Do Something More is a service-oriented podcast dedicated to sharing inspiring stories of people and organizations who are making a difference. Each week, host Melissa Draper highlights the helpers—volunteers, nonprofits, community leaders, and everyday individuals—who have found meaningful ways to give back and uplift their communities. Through heartfelt interviews and practical solo episodes, this podcast explores real stories of service, acts of kindness, humanitarian work, and grassroots impact. Listeners will discover simple, actionable ways to serve, volunteer, give back, and create positive change in their own communities. Whether you’re looking for ways to get involved, searching for volunteer ideas for your family, wanting to support charities you believe in, or simply needing uplifting stories about people doing good, this podcast will motivate you to help, lift, inspire and make a difference. New episodes every week featuring interviews, nonprofit spotlights, and service-focused conversations. 📩 Contact: dosomethingmore.podcast@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: @dosomethingmore.podcast
Listen to episodes
60 recent
May 6, 202613 min
124. You Are Enough: A Reminder to Stop Comparing & Find Joy in Serving In the Way That is Uniquely Yours to Give
Send us Fan MailOne of the things I’ve learned from this podcast…Is how easy it is to feel like you’re not doing enough.When you hear about incredible nonprofits and people changing the world, comparison can creep in fast.But here’s the truth I keep coming back to:None of us can do everything.But all of us can do something.And that “something” is going to look different for each of us.This episode is a reminder to stop comparing, trust who you are, and act on the good you feel inspired to do.Because the world doesn’t need you to be someone else—it needs you to be you.Follow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
April 29, 202631 min
123. Helping Those Who Need It Most: How 'Love Justice International' is Working to Stop Human Trafficking Before It Starts (with Founder and CEO John Molineux)
Send us Fan MailThe nonprofit featured in this episode is working to stop human trafficking before it starts.Love Justice International is on the front lines of preventing trafficking around the world, using strategic interventions to identify and intercept potential victims before they are exploited. To date, their work has helped protect over 100,000 individuals, supported more than 2,000 arrests, and operates with an average prevention cost of just $112 per intercept.In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with John Molineux, founder and CEO of Love Justice International. He shares how the organization began, the innovative methods they use to combat trafficking, and the real-life impact of their prevention work.This episode will expand your understanding of human trafficking, highlight one of the most urgent global injustices of our time, and offer meaningful insight into why this is a crucial cause to support.Links mentioned in episode:Love Justice International WebsiteLove Justice International InstagramLove Justice International FacebookFollow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
April 15, 202638 min
122. Food Pantry Innovation: Building Community & Dignity at Benny’s Bodega (with Co-Founder and President Ben Davey)
Send us Fan MailBenny’s Bodega is a nonprofit in New Jersey that is reimagining what a food pantry can be. More than just a place to receive groceries and essential items, it’s a welcoming space designed to foster dignity, connection, and a true sense of community.In this episode, I sit down with Ben Davey, co-founder of Benny’s Bodega, to talk about the heart behind their mission and how they are transforming the traditional food pantry model. Ben shares how creating a respectful, community-centered environment can make a lasting impact on the people they serve.Ben also shares some great stories of all he went through to start his nonprofit and the positive impact it has on their volunteers, their clients, and their community as a whole. We also dive into what it really means to serve others with empathy, intention, and compassion—and how small shifts in approach can completely change the experience for those in need.Whether you volunteer, run a nonprofit, work in food insecurity programs, or are simply looking for meaningful ways to give back, this conversation offers powerful insights and inspiration. You’ll walk away with practical ideas for building community, restoring dignity, and making a difference through service.Links mentioned in the episode:Benny's Bodega WebsiteBenny's Bodega InstagramBenny's Bodega FacebookFollow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
April 8, 202615 min
121. When Catastrophe Strikes: Ideas For How You Can Help After a Natural Disaster
