Best Ordinary Optimist Podcasts (2025)

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Zuzu: All Grown Up - Coming Through the Flames With Chris Edwards 40:47

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28d ago40:47

40:47

In this episode, retired New York City firefighter, actor, and author Chris Edwards joins Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell to discuss his experience as one of the first responders on 9/11. Chris shares the tremendous tragedy of that day, along with the hope and resilience he discovered while saving lives. He reflects on the lasting, transformat…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Tuning Into Life Rhythms with Robert Alexander 36:02

1M ago36:02

36:02

In this soulful episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Robert Alexander, founder of Life Rhythms — a unique wellness brand built on the transformative power of sound. Robert’s work goes far beyond music; he crafts personalized audio experiences designed to reflect a person’s emotions, intentions, and inner journey. This conversation…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Choosing Optimism with Jim Boyd and Optimist International 38:49

1M ago38:49

38:49

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Jim Boyd, Director of Strategic Growth for Optimist International. With a background that spans 35 years in broadcast journalism, Jim now helps lead one of the world’s most enduring service organizations. He shares the Optimist mission, from empowering you…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Conducting Leadership with Hugh Ballou 35:11

1M ago35:11

35:11

In this insightful episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Hugh Ballou—a conductor turned leadership strategist and founder of the SynerVision Leadership Foundation. With over 40 years of experience leading choirs and orchestras, Hugh reveals how the principles of music are the same principles that create effecti…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – One Cup at a Time: Liz Scott on Alex’s Lemonade Stand 31:45

1M ago31:45

31:45

In this moving episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Liz Scott, co-founder of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Liz shares the extraordinary story of her daughter Alex, who-despite battling cancer-set up a simple lemonade stand to help other children like her. What began with a single pitcher of lemonade has grown into a nationwide…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Paul Donnelly on the Life and Legacy of Wendi Winters 28:04

1M ago28:04

28:04

In this powerful episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes playwright Paul Donnelly, a close friend of journalist Wendi Winters, one of the five victims of the 2018 Capital Gazette newsroom shooting. Paul reflects on Wendi’s activism, community leadership, and passion for journalism, while also honoring the extraordinary courage she sh…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Fans, Friends & Family of It’s a Wonderful Life 49:23

2M ago49:23

49:23

In this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell uncover the magic behind Seneca Falls’ annual transformation into Bedford Falls, celebrating It’s a Wonderful Life. More than just a festival, it’s a homecoming for people who share a love of the film, forming an extended Bailey family bound by its uplifting spirit.…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Building Wells, Building Hope with Ryan Hreljac 38:45

2M ago38:45

38:45

In this uplifting episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes sits down with Ryan Hreljac – a global changemaker whose journey began with a simple childhood mission: raising money to build a single well. What started as a six-year-old’s dream has grown into the Ryan’s Well Foundation, which has brought clean water to hundreds of communities world…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Living the Golden Life with Kathy Tarochione 44:54

2M ago44:54

44:54

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Kathy Tarochione, founder of the Golden Life Community and host of the Dog Connection Show. After facing a life-changing diagnosis, Kathy turned adversity into action – creating a supportive space for women over 55 and weaving in her love of dogs.…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Rob Scheer and the Story Behind Comfort Cases 37:08

2M ago37:08

37:08

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Rob Scheer. As the founder of Comfort Cases, Rob is transforming the foster care experience by providing dignity, essentials, and hope to children who often enter the system with nothing but a trash bag. Hear how Rob’s journey from trauma to activism is changi…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Leading Through Service with Dave “Gonzo” Kelly 38:16

2M ago38:16

38:16

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Dave “Gonzo” Kelly – a speaker, author, and longtime champion of service-driven leadership. With decades of experience and more than 70,000 volunteer hours, Dave shares powerful stories from his journey.…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Celebrating Over 40 Years of Gremlins with Zach Galligan: Updated 43:57

3M ago43:57

43:57

In this exciting holiday episode of Zuzu:All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell are joined by Zach Galligan, star of the 1984 classic Gremlins, to celebrate the movie’s 40th anniversary. Zach reflects on the making of this unforgettable film, its lasting legacy, and the cautionary tale of what happens when you don’t follow the rules—no …

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – A Conversation with Benjamin Ayres: Acting, Life, and Christmas Films: Updated 52:46

