Hello Libration Nation! In this week’s episode I’m chatting with David Crowley, nonprofit leader and podcaster, about The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness by Robert Waldinger and Mark Schultz. Over a glass of Longevity Cabernet Sauvignon, we explored the Harvard study’s core finding: strong, meaningful relationships are key to happiness and health. David shared insights from his work with Social Capital Inc., which combats social isolation, and his personal journey maintaining relationships throughout various phases of life. Together, we reflected on building deeper connections in a digital age.

David Crowley founded Social Capital Inc. (SCI) over 20 years ago in his hometown of Woburn, Massachusetts. Under his leadership, SCI has grown to serve communities across the region while continuing to make a difference in Woburn. Prior to SCI, David was the Executive Director of Boston-based Generations Inc. (now Literations). He has been involved in AmeriCorps since the program began in 1993, and served as the founding Director of the Kentucky Community Service Commission, which oversees the program for the state.  David graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Government. Unsure of his long term plans, and after many service activities in college, David set out to do a year of service in rural Kentucky, which began his career serving his community! In his free time, he enjoys cooking for his family, reading and walking nearby Horn Pond. He also shares his kitchen creations on his food & wine blog, Cooking Chat. He also hosts two podcasts: Cook Local, Eat Local and SCI's Cultivating Connections podcasts.

Drink

Longevity Cabernet Sauvignon

Longevity Winemakers

In this Episode

Social Capital Inc.

Cooking Chat (David’s Food & Wine Blog)

Cook Local, Eat Local Podcast

SCI’s Cultivating Connections Podcast

Bowling Alone by Robert D. Putnam

Recent NYT interview with Robert Putnam (not mentioned in the episode but really interesting read on loneliness)

Dive into this week's Drinks in the Library as we explore Dog Songs by Mary Oliver with Amanda Sue Creasey, author, poet, and outdoor writer. Discover the meditative beauty of dogs, nature, and poetry, paired with Choice Organics Peppermint Tea—a soothing sip for a reflective journey. Perfect for dog lovers, poetry enthusiasts, and those seeking heartfelt inspiration. #BookPodcast

Welcome back, Libration Nation! This week, join us as we dive into The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy, featuring award-winning author Laura Elliott, who shares insights from her historical novel Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves. Recorded at the Virginia Library Association Conference, Laura discusses Conroy's impact on her writing, and even shares his Iced Fruit Tea recipe! Tune in for a rich conversation on Southern storytelling, healing narratives, and Laura's latest work, Truth, Lies, and Questions in Between. If you loved this episode, please share, subscribe, and join us again!

Hello, Libration Nation! This week, we're diving into the vibrant world of "Paper Girls," an imaginative comic series  by Brian K. Vaughn with artwork by Cliff Chiang. This series, which intertwines coming-of-age narratives with sci-fi elements, is a thrilling ride that takes us through time travel and interwoven destinies.

Joining me this week is comedian and bookseller Mary Jane French. Mary Jane has been performing Stand-up since she was 18-years-old. After starting her gender transition, she began cultivating material that captured her early experiences with transition and recorded it in a home-made special entitled Mary Jane French: Bearded Woman. Currently Mary Jane is producing comedy shows in Richmond, VA with Traverse Comedy. 

This week, we indulged in a delightful drink choice: a warm, soothing apple cider, which is perfect as we slip further in our fall season, it’s a bit of a play on words, as Mary Jane explains, Apple products play a quirky role in the series. While ours was the classic non-alcoholic version, we can't forget to mention that apple ciders can be easily personalized with a splash of your favorite spirit, or simply enjoyed with a cinnamon stick for a spicy twist.

As always, if you enjoyed our lively discussion and want to help us grow our community, please share, like, review, and subscribe wherever you tune into our episodes. We appreciate your support and look forward to bringing more exciting conversations your way!

In this Episode

Garden Grove Brewing in Carytown

Bottoms Up Pizza in Shockoe Bottom

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina series

Saga Series by Brian K Vaughn

Something’s Killing the Children series

Papergirls TV Show

Traverse Comedy

Join us this Spooky Season on Libration Nation! In this chilling episode, host Grace Todd and I explore Shirley Jackson's classic, The Haunting of Hill House. Over Dark Manhattans, we dive into its eerie atmosphere, unsettling characters, and ghostly legacies. Perfect for horror fans, we blend humor with deep insights on female empowerment and family dynamics. Cheers to a frightfully good time!

Join us on "Drinks at the Library" as we dive into The Rose Code by Kate Quinn with special guest Christine O'Brien, a nurse and avid reader. Explore WWII codebreakers, their friendships, struggles, and historical significance. Paired with a rosé from Armitage, it's a perfect episode for book lovers and wine enthusiasts alike! Cheers!

Join us this week on "V for Victory" Libration Nation as we dive into Erik Larson's gripping narrative, The Splendid and the Vile, exploring Winston Churchill’s pivotal first year as Prime Minister during dark times for the UK. Our guest, Helen Gabay from Richmond, Virginia, shares her passion for history, travel, and literature. With her unique insights and experiences, including her family's adventures to Winston Churchill's historic sites, Helen adds depth to our discussion. Plus, we’ll toast to history with a classic Gin Gimlet, made with Plymouth Gin—Churchill’s favorite! Don’t miss this engaging episode filled with history, drinks, and inspiration!

Hello Libration Nation! Get ready for a 90s throwback as we dive into Generation X by Douglas Coupland. Joined by David How, a proud Canadian, father, and music lover, we explore how this book shaped his life. Plus, we’re sipping on a classic Canadian beer and clam. Grab your drink, settle in, and join us for a nostalgic chat on storytelling, music, and memories!

🚀 Attention #LibrationNation leaders! This week, join us for an in-depth discussion of the groundbreaking management book, “First Break All the Rules” by Marcus Buckingham, with insights from Ira Holliday. With over 25 years of experience in digital transformation, HR services, and agile delivery within Fortune 200 companies, Ira brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Discover his unique perspective on leadership and enjoy a Smoked Old Fashioned— a classic cocktail enhanced with a smoky twist, perfect for fall. Tune in for expert analysis and a refreshing drink recipe! 🍂📚 #Leadership #Management #BookReview #SmokedOldFashioned

In this podcast episode, we dive into the transformative ideas behind Oliver Burkeman's book Four Thousand Weeks with special guest Rebecca Schinsky, Chief of Staff at Riot New Media Group and co-host of the Book Riot Podcast. Discover how to rethink time management and live a more fulfilling life as we discuss the concept that life boils down to just 4,000 weeks. Rebecca shares her insights from over 15 years of experience in the book and publishing industry, making this episode a must-listen for avid readers and those looking to better manage their time. Plus, we pair the conversation with one of Rebecca’s favorite drinks—a Manhattan, setting the perfect tone for this thoughtful and engaging discussion. Tune in on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform!

Gigi and Jess discuss Judy Blume's iconic book "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret."