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Coffee Break

Coffee Break: Encouragement

by Jill Riley and Nilufer Arsala

September 12, 2025

An interactive installation allowed people to leave notes of support and encouragement for K-12 LGBTQ youth in Loring Park during 2018 Twin Cities Pride in Minneapolis.
An interactive installation allowed people to leave notes of support and encouragement for K-12 LGBTQ youth in Loring Park during 2018 Twin Cities Pride in Minneapolis.Liam James Doyle for MPR News

We could all use a little encouragement sometimes, and today is the perfect time because it is National Day of Encouragement! The special day was created to uplift others and make a positive impact, so just in case no one has told you today, you’re doing great!

Music has also been used as a form of encouragement. Whether it’s a message to keep moving forward, a helping hand, or something to help a broken heart, songs have often been used for motivation. Let’s create a playlist full of love and support.

So for today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what encouraging and supportive songs would you like to hear?


Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs Played
Sly and the Family Stone- You Can Make It if You Try
Preservation Hall Jazz Band- Keep Your Head Up
Young MC- Bust A Move
The Hold Steady- Stay Positive
Jimmy Cliff- You Can Get It If You Really Want
Jimmy Eat World- The Middle
Monty Python- Look On the Bright Side of Life

Coffee Break: Encouragement