Humanity Chats with Marjy

Immigration attorney Akua Poku shared her inspiring personal story and insights into immigration law, detailing her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to serving immigrant communities. Here are some of the key points discussed:Personal Journey to Immigration Law: Akua relocated from Ghana to the U.S. and encountered significant challenges transitioning her legal career. Despite skepticism and hurdles, she built her own law practice, beginning with intellectual property law and eventually pivoting to immigration in response to the needs of her clients.Cultural Understanding in Legal Representation: Akua emphasized how her shared cultural and experiential background with clients helps her offer more nuanced legal support, particularly in navigating issues such as proving the legitimacy of marriages and understanding immigrant struggles.Insight Into Immigration Trends:With changes in U.S. administrations, the immigration landscape could experience stricter enforcement policies, including mass deportations or denaturalization initiatives.Akua stressed the importance of preparation, such as maintaining complete immigration records and seeking lawyer guidance rather than navigating complex immigration laws alone.Advice for Immigrants:All immigrants—naturalized citizens, green card holders, non-immigrants, and undocumented individuals—need to stay proactive and informed about their rights and responsibilities.A central piece of advice was to consult an immigration attorney before submitting applications to avoid mistakes that can lead to severe consequences like deportation or case denials.Global Reach of Services: Akua's firm supports clients across the U.S. and worldwide, reflecting immigration law's federal nature and the firm's capacity to work virtually with a wide array of clients.Encouragement to Immigrants:Akua underlined the possibilities of living the American Dream with hard work, rule-following, and resourcefulness. Her firm prioritizes each client's case, ensuring personalized attention and zealous advocacy. For further information or assistance, visit akpokulaw.com, or find Akua on social media using the handle @AkPoku across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Akua Poku and her team are ready to help you through your immigration journey with expertise and compassion. Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

An episode featuring Reverend Audrey Hailstock, where we chat about overcoming life's obstacles and embracing gratitude. With her extensive background in education and ministry, Reverend Hailstock offers invaluable insights on conquering fears, resetting mindsets, and practicing thankfulness. She encourages listeners to persevere because overcoming fear requires action and a deep-seated belief in oneself.Key Talking PointsConquering Fear: Reverend Hailstock emphasizes that fear is not just being scared but a significant barrier that prevents progress. She highlights the importance of mindset shifts and encourages tapping into faith, self-belief, and the discipline of taking consistent action to overcome obstacles.The Role of Mindset: The discussion underscored the necessity of a mindset reset. Recognizing and addressing self-limiting beliefs can transform potential into reality. Words have power, and Reverend Hailstock's message revolves around speaking life into one's potential and casting out negativity.The Effect of Procrastination: Procrastination, born from fear and uncertainty, was tackled as an issue needing discipline, consistency, and the grit to overcome. It's essential to take small steps toward goals and maintain momentum to achieve success.A Message for the HolidaysGratitude and Giving Thanks: Reverend Hailstock stresses the importance of gratitude as a daily practice, not confined to special occasions. Thankfulness enhances one's outlook on life, and acknowledging even the smallest blessings can shift perspectives significantly.There is power in appreciation and positivity. Therefore, we are encouraged to reflect and show gratitude.About Guest Rev. Audrey Hailstock is an alumna of Erskine College with a BA in English. Beyond her spiritual commitments, Audrey leads the Spartanburg County Alliance of Ministers' Wives and Ministers' Widows as president. A former middle school teacher, her passion shines through her recent literary work, "OVERCOME NOW," and her love for preaching, teaching, and inspiring others. Rev. Hailstock is married to  Dr. James L. Hailstock, founder and pastor of New Day Baptist Church in Spartanburg, SC. She is the daughter of the late Pastor Fred L. Sweeney Sr. and Rev. Shirley Ann King Sweeney,Guided by her favorite verse, Matthew 5:16, Rev. Hailstock strives to let her light shine, encouraging others in their faith journey.About Overcome Now"Overcome Now" by Reverend Audrey Hailstock is available in bookstores and online.Discover the life-changing path with Audrey Hailstock's "Overcome Now", a guide to navigating out of life's wrong zones by cultivating empowering thoughts and actions. This insightful book equips you to create the roadmap you need to achieve victory with clarity and purpose. Say goodbye to feeling lost or stuck in dead-end situations, and embrace a future filled with success and direction. Whether you're searching for a breakthrough or looking to gain traction in your personal journey, "Overcome Now" offers the tools and encouragement you need to transform your life and reach your desired destination.