3M ago52:46

52:46

In this 100th episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome an accomplished actor, Benjamin Ayres, widely recognized for his work in Hallmark Christmas movies and the Canadian television series Saving Hope. Benjamin reflects on his journey in the entertainment industry, the magic of bringing holiday stories to life, an…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Timeless Joy of Christmas Vacation with Ellen Latzen: Updated 32:39

3M ago32:39

32:39

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Ellen Latzen, who soared to stardom as a child after her breakout role in Fatal Attraction. She later charmed audiences worldwide as Ruby Sue in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, now cherished as a holiday classic. Ellen reflects on the unexpected fame that fol…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Embodying Icons with Tribute Artists Peter Salzer & Holly Faris 38:19

3M ago38:19

38:19

On this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Peter Salzer and Holly Faris, tribute artists known for their uncanny impressions of classic stars — including the legendary duo George Burns and Gracie Allen. They talk about what it’s like to step into the shoes of iconic performers, how they engage audience…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Beyond the Big Screen: Lisa Jakub on Purpose and Healing 37:58

3M ago37:58

37:58

On this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell are joined by Lisa Jakub — actor, author, speaker, and founder of Blue Mala & Mission Flexible. While many remember her from iconic films like Mrs. Doubtfire, Lisa has since devoted her life to advocating for mental wellness and supporting veterans. She shares her inspiring…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Phillip Erklen Returns 31:30

3M ago31:30

31:30

In this joyful follow-up episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome back beloved composer and friend, Phillip Erklen. Known for his heartfelt surprises, Phillip shares more stories, laughter, and the lasting magic that music brings. It's a celebration of friendship and the simple moments that leave a lasting impact.…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Gift of Music, The Bond of Friendship with Phillip Erklen 36:10

3M ago36:10

36:10

In this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes reconnects with her longtime friend and composer, Phillip Erklen. For over 25 years, Phillip’s music and kindness have been woven into the heart of the Zuzu community. Together, they look back on their decades-long friendship, share touching stories, and reflect on how creativity and mus…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Walking Toward Hope with Mona Purdy & Share Your Soles 29:18

3M ago29:18

29:18

In this uplifting episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Mona Purdy, founder of Share Your Soles, an organization whose mission is changing lives around the world. Share Your Soles has provided hundreds of thousands of gently used shoes to people in need, from nearby neighborhoods to faraway villages. Mona…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Golden Rule in Action with Project: St. Nicholas Returns 31:07

4M ago31:07

31:07

In this uplifting episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Jeffrey Reale and Mike Seman, the inspiring team behind Project St. Nicholas Returns. What began with a Wall Street Journal article and a simple idea in 1993 has grown into a powerful holiday tradition rooted in kindness, anonymity, and the Golden Rule. Jo…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Why Bad Things Don’t Happen to Good People with Rabbi Shaul Rosenblatt 45:08

4M ago45:08

45:08

In this thought-provoking episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes sits down with Rabbi Shaul Rosenblatt, author of Why Bad Things Don’t Happen to Good People. With wisdom rooted in spiritual reflection and personal growth, Rabbi Rosenblatt explores what it truly means to be “good” and how challenges in life can lead to deeper meaning, strengt…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – 500,000 Toys and Counting: The Pirate Toy Fund Story 39:15

4M ago39:15

39:15

On this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Dave and Lorrie Simonetti - key figures behind the Pirate Toy Fund, an initiative co-founded with local entertainer Gary the Happy Pirate - and Otto Harnischfeger, the organization’s Executive Director. Together, they share the touching story behind th…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – A Broadcast Legacy with Don Alhart 33:47

4M ago33:47

33:47

In this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes sits down with broadcasting icon Don Alhart. With an astonishing 58-year career at the same news station, Don holds a world record and has become a beloved figure in journalism and public service. He reflects on the evolution of news media, the powerful stories that shaped his path, and …

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – When the Chair Is Empty: Grief and Healing with Dr. Yvonne Kaye 41:59

4M ago41:59

41:59

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Dr. Yvonne Kaye - a renowned storyteller, humourist, veteran radio host, interfaith minister, and thanatologist. With decades of experience in grief counseling and human connection, Dr. Kaye brings wisdom, humor, and heart to life’s most difficult conversation…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Foundation of It’s a Wonderful Life Festival 35:15

6M ago35:15

35:15

In this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell explore the origins and legacy of the beloved It’s a Wonderful Life Festival in Seneca Falls, New York—a town many believe inspired Bedford Falls itself. Now more than two decades strong, the festival continues to unite cast members, fans, and a close-knit community…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – A Conversation on Hope with Kathy Coady & Shannon Shepherd 34:36

