Global Connections through Local Hosts both Domestic and International: The Power of Friendship Force

January 14, 2026

Jan Barbone, Outreach Coordinator

Discover how Friendship Force WI-Madison transforms travel into a powerful tool for cultural education through its unique model of reciprocally hosted homestays. In this inspiring talk, you’ll learn how the organization connects people from different countries, not as tourists, but as guests in each other’s homes—breaking down stereotypes, building lifelong friendships, and fostering true global understanding. Whether you’re passionate about intercultural exchange or curious about meaningful ways to explore the world, this speech will show how hospitality can be a bridge to peace.

You will:

• Learn how homestays create authentic cultural immersion beyond traditional tourism.
• Embrace the concept of reciprocal hosting and its impact on mutual respect and empathy.
• Discover how you can participate in or host an international exchange.
• Walk away with a renewed sense of how grassroots connection can shape global citizenship.

Behind the Counter: Making Sense of PBMs, Prescription Costs, and the new Fitchburg Family Clinic

November 12, 2025

Thad Schumacher, Pharmacist and Owner of Fitchburg Family Pharmacy

Curious about why your prescriptions cost so much, or why insurance covers some but not others? Thad Schumacher will explain how Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) affect drug prices, and how you can cut costs. He will also outline the membership benefits of the new Fitchburg Family Clinic.

You’ll walk away with:

• A clear understanding of what PBMs are and how they influence your medication costs
• Practical ways to save on prescriptions and out-of-pocket expenses
• Information about Fitchburg Family Clinic’s primary and preventive healthcare services

Why Listen to Your Inner Critic? 3 Secrets to Unlock Your Blocks to Confidence and Success

October 8, 2025

Annie Notestein, MS, Dating & Relationship Coach; Self-Esteem & Confidence Coach

Every woman has an inner critic—that voice that whispers, “You’re not enough” or “You can’t do this.” But what if that voice isn’t here to hold you back, but to guide you toward your greatest breakthroughs? Annie Notestein will show you how to transform your inner critic from a source of doubt into a powerful ally.

You will discover:

• How to recognize your inner critic’s real purpose—and why it’s not your enemy.
• Three strategies to transform self-sabotage into self-confidence.
• A new perspective on personal growth—one rooted in self-trust, empowerment, and resilience.

Fighting Hunger in Turbulent Times

September 10, 2025

Marcia Kasieta, Business Director, Badger Prairie Needs Network

Food insecurity is real. Nearly 12% of Dane County residents are struggling. This September, during Hunger Action Month, Marcia Kasieta of the Badger Prairie Needs Network highlights how the facility fights poverty and tackles hunger and nutrition. Discover how you can be part of the solution.

You’ll learn:

• What the Network does and the people it supports
• The real impact of hunger in our community
• Easy, meaningful ways to get involved

Recommended Resources

• MIT AgeLab
• Innovation and Leadership in Healthy Aging, AARP
• Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging
• Healthy Aging, Medical News Today

Healing the Whole Person Through Acupuncture

July 9, 2025

Joseph Zirneskie, MD

Discover how acupuncture goes beyond symptom relief to support whole-person healing, promoting balance in the body, mind, and spirit. You’ll explore treatment details, acupuncture’s holistic health integration, and its power in managing stress, pain, fatigue, and other issues.

 What you’ll take away:

• A clear, easy-to-understand explanation of how acupuncture works and what it feels like
• Insight into how acupuncture can support your body’s natural healing
• An introduction to the mind-body connection
• Simple, practical techniques you can try at home—like acupressure points and breathing exercises—to support your own wellness

Proactive Wellness: Detox, Decompress, and De-stress

June 11, 2025

Linda Gorchels

• Basic skills to improve postural alignment
• Simple lymphatic massage techniques
• Ways to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system

5-Minute Guided Meditation for Mindfulness

Global Connections through Local Hosts both Domestic and International: The Power of Friendship Force

June 11, 2025

Jan Barbone, Outreach Coordinator

Discover how Friendship Force International transforms travel into a powerful tool for cultural education through its unique model of reciprocally hosted homestays. In this inspiring talk, you’ll learn how the organization connects people from different countries, not as tourists, but as guests in each other’s homes—breaking down stereotypes, building lifelong friendships, and fostering true global understanding. Whether you’re passionate about intercultural exchange or curious about meaningful ways to explore the world, this speech will show how hospitality can be a bridge to peace.

You will:

• Learn how homestays create authentic cultural immersion beyond traditional tourism.
• Embrace the concept of reciprocal hosting and its impact on mutual respect and empathy.
• Discover how you can participate in or host an international exchange.
• Walk away with a renewed sense of how grassroots connection can shape global citizenship.

Realistic Wild Fowl Sculpture by Greg Curless

May 14, 2025

Greg Curless, Sculptor

Are you a bird enthusiast? An artist? Or perhaps an avid learner curious about wildlife and nature? Anyone in these categories will love Greg’s incredibly detailed bird sculptures, which bridge the gap between art and ornithology.

• Learn about the techniques and tools used to achieve striking realism in sculpture.
• Discover the inspirations and artistic journey of Greg Curless.
• Explore the ways that sculpture can enrich your appreciation of wildlife
• Leave with practical tips for starting or refining your own nature-inspired art.