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Jo Watson Hackl is a storyteller at heart. In this episode of Humanity Chats, Jo unravels the joy of scavenging through nature. We discover how her childhood explorations transformed into adventures that engage people in celebrating the simple beauties in their surroundings. Whether through writing, speaking engagements, or her interactive activities, Jo emphasizes the profound impact of nature on mental well-being and happiness. She encourages us to to embrace the benefits of nature, enrich our experiences, and let joy guide us in unexpected ways.About JoA native of rural Mississippi, who now lives in Greenville, South Carolina, Jo is the author of Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe, published by Random House Children's books. Smack Dab was awarded the Southern Book Prize and is an Amazon Teacher's Pick and a “Read Across America” selection.A first-generation college graduate, Jo is on a mission to help students build skills that promote grit and resilience, improve writing skills, and connect with nature.She is a keynote speaker and also loves to do school visits. You can find free reader and educator activities and grant opportunities on Jo's website at https://JoHackl.com.Jo is also the founder of www.Outdoorosity.org, a free resource for information and inspiration about nature. As a way to connect people with the outdoors, six days a week, Jo posts photos from nature using the hashtag #JoyScavengerHuntHumanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

In a world where so many of us have the privilege of worrying about what we want for dinner, it's easy to forget that this is not the reality for everyone. "Feed Me Before the Sun Sets" is a heartfelt initiative founded by Dr. Eliza Osae Kwapong that aims to rally communities around the globe to combat hunger. By combining her love of nature and her passion for helping others, Dr. Osae Kwapong encourages people to participate in outdoor activities while raising awareness and funds to support those who struggle with hunger. The initiative is not just about providing meals; it's about building a supportive community and promoting a healthy lifestyle both physically and mentally. Whether it's through walking, running, or dancing, each step taken is a step towards ensuring no one goes to bed hungry. This unique blend of fitness and philanthropy reminds us that big impacts can start with small acts of kindness, uniting us in the fight against hunger.Through Feed Me Before the Sun Sets, Dr. Osae Kwapong aims to combat hunger by ensuring that everyone has access to a nutritious meal before the end of the day. Her primary goal is to foster a sense of communal responsibility and active participation in the fight against hunger.Currently, Feed Me Before the Sunsets is engaged in a month-long challenge, where participants are encouraged to stay active daily, whether through running, cycling, swimming, or any other physical activity. Contributions are gathered through donations linked to each participant's activities, bringing both awareness and action to the cause of ending hunger.This is a call for community-driven change; a chance for each of us to step up, quite literally, and take part in a fitness-driven mission that has the potential to transform lives. So lace up your sneakers, grab a friend, and share your journey online, while inviting others to contribute. Let's harness the strength of our steps to not only uplift ourselves but also feed those who need it most. Join Feed Me Before the Sun Sets, because together, we can ensure no one wonders where their next meal will come from.Meet the FounderFounder, Dr. Eliza Osae Kwapong is an enthusiastic advocate for nature and fitness. With a background in higher education, instructional design, and digital education, Dr. Osae Kwapong combines her professional knowledge with her love for the outdoors to inspire others to join her in this humanitarian endeavor. Her experiences of generosity and compassion during travels abroad have fueled her desire to make a tangible impact in the fight against hunger.Learn MoreTo discover more about Feed Me Before the Sunsets, or to participate in our initiatives, please visit their website at feedmebeforethesunsets.org. You can also get involved by tagging the organization on social media or collaborating with them through platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Whether you walk, run, or dance, every step you take helps further the mission. Also, feel free to reach out via email at feedmebeforethesunsets@gmail.com for any inquiries or to share your efforts. Join Dr. Osae Kwapong in creating a healthier world, one meal at a time. Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

