EveryDayMatters

About EveryDayMatters

EveryDayMatters is about the opportunity we have to make a difference. Our collective cause-connected mission is about impacting healthcare in meaningful ways. We seek to provide a place to share stories about the progress being made, how to overcome challenges, and ideas to inspire. Each conversation is about the work being done and the opportunity before us. Whether it’s about advocacy, awareness, or challenging stigmas we know that together anything and everything is possible. We learn from yesterday, in pursuit of tomorrow, here we all work to ensure EveryDayMatters!

Publisher

Netsmart

Category

education · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

9 Feb 2022

Latest episode

6 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Episode 17: Helping Kids Build Healthier Relationships with Technology

   Helping kids thrive in a digital world starts with the everyday connections and choices we make together. Tom Herzog sits down with Tracy Foster, Co-Founder and CEO, Screen Sanity, to explore the impact of technology on children’s wellbeing and the ways parents and communities can take action to mitigate potential harm.

2. 

   13 Jul 2026

   Episode 16: How Happy Bottoms Supports Families, One Diaper at a Time

   Lack of access to diapers impacts more than just child health and hygiene—it can impede access to childcare, diminish parental mental wellbeing and even affect employment stability. That’s where Happy Bottoms steps in. Kansas City’s only diaper bank distributes diapers to thousands of families in need across the region. In this episode of the EveryDayMatters Podcast, Susan Belger Angulo, Co-Executive Director and Chief Development Officer, Happy Bottoms, shares the obstacles vulnerable families face, how diaper banks can help and ways volunteers can support the cause.

3. 

   26 May 2026

   Episode 15: From a Mother’s Story to a Movement of Hope

   Mental health challenges can leave families feeling overwhelmed, afraid and unsure of where to turn for support. In this episode, Susie Gurley shares how her family’s journey inspired the Just A Mom podcast and a mission to help others feel less alone through honest stories and shared resources.

4. 

   29 Apr 2026

   Episode 14: Disrupting Generational Poverty: Operation Breakthrough’s Mission to Support Children and Families

   Netsmart associates Tom Herzog and Wendy Hill sit down with Mary Esselman, President and CEO of Operation Breakthrough to discuss how the organization works to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. The episode explores Operation Breakthrough’s mission, services and impact, including how support ranging from education resources to mental health support, assist families experiencing poverty in and around Kansas City. This conversation also highlights how volunteering through the EveryDayMatters Foundation can help associates get involved and make a meaningful impact in the community.

5. 

   1 Apr 2026

   Episode 13: Why We Volunteer

   Join Tom Herzog and Netsmart colleagues Wendy Hill and Mary McCann for a reflective conversation about the “why” behind volunteer efforts. With April ushering in National Volunteer Month, there is no better time to reflect on the reasons why we choose to give our time and effort in service to our communities. Together, they discuss their personal, professional and organizational reasons for volunteering. The conversation also explores the broader organizational values that make service an important part of the Netsmart culture.

6. 

   18 Feb 2026

   Episode 12: From Inclusion to Impact, Creating a Community That Matters

   In this episode, Tom Herzog sits down with Erin Galba, Director of Development at Inclusion Connections, a Kansas City–based nonprofit dedicated to creating pathways to meaningful employment, life skills development and community connection for people of special abilities. Erin shares the organization’s origin story, rooted in a parent’s question of “what’s next,” and how Inclusion Connections has grown into a holistic model that supports independence, purpose and belonging.

7. 

   3 Dec 2024

   Episode 11: Honoring R.Y.A.N. - Healing and Making a Difference After Loss

   Tom Herzog and Linda Hill share a deeply personal story of grief and healing after the loss of Linda's son Ryan, offering insights into making a positive difference in the face of adversity.

8. 

