In episode four of the Sacred Legion’s podcast, hosts Max Goller and Pat LaMarche have a conversation with Diane Nilan and her interview partner Diana Bowman exploring the profound impact of mentorship and advocacy in the realm of the unhoused. It highlights the inspiring journey of Diane Nilan and her writing collaborations with Diana Bowman, focusing on the importance of education, community support, and the McKinney-Vento Act in addressing the needs of unhoused families. The discussion emphasizes the power of personal stories, the role of school liaisons, and the necessity of volunteerism in creating meaningful change. You also hear from Diane’s saintly inspiration, Melissa Nason.

In this episode of Sacred Legion's podcast, hosts Max Goller and Pat LaMarche engage with Saleem Holbrook and his sister Anita Colon to discuss the profound impact of incarceration. Saleem shares his harrowing journey from being a 16-year-old sentenced to life without parole to becoming an advocate for social justice. The conversation explores the systemic issues surrounding incarceration, the role of family in navigating these challenges, and the fight for reform in the legal system. Anita highlights the emotional toll on families and the importance of advocacy in raising awareness for systemic change in the justice system.

Welcome to Sacred Legions, a term coined by author Kurt Vonnegut for people performing decently in an indecent world. We will introduce you to hosts Max Goller and Pat LaMarche as they describe their mission to interview community pillars of volunteerism and self-care. You’ll also find resources on our website, sacredlegions.org, empowering you to join the ranks of the Sacred Legions. Secular Sainthood. Good for others. Good for your self!

In the inaugural episode of the Sacred Legions podcast, hosts Max Goller and Pat LaMarche introduce the concept of secular sainthood, inspired by Kurt Vonnegut’s philosophy. They discuss the importance of recognizing individuals who contribute positively to society, particularly in the realms of environmentalism and community engagement. Guest Christina Jarvis shares her journey as a Vonnegut scholar and environmental advocate, emphasizing the interconnectedness of art, activism, and personal responsibility. Her husband, Tom Annear, contributes to the global stewardship discussion. The conversation highlights the role of community in fostering change and the need for a network of secular saints to inspire and support one another in their efforts to create a better world. You also hear from Christina’s saintly inspiration, Vonnegut scholar Marc Leeds.

In Sacred Legions second episode, hosts Max Goller and Pat LaMarche interview Diane Davis about the profound impact of September 11th on the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, where residents opened their homes to stranded airline passengers. Diane Davis shares her experiences as a volunteer during the crisis and her involvement in the creation of the musical ‘Come From Away.’ She also welcomes her interview partner, Julie Dowd, who shares the relationship that developed between the two after a flight cancellation back to Gander some years later. The discussion also highlights the ongoing efforts to support Syrian refugees in Gander, the importance of community support, and reflections on immigration and volunteerism. The guests emphasize the need for compassion and understanding in a world that often feels divided. You also hear from Diane’s saintly inspiration, Karen Rickets.