PODCAST EPISODES
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PODCAST EPISODES •
Jeanne Pepper's
PeppTalks Podcast
Join host Jeanne Pepper, co-creator of #BlazeitForward, as she dives deep with extraordinarily altruistic people on a wide range of topics related to why and how they choose to help others on her PeppTalks podcast. From thought-provoking interviews with everyday super heroes to captivating storytelling sessions and reveals, each episode promises insightful discussions on what makes every day people become the heroes we so admire? What small things can we do to repair the world? This engaging content will leave you feeling enriched, awed and inspired. Tune in to discover a world of kindness and hope with endless possibilities for making this world a better place.
“Is it possible to know how you will act when thrust into an existentialist crisis? Will you stand up to the challenge, or fall to the ground in a puddle of fears and devastation? Will you rise with courage and purpose and fight for life, for love, for resolution, knowing that even with your last dying breath you may never have the answers you need?”
DISCLAIMER
Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at PepptalkswithJeanne@gmail.com.
FIRST SEASON
EPISODES 101 - 111
Podcasts 113- (Copy)
Anne Friedman and Jeanne Pepper, Ep. 101
Peter MacDonald, Former Executive Director Loan Depot
“The only Irish Catholic ever honored as Mensch of the Year by the Orange County Jewish Community”
Philanthropist at Large
On this episode, Peter MacDonald the former Executive Vice President and General Counsel at Loan Depot gives us the back story on what inspired an average Canadian Irish Catholic and one of ten children to become an integral part of the Orange County Jewish community. His journey began after finishing college, when Peter left Canada alone to explore southern California and eventually made it to Western State College of Law in Orange County. We discuss Peter’s improbable casting as 1980’s Canadian “say no to drugs” icon, his foray as a house painter, and his stint as the only Irish Catholic recognized as a “Mensch of the Year” by the Orange County Jewish Federation. Learn what makes this accomplished philanthropist tick and how he made his dreams of family, career, philanthropy, and beach life come true.
rOn this episode Jeanne is joined by Anne Friedman the Executive Director of Gay For Good. Anne discusses her journey in community service and how it led her to Gay for Good. Learn what Gay for Good does and how you can get involved. Gay For Good mobilizes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+) and ally volunteers to promote diversity, foster inclusion and strengthen ties to the broader community.
Episode 101
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Gideon Bernstein
Monica Levy
Podcasts
Anne Friedman and Jeanne Pepper, Ep. 101
Peter MacDonald
Former Executive Vice President Loan Depot
“The only Irish Catholic ever honored as Mensch of the Year by the Orange County Jewish Community”
Philanthropist at Large
On this episode, Peter MacDonald the former Executive Vice President and General Counsel at Loan Depot gives us the back story on what inspired an average Canadian Irish Catholic and one of ten children to become an integral part of the Orange County Jewish community. His journey began after finishing college, when Peter left Canada alone to explore southern California and eventually made it to Western State College of Law in Orange County. We discuss Peter’s improbable casting as 1980’s Canadian “say no to drugs” icon, his foray as a house painter, and his stint as the only Irish Catholic recognized as a “Mensch of the Year” by the Orange County Jewish Federation. Learn what makes this accomplished philanthropist tick and how he made his dreams of family, career, philanthropy, and beach life come true.
Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper
Guest: Peter MacDonald
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Helen Harlan
Bailey Kaufman
Episode 101
Anne Friedman and Jeanne Pepper, Ep. 101
Anne Friedman, Executive Director
“passionately driving positive change for the LGBTQIA+ community through broader community engagement and inclusivity”
Gay for Good
On this episode Jeanne is joined by Anne Friedman the Executive Director of Gay For Good. Anne discusses her journey in community service and how it led her to Gay for Good. Learn what Gay for Good does and how you can get involved. Gay For Good mobilizes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+) and ally volunteers to promote diversity, foster inclusion and strengthen ties to the broader community.
