dr. Jen Welter

Are you ready for some football? And inspiration? And girl power? Look no further! In this episode Sammie talks to Dr. Jen Welter. Dr. Jen is best known for being the first female NFL coach, but she is so much more! She is a sports psychologist and a gold medalist, speaker, an author and does countless other amazing things including her Grrridiron Girls football camps. Find out why it is so important to Dr. Jen to set a good example for girls everywhere and the huge impact she has had. Sammie and Dr. Jen got to meet this past summer in person and were both inspired by each other. You will love this talk with two empowering females trying to make this world a better place. Don't forget to listen until the end for what makes Dr. Jen smile and the fun rapid-fire round.

https://youtu.be/5KPHWL0_2F4

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000579842826

05/09/2022

Season 2 Episode 27: Brad Montague

In this inspiring new episode Sammie talks to Brad Montague. Brad is a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator. He was the creator of Kid President, and his work is designed to connect with the hearts of children young and old. He is currently preparing to hit the road to celebrate the release of THE FANTASTIC BUREAU OF IMAGINATION. Brad and Sammie connected about a year and a half when he awarded her a Neighborhoodie award. Enjoy their conversation full of insight, inspiration, smiles, and laughter. Be a part of a circle spreading kindness in this world. Don't forget to listen until the end for the rapid fire round and what makes Brad smile. This episode will get you creating, imagining, and wanting to make the world a better place for young and old. Montague Workshop

https://youtu.be/F5MbqSV3BiE

22/08/2022

Season 2 Episode 26: Sammie interviews E Train

In this episode Sammie talks to fellow book lover and podcast host E Train's World of Books & Wonder. E Train has been hosting a podcast called E Train Talks where he interviews Middle Grade Authors. Sammie and him have a lot of fun talking all things books, interviews and other things in between! Find out about his service projects and you can't miss the rapid fire round and what makes E Train smile. Get ready to make a trip to an indie bookstore or the library after this because you will want to grab a book for sure. Sammie was recently a guest on his podcast❤️

Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify & ApplePodcast

https://youtu.be/iwljrB-II9A

08/08/2022

Season 2 Episode 25: Sammie Interviews Marissa Meyers

In this episode Sammie talks to New York Times Bestselling author and podcast host Marissa Meyers. Marissa Meyer, YA Author has written multiple best sellers and Sammie is a huge fan of her writing style. They both have being authors and podcast hosts in common. Find out where Marissa gets her inspiration from and her favorite character. You can't miss the rapid fire round full of fun answers. Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes her smile. This episode is sure to get your week started off right and might just make you want to write!

Watch on YouTube
https://youtu.be/1qtZpj94HEI

Listen on Apple podcast & Spotify
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000575305184

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7qTX9N7WcIf4lBwjXHiSrx?si=v_X2LRKLRZK5556UnP1x4w

19/06/2022

Season 2 Episode 24: Sammie interviews Bill Barr

In this episode on World Juggling Day Sammie talks to Bill Barr. Bill and Sammie met a few years ago at the IJA, International Jugglers Association Convention. Sammie was a guest speaker at the Benefit show and received the first IJA Sammie Vance Youth Achievement award named in her honor. Find out what juggling and service have in common and the impact it has had on Bill and Sammie. Bill is an award-winning juggler with a heart of gold. Don't miss a minute of this fun conversation. Stay tuned until the end for rapid fire and what makes Bill smile.

https://youtu.be/bG2Tj9o4HOA

30/05/2022

Season 2 Episode 23: Samirah Horton “DJ Annie Red”

In this episode, Sammie talks to Samirah Horton, known by many as DJ Annie Red. She is an award-winning DJ and activist from Brooklyn, NY. Samirah uses her music to spread an anti-bullying message. Sammie and Samirah hold in common: both being authors, recent Kid of the Year finalists, and most importantly, seeing a problem and being willing to do something about it. They talk about the importance of being kind and how they can make a difference. Get ready to be inspired and start your week off on the right note.
Watch on YouTube or Listen on Apple Podcast & Spotify

https://youtu.be/imxBVWRHKeM

23/05/2022

Season 2 Episode 22: Sammie Interviews Dr. Mark Daniel

In this episode Sammie talks to Dr. Mark Daniel, the superintendent of the largest school district in Indiana (Fort Wayne Community Schools) This week marks the end of the school year, but the summer break is only for students. Find out what a superintendent does and why Dr. Daniel loves his role. Sammie and Dr. Daniel talk school, little known parts of the job and of course what makes him smile. Sammie is glad to be a part of Fort Wayne Community Schools and ready to be an 8th grader in the fall! Don't miss this “schools out” episode!

https://youtu.be/TGpuT2mYGh8

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000563191067

09/05/2022

Season 2 Episode 21: Adina Lichtman

In this episode Sammie interviews Adina Lichtman, founder ofKnock Knock Give a Sock. Adina started her nonprofit to help humanize homelessness one sock at a time by turning transactions into interactions. Find out what inspired her and how the pandemic changed how she did things. Adina is also and author. You will enjoy this conversation between to powerhouse ladies out to change the world for good. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out what makes Adina smile.

