The Power of Us
Arts & Culture Podcasts
Hosted by Monica Daigneault and J.J. Hollie, The Power of Us is a purpose-driven podcast where honest conversations ignite healing, leadership, and transformation. Each episode features changemakers, community leaders, and everyday heroes sharing raw, real-life stories that challenge the status quo and inspire action. From local issues in The Woodlands, TX to global conversations on resilience, justice, and belonging — this show is a bold reminder that when we come together, our voices can move mountains. Because change doesn’t happen in silence. It happens when we rise — together.
Location:
United States
Genres:
Arts & Culture Podcasts
Description:
Hosted by Monica Daigneault and J.J. Hollie, The Power of Us is a purpose-driven podcast where honest conversations ignite healing, leadership, and transformation. Each episode features changemakers, community leaders, and everyday heroes sharing raw, real-life stories that challenge the status quo and inspire action. From local issues in The Woodlands, TX to global conversations on resilience, justice, and belonging — this show is a bold reminder that when we come together, our voices can move mountains. Because change doesn’t happen in silence. It happens when we rise — together.
Language:
English
Episodes
The Power of Us - 011 - Building Community Trust: Insights from Sheriff Wesley Doolittle
9/24/2025
Sheriff Wesley Doolittle shares his journey to becoming sheriff, emphasizing resilience and dedication in public service. He discusses the impact of mental health on law enforcement and advocates for community support and training. The sheriff highlights the importance of community involvement, safety awareness, and technology in crime prevention. He addresses staffing concerns and reiterates the need for trust and engagement between the community and law enforcement.
Duration:00:41:36
The Power of Us - 010 - Honoring Lives: The Montgomery County Overdose Prevention Endeavor
9/24/2025
Sarah Hall, co-founder of MCO, shares her journey after losing her son Ethan to an overdose. She emphasizes the role of support groups like GRASP during challenging times. The group of mothers organizes an event to raise awareness, leading to the creation of the Montgomery County Overdose Prevention Endeavor. Their first event at Stonebridge Church attracts over 250 attendees, showcasing community support and the importance of shared experiences. The Overcomer Scholarship further aids individuals affected by substance use.
Duration:00:35:52
The Power of Us - 009 - Empowering Survivors: The Mission of Hands of Justice
9/24/2025
Dawn Candy, founder and executive director of Hands of Justice, shares the organization's mission to support survivors of sex trafficking, particularly women. After a personal experience with his granddaughter's trafficking, he emphasizes advocacy and economic empowerment for survivors. The organization educates parents on trafficking signs, hosts events for awareness and fundraising, and collaborates with local partners. Success stories highlight the impact of community involvement and the need for continued support.
Duration:00:26:30
The Power of Us - 008 - Kim Hess, Raising Awareness: A Community's Response to Youth Suicide
9/2/2025
Kim Hess, founder of Cassidy Joined for hope, shares her personal journey after losing her daughter Cassidy to suicide, leading to the creation of a foundation for families affected by similar tragedies. A community event, featuring keynote speaker Nathan Harmon, aims to raise awareness and support for students facing mental health challenges. Students take an active role in the event, discussing their struggles and encouraging the formation of Hope Clubs in schools.
Duration:00:30:29
The Power of Us - 007 - Understanding the Impact of Isaiah 117 House
9/2/2025
Isaiah 117 House aims to support children facing trauma during removal from their homes. Founded by Rhonda Paulson, the organization provides a safe environment for children and caseworkers. Volunteers receive training in trauma-informed care, and community engagement is crucial for its success. Fundraising efforts help sustain operations, while personal stories highlight the positive effects on families and the importance of raising awareness about the challenges children face.
Duration:00:29:13
The Power of Us - 006 - Combating Hunger: The Impact of Keep Us Fed
8/19/2025
Becky Ramirez from Keep Us Fed discusses the nonprofit's mission to alleviate hunger through food recovery. The organization connects wasted food to those facing food insecurity, with volunteers playing a vital role. In Montgomery County, 15-20% of residents are food insecure, underscoring the need for community support. Since 2015, Keep Us Fed has rescued over 8 million pounds of food, providing essential meals and encouraging partnerships with local businesses.
Duration:00:25:56
The Power of Us - 005 - Understanding Family Promise: Supporting Homeless Families
7/22/2025
Family Promise started as a host congregation and evolved into a shelter for homeless families, accommodating six families at a time during COVID. Most families are single mothers facing challenges like job loss and domestic violence. The organization has a 98% success rate, focusing on stable housing and employment. Community involvement is encouraged through mentorship and donations, raising awareness about homelessness and advocating for families in need.
Duration:00:31:29
The Power of Us - 004 - Navigating Mental Health Resources with Mosaics of Mercy
7/15/2025
Jamie Freels-Runey, Executive Director of Mosaics of Mercy, discusses her journey in community mental health and the unique model Mosaics offers for resource navigation. The organization provides personalized support, helping clients find tailored mental health and substance use services. Mosaics served around 3,800 individuals last year, focusing on prevention and intervention, and ensuring timely follow-up with local providers and crisis teams.
Duration:00:32:32
The Power of Us - 003 - Building Beds for Children in Need
7/8/2025
Mike Fortner from Sleep in Heavenly Peace shares his journey into charity work, focusing on providing beds for children in Montgomery County. The organization relies on volunteers for monthly assembly events, personalizing each bed to boost the child's self-esteem. With 3% of children lacking beds, partnerships with local churches help prioritize requests. Community support is vital, and listeners are encouraged to raise awareness about this important cause.
Duration:00:29:16
The Power of Us - 002 - Empowering Women: The Journey Home Story
7/1/2025
Billie Beasley from Journey Home joins JJ and Monica. Beasley shares her experiences overcoming childhood abuse and her mission to help others. Journey Home offers a supportive environment for women, focusing on trauma training, parenting classes, and healthy living. Success stories showcase the program's positive impact, emphasizing empowerment and community resources. Listeners are encouraged to seek help from local churches and ministries.
Duration:00:33:32
The Power of Us - 001 - Empowering Communities: Mental Health and Support Initiatives
6/26/2025
JJ Hollie and Monica Daigneault introduce the show and how they want to raise awareness about community resources. Judge Wayne Mack shares his journey from custodian to judge, emphasizing mental health support. The formation of the Montgomery County Behavioral Health Suicide Task Force leads to a successful community event. The discussion highlights the importance of mentoring at-risk children and encourages community involvement, fostering a sense of purpose through helping others.
Duration:00:35:48