Episode 101
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Gideon Bernstein
Monica Levy
Episode 102
Philip Yaeger and Jeanne Pepper, Ep. 102
Philip Yaeger, Executive Director & CEO
“a visionary & spiritual leader dedicated to providing much needed
healthcare services to the LGBTQAI+ community”
Radiant Healthcare Centers
On this episode Jeanne is joined by Philip Yaeger the Executive Director and CEO of RadiantHealth Centers. Join the conversation and learn more about Phil, his own journey and finding his true purpose as he became a leader in his community. Radiant Health Centers provides compassionate and comprehensive health services to all underserved individuals in Orange County, with a special focus on the LGBTQ+ community.
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Camera Operator: Keith Anthony
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Monica Levy
Episode 103
Keith Anthony and Jeanne Pepper, Episode 103
Keith Anthony, Producer
“he combines raw vulnerability with powerful storytelling to inspire his audience to do good”
What Could You Do?
On this episode Jeanne is joined by Keith Anthony, positivity content creator and host of What Could You Do? Join us as we discover a short form video series that places a spotlight on people solving everyday issues experienced in their community. Learn how positive content creation is the future of media because it makes the people who make it and the people who watch it vibe higher!
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Guest: Keith Anthony
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to;
Gideon Bernstein
Monica Levy
Episode 104
Erin Runnion and Jeanne Pepper discuss her work as a child advocate, Ep. 104
Erin Runnion, Founder & President
“Turning tragedy into triumph and protecting our children”
The Joyful Child Foundation
On this episode Jeanne is joined by Erin Runnion from The Joyful Child Foundation. The Joyful Child Foundation was established to prevent crimes against children through programs focused on education, awareness, and empowerment. At the heart of this impactful organization is its founder, Erin Runnion, a dedicated advocate for child safety and well-being.
Erin Runnion founded the Joyful Child Foundation in memory of her daughter, Samantha, who was tragically abducted and murdered in 2002. Despite enduring such a devastating loss, Erin channeled her grief into creating a lasting legacy for Samantha and a beacon of hope for children everywhere. Erin went on to devote herself and her career to helping children and families. Learn about her story, trauma and how she made something positive come from her tragedy. Erin's passion, resilience, and dedication serve as a driving force behind the Joyful Child Foundation's mission, making a profound impact on communities and emphasizing the importance of child safety and empowerment. Her vision and leadership continue to guide the foundation's work, ensuring that Samantha's legacy lives on through a legacy of hope, education, and joy.
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Camera Operator: Keith Anthony
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to;
Gideon Bernstein
Monica Levy
Episode 105
Mara James founder and President of The Extraordinary Lives Foundation and Jeanne Pepper, Ep. 6
Mara James, Founder & President
“Together, we can make a difference and help others lead truly extraordinary lives.”
Extraordinary Lives Foundation
On this episode, Jeanne is joined by Mara James of the Extraordinary Lives Foundation (“ELF”). ELF is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals to lead extraordinary lives despite facing significant challenges. Mara James, a visionary philanthropist, started ELF to provide support, resources, and opportunities for those who are striving to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. Using a character “Piggy Bear” in children’s books she created, her books teach life lessons about diversity, mental health and self acceptance. In studio, Mara discusses her own mental health journey and spiritual awakening. Join us as we discuss Mara’s passionate journey to celebrate the extraordinary potential within every individual and to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
Episode 105
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Camera Operator: Keith Anthony
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to;
Gideon Bernstein
Monica Levy
Episode 106
Heather Kline, President of Jewish Federation Orange County
“Heather Kline, may be petite, but her impact is undeniably formidable
making her a true force to be reckoned with in the realm of community leadership.”
Woman of the Year 2024
Heather Kline and Jeanne Pepper, Ep. 106
On this week’s episode Heather Kline, an Orange County philanthropist and “Lion of Judah”, discusses her life and community service with Jewish Federation where she serves as board president. Jewish Federation of Orange County’s Women’s Philanthropy division honored Heather as 2024 “Woman of the Year” on March 19th 2024. Heather also shares with us about her spirituality, how she finds meaning in this world and about the tragic and impactful loss of her mother when she was in college.
