Whether you work in a nonprofit or not, growth doesn’t happen by accident. In the season 2 opener, we sit down with Jenna Williams, Rodman for Kids’ Charity Partnerships Program Manager, to talk about how youth nonprofits grow their people, plan for the future, and keep learning while doing really hard, meaningful work - and why those same ideas apply to anyone trying to grow, adapt, or lead with purpose.

At just 18 years old, Brenny O’Brien has already experienced the arts as both a lifeline and a launchpad. In this episode, she reflects on how early access to the arts transformed her dreams, helped her discover her voice, and built the community that now fuels her work with young artists.

From growing up with South Boston Neighborhood House, to attending Boston Arts Academy, to founding South Stage Theatre Works and being inducted to our Theatre for Kids Hall of Fame, Brenny shows what’s possible when a child is not only welcomed into the arts, but empowered to lead within them.

Welcome to The Brighter Futures Podcast, where we shine a light on the partnerships, programs, and people building brighter futures for kids.

In this trailer, hosts Amy Rossman and Jane Lima share who they are, how they first got connected to Rodman for Kids, and the vision behind launching this podcast. Guided by the three pillars of Empowering, Connecting, and Uplifting, they explain why this platform was created and how it will uncover the stories, lessons, and ideas that show what’s possible when communities come together for kids.

Because brighter futures don’t just happen. They’re built - together.

On this episode of The Brighter Futures Podcast, we’re joined by Peter Waisgerber, Chief Development Officer at MetroWest YMCA and Rodman for Kids Board Member, to explore what it truly means to support all kids - not just those labeled “at risk.”

As we recognize World Children’s Day, we’re reminded that every child deserves to feel empowered, connected, and uplifted. Peter shares how collaboration between nonprofits like the YMCA and Rodman for Kids creates stronger communities and brighter futures for every child - because every kid deserves a champion in their corner.

Change isn’t always easy, but it’s often where the most meaningful growth begins. In this episode, Amy and Jane open up about the bold choices Rodman for Kids has made in its 35th year, from reimagining a decades-old event calendar to launching a fresh new brand identity.

Together, they reflect on the power of collaboration and why this podcast was created - to connect, share, and build brighter futures in partnership with others. And through it all, they remind us that when you stay rooted in your mission, even the biggest changes feel less daunting.

Because real transformation doesn’t just happen, it’s built on empowerment, connection, and the courage to stay true to your purpose.

What happens when world-class theatre meets community impact? In this episode of The Brighter Futures Podcast, we sit down with Tivon Marcus, Vice President of Broadway In Boston and longtime champion of Rodman for Kids’ Theatre for Kids program.

From his own beginnings as a “theatre kid” inspired by his grandparents, to leading one of the most influential Broadway presenting organizations in the country, Tivon shares how the magic of live theatre can spark imagination, shape identity, and open doors for young people. Joined by Rodman for Kids’ Director of Programs, Bill Stiles, we dive into the power of partnerships, the educational value of the arts, and the joy of seeing kids experience the stage for the very first time.

As we approach a milestone buyout performance of Hamilton - where Theatre for Kids will celebrate impacting 100,000 kids since 2003 - this conversation is both a look back at what’s been built and a glimpse forward at what’s possible when we empower, connect, and uplift kids with the arts.