In today's interconnected world, the challenge of merging personal faith with active community engagement is more pressing than ever. How can we as individuals demonstrate grace, embrace diversity, and lend our support to one another in meaningful ways? Building bridges across different backgrounds involves more than just understanding; it requires intentional actions that foster connections and promote unity. In our recent Humanity Chats episode with Pastor Monica Aryitey, the conversation seeks to explore practical approaches to harmonizing our spiritual beliefs with our communal commitments, encouraging a path toward deeper understanding and solidarity.About MonicaPastor Monica Aryitey is the author of "Muse With Me," a 365-day devotional, providing daily insights and encouraging readers to find strength in the stories of biblical figures who, despite their brokenness, discovered God's abundant grace. Born in Ghana, she has lived in Worcester, Massachusetts for nearly two decades. As an attorney, Monica holds licenses in both Massachusetts and New York and has a Master's Degree in Law from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. Alongside her legal career, Monica co-founded and co-pastors Faith Fellowship, a multicultural church in Worcester. Her journey as a spiritual leader is matched by her role as a devoted wife and mother to three children: Joseph, Jude, and Faith.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

In commemoration of Black Business Month, Jevertus Burnett joins Marjy Marj on the Humanity Chats Podcast to explore the concept of wealth, business, and philanthropy in today's society. Jevertus articulates an important point: while there may be technical differences in how wealth is categorized, fundamentally, Black wealth is no different from the wealth of any other racial or ethnic group. However, history tells a different story, one where people of color, particularly African Americans, have faced systemic barriers to wealth-building opportunities. This term "Black wealth" serves as a definition - encouraging Black individuals to engage in meaningful discussions about their financial futures and take ownership of their economic destinies.Furthermore, it's refreshing to recognize that, contrary to popular beliefs, the Black community currently has access to more resources than ever before. With rising earnings and job opportunities, it's essential for the community to play an active role in conversations surrounding wealth. By coming together to share knowledge, Black People can foster generational wealth and ownership that transcends individual effort. As we celebrate Black Business Month, this occasion is integral to the broader conversation about empowerment and representation in business. According to Jevertus Black Business Month is more than just a commemoration; it's an ideal opportunity to highlight the diversity of Black-owned businesses, many of which continue to be under-appreciated. His experiences in financial services reveal the surprise many Black entrepreneurs feel upon discovering the wealth of reputable Black-owned companies across various sectors. This realization exemplifies a key element of Black Business Month—it gives a voice to stories often overlooked and showcases the products and services emerging from the Black community.By elevating these businesses, we not only celebrate their accomplishments but also foster a culture of collaboration and support. In today's world, where representation is crucial, Black Business Month empowers consumers to intentionally seek out and uplift Black-owned businesses, nurturing a strong sense of community and solidarity. This initiative also opens the dialogue for Black philanthropy, encouraging individuals to utilize their resources strategically to uplift their communities. Ultimately, Black Business Month is not merely an observance but a call to recognize and actively support Black entrepreneurs, transforming the landscape into a powerful movement for economic empowerment and social change.About JevertusJevertus Burnett is a Senior Internal Consultant at New York Life Insurance Company, where he focuses on individual disability and long-term care planning. With strong skills in communication, public speaking, and education, he is dedicated to helping top financial professionals create robust financial strategies that encompass vital insurance options for their clients. Passionate about promoting awareness of these critical planning areas, Jevertus engages with diverse communities nationwide through informative seminars and workshops, reinforcing his commitment to inclusion and education.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Belinda Hodasi Jones—an artist with deep roots in Ghana, West Africa—shared her journey and artistic inspirations in a recent interview on Humanity Chats,. Born with an innate passion for art, Belinda was nurtured in her creative pursuits by the cultural environment of Ghana and later through her academic experiences at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. In reflecting on her evolution as an artist, Belinda expressed her profound connection to the history and heritage of her homeland, embodying it through her work.Belinda's current art exhibition, which resonates deeply with Black History Month, explores the crossroads of African and European encounters and their enduring legacies. Her pieces depict not just historical moments but intimate recollections of a culture that is changing and, in some aspects, vanishing. These visual narratives show her commitment to preserving the rich tapestry of African traditions and memories through her art.The current exhibition for Black History Month, is on display at the Gateswood Studio Center at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, and is scheduled to run through the end of February. Belinda invites everyone to experience her art—a testimony to the stories, the nostalgia, and the heritage she holds dear. Through storytelling and immersive art, Belinda Hodasi Jones ensures that the rich narratives of African heritage continue to inspire and educate, emphasizing the significance of Black History Month. Her investment in this commemorative time is not just about reflection but also about active education and cultural preservation.For those who wish to dive into Belinda's art, her website provides an insight into her work. Click HERE to visit the website.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

