In Episode 79, host Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton talk with Senior Pastor Brad Sheets of Life Church in Hartselle, Alabama, about the power of faith, mentorship, and community.Brad shares how Life Church began and how the new Life Center is providing practical support like GED classes, financial education, and parenting resources to help families grow stronger.At its core, this episode is about more than programs or ministries—it’s about making a difference and reminding us that when people are supported and believed in, entire communities can be transformed.
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47:52
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47:52
Driving Change: The CDL Journey at Bishop State
In Episode 88, host Houston Blackwood takes listeners inside Bishop State Community College’s CDL training program to hear the stories of the instructors, students, and leaders driving its success.Hear from instructors and graduates who share how hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experience are shaping the next generation of professional drivers.From overcoming challenges to growing through new equipment training and online learning, this episode shows how dedication, innovation, and relationships are transforming lives through CDL training.
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35:35
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35:35
Making a Difference: Education and Training That Empowers
In Episode 77, host Houston Blackwood welcomes Jason Blackwell, a seasoned educator and trades expert whose journey began when he became a locksmith at just 12 years old. From welding and carpentry to launching his own initiative, Activate CTE, Jason has dedicated his career to helping students connect their passions to meaningful career pathways.Jason shares how project-based, hands-on learning builds both technical and soft skills while giving students the confidence to succeed. He also highlights the importance of intentional teaching, career exploration, and industry partnerships.At its heart, this episode is about more than training programs or certifications—it’s about making a difference. It’s a powerful reminder that when educators, communities, and industry come together, students gain not only skills but also purpose, confidence, and the belief that their future is worth building.
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48:32
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48:32
Road Safety: Building Better Drivers and Safer Highways
In Episode 76, host Houston Blackwood is joined by Alex Blevins, owner of One Stop CDL Training, and Lieutenant Jason Harris of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit to dive into the future of driver training and highway safety in Alabama.Together, they explore how CDL training has expanded from 13 to 23 colleges, cutting course time in half while keeping pass rates high. They also discuss the role of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit in ensuring compliance and strengthening partnerships between training programs and enforcement agencies.From the 37-step inspection process to the importance of professionalism during traffic stops, this conversation underscores how safety and compliance go hand in hand while exploring what’s next for the industry, from defensive driving practices to emerging technologies like automated trucks and predictive analytics.
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53:11
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53:11
Road Ready: Training the Next Generation of Drivers
In Episode 75, host Houston Blackwood talks with Alex Blevins about his 20-year journey in the transportation industry, from serving in the military to launching his own CDL training company, One Stop CDL Training. Alex shares how his background shaped his passion for navigation, communication, and professionalism in trucking. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of students whose lives were changed by CDL training.This episode also highlights the critical role of safety, mentorship, and hands-on training in preparing professional drivers. From honoring Alabama State Troopers who keep highways safe to exploring how experienced drivers pass on knowledge, the conversation underscores how CDL training isn’t just about licenses, it’s about building futures and creating opportunities.
Brasil