In this episode, we sit down with two leaders making a powerful impact in the Huntsville community—Darren Geiger, President & CEO of Family Services Center, and Shirley Schofield, CEO of the Food Bank of North Alabama.

They share how their organizations are addressing core issues like food insecurity, homelessness, mental health, and family support through a wide range of services—from workforce development and grief counseling to food distribution and school partnerships. With Huntsville’s rapid growth, both organizations are navigating increased demand while emphasizing the importance of collaboration, data-driven impact, and diversified funding strategies.

We explore the realities their clients face, how their missions have evolved, and what their biggest needs are heading into 2025. Whether it’s providing shelter, serving 80,000+ people each month with food, or connecting families with vital resources, Darren and Shirley are on the front lines of building a stronger, more supportive community.

If you’re looking for ways to give back, get involved, or better understand the human needs in our region—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

https://fsc-hsv.org/

https://www.foodbanknorthal.org/

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we're excited to welcome back Clay Hagan for an in-depth conversation about one of the foundational elements of Torch Technologies: the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). Clay breaks down what an ESOP is, why it’s such a crucial part of Torch’s culture, and how employee ownership impacts career growth, company loyalty, and long-term value. We dive into the history of Torch’s ESOP journey—from its early days as a small spinout to becoming a 100% employee-owned company—and explore how Torch has built systems to ensure sustainability for both current and future employees.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we dive into the cutting-edge partnership between SIMVANA and Huntsville Hospital, exploring how virtual reality training is transforming the way nurses are onboarded and trained. Our guests, Alexis Spalding, Director of Clinical Nursing Practice at Huntsville Hospital, and Nathan Faught, Program Manager at SIMVANA, share how this collaboration is addressing key challenges in medical education—providing hands-on, immersive training without patient risk.

From VR-simulated medical equipment to AI-powered patient interactions, Sivan is revolutionizing nurse training, ensuring that both new and experienced professionals are prepared for real-world scenarios. We also discuss the future of VR in healthcare, its scalability across hospitals nationwide, and how AI-driven learning is shaping the next generation of medical professionals.

Tune in to learn how this game-changing technology is improving nurse education, patient care, and hospital efficiency.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode, I sit down with Keith Overholt from the Downtown Rescue Mission and Alison Kling from Free 2 Teach—two nonprofit leaders making a powerful impact in Huntsville. Keith shares how the mission is expanding its efforts to support a growing population of young people experiencing homelessness, while Alison dives into how Free 2 Teach equips teachers across public schools with the supplies they need to empower students. We explore the unique challenges both organizations face, the innovative ways they stretch every dollar, and how the community can get involved.

https://free2teach.org
https://www.downtownrescuemission.org

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode, we sit down with Abigail Mercer of the Alzheimer’s Association and Stephanie Cline of the Heart Association to discuss two major health challenges affecting our communities. Abigail sheds light on the widespread impact of Alzheimer’s, dispelling misconceptions and highlighting the staggering number of those affected, including young individuals. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of knowing your number —blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar—to prevent heart disease and stroke. Tune in for an insightful conversation on awareness, prevention, and the steps we can all take toward better health.

https://www.alz.org
https://www.heart.org

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Stidfole and Chris Finley of Torch Technologies to discuss how their Veterans Program is creating meaningful career transitions for service members through initiatives like DoD SkillBridge and Hiring Our Heroes. They share how Torch fosters a strong sense of community, provides mentorship, and supports veterans beyond hiring, making a lasting impact in Huntsville and beyond.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Crowe to discuss the process of defining and formalizing the core values at Torch— values that had long been ingrained in the company’s culture. Charlie shares how leadership recognized these principles
through years of experience and simply put them into words. We also explore the mindset of ownership at Torch, where every team member takes responsibility beyond their job description to ensure success. From stepping up in the workplace to giving back to the community, Charlie emphasizes the impact of a shared commitment to excellence and service.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode of the Keeping the Dream Alive podcast, we talk with Cindy Williamson, Executive Director of New Hope Children's Clinic, and Jennifer Bentley, State Director for Breakthrough T1D. They discuss the missions of their organizations: providing accessible healthcare for children in New Hope and advancing support and research for individuals affected by type 1 diabetes across Alabama. They share insights into the challenges of funding, and both leaders highlight the critical role of volunteers and partnerships in achieving their goals, inviting listeners to get involved.


Breakthrough T1D: https://www.breakthrought1d.org/

New Hope Children's Clinic: https://newhopechildrensclinic.org/

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/