A retired educator, Dr. Foley continues to work as an advocate for children grappling with trauma and mental health challenges. Her integrated approach leans heavily on the transformative power of social and emotional learning, showcasing her commitment to the emotional wellbeing of the children she encounters. Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Marjy Marj announces the Building Bridges Tour, explains its purpose, and shares her experience from the Northeastern leg of the tour.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Seasoned television director and award-winning author Jeffrey Blount chats with Marjy Marj about his newest book Mr. Jimmy from Around the Way. Blount's new book release sparked insightful reflections on life, carrying the promise to inspire important conversations. A fun fact that may surprise many is that despite his illustrious career in Washington, D.C., and NBC News, Blount identifies as a farm boy from Virginia. His humble beginnings, growing up on a family farm and running a country store, have deeply shaped his narratives.Blount's latest protagonist, Mr. Jimmy, is a testament to his own upbringing and experiences. Mr. Jimmy is a billionaire who, amidst personal chaos, retreats to rural America, reflecting Blount's own safe space growing up. The crux of the story revolves around Mr. Jimmy's journey towards redemption. Raised by parents who believed in assisting their fellow human beings, Mr. Jimmy is inspired to help a poverty-stricken community despite his initial reluctance. His journey is a representation of Blount's aspiration for more people to see each other's humanity first and understand that every life is worth saving.Blount's book is not solely for adults but can also be appreciated by young adults who are at an inflection point in their lives. His books, mostly centered on African-American stories, are intended to bring everyone to the table. His goal is to illustrate the breadth of Black culture and achievement, to inspire the younger generation that they can be successful in all realms.Blount's passion for storytelling extends beyond his writing. He is a firm believer in mentorship and the importance of adults investing in the lives of young people. According to him, one of the most significant contributions an adult can make is to guide and stand by a young person during their struggles and triumphs, thereby becoming their roadmap towards success. Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Monica Okrah, a Harvard MBA, investment banking professional, digital marketer, social impact co-founder, and board member, has an inspiring journey that has led her to become a successful business coach. Initially, she envisioned a long-term corporate career, but starting and growing her family shifted her to a different path. The genuine relationships she developed with her clients and the impact she made on their lives inspired her to build a business based on her own path.Monica's clients have not only been admitted to their choice schools but also earned over $25 million in scholarships. Monica believes she's found her purpose through coaching.In the episode, we discussed the topic of how to get unstuck, which is a common issue for many people at the start of the new year. Monica shared her experiences and tips for breaking free from such mental blocks. She talked about her unexpected journey to bodybuilding and how the discipline and consistency she learned from it helped her get unstuck in other areas of her life.One of the crucial points Monica talked about was the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and discipline. She emphasized the need to set standards for oneself and to live by these standards regardless of what happens in life. She also highlighted the importance of opening oneself to new experiences and learning opportunities by participating in activities you wouldn't typically engage in.Monica's journey to self-improvement didn't just stop at bodybuilding and her career. She also shared her practice of writing love letters to herself, reflecting on her achievements, dreams, and aspirations. This practice, she believes, fosters a positive and encouraging mindset that helps one get unstuck.Her conversation was a reminder that sometimes, getting unstuck doesn't always require drastic measures. Sometimes, it's about the small, consistent steps we take daily towards self-improvement and self-discovery. As Monica puts it, we just have to start, focus on being better every day, and surround ourselves with the right people who can help us grow and learn.