Build the Table: Creating Opportunity, Connection, and Lasting Impact for Youth with Jodi Grinwald

On this episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer welcomes back Jodi Grinwald, founder of Today is the Day, co-founder of Applaud Our Kids Foundation, and author of the new book Today is the Day: LIVE IT!.Jodi is a returning guest to the podcast, and we’re excited to continue this important conversation around opportunity, connection, and impact.Jodi’s work is grounded in a simple but powerful idea: if the table doesn’t exist, build it — and make sure others have a seat.Her new book, Today is the Day: LIVE IT!, expands on that philosophy, encouraging readers to take action, lead with purpose, and create meaningful impact in their own lives and communities.👉 Learn more and purchase the book: https://todayisthedayliveit.com/live-itThis episode also builds on a recent crossover conversation — Rob was a guest on Jodi’s podcast, Today is the Day Changemakers.🎧 Watch Rob’s episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1rN8EtfTJM&t=501sThrough Applaud Our Kids, Jodi is helping children gain access to music, dance, and acting programs that might otherwise be out of reach. While her work is not exclusively focused on foster care, the connection is clear. Children experiencing instability or hardship often miss out on opportunities that build confidence, identity, and a sense of belonging.This conversation explores what it means to create those opportunities — and why access, connection, and creative expression can change the trajectory of a child’s life.Episode HighlightsWhat it means to “build the table” and create opportunities for othersWhy access to the arts can be transformational for childrenThe role of connection in building confidence and long-term impactHow purpose can drive action, even when the path is unclearWhy opportunity and exposure matter for youth facing hardshipAbout the GuestJodi Grinwald is a leadership and connection strategist, speaker, and founder of Today is the Day Changemakers—a global platform and podcast that reaches listeners in more than 135 countries. She helps organizations strengthen the connections that power performance, shape culture, and accelerate growth.She is also the co-founder and CEO of the Applaud Our Kids Foundation, expanding access to performing arts education for children ages 7–18.Jodi is the author of Today is the Day: LIVE IT! along with 30 other leadership voices. The book is a powerful reflection on courage, leadership, resilience, and connection—calling individuals to step into purpose, create opportunity, and lead with intention.Key Questions from This EpisodeWhat does “build the table” mean, and how can people apply it in their own lives?Why is access to the arts so important for children and youth?How can programs like Applaud Our Kids support children experiencing instability?What role does creative expression play in identity and confidence?How can someone take the first step toward making a difference?About Applaud Our Kids FoundationThe Applaud Our Kids Foundation provides access to performing arts education for children ages 7–18, helping them build confidence, discipline, and a sense of identity through creative expression.Connect with Jodi🌐 Websites:TodayistheDayLiveIt.comApplaudOurKids.org📸 Instagram:@todayisthedayliveit@applaudourkids🔗 LinkedIn:Jodi Grinwald📘 Facebook:Today is the Day Live ItApplaud Our KidsClosing ThoughtCreating change doesn’t always require building something new — sometimes it means opening a door that should have been open all along. This episode is a reminder that when we create space for young people to explore who they are, we help shape who they can become.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.