What happens when you finally stop resisting — and start listening to the signs?

Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

In this emotional and courageous episode, poet and author Armen Kaymakcian shares part one of his powerful personal story — a journey of hardship, recovery, and purpose.

Growing up in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Armen lived through life-altering events that shaped his path in unimaginable ways. His memoir, He Calls Me Redeemed, was written in rooms instead of chapters as his family owned a hotel in Asbury Park, NJ - those rooms were filled with stories of both struggle and strength.

At just 12 years old he was sexually molested by a trusted male friend of the family. That went on for some time and the trauma from that experience began to shape Armen in a way that was hard for him to come back from.

In his early adult years, Armen faced challenges that led him down a dark path. That path included selling drugs, drug addiction, stealing, and trouble with the law. But at one of the lowest moments of his life, he began listening — to his inner voice, to the signs around him, and to something greater. A spiritual shift and a reconnection to faith sparked a transformation that helped him begin again.

Today, Armen is a husband, a father of three, and an advocate for healing and redemption through storytelling. Armen's book is a must-read for anyone anywhere who is dealing with overcoming hurdles or has over-come them already. It is a story of strength, resiliency, and courage. There is so much to be learned from him sharing his very private story.

🎙️ This is Part One of his journey.

📅 Part Two airs on June 11

Hosted by Jodi Grinwald, certified professional coach, consultant, and founder of the Today is the Day movement. Jodi works with entrepreneurs, leaders, nonprofits, and organizations to deepen authentic connection, drive growth, and align purpose with impact — helping people and teams thrive both personally and professionally. Learn more on our website: Today Is The Day

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Today is the Day is more than a podcast — it’s a global movement that amplifies real stories of resilience, connection, and purpose to inspire change worldwide.

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Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Today is the Day Changemakers, Jodi Grinwald speaks with Melanie Paticoff Grossman—founder, author, and editor of Hearing Our Way magazine.

Melanie’s changemaker journey began with a deeply personal story: her cousin, who she was incredibly close to, started to experience hearing loss at a very young age. When her cousin moved away, it felt like a profound loss—one that shaped Melanie’s early understanding of distance, connection, and identity. But when her cousin returned years later, that relationship—and the awareness it sparked—set Melanie on a mission: to help other kids with hearing loss feel seen, understood, and empowered.

She began by writing Sophie’s Tales, a children’s book that uses storytelling to bridge understanding. But she didn’t stop there. Wanting to create something sustainable and ongoing, Melanie founded Hearing Our Way—a vibrant national magazine now in its 10th year, reaching schools, doctors’ offices, and homes across the country. The publication gives kids with hearing loss (and their peers) a place to belong and a way to connect.

In this episode, Melanie opens up about her passion for representation, the power of personal stories, the surprising role ADHD plays in professional life, and why she believes “finding your people” brings freedom and joy.

This is more than a story about hearing loss—it’s a story about purpose, resilience, and what happens when one person decides to turn personal loss into collective impact.

Listen on the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel or on all major podcast platforms.

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Website: TodayIsTheDayLiveIt.com

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Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast featuring Adam Glinn, CEO, JCC of Middlesex County.

In this powerful episode, Adam Glinn shares his unique journey from practicing law to discovering his true calling—nonprofit leadership. Although the legal profession shaped part of his path, it was never where his heart truly lived. Raised by parents who modeled service and community commitment—serving on boards and giving back in meaningful ways—Adam developed an early understanding of what it meant to be of service to others.

Now, as the CEO of the JCC of Middlesex County, Adam leads with purpose, compassion, and a clear focus on meeting the ever-evolving needs of the community. Under his leadership, the JCC has launched a transformative capital campaign and pivoted from simply referring mental health needs to becoming a first-line provider of mental health services. They’ve also expanded their programming to include occupational and physical therapy, a move many would not have expected from a traditional JCC—but one that speaks to their commitment to supporting the whole person and entire family.

Adam also reveals a surprising reality: Of the approximately 170 Jewish Community Centers across North America, more than 70% have memberships where over half the members are not Jewish. At the JCC in Edison, NJ, the reach is just as broad. Members speak 37 different languages, and of the 150 preschoolers they serve, 90% are not Jewish. The center has become a place for all people—welcoming, supportive, and mission-driven.

With a heart for his team, a vision for the future, and a deep desire to serve, Adam Glinn is redefining what it means to lead a community organization in today’s world.

Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel or stream all episodes on all major platforms Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayistheDayLiveIt.

To learn more about upcoming Changemakers Connective events, workshops, keynote speaking, 1:1 coaching, team leadership development, and transformational consulting, visit TodayistheDayLiveIt.com.

Jodi Grinwald is a sought-after speaker, award-winning transformational architect, and certified professional coach who works with nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and leaders seeking to connect to their “why” and create greater impact.

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