6M ago34:36

34:36

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Kathy Coady and Shannon Shepherd from Hope Ministries. Since 1915, this Iowa-based organization has offered life-changing services to those experiencing homelessness, hunger, abuse, and addiction. Kathy and Shannon share powerful insights into how rescue, recovery, and restora…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Amplifying Good with Guitars for Glory 37:53

6M ago37:53

37:53

In this uplifting episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Alissa Catanzaro, Director of Operations, and Jeffrey Roeters, Co-Founder and Director of Guitars for Glory. This remarkable organization places guitars and musical instruments in the hands of people across the globe—from churches to recovery homes for sur…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Building Brighter Futures with Tim Glenn & Compassion International 30:15

6M ago30:15

30:15

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Tim Glenn, Director of Public Relations at Compassion International. Tim shares how this Christian organization is on a mission to end childhood poverty—one child at a time. With a focus on nurturing the mind, body, and soul, Compassion International helps children around the …

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – 101 Years of Love: A Timeless Interview with Dr. Leo Buscaglia 32:44

6M ago32:44

32:44

In this special episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, we honor what would have been Dr. Leo Buscaglia’s 101st birthday by sharing a rare, almost never-before-heard interview recorded in 1982. Discovered in the attic of the late journalist Michael Canterbury, this heartfelt conversation captures Dr. Leo at his most candid—reflecting on the goodness in huma…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Providing Hugs One at a Time with Reverend Edie Weinstein 28:53

7M ago28:53

28:53

In this heartwarming episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Reverend Edie Weinstein—therapist, author, and founder of Hug Mobsters Armed With Love. Edie shares how a simple act of kindness grew into a movement, using the power of hugs to foster love and human connection. With a career that spans journalism, coun…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Motivation Formula with Eli Marcus 30:22

7M ago30:22

30:22

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Eli Marcus, the dynamic host of The Motivation Show and a respected expert in self-improvement, collaboration, and mentorship. Known as the Mayor of Times Square, Eli shares his insights on how the mind shapes success and how we can harness motivation to create the …

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Behind the Magic with Trish Parris and the Santa Family Reunion 26:32

7M ago26:32

26:32

In this festive episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Trish Parris, co-director of the biannual Santa Family Reunion in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Every two years, hundreds of Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and elves gather in this charming mountain town to celebrate their shared love of bringing holiday joy. Trish offers a…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Nurturing Talent at Haven Academy of the Arts with Rebekah Kellaway 29:07

7M ago29:07

29:07

In this uplifting episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with Rebekah Kellaway, Director of Haven Academy of the Arts. What started as a passion for teaching has grown into a thriving nonprofit that gives children access to theater, dance, and acting—regardless of their background. Rebekah shares the joys and c…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Bridging Generations with Elly Katz and Sages & Seekers 41:39

7M ago41:39

41:39

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Elly Katz, founder of Sages & Seekers, a program that fosters meaningful connections between older adults and teens. Through storytelling and shared experiences, the initiative bridges generational gaps, combats ageism, and enriches lives on both sides. El…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Friendship Foundation with Kelly Stroman 47:48

7M ago47:48

47:48

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Kelly Stroman, Managing Director of the Friendship Foundation. Kelly shares how the organization empowers children and young adults with disabilities through friendship, vocational training, and unique experiences. Recognized by the Dr. Leo Buscaglia Found…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Preserving the Arts at Lake Tahoe with Meg Peart 24:22

7M ago24:22

24:22

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell continue the tribute to Dr. Leo Buscaglia by revisiting the Valhalla Tahoe Boathouse Theatre. Joining them is Meg Peart, Executive Director of Valhalla Tahoe, who shares insights into the theatre’s rich history as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. Discover how this iconi…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up - The Secret Santa from East Idaho 31:10

7M ago31:10

31:10

In this heartwarming episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Nate Eaton of East Idaho News to share the incredible story of a real-life Secret Santa—a generous millionaire who anonymously gives away part of his fortune each holiday season to help those in need. From life-changing surprises to heartfelt moments of…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Feeding the Soul Through Music with Dr. Walt Whitman 31:26

7M ago31:26

31:26

In this uplifting episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome the extraordinary Dr. Walt Whitman, founder and CEO of the internationally acclaimed Soul Children of Chicago. For decades, Dr. Whitman has used music as a tool to uplift, inspire, and unite communities around the world. Join us as he shares his journey of…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up - Northern Lights in Finland by Beyond Arctic Adventures 42:34