Episode 106
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Monica Levy
Episode 107
Gideon Bernstein and Jeanne Pepper, Episode 107.
Gideon Bernstein, President
“leading with passion and dedication to foster community growth”
Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County
On this episode Jeanne is joined by Gideon Bernstein; her husband, co-founder of #BlazeitForward, author, volunteer chairman of the Jewish community foundation of Orange County and philanthropist. During this quick interview Gideon talks about the role of the Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County and how a community foundation can help you with your philanthropy. We also had time to talk about his book, “Giving: A Handbook to Happiness for the Modern Philanthropist.”
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Helen Harlan
Episode 108
Susan Seeley, the National Executive Director of Na’Amat USA with Jeanne Pepper in Episode 108
Susan Seely
“Big things come in little packages.”
National Executive Director, Na’Amat USA
On this episode Jeanne is joined by Susan Seely the National Executive Director of Na'Amat USA. Susan talks about how her organization is making a difference supporting women and their causes in Israel. We discuss Susan's long professional history in social justice, and how her passion for helping people led to her success in nonprofit work.
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Helen Harlan
Episode 109
Adrienne Matros 2019 Philanthropist of the Year at her recording session with Jeanne Pepper
Dr. Adrienne Matros
“Part Chippewa and Part Superhero”
2019 Philanthropist of the Year
In this episode, Jeanne interviews 2019 Philanthropist of the Year, Adrienne Matros who discusses her love of helping other people, how she took her humble beginnings and turned it into a life of service, and of special interest - her Chippewa (native) family history. Adrienne generously supports numerous causes in Orange County both financially and with her own active work. Find out how this grandmother of 15 and mother of 7 finds time to be on the board of multiple non-profits, helps in caring for her grand children and still manages to travel the world with her family and her husband Rick.
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Helen Harlan
Episode 110
PeppTalks with Jeanne - Episode 110 Featuring Rick Matros
Rick Matros
Philanthropy’s most tattooed man?
IsraAid
Rick Matros is more than just a super cool father of seven and grandpa of 15 who is adorned with amazing tattoos of his family, music, Judaism and Israel. Serving on the board of IsraAid US and with his wife Dr. Adrienne Matros, they support many non-profit organizations such as Jewish National Fund, the Merage Jewish Community Center, Artists 4 Israel (Healing Ink), the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Children’s Hospital of Orange County, Tilly’s Life Center, Radiant Healthcare, The Samueli Academy (not an inclusive list) and they also travel the world to help others. You will be absolutely amazed by Rick's success story as he takes us through his tough early years and his intentioned decision as a young hoodlum to have a "good" life. We could have made this a 10 hour interview and still not covered every fascinating detail of his prolific career as a businessman, philanthropist and family man. While we anticipate he will be back again, get a taste now of this remarkable man.
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Helen Harlan
Episode 111
EP. 06
Gideon Bernstein and Jeanne Pepper, PeppTalks with Jeanne Ep. 111
Gideon Bernstein, Author
“Anyone who thinks they can’t make a difference should look at what one mosquito can do”
Author, “Giving: The Guide to Happiness for the Modern Philanthropist”
In this episode Jeanne is joined once again by Gideon Bernstein her husband and co-founder of #BlazeitForward, volunteer chairman of the Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County and philanthropist. During this interview Gideon talks about the role of the Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County, how it came to be and what you can do for your organization.
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to;
Gideon Bernstein
Helen Harlan
Bailey Kaufman
Episode 112
Wendy Arenson and Jeanne Pepper during recording of episode 112
Wendy Arenson, Executive Director
“She took her love of helping people in her community and made it a career she loves.”
Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County
Guest Wendy Chase Arenson is a driving force behind the Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County, serving as both its Executive Director and President. Since joining the organization in 2012, her dedication to community collaboration and donor engagement has fueled the Foundation's remarkable growth. Wendy discusses her love for helping people, how it and how she ended up as one of the Orange County community’s leading experts in philanthropic giving.
Episode 112
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Sound: Eli Moskowitz
Post Production: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to:
Gideon Bernstein
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