   9 May 2024

   Episode 10: Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health: The Legacy of Carl's Cause

   Conversations, community support and small acts of kindness are incredibly important when it comes to an individual’s mental health. And because of this, we believe we have the opportunity and obligation to reduce the stigma associated with mental health, together. In this episode, Tom sits down with Kelly Specht, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Carl's Cause, an organization dedicated to reshaping the narrative around mental health. Kelly shares her personal story of her son Carl, whose battle with mental health culminated tragically in 2017. Despite the devastating loss, Kelly and her family transformed their grief into a powerful force for change, advocating for mental health awareness and support. Kelly shares the evolution of Carl's Cause, from hosting impactful events like fundraiser dinner dances to forging partnerships with organizations such as National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI and the University of Kansas Health System. The collaborations play a crucial role in supporting the movement for community support and advocacy in combatting stigma and providing resources for those in need. Tune in to learn about a variety of support initiatives and Carl’s Cause resources, including: Implementation of the 988 lifeline (https://www.nami.org/Advocacy/Crisis-Intervention/988-Reimagining-Crisis-Response/), offering immediate access to licensed counselors and support services who can help in a mental health, substance use or suicide crisis Navigating a Mental Health Crisis (https://www.nami.org/support-education/publications-reports/guides/navigating-a-mental-health-crisis/), a resource guide developed in collaboration with NAMI for those experiencing a mental health emergency Behavioral Health Navigation Program (https://carlscause.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BHN-Carls-Cause-Impact-Report.pdf), created in partnership with The University of Kansas Health System to guide individuals and families through the complexities of mental healthcare and recovery As we discuss the ripple effect of compassion, community involvement, and ongoing support in promoting mental health awareness and resilience within our communities, we hope you walk away knowing that EveryDayMatters in the fight for mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available through the suicide prevention hotline, 988 and other additional resources. Visit the Carl’s Cause website (https://carlscause.org/) to learn more about how this incredible organization is dedicated to changing the future, supporting mental health awareness and suicide prevention

9. 

   6 Mar 2024

   Episode 9: Ending Homelessness for this Generation and the Next

   Homelessness is a growing concern in Kansas City and around the country. It extends to women and children, people in the suburbs, the underemployed, those with mental illness, or anyone who falls through the cracks of our social safety net. In this episode, Tom Herzog sits down with Michael Wilson, a former Netsmart associate and current Executive Director for Community LINC, a crisis housing facility whose mission is to end homelessness in Kansas City for this generation and the next. Community LINC serves as transitional housing for families, with the goal of breaking the cycle of homelessness and improving people’s mental and physical wellbeing. Together, Tom and Michael unpack the stereotypes that prevent homelessness from becoming visible in the community, as well as contributing causes to the record numbers of unhoused in our city today. Explore what’s behind: Social determinants of health and who is at risk for homelessness The challenges of attainable housing in today’s economy and rental market Special needs for unhoused women and families––and what Community LINC is doing to meet them The importance of treating people with a relational, instead of transactional, approach Join the conversation as Tom and Michael explore Community LINC’s aspirational vision to end generational homelessness in Kansas City. If you’re inspired to get involved, you can find more information at https://communitylinc.org/ (https://communitylinc.org/)

10. 

