This episode is basically a group therapy session for 2025.

We talk about the highs, the lows, and the “wow, how is it already December?” moments. We revisit some of the best parts of the year, including the very grown-up decision to do fewer episodes so we could keep our sanity intact.

We dig into the Popcorn Series, which somehow turned into one of the most meaningful and fun things we’ve done to the Walkie Talkies conversations with seasoned professionals that were equal parts insightful, hilarious, and grounding in reality.

We also unpack the Taki About It series, because clearly we like naming things with “Talkie” in them. And finally, we look ahead to 2026 with plans for more video, more ways to connect with you all, and fewer moments where we ask, “Should we have planned this better?”

Basically, it’s a look back, a little laughing at ourselves, and a look forward to what’s next.

In this shorter than normal but power packed episode, Desi and Billy conclude the Popcorn edition of Afterschool Snack with Eve, Ava, Erica and Carson. Listen as these professionals give their thoughts, insights and vibrant energy to conclude the Popcorn Edition of Afterschool Snack , SodakSACA.

Desi and Billy meet up with Lynne at the Washington Pavilion and record in the actual Art Gallery to talk about the Pomodoro technique, summer programming and the impact of informal learning.

Snap, crackle and more Pops! Come "popcorn" with participants of the Keystone Leadership Retreat hosted by SodakSACA. Desi dives in and gets to know some of your South Dakota OST professionals navigating their personal lives, work and play! This is a great episode as Jena, Morgan, Taylor, Morgan and Miranda let us into their day to day lives and some of what keeps them coming back for more.

Summary

In this episode, Billy Mawhiney sits down with Jodi Grant from the Afterschool Alliance about the recent unfreezing of the 21st Century funds, the impact of funding freezes on afterschool programs, and the importance of grassroots advocacy and community engagement in securing political support for these initiatives. They discuss the challenges faced by programs during funding freezes, the role of media in highlighting the importance of afterschool programs, and strategies for engaging local communities and lawmakers to ensure continued support for afterschool funding.

Billy & Desi sit down with three 4th graders, (Emmett, Carter and Lucas) from the Community Learning Center program at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary Afterschool program in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In this episode, they start with some rapid fire questions then move into a "Let's Taki About Segment" where they snack on four levels of spicy takis with more thought provoking questions.

Join us for our final popcorn episode featuring participants of the SodakSaca Keystone Leadership Retreat. In this amazing episode we have compiled 3 incredible leaders who are making a difference each and every day. Malachi, Mike and Lisa talk about more than just afterschool but how we connect as people. This is a great finish to a fantastic segment!

Billy and Desi sit down and experience the "burn" with students from the Great Afterschool Place Camelot in Brookings. Listen as we talk, listen and experience the heat of the Taki Challenge, with Chloe, Ashley and Henry. Be prepared for a perspective change as we hear what makes the youth in GAP so special.