Watch on YouTube or listen on Apple Podcast & Spotify

https://youtu.be/EPdGPnYnFXw

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000560047429

02/05/2022

Season 2 Episode 20: Vladimir Duthiers

Sammies 70th guest🎉

You are in for a treat! Sammie interviews the Peabody and Emmy award winning journalist Vladimir Duthiers. Vlad is a CBS News correspondent in New York that has an incredible way of interacting with people all over the world. This episode covers so much and is jam packed full of topics from flying with the blue angels to interviewing Lin Manuel Miranda. Toss in a whole section on Reading Rainbow and their mutual love of books with a fun sprinkling of rapid-fire round that goes both ways. You will not only learn a lot about Vlad and his passion for talking with people and sharing stories but also about how he deals with reporting the hard topics. See if you are surprised by Sammie's favorite animal. This interview will have you smiling from start to finish. Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes Vlad smile.
Watch on YouTube or listen on Apple Podcast & Spotify

https://youtu.be/jm_BABUOTCU

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000559214983

25/04/2022

Season 2 Episode 19: Lennon Epand

In this episode Sammie talks to 8 year old Lennon Epand who is the front woman and co writer of the band Homescool. This interview will get you Rockin' for sure! Find out how Lennon first got involved in music and what it's like working with her dad and good friends. With a new song release called "The Drums" Lennon was joined with friends that have rock stars for parents. You will learn what former podcast guest Lennon and Sammie are both friends with. Don’t forget to listen until the end for the rapid fire round and to find out what makes Lennon smile. I promise you this episode will put a song in your heart.
Watch on YouTube or listen on Apple Podcast & Spotify
https://youtu.be/pJ81A38Pa_I

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000558543626

18/04/2022

Season 2 Episode 18: Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch

In this episode Sammie talks to Indiana's Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch. Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch is the President of the Senate, overseas multiple boards and is the founder of the Brilliant Firefly Award. Find out about the Lt. Governors responsibilities and the pros and cons of the job. What is it like to use the gavel and get order? Learn about Sammie's recent trip to the Statehouse and what the Brilliant Firefly Award is. Being a government leader is so much more than most people know and I can guarantee you will leave inspired and ready to accomplish something after listening. Don't forget to tune in until the end for the fun rapid fire round and to find out what makes Lt. Governor Crouch smile. This episode is not to be missed!

https://youtu.be/OIhv0w_ZEiQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000557851661

11/04/2022

Season 2 Episode 17: Hana Mangat

In this episode Sammie interviews Hana Mangat, the founder of Sikh Kid 2 Kidand an intern at Channel Kindness. Channel Kindness is a part of Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation. Sammie was recently asked to write an article about kindness for their blog and that is how this interview came to be. Hana and Sammie talk all things kindness and how important mental health is. Find out about Lady Gaga's book that Hana was a part of. Learn about how a little kindness goes a long way. You won't want to miss this inspiring episode as these two girls speak from the heart. Don't forget to tune in until the end to find out what makes Hana smile.

https://youtu.be/Gf_PLg3ZEN8

08/04/2022

Sammie has been working hard on recording some new episodes! Spring Break this week but that hasn’t slowed her down. New episode out on Monday!

28/03/2022

Season 2 Episode 16: Jeff Wall

In this episode Sammie talks to Jeff Wall, founder of Golden Age Karate. Jeff goes to different senior citizen facilities and teaches them karate and shows kindness. Sammie and him recently worked on a small project together and because what he does is so inspiring it was a no brainer to ask him to be a guest on Sammie Smiles. Find out what motivates Jeff and how he overcame obstacles to continuing his mission while so many places were shut down during the pandemic. This is a kickin' good episode that will inspire you to want to get out and help the elderly or anyone for that matter. Don't forget to stay tuned until the end for the rapid-fire round and what makes Jeff smile.

https://youtu.be/bCqxOVrMOeU

16/03/2022

Season 2 Episode 15: Stacy Bauer

In this episode Sammie talks to Stacy C. Bauer, author and publisher. They talk writing books, making a difference and kids changing the world. Sammie is featured in Stacy's new book series Young Changemakers. You will no doubt leave inspired after listening to these two talks and don't forget to check out book 5 in the Young Changemakers series. You will see a familiar girl on a buddy bench on the cover!
Here is kickstarter https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/stacycbauer/champions-for-change-and-heroic-kids

Here is podcast!
https://youtu.be/E35PsKNNAUM

Or Apple
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000554154623

07/03/2022

Season 2 Episode 14: Rebecca Louie

In this episode Sammie talks to Rebecca Louie, Executive Director of The Bee Conservancy. You will learn about bees and appreciate them in a whole new light after listening to this conversation. Find out why bees are so important in our every day life and what we can do to help make sure they are protected. You will also hear about fun ways to teach others about bees through comics or building habitats. You will BEEEE amazed and ready to buzz about what you learn. Huge thank you to Buddy Fruits for introducing us to this amazing nonprofit dedicated to protecting bees and safeguarding the environment. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out more about Rebecca, her role and what makes her smile.

Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify & YouTube

https://youtu.be/qwyMOyTUUC8

28/02/2022

Season 2 Episode 13: Amy Guglielmo

In this episode Sammie talks to Amy Guglielmo, the Creative Director for the new Reading Rainbow LIVE. Amy is also an author, illustrator, artist and teacher. You will love their colorful conversation on writing books, the importance of art and inspiring others. Find out about the new Reading Rainbow Live and how Sammie will be a part of the first event. It will feature her book and her project. Amy is so creative on so many levels and this talk will keep you captivated until the end. Don't miss the rapid fire round and what makes Amy smile. Reading Rainbow

https://youtu.be/MeQL4MfpVUc

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000552386572

21/02/2022

Season 2 Episode 12: Benjamin Wong

In this episode Sammie talks to Benjamin Wong, founder of Kid CEO and podcast host. Benjamin is passionate about connecting with other kid entrepreneurs. He is also involved in explaining NFT's and Crypto. Sammie and Benjamin talk about the importance of finding something you are passionate about and excelling at it and helping others. Both are drawn to inspiring people and wanting to tell their stories. Stay tuned until the end for the fun rapid-fire round and to find out what makes Benjamin smile. You are never too young to make a difference.

https://youtu.be/QzhGGeDGXA8

14/02/2022

Season 2 Episode 11: Vicki Bachmann

In this episode Sammie talks to Vicki Bachmann, VP of Business Partnerships for MATTER. MATTER is a global nonprofit on a mission to help people launch projects that improve communities. Find out how MATTER came to be and how they believe and show that everyone matters! You will enjoy this conversation about the importance of helping others in our communities and beyond. We are thankful to BUDDY FRUITS for introducing Sammie to this great and inspiring organization.

https://youtu.be/9PW1TCZBpdg

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sammie-smiles/id1536338801?i=1000550968588

07/02/2022

Season 2 Episode 10: Ekansh Tambe

In this episode Sammie talks to Ekansh Tambe, founder of Beyond Borders. Ekansh wanted to know what happens across the border and instead of wondering took the initiative to take his camera and travel the world to find out firsthand about it. Find out what motivates him. Be inspired to not just wonder but do. You will love the conversation about how anyone can make a difference. Sammie and Ekansh recently met in person through both being honorees of the Power of Children Award. We hope you listen until the end to find out more about Ekansh and perhaps be inspired to look at something through a different lens.

https://youtu.be/cN7puZRycDQ

24/01/2022

S2 E9: Victoria Ren

In this episode Sammie talks with Victoria Ren, founder of STEM & Buds. Sammie and Victoria met recently through the Power of Children's Award at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Find out why STEM is so important for kids to be involved in and why Victoria is passionate about it. Learn what STEM program Sammie was involved in a few years ago and much more. You will enjoy this conversation between two girls that want to make a difference in ways that matter to them and the people around them. Victoria is someone with a good head on her shoulders that we have no doubt will continue to do great things. Don't forget to listen until the end to find out what makes Victoria smile.