    5 Feb 2024

    Episode 8: Helping Heroes Navigate Trauma to Embrace Hope and Healing

    Community connection, companionship and support are key drivers to improving any individual’s mental health journey, but when it comes to the men and women who have served, their way forward may look different from others. Creating pathways and relatable experiences for men and women - from veterans to first responders to frontline medical personnel – who have given, returned and need to readjust is incredibly important. In this episode, Tom Herzog sits down with Justin Hoover, the Executive Director of The Battle Within, a transformative organization founded by more than 100 veterans, first responders and community members. The organization is committed to providing these heroes with the resources, time and community to support their healing and mental health journey. The Battle Within has a variety of programs and services including a five-day Revenant Journey, designed to address the diverse traumas individuals may experience. By taking a compassionate approach to navigating trauma, the program can empower individuals to implement healthy coping mechanisms and become the person they aspire to be. Beyond the five-day program, The Battle Within extends its reach through initiatives including: The KC Warrior Coalition, a 90-day program exploring various modalities like fitness, meditation, spirituality, art and equine therapy Frontline Therapy Network offering six to ten free therapy sessions to support long-term goals and reinforce structured support Crisis Care Resources at the national level and in the local Kansas City area Join the conversation as we discuss real-life stories of the impact of the Battle Within, transforming the lives of heroes amongst us. The Battle Within reminds us that everyone experiences and copes with trauma differently, but by working together and finding the courage to step forward we can break the stigma by sharing our stories. We hope you walk away from this discussion with the message that YOU are worth it and there is hope, help and resources for those in need. After hearing the incredible work being done to support our heroes, or if you or a loved one is looking to start their journey to a better life, you can find more information at https://www.thebattlewithin.org/ (https://www.thebattlewithin.org/) or follow them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jointhebattlewithin), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/the_battle_within_kc/), LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-battle-within/about/) or X (https://twitter.com/JoinTBW).

11. 

    9 Jan 2024

    Episode 7: Empowering Military Transitions with Meaningful Opportunities

    Being cause-connected is at the heart of our mission and by uniting with other organizations we seek to provide a place to share stories about the progress being made, how to overcome challenges and ideas to inspire. The military community—service members, veterans, military spouses and family members—often experience setbacks when it comes to finding meaningful employment opportunities, navigating “a new normal” and finding a way forward. In this episode, Tom Herzog, Chief Operating Officer, Netsmart spoke with Jamie Webb, a Program Manager within Hiring Our Heroes, an initiative dedicated to supporting those who have served in the military as they transition to civilian life. The program offers various pathways, including in-person events, digital programs, corporate fellowships, and skills-based fellowships, with the goal of connecting the military community with companies to create economic opportunities and a diversified workforce. Join us to learn: Insights into Hiring Our Heroes' mission and career services Unique challenges faced by military families in realigning to civilian life The significance of Hiring Our Heroes' Corporate Fellowship Programs in facilitating veterans' employment transitions How the program impacted 40,000 service members out of the approximately 200,000 exiting active duty in the previous year Real-life stories highlighting the positive outcomes of service members finding meaningful employment through the program The men and women who serve our country make a variety of great sacrifices to protect our country’s freedom including the willingness to risk their lives, time away from their family and loved ones, and the acceptance of the unknown. As you listen and learn more about their experiences, we encourage you to take action by engaging with military members and their families. Collectively, we can be a catalyst for greater community involvement and further the ways in which we support them. Learn more at www.hiringourheroes.org (https://www.hiringourheroes.org/).

12. 

    25 Apr 2023

    Episode 6: On the Road to Success: The Importance of Mentoring Programs for At-Risk Youth

    Mentorship, culture and community are vital for youth, particularly in underserved populations, as they provide support, guidance, and a sense of belonging. These factors can help young people navigate challenges, build confidence and access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. In this episode, Tom Herzog, Chief Operating Officer, Netsmart sits down with Erik Erazo, Executive Director of Student and Community Engagement, Olathe School District to discuss his personal story and career journey that led him to create programs for kids that help to inspire and find their identity. Through the program, the Lowrider Bike Club, these students have been able to form a community and rally around a challenge and long-term project, where they learn a range of life skills and technical expertise for building a bike. The club provides not only an opportunity for high schoolers to build and customize a bike, but also a chance to establish relationships with mentors and connect with others. The success of this club has grown beyond Olathe and is now partnering with chapters across the country. The success of this club has grown beyond Olathe and is now partnering with chapters across the country, police departments and other organizations. Tune in as we discuss: The intersection of one’s childhood, culture and community being a compass Helping kids succeed with constructive programs Impacts of extracurricular activities and mentorship The development of the Hispanic Leadership Club and Lowrider Bike Club How the Lowrider Bike Club has yielded a 100% graduation rate among at-risk participants Building a foundation of passionate individuals to pay it forward As you hear more about the mission and values of these programs and want to make a difference, you can get involved by visiting the Lowrider Bike Club (https://www.olathepublicschoolsfoundation.org/fund-a-need/hispanic-leadership-lowrider-bike-club) website, Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/OLLBikeclub/) or call 913-780-7000 and ask for Erik Erazo. To make sure you never miss an episode of the EveryDayMatters podcast, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website.