7M ago42:34

42:34

In this breathtaking episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell take you on an unforgettable journey to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles—the Northern Lights. Broadcasting live from the Arctic Circle in Finland’s stunning Lapland region, expert tour guide Juhani Vanhatapio and photographer Ryan Oliveira from Bey…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Just Among Friends: A Conversation with Ruth & John Mencl and Richard Goodson 46:11

7M ago46:11

46:11

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell sit down with longtime friends Ruth and John Mencl, along with Richard Goodson, for a heartfelt conversation filled with cherished memories. From starting the Zuzu Fan Club to sharing unforgettable moments over the years, this episode is a celebration of friendship, connect…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Stitching Hope with Patty Gregory and Project Linus 37:11

7M ago37:11

37:11

In this heartwarming episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Patty Gregory, President of Project Linus, an organization dedicated to providing handmade blankets to children in need. Inspired by the beloved Charlie Brown character, Project Linus' mission has brought warmth, comfort, and security to countless child…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – In Memory of Dr. Jeanine Roose: A Tribute with Joe and Melissa Auger 40:24

8M ago40:24

40:24

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell celebrate the unforgettable legacy of Dr. Jeanine Roose—who once lit up screens as Young Violet Bick in It's a Wonderful Life and later became a respected psychoanalyst. Though her film role was brief, its impact endured, and in her later years, she embraced her Hollywood r…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up - A Tribute to Love with Joyce and Barry Vissell 46:46

8M ago46:46

46:46

In this Valentine's edition of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Joyce and Barry Vissell of The Shared Heart Foundation. Recalling their time with the doctor of love, Dr. Leo Buscaglia—whose message of acceptance captivated the nation in the 1980s—Joyce and Barry reveal why his timeless message is as vital today as ever. They share how th…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Reflecting on a Legendary Career with Jimmy Hawkins 59:36

8M ago59:36

59:36

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Jimmy Hawkins, an accomplished actor, producer, and author, who appeared in It’s a Wonderful Life as Karolyn's younger brother, Tommy Bailey. Jimmy reflects on his varied career and shares cherished memories from the set of It’s a Wonderful Life. Join us for a heart…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Finding God in It's A Wonderful Life with Pastor Greg Asimakoupoulos 50:15

8M ago50:15

50:15

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Pastor Greg Asimakoupoulos—a cherished friend of the show—to delve into the spiritual dimensions of It’s a Wonderful Life. Pastor Greg explains how the film’s enduring message can lead us to find God in its narrative—a revelation so powerful that it inspired him to …

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – A Conversation with Brian Rohan 57:37

9M ago57:37

57:37

In this heartwarming episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Brian Rohan. Renowned for his portrayal of George Bailey, Brian shares what it means to bring this iconic character to life and carry George Bailey’s timeless message to audiences. Beyond his connection to It’s a Wonderful Life, Brian is a versatile character actor celebrat…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Ringing in Hope with The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign 39:53

10M ago39:53

39:53

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell shine a spotlight on The Salvation Army’s timeless mission of service and compassion—highlighting the iconic Red Kettle Campaign. Guests include Mark Dreyer, Lieutenant Amanda Hines, Dan Furry, and Santa Carlucci. Together, they illustrate how donations and volunt…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up - The Christmas Menorahs: How A Town Fought Hate & the NIOT Movement 1:32:23

10M ago1:32:23

1:32:23

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell reflect on the true story of how the Billings, Montana community stood united against hate during the holiday season of 1993. Our special guests include Dr. Janice Cohn, author of The Christmas Menorahs: How a Town Fought Hate; Patrice O’Neill, filmmaker and founder of the …

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – The Magic of the Holiday Season with Santa Rick Rosenthal 55:42

10M ago55:42

55:42

In this holiday episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Santa Rick Rosenthal, a beloved Santa Claus who has spent decades spreading Christmas cheer. Santa Rick shares his inspiring journey to becoming a symbol of holiday magic and his dedication to mentoring future Santas through the Northern Lights Santa Academy…

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Zuzu: All Grown Up – Merry Christmas George Bailey with the Seneca Community Players 50:03

10M ago50:03

50:03

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes the Seneca Community Players—featuring Seth Kennedy, Eric Jansen, Gary Xavier, Peter Saracino, Jason Hurdle, and Stuart Sewell—for a conversation about their annual radio play, Merry Christmas, George Bailey. The group shares insights on portraying beloved characters while honoring the …