https://youtu.be/5sC0Ww3k02w

17/01/2022

S2 E8: Arsh Pal

In this artistic episode Sammie interviews Arsh Pal. Arsh is a young artist on a mission to help others through his artwork. Find out about his drive. Also learn about what he is doing to help senior citizens through his passion. Sammie and Arsh connect and have a lot of fun doing it. Get ready to be inspired and probably want to take up some sort of art project after this. Stay tuned until the end to find out what makes Arsh smile. ArtbyArsh

https://youtu.be/JrPBvgawn8c

10/01/2022

Season 2 Episode 7: Rodney Smith Jr

n this episode Sammie talks to Rodney Smith Jr. founder of Raising Men and Women Lawn Care Service. Rodney encourages kids to take a challenge of mowing 50 yards free for elderly, veterans, and single parents. Rodney also just wrapped up a 50-state holiday tour visiting kids with illnesses and bringing them gifts and good cheer with fellow humanitarian Yuri Williams. Find out how Sammie first came in contact with Rodney and about their recent meeting in person. This episode will fill you with hope and probably make you want to go out and shovel a driveway or mow a lawn for someone that needs it. Don't forget to listen until the end for the fun rapid-fire round and to find out what makes Rodney smile.

https://youtu.be/T_tn6wyRDnk

03/01/2022

Season 2 Episode 6:
Kollin Matthews

In the first episode of 2022 Sammie interviews her youngest guest to date, Kollin Matthews. Kollin is a 5 year old that embodies what Sammie often says that you don't have to be an adult to make a difference, you can be a kid too. Sammie and Kollin have been involved in a few of the same kindness projects over the past year. Find out what they have been up to and about Kollin's latest initiative and what he accomplished in just a few short days. Get ready to smile a lot and laugh plenty as these two have a blast chatting. Sammie is so happy to be the first one to interview Kollin but we are sure she won't be the last. Don't forget to listen until the end for the rapid fire round and to find out what makes Kollin smile.
Blankies 4 My Buddies

https://youtu.be/MITmnRHvU5Q

29/11/2021

Season 2 Episode 5: Ashley Nevison

In this episode Sammie talks to Ashley Nevison just in time for Giving Tuesday 2021. Ashley not only volunteers to helps those in need but also has a podcast, is an author and both Sammie and she are Giving Tuesday Sparks leaders. Though states and years a part Ashley and Sammie have a lot in common and both loves to spread kindness. They both started their initiatives at age 8. Find out about Ashley's GivingTuesday plans and how you can be involved. Also find out why Sammie loves team work so much. Make sure and listen until the end to find out what makes Ashley smile. After this episode I am betting you will be inspired to spread some kindness of your own.

https://youtu.be/XLOtQtMeqrk

22/11/2021

Season 2 Episode 4: Will Poulter

In this fantastic new episode of Sammie Smiles, Sammie interviews the talented Will Poulter. Will is a well-known advocate for anti-bullying and his work with The Diana Award. He is an accomplished actor best known for his roles in The Maze Runner, We are the Millers and The Chronicles of Narnia. He was recently cast as Adam Warlock in the new Guardians of the Galaxy 3 movie. You will enjoy this genuine conversation between Will and Sammie about helping others, being kind, life in the limelight and the importance of having a support system. There are lots of smiles and laughter as well as a lot of heart and inspiration. You won't want to miss a second of this wonderful interview. And make sure and stay tuned until the end for the fun rapid fire round and what makes Will smile.
Watch on YouTube or listen on Apple Podcast & Spotify

https://youtu.be/5SdwpJg6j-A

08/11/2021

Season 2 Episode 3: Sammie Interviews Leo Abelo Perry

In this energy filled episode Sammie talks to 8 year old Leo Abelo Perry. Leo is a kid with many talents from dancing to acting to having his own podcast. Sammie and Leo talk about his Dance for Justice initiative, his new podcast "The Activators" (which Sammie just recorded for) and him being cast in the new Cheaper by the Dozen remake. Get ready to smile because this episode is sure to get you on your feet and ready for a new week.

Watch on YouTube or listen on Apple Podcast & Spotify

https://youtu.be/QU3mLYsawdw

02/11/2021

Season 2 Episode 2: Asha Curran

In this episode Sammie talks to Asha Curran, CEO and co-founder of the Global Movement GivingTuesday. Sammie has been a Giving Tuesday leader for the past two and a half years and has learned so much about giving in the process. Find out how Giving Tuesday started, how far its spread, and different creative ways you can be involved whether you have money or not. All you need is some kindness and at times creativity. Also find out about Sammie's big Giving Tuesday plans to write notes and spread smiles and you can too! This episode has lots of smiles and inspiration to start your day, week and month off right.

https://youtu.be/Mfi5uIw4lqQ

Sammie Smiles Podcast