13. 

    25 Aug 2022

    Episode 5: The Art of Being ME: How One Movement is Inspiring Others

    In this episode, Tom Herzog, chief operating officer at Netsmart, talks with Gabrielle Martin and Randy Bacon about the work they’ve done to launch The Art of Being Me campaign that connects everyday life to the challenges that we all have. The Art of Being Me exhibit consists of photos and videos of people telling their personal stories and struggles with mental health. Listen as Herzog asks both Gabrielle and Randy about how their partnership came together and how they created such an impactful exhibit that have touched many lives. This initiative is different than most other mental health programs because people are truly seeing works of art. The people who are brave enough to share their stories, show true vulnerability and inspire others to listen and share as well. We all have mental health and this campaign is one step towards creating compassionate communities everywhere. Hear their experiences as they discuss: How this campaign started and the message behind it How The Art of Being Me has impacted them and those around them The power of storytelling and those who tell them What’s next and how they will continue to grow this campaign Carve out time to explore the campaign located here: Art of Being ME (https://www.randybacon.com/art-of-being-me) The Art of Being ME campaign is a result of the great works of the Burrell Foundation: Burrell Foundation (https://www.burrellfoundation.org/) Celebrate Randy Bacon’s contributions by spending time to review other amazing campaigns by visiting his website: Featured Work - Randy Bacon Photography (https://www.randybacon.com/) Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for EveryDayMatters in your favorite podcast player.

14. 

    25 Jul 2022

    Episode 4: How Trauma-Informed Care Can Help Heal Our Communities

    No matter how big or small - nearly everybody has experienced trauma at some point in their life. With social determinants like equity, vocation, access to food and so many more, no two stories will look the same. This is where trauma-informed care comes into play. Focused on coping skills and how to internally manage trauma, this form of care meets each individual where they’re at. In this episode, Tom Herzog, Chief Operating Officer, Netsmart sits down with Marshaun Butler, Vice President, Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City Crittenton Children’s Center, to talk about social determinants of health, trauma-informed care and how Crittenton Children’s Center considers both of those when providing care to their children. Tune in to hear how breaking the stigma of trauma and allowing hard conversations to be had, allows us to move forward slowly but surely as a community. Join us as we go over: Trauma-informed care and how it’s provided What different phases of trauma may look like Social determinants of health How children are receiving care through therapeutic foster programs The progress that has been made by leaders and advocates in the community As you listen and learn more about trauma-informed care and how it’s tied to mental health, we hope you’ll walk away with a new understanding of all that goes into whom a person becomes. If you’re wanting to learn more or are interested in joining the cause, you can learn more at https://www.saintlukeskc.org/locations/crittenton-childrens-center (https://www.saintlukeskc.org/locations/crittenton-childrens-center). To make sure you never miss an episode of the EveryDayMatters podcast, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for EveryDayMatters in your favorite podcast player.

15. 

