Episodes

  • EP.29 The Sit Down

    EP.29 The Sit Down
    Jan 9 2025
    On this episode of The Sit Down, Rod Love and Ms. Wynn tackle pressing community issues with candor and insight, diving into topics that impact households across Central Florida and beyond. Joined by Doc Polite, the team reflects on poverty, education inequality, and the critical role of family structure in community resilience.The conversation explores the powerful role of women leading societal change, while also addressing the growing conversation around parenting dynamics—particularly how women raise sons versus daughters and the importance of male mentorship in raising boys to become responsible men. The discussion doesn’t shy away from controversy, delving into the importance of discipline, accountability, and the need for immediate consequences to foster growth and secure a brighter future for children.Additionally, the episode recaps a recent segment with Trinity Solar, showcasing innovative solutions to combat rising utility costs and support families on fixed incomes. With humor, relatable anecdotes (like those insightful COVID babies!), and a deep commitment to empowering the community, this episode underscores the importance of teamwork, accountability, and long-term vision as The Sit Down introduces its 2025 Plan for Community Development.It’s a must-listen for anyone committed to building stronger families and stronger communities. Don’t miss it!
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • EP.28 The Sit Down _ Kickstart Your Journey into Responsible Fatherhood! _

    EP.28 The Sit Down _ Kickstart Your Journey into Responsible Fatherhood! _
    Jan 8 2025
    On this episode of The Sit Down, Rod Love and Doc Polite tackle the topic of responsible fatherhood with a powerhouse panel featuring Dr. Randy Nelson of 21st Century Research and Evaluation, and the dynamic duo of Kenny Smith and Grace from Graymar. Together, they explore the critical role of fathers in the community, the ripple effects of father absence, and actionable strategies for fostering stronger family bonds.From sharing personal stories of single-parent households to discussing the impact of father figures beyond biological ties, the conversation dives deep into the statistics, emotional realities, and systemic challenges tied to this pressing issue. With heartfelt insights, Grace highlights the importance of co-parenting maturity, while Dr. Nelson and Kenny bring the data to life, underscoring how present fathers can transform families and entire communities.As they explore Florida's recent investments in fatherhood initiatives, including the Florida Economic Consortium's Responsible Fatherhood program, the panel emphasizes solutions for making fatherhood not just a responsibility but a celebrated pillar of community strength.This thought-provoking episode will leave you inspired and informed about the power of responsible fatherhood. Don’t miss it!
    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • EP.27 The Sit Down

    EP.27 The Sit Down
    Jan 7 2025
    In this episode of The Sit Down, hosts Rod Loving and Doc Polite discuss the transformative potential of renewable energy with special guest Jarrell Roberts from Trinity Solar. Jarrell shares insights into the benefits of solar energy, debunks common misconceptions, and explains the difference between leasing and purchasing panels. The trio dives into the rising costs of traditional utilities, how solar can provide sustainable savings, and how custom solutions are tailored to each household's unique needs. Plus, Rod and Doc share personal experiences with solar energy and how it has impacted their homes. Whether you're curious about going solar or looking to save on your energy bills, this episode is packed with valuable information and practical advice.

    Tune in to learn how solar energy could be the bright solution you’re looking for!
    Show More Show Less
    49 mins
  • EP.26 The Sit Down

    EP.26 The Sit Down
    Jan 6 2025
    In this episode of The Sit Down, the hosts dive into a candid and thought-provoking conversation about community, politics, and personal responsibility. They reflect on the importance of family and legacy, touching on powerful moments of personal growth as a grandparent. The discussion then shifts to the pressing need for civility in political discourse, condemning violence and the dangerous rhetoric that fuels it. With a focus on practical solutions, the hosts explore how individuals can take ownership of their communities through small but consistent investments, emphasizing that financial contributions, even in modest amounts, can drive change. They also highlight the significance of community involvement and advocacy, particularly in navigating city politics and ensuring resources reach the right hands. The episode is a compelling mix of personal insight, community empowerment, and social responsibility.
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • EP.25 The Sit Down