Send us Fan MailThis episode originally aired in October 2024 and is especially relevant as communities respond to recent natural disasters.When disasters strike, many of us want to help—but knowing how to help effectively can make all the difference. In this episode, I share practical and meaningful ways to support disaster relief efforts, from donating and volunteering to finding trusted organizations that are making a real impact on the ground.One of the key takeaways from this conversation is the importance of offering help in a coordinated and thoughtful way. By working through reputable nonprofits and disaster relief organizations, your time, money, and efforts can go further and truly meet the needs of those affected.If you’re looking for ways to give back after a natural disaster like hurricanes, earthquakes, or flooding…this episode will help you take action with confidence and purpose. Every act of service—no matter how small—can help families and communities begin to rebuild and heal.Links mentioned in the episode:Website for National Voluntary Organizations Active in DisasterList of Current Members of National Voluntary Organizations Active in DisasterDonate Blood through American Red CrossFollow the podcast on social media:Do Something More Instagram Do Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
April 1, 202639 min
120. Creating a World Where Periods Are Never A Problem: How 'Days for Girls' is Changing Lives Worldwide Through Menstrual Health Education (with CEO Tiffany Larson)
Send us Fan MailThis episode originally aired in January 2024 and features an inspiring conversation with Tiffany Larson, CEO of Days for Girls International—a global nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls through menstrual health education and sustainable resources.Days for Girls International works around the world to break the stigma surrounding menstruation by providing reusable period kits and vital health education. In this episode, Tiffany shares the powerful origin story of the organization, how their patented kits are changing lives, and the lasting impact of combining education with access to essential resources.You’ll also hear meaningful, real-life stories that illustrate how Days for Girls is helping women and girls stay in school, gain confidence, and overcome cultural barriers related to menstruation.I was first introduced to Days for Girls years ago while volunteering to help assemble their kits, and it was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of global needs. This conversation is both educational and uplifting—and a reminder of how the good work nonprofits do can truly create lasting change.Links mentioned in the episode:Days for Girls WebsiteDays for Girls InstagramDays for Girls Facebook'The Power of Days' book by Celeste MergensFollow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
March 25, 202613 min
119. Do Something More Podcast Turns 3! Service, Kindness & Giving Back Tips
Send us Fan MailCelebrate a special milestone with the Do Something More Podcast! 🎉 This week marks three incredible years of inspiring stories, meaningful service, and everyday people doing good in their communities.In this anniversary episode, I’m highlighting some of the most powerful advice shared by past guests. As my listeners might know, at the end of each episode, I usually ask my guests for general advice and encouragement for how people can serve, volunteer, and give back—and today, I’ve gathered six of those impactful insights into one uplifting and practical conversation.Whether you’re looking for simple ways to serve, how to get involved with meaningful volunteer opportunities, or motivation for how YOU can make a difference, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and empowered to take action.It’s also a heartfelt reminder of the amazing guests who have been part of this journey—regular people who are truly making a difference in big and small ways.Thank you for being part of the Do Something More Podcast community! I’m so grateful you’re here and hope these episodes continue to bring encouragement, purpose, and inspiration to your life.Links mentioned in the epsidode:Ashlee Taylor with ‘The Refuge Utah’ and Empowering Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual AssaultMckell Draper and Being a Service Missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsHolly Christensen with 'The Magic Yarn Project' and Making Fun Character Wigs for Children Experiencing Hair Loss from Cancer Treatments‘Turtle Shelter Project’ and Bringing Warmth and Hope to Homeless Individuals with Handmade and High Tech Vests (with Founder and Executive Director, Jen Spencer)Spreading Encouragement and Inspiration Through Motivational Running (with @runnerguywithasign Ben Lyne)‘Thanksgiving Heroes’ and Bringing Thanksgiving Dinner to Families Facing Food Insecurity (with Founder, Rob Adams)Follow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
March 18, 202635 min
118. Supporting Foster Families: How Care Communities Are Making a Difference (with Utah Foster Care Director of Community Volunteers, Tami Carson)
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Do Something More, I sit down with Tami Carson from Utah Foster Care to talk about the vital role foster families play in supporting vulnerable children in our communities. Tami shares insights into the challenges and rewards of foster care, as well as the growing need for more support.We also explore Utah Foster Care’s Care Communities program—a powerful initiative where groups of 8–10 adults come together to support a foster family through practical service, emotional encouragement, and consistent care. This episode highlights how anyone can make a meaningful difference, even if they don’t feel called to become a foster parent.If you’ve ever wondered how to serve children and families in need in a tangible, impactful way, this conversation will inspire you with ideas on how you can get involved.Links mentioned in the episode:Utah Foster Care Communities WebsiteUtah Foster Care InstagramUtah Foster Care FacebookFollow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
