Ever wondered what it takes to leave the world a better place?
Join Tim McGraw's longtime fiddle player, Dean "Deano" Brown, as he delves into the inspiring stories from ordinary people doing extraordinary things. From environmental activists to community organizers, we'll uncover the passion, perseverance, and purpose that drive these individuals to make a difference. Whether you're looking for motivation, inspiration, or simply a good story, the "Better Than We Found It" podcast is for you.
Sit in and listen to my conversation with sudden cardiac arrest survivor/Founder and President of the Aliver Foundation.
A non for profit 501(c)(3) who's mission is simple:
"To raise awareness and funds to install all weather AED's in outdoor recreation spaces while also providing crucial resources and educational opportunities to individuals and communities."
You see on June 25, 2021 while attending a gathering at a public park, Jill died from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Were it not for the quick thinking of a bystander, who performed CPR until the paramedics arrived with an AED, Jill would not be here today.
Leaving the hospital with no roadmap for recovery, Jill spent late nights on Google and Facebook groups just trying to make sense of what happened. She quickly realized how few people knew CPR, how rare outdoor all-weather AEDs are in public parks, and how isolated survivors often feel. Drawing on her 20+ years in the non-profit world, she founded THE ALIVER FOUNDATION.
Today, this all-volunteer team works with survivors, first responders, and medical professionals to put climate-controlled AED's in public spaces, teach CPR, and give survivors the guidance she never had.
I very powerful story with a beautiful outcome and future.
Hope you enjoy my conversation with Jill Pall
29 Apr 2026
Conversation with Jennifer Brusstar
In this powerful episode of Better Than We Found It, we sit down with Jennifer Brusstar, President and CEO of The Tug McGraw Foundation, to explore a mission that’s changing lives at one of the most vulnerable intersections of health and hope.
Jennifer shares the heart behind the foundation’s work—supporting individuals and families navigating the emotional, cognitive, and physical challenges of brain tumors. But this conversation goes deeper than programs and services. It uncovers the “why” that fuels Jennifer’s leadership: a personal connection to the cause, a relentless commitment to advocacy, and a belief that no one should face this journey alone.
We talk about how the foundation uniquely blends military and civilian research to create meaningful, real-world impact, and why collaboration is key to accelerating breakthroughs. Jennifer also opens up about the human side of this work—the stories that stay with her, the moments that test her, and the ones that remind her exactly why she keeps going.
If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to turn purpose into action, this episode will leave you inspired—and challenged—to be part of something bigger than yourself.
16 Mar 2026
Conversation with Patrick Lomantini
Patrick and I met back in 2023 when i walked into a barber shop and he welcomed me on to his chair and little did i realize at the time, but into his life.
What happens when someone survives their darkest moments- and chooses to turn that pain into purpose?
Today I sit down with my friend and suicide survivor Patrick Lomantini to find out.
Patrick shares his story with honesty and courage, opening up about the struggles that nearly took his life and the turning points that helped him find a new path forward, Today he works with people who feel trapped in silence, reminding them that their lives still matter and that hope can return- even when it feels impossible.
This conversation is raw , compassionate, and ultimately hopeful. It's a reminder that even in the darkest seasons of life, light can break through-and that each of us has the power to help someone else keep going. And,
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS STRUGGLING: In the United States, you can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to connect with traIned counselors 24/7. You are not alone, and help is available.
If this episode resonates with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it. Sometimes one conversation can change-or even save- a life.
I hope you enjoy listening to my conversation with Patrick Lomantini and I hope you have the best day ever!
Peace! ✌🏽
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
7 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 34 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
55
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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