    6 Jun 2022

    Episode 3: Creating Connection in a Digital World

    As technology advances each day, our society is using digital devices more and more in their daily lives. While many connections are being made across social media platforms, text messaging, dating apps, video game chat rooms and beyond, our relationships off screen have taken the back seat. In fact, National surveys have shown that only 14% of teens feel that they have had a helpful or productive conversation with any trusted adult about their digital life. By pausing and reflecting on the way we consume our technology devices, we can find ways to form better connections, improve productivity and build interpersonal relationships in an increasingly digital world. In this episode Tom Herzog, Chief Operating Officer, sits down with Tracy Foster, Co-Founder and Executive Director of START, to discuss the obstacles of digital health that kids, teens and even adults across the world are facing when it comes to the way we use technology in our everyday lives. Tune in as the duo discusses the link between mental well-being and screentime, creating and setting boundaries with technology, unplugging and resources for proactive digital health. Join us as we discuss: Navigating a digital reality How to be more present and productive in our daily lives Using technology devices in a meaningful way Being intentional with our social media platforms Using ‘hope’ as a guide to restore connections and build relationships As you reflect on your digital health, start a conversation with your friends and family to improve your life with less screen time. START has curated a variety of tools to guide these important discussions including a Screen Sanity Group Study Guide, Social Media Playbook, Smartphone Toolkit and much more at www.westartnow.org/resources (www.westartnow.org/resources) To make sure you never miss an episode of the EveryDayMatters podcast, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for EveryDayMatters in your favorite podcast player.

16. 

    6 May 2022

    Episode 2: Creating a Better Community: Ending the Cycle of Incarceration

    The United States recidivism rate continues to be a major flaw in the nation’s criminal justice system. How can we help formerly incarcerated individuals and their families overcome obstacles and end the cycle of incarceration for a better future? By connecting those impacted individuals and their family members to resources, support, skill development, work opportunities and meaningful programs that transform their experience as they return to the community. In this episode Tom Herzog, Chief Operating Officer, speaks with Lee Jost, Executive Director of NCircle, about the challenges those affected by the criminal justice system face reentering the community and share genuine, heartfelt stories of how the programs launched by NCircle more than ten years ago are making a difference in the lives they serve. Join us as we discuss: The importance of individual and family support to end the cycle of incarceration Building up a united, thriving and healthy community Strengthening Families College of Trades Discovery for Teens Finding ways to expand and empower other communities to be better together After hearing the incredible work being done and impactful stories from Lee Jost, if you are looking to connect, build your vision, equip others, grow your network or get involved in the momentum making a difference in your community visit www.NCircle.org (www.NCircle.org) To make sure you never miss an episode of the EveryDayMatters podcast, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for EveryDayMatters in your favorite podcast player.

17. 

    17 Feb 2022

    Episode 1: How to Bridge the Gap Between Mental & Physical Health

    It’s time we acknowledge the connection between mental and physical health. When you’re participating in a high performance scenario with a lot of expectations, the situation can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. Arming athletes with the proper education to build resilience is crucial to the long term health of the individuals. We speak with Tim DeWeese, Director atJohnson County Mental Health and Caitlin Truhe, Athletic Trainer with Blue Valley Schools, about mental health in athletics and how to inspire others to adopt the call to action. Join us as we discuss: The connection between mental & physical health Balancing athletics with other interests for mental security Conversations around mental health as an athletic trainer The stigma around mental trauma Hopes for the Be The Difference campaign To make sure you never miss an episode of the EveryDayMatters podcast, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for EveryDayMatters in your favorite podcast player.

18. 

    9 Feb 2022

    The EveryDayMatters Podcast: An Introductory Episode

    As we’ve spoken through our Netsmart podcast about the intersection of technology and communities we serve, EveryDayMatters will focus on cause connection as a way to align us in everything that we do — from vocational and community work to friends and colleagues. In this introductory episode, Tom Herzog, Chief Operating Officer, speaks with two co-workers at Netsmart: Wendy Hill, Chief People Officer, and Julie Hiett, Senior Director of Population Health, about making a difference day-to-day and the importance of mental health. Join us as we discuss: The purpose of this podcast How we make a difference day-to-day The importance of mental health To make sure you never miss an episode of the EveryDayMatters podcast, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for EveryDayMatters in your favorite podcast player.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Contact EveryDayMatters

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.