Sounding of the Herd

The Elks "Stand Down" with Taylor Trinkle

Episode 6 of Sounding of the Herd with Dave Little and Rob Cheeseman shines a light on something truly meaningful happening right in Terre Haute—the Veterans Stand Down. This powerful one-day event brings together essential services for veterans in one place, from healthcare and hot meals to housing assistance and employment support, all delivered with the dignity and respect our veterans deserve. In this episode, Dave and Rob are joined by special guest Taylor Trinkle, who shares insight into how the Stand Down comes together, the impact it has on the local veteran community, and why events like this matter more than ever. It’s a conversation about service, community, and showing up for those who’ve served. Tune in for a closer look at how a single day can make a lasting difference.

Episode 6 TEASER - Upcoming Stand Down

Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. And for too many veterans, the hardest battles begin after they come home. On this episode of Sounding of the Herd, we’re spotlighting the Veterans Stand Down in Terre Haute—one day where the community brings healthcare, hot meals, housing support, employment help, and dignity together in one place. Not paperwork. Not red tape. Just real help, meeting veterans where they are. This Stand Down exists because local partners, volunteers, and neighbors chose to show up—because no veteran should have to navigate life alone. Behind every veteran is a story of sacrifice… and a moment when someone needs to know they still matter. If you’re a veteran, this episode is for you. And if you know a veteran, be the reason they hear it. Subscribe to Sounding of the Herd wherever you get your podcasts, and help us keep these stories—and these promises—alive. Sounding of the Herd—because nobody gets left behind, and nobody should ever feel forgotten.”

District Meetings: Not as Scary as You Think

In this episode of Sounding of the Herd, Dave and Rob pull back the curtain on something that can make even seasoned Elks nervous: District Meetings. While the phrase alone can send chills down a new member’s spine, the crew explains what district meetings really are — collaborative, informative, and surprisingly welcoming. Using the 2026 West Central Indiana Spring District Meeting as a real-life example, the hosts walk through what actually happens, who’s there (including the very human District Deputy), and why these meetings strengthen Elkdom instead of stressing lodges out. The episode takes an unscripted turn with live call-ins from: * Randy Jones, Treasurer, Terre Haute Elks 86 (first-time attendee) * Christine, Secretary, Terre Haute Elks 86, sharing her first district-meeting experience Their candid reactions — from information overload to meeting new faces and seeing other lodges in action — give listeners an honest look at what to expect. Along the way, there’s lodge pride, raffle talk, food reviews, remodeling updates, and the unmistakable reminder that district meetings are about connection, support, and shared purpose.

Episode 5 TEASER

You've seen it on the calendar, but do you really know what a district meeting is all about? Next week on Sounding of the Herd, we break down why district meetings matter, what happens when Elks come together beyond the lodge, and how showing up strengthens leadership, fellowship, and service across the district. Episode 5 drops next week, Subscribe Now so you don't miss it. Search Sounding of the Herd on your favorite podcast app! Sounding of the Herd, because a stronger district makes a stronger herd!

Mi CASA es su CASA?: What CASA does and how YOU can help!

Hosted by Dave Little and Rob Cheesman, this episode of Sounding of the Herd features a meaningful conversation with Glenna Cheesman, Director of CASA of Vigo County. Together, they explore the vital role CASA volunteers play in advocating for children navigating the court system and how community partners like Terre Haute Elks Lodge #86 help ensure those children are heard and supported. From the realities facing local families to the power of service-driven collaboration, this episode highlights what it truly means to step up for kids and strengthen our community.