    EP.25 The Sit Down
    Jan 3 2025
    In this engaging episode of The Sit Down, host Rod Love and co-host Shaquita Wynn kick things off with a heartfelt celebration—Shaquita’s first grandson was born over the weekend! Amidst the excitement, they dive deep into pressing issues affecting the Black community, offering a candid discussion on crime, education, and the importance of community engagement.Rod and Shaquita are joined by Dr. Vaughn, who brings his wisdom and experience into the conversation, advocating for a game plan to address the ongoing struggles facing communities today. Drawing parallels to football, Dr. Vaughn emphasizes the importance of preparation and research in creating solutions—whether it's tackling crime, raising educational standards, or fostering stronger community ties.The episode also revisits last week's insightful conversation with Ray Gaines from The Fane House, a transitional home dedicated to helping young adults in foster care. The team talks about the value of building structured plans for addressing these challenges and how the community can contribute to lasting change.This thought-provoking episode is a call to action for listeners to get involved, stay informed, and help create a strong, supportive network within their neighborhoods. With a focus on personal responsibility, community standards, and the collective power of individuals, The Sit Down encourages everyone to take part in shaping a better future for their families and communities.Join us for this inspiring discussion and learn how you can help make a meaningful difference!
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • EP.24 The Sit Down

    EP.24 The Sit Down
    Jan 2 2025
    In this episode of The Sit Down, host Rod Love and co-host Shaquita Wynn sit down with Ray Gaines, Executive Director of The Fane House, a transitional home for young adults who’ve aged out of foster care or are considered homeless in the state of Florida.Ray provides an insightful look into the challenges faced by young people leaving the foster care system—often unprepared and without a support network. He explains how The Fane House serves as a safe and supportive environment where these young adults can heal, develop life skills, and work towards independent living. From trauma-informed care and job placement to the importance of family-style living and the challenges of managing a co-ed space, Ray dives deep into the unique approach the Fane House takes to prepare young adults for the future.He also discusses the need for volunteers, mentors, and community support, highlighting how individuals can get involved to make a difference. The conversation sheds light on the often overlooked issues of youth homelessness and the critical role organizations like The Fane House play in providing a path to stability and success.Tune in for a powerful conversation about resilience, hope, and the importance of community support in shaping the futures of young adults who need it most.Listen now to hear Ray’s inspiring story and learn how you can get involved!
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • EP.23 The Sit Down

    EP.23 The Sit Down
    Jan 1 2025
    In this powerful episode of The Sit Down, host Rod Love and co-host Ms. Wynn sit down with the inspiring Haley Hunt, founder of The Verb Kind, an organization dedicated to transforming the lives of incarcerated youth across Florida and beyond. Haley shares her heartfelt journey of volunteering in juvenile detention centers, where she offers love, support, and hope to young people who have faced unimaginable hardships.Haley opens up about the mission behind The Verb Kind, emphasizing its core belief: "Victory Every Day, Restoring Belief." She explains how her organization's work goes beyond simple charity, providing a safe space for youth who may have nowhere else to turn. From visiting the kids regularly to forming deep connections, Haley talks about the power of restorative love, mentorship, and the hope of redemption in some of society's most overlooked communities.Haley also delves into the real struggles many of these young people face: fatherlessness, trauma, and the desperate need for stability. Her honest, no-nonsense approach has helped hundreds of kids in Florida, Tennessee, and Alabama, and now The Verb Kind is expanding across the country. The episode touches on the importance of mentorship, the role of community, and how everyone can play a part in making a difference.Tune in to hear more about Haley’s journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and the incredible impact of The Verb Kind as they continue to change lives—one young person at a time.
    Show More Show Less
    41 mins
  • EP.22 The Sit Down

    EP.22 The Sit Down
    Dec 31 2024
    In this episode, hosts Rod Love, Shaquita Wynn, and Doc Polite dive into the growing concern of social media's impact on kids' mental health, sparked by the recent call from U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy for a tobacco-style warning on social media platforms. They discuss the dangers of online bullying, sextortion, and the overall psychological toll social media has on youth today.Key Points:
    1. Father's Day Reflections: Rod and Doc share thoughts on fatherhood, emphasizing that true fathering happens year-round, not just on a designated holiday.
    2. Surgeon General's Warning: Dr. Murthy's recommendation for a warning on social media mirrors the warnings on cigarette packs, aiming to alert the public to the mental health risks for young people online.
    3. Sextortion & Catfishing: Doc highlights how kids are at risk of being groomed online and blackmailed with intimate photos, a growing crisis that leads to suicide in extreme cases.
    4. Generational Disconnect: The hosts discuss how older generations may not fully understand the digital strugglestoday's kids face, especially with bullying that follows them 24/7.
    5. Action & Prevention: The importance of community-based programs, parental awareness, and mental health education is stressed. Everyone must work together to address these challenges and protect youth in the digital age.
    Call to Action:Rod, Doc, and Shaquita urge listeners to get involved, whether by talking to their kids about online risks, supporting mental health programs, or advocating for stronger regulations on social media platforms.
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins