SMACNA-KC NEWS

• Ryan Lefebvre: The Shame of Me - One Man's Journey to Depression and Back

  Ryan Lefebvre: The Shame of Me - One Man's Journey to Depression and Back Tuesday, September 16th, 2025 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM   Join us for a powerful presentation with KC Royals broadcaster Ryan Lefebvre as he shares his personal journey through depression, recovery, and hope. Based on his memoir The Shame of Me, Ryan's story sheds light on the often-hidden struggles of mental illness, particularly among high-achieving professionals. Offered in recognition of Suicide Prevention Week, this event is a rare opportunity to hear an honest message about breaking the silence around mental health. Boxed lunches will be provided. Register now to be part of this important conversation.      Location: JCCC - General Education Building - Craig Auditorium  12345 College Blvd. General Education Building Overland Park, KS  66210   Major League Baseball broadcaster Ryan Lefebvre seemed to have it all an Emmy Award-winning career with the Kansas City Royals, a successful past as a Division I athlete, and deep roots in the Kansas City community. But behind the microphone and accolades, Ryan was fighting a devastating internal battle that nearly took his life. In this candid and heartfelt presentation, Ryan shares the deeply personal journey behind his memoir, The Shame of Me: One Man's Journey to Depression and Back. Through moments of despair, healing, and hope, he sheds light on the realities of living with major depressive disorder especially as a high-achieving man in the public eye. His story is one of pain and resilience, and above all, a commitment to break the silence around mental illness. Offered in recognition of Suicide Prevention Week, this event is a unique opportunity to hear Ryan's powerful message of awareness and recovery. His vulnerability opens the door for vital conversations around mental health particularly for those who may be suffering in silence. Why Attend: Learn how depression can affect anyone regardless of success, status, or visibility Hear firsthand how Ryan sought help, recovered, and found new balance in life Gain insights on supporting mental wellness in ourselves and others This is more than a talk it's a life-affirming message of hope and courage.   Speaker Ryan Lefebvre is in his 27th season as a Royals broadcaster and has spent more than three decades in Major League Baseball broadcasting. A former collegiate All-Big Ten outfielder and professional draft pick, Ryan has also earned multiple Mid-America Emmy Awards and is the founder of Gloves for Kids, supporting youth programs in Kansas and Missouri. Recognized for his leadership and community impact, Ryan brings not just a story of survival, but of purpose. Boxed lunches will be provided.  

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• Tom's Town Spookeasy

  Join us on October 9th, 2025, at the Tom's Town Spookeasy to learn the Tricks & Treats of what ChatGPT and AI can offer! 4:00 - 5:00 pm - Speaker Presentation 5:00 - 5:30 pm - Distillery Tour 5:30 - 7:00 pm -  Drinks & Appetizers  Presentation:  AI, Straight Up: Smarter Words. Sharper Work. This no-fluff session dives into how to use ChatGPT to save time, sharpen your message, and boost confidence. In this interactive session, Keith Scott and Rebecca Klein, from TALLsmall Productions will show us how to:  ·      Turn rough notes into clear, confident writing ·      Use ChatGPT as a virtual assistant to save you hours. ·      Get better results by learning how to “talk” to AI the right way This isn't about learning tech—it's about using a powerful tool to sound sharp, move faster, and lead with clarity. DATE: October 9th, 2025 TIME: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm PLACE: Tom's Town Distilling Co.  1701Main Street                                                                                                                                                             Kansas City, MO 64108

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