February 26, 202630 min
117. Scholarships for Single Mothers: How the Live Your Dream Foundation Is Empowering Women Through Education (with Co-Founder and President, Katie Bunnell)
Send us Fan MailThis episode of the Do Something More Podcast originally aired in December 2023. On it I’m joined by Katie Bunnell, co-founder and President of the Live Your Dream Foundation, a Utah-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering single mothers through education.The Live Your Dream Foundation awards scholarships to single mothers across Utah, helping them complete college, university, or technical school programs so they can build stable careers and better provide for their families. But their support goes beyond financial assistance — they have created a strong, uplifting community that offers encouragement, connection, and enrichment for single mothers and their children.In this episode, Katie shares her personal journey of becoming a single mother and the perseverance it took to finish her own college degree. She also shares how with the support of family members and a desire to give back, she founded Live Your Dream to help other single moms overcome financial and emotional barriers to higher education. She also highlights some of the ways her nonprofit has had to pivot to raise money and make the most of every donation they receive.If you’re passionate about nonprofit work, supporting single mothers, education scholarships, community service, or helping families break cycles of hardship, this inspiring conversation will show how one woman’s experience turned into a mission that is changing lives throughout Utah.Listen now to learn how education, community support, and volunteer-driven nonprofit leadership are helping single mothers live their dreams.Links mentioned in the episode:Live Your Dream WebsiteLive Your Dream InstagramLive Your Dream FacebookFollow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
February 18, 202624 min
116. Creative Ways to Serve: How 'Gifts No One Asked For' Delivers Encouragement through Inspirational Art (with @gifts_no_one_asked_for Angela Wilson)
Send us Fan MailWhat if your creativity could become a simple but powerful act of service?In memory of her mother, Angela Wilson launched the Instagram account Gifts No One Asked For, a heartfelt service project where she creates watercolor postcards and hand-lettered calligraphy art — and gives them away for free. Anyone can request a custom piece to send to a friend, family member, or loved one who could use encouragement, hope, or a reminder that they are not alone.In just over a year, Angela has fulfilled more than 1,000 requests, delivering uplifting artwork to all 50 states and 10 countries. Along the way, she’s received messages letting her know how her small acts of kindness have brought comfort, healing, and joy during difficult seasons.In this episode of the Do Something More Podcast, Angela shares how she turned grief into service, how starting before feeling “ready” made all the difference, and why you don’t have to be perfect — or the best — to make a meaningful impact. If you’ve ever had an idea to use your talents, creativity, or passions to give back, this episode will inspire you to start now and grow along the way.Listen to Episode 116 to hear Angela’s inspiring story and discover how you can use your unique gifts to serve, volunteer, and make a difference in your own community.Links mentioned in episode:Gifts No One Asked For InstagramFollow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
February 11, 202643 min
115. No Kid Sleeps on the Floor: How 'Sleep In Heavenly Peace' Builds Beds for Children in Need (with Founder Luke Mickelson)
Send us Fan MailWhen Luke Mickelson discovered that children in his community were sleeping on the floor without beds, he decided to do something about it. Involving youth from his church and his own children, Luke built and delivered beds to kids in need in his own town. What began as a small act of service quickly revealed a much larger problem — and an incredible opportunity to serve in a hands-on, meaningful way.That small effort became 'Sleep in Heavenly Peace', a nonprofit organization now with more than 400 chapters across the United States. Last year alone, they provided approximately 90,000 beds to children who needed a safe and comfortable place to sleep. Through large community ‘Build Day' events, volunteers of all ages can come together to build beds and even join a delivery team to help deliver and install the beds — making a tangible difference in the lives of local families.In this episode of the Do Something More Podcast, Luke shares the inspiring story behind Sleep in Heavenly Peace, how the nonprofit continues to grow, and practical insights for other nonprofits and community organizations looking to create engaging, impactful volunteer opportunities.If you’re passionate about volunteering, community service, nonprofit leadership, or making a difference for children in need, this episode will inspire you to take action and do something more.Links mentioned in the episode:Sleep in Heavenly Peace WebsiteSleep in Heavenly Peace InstagramSleep in Heavenly Peace FacebookCare PortalFollow the podcast on social media:Do Something More InstagramDo Something More FacebookDo Something More YouTube
Is this your show?
Claim this listing to keep it up to date, reach guests who want to pitch you, and manage bookings with Guestify.