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Satreva Dogan discusses the transition to 'empty nesting', a term referring to the period in a parent's life when their children leave home. It's a period of adjustment, a time when the house becomes quieter, and each family member begins to chart their own path. Satreva's open and honest dialogue about empty-nesting offers solace and guidance for those in similar situations. She highlights the importance of nurturing relationships, fostering open communication, and allowing things to occur naturally.One noteworthy aspect of the conversation revolves around how parents handle the newfound solitude when their children leave home. Satreva emphasizes the importance of rediscovering oneself and being intentional about spending quality time with your spouse or other loved ones. She wisely notes, "You just really have to be intentional about what you choose to do with your time now that they're gone."The conversation wouldn't be complete without touching on the social and emotional aspects of the holiday season. While it is often painted with cheer, it can also induce feelings of loneliness and sadness for some. Satreva encourages us to extend grace, express love without limits, and cultivate a heart of gratitude during this season.Satreva's candid conversation serves as a gentle reminder that life is a journey of continuous learning and adjustment. Whether you are an empty-nester, or someone navigating through life, her experience offers wisdom and companionship, reminding us all that we are never alone in our journey.About GuestSatreva Young Dogan is a dedicated community servant in Greenville, SC, with over 25 years of service. A Registered Nurse for 23 years, she owns and operates Complete Care Management Services, an In-Home Care Provider in Spartanburg, SC. Satreva has initiated numerous community efforts, including a weekly food bank, a senior feeding program, and outreach programs that provide essential items to families in need. As a mentor, she has guided many young girls, sharing wisdom and support. Satreva has had leadership roles at the Children's Museum of the Upstate and Christ Church Episcopal School, and is a past recipient of the Whitney M. Young Jr. Humanitarian Award. A mother and a wife, she lives her life by the verse I Thessalonians 4: 11-12, aspiring to lead a quiet life, mind her own business, and work diligently so she may lack nothing.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Liberty Canzater is a woman who is making an impact in her community through her work as president and founder of The Butterfly Foundation (TBF) and Monarch Café. Liberty's mission with TBF is to empower and transform the lives of economically challenged individuals and families, helping them become self-sufficient and confident citizens. TBF has been providing supportive services to chronically homeless individuals and families with disabilities in Spartanburg, Greenville, and Anderson Counties. They launched a Culinary Job Training Program to equip unemployed, underemployed, homeless, and previously incarcerated adults for a career in the food service industry. Their work has had resounding success, with individuals completing this 15-week program and maintaining an 88% job placement rate among participants.In January 2023, Liberty's innovative venture, the Monarch Café, evolved as the only commissary kitchen with a pop-up restaurant component in the Upstate. This concept allows food producers, caterers, and food truck owners to rent a commercial kitchen space on a flexible, hourly or daily basis to prepare and sell food. It also provides food entrepreneurs with the opportunity to offer a full-service restaurant atmosphere to their customers without the overhead of maintaining a commercial facility. Throughout our conversation, Liberty emphasized how crucial it is to do what you love, be open to advice, and think broadly to continually evolve. Her story serves as a testament to her commitment and resilience, and it is indeed a source of inspiration for  budding entrepreneurs. Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Meet Aba Cato Andah, known as "The Hopemonger". She's a Psychotherapist, Transformational Speaker, Mental Health Advocate, and co-author of the motivational book "Letters of Hope to My Younger Self", a collaboration with Zoe Baraka. A book stemmed from the concept of the Brewing Hope Show, "Letters of Hope to My Younger Self" is an epitome of teamwork, bringing together not only Aba and Zoe but also 39 contributors who helped manifest the book into reality.For nearly two years, Aba and Zoe collaborated virtually. Despite meeting in person less than 24 hours before their book launch, this dynamic duo built a relationship akin to sisterhood. It was an emotional journey of getting to know each other while simultaneously creating a powerful piece of literature. Every part of the book, from conceptualization to publishing, was an act of collaboration.Their collaboration process involved deliberate planning and tapping into each other's strengths. They set goals, established roles, and analyzed what each could bring to the table. This meticulous approach led to a successful blend of their talents, propelling the project forward despite unexpected twists and turns.Aba emphasizes the importance of a strong work ethic, clear communication, and nurturing relationships in any collaboration, whether virtual or in person. She also notes the need to consider legal aspects and encourages looking for collaborators at different levels, as diverse perspectives and skill sets can enrich the final product.Aba's story is not just about successfully publishing a book; it's about the power of collaboration, the strength of relationships, and the transformative journey of creating something meaningful together. Congratulations to Aba, Zoe, and their team for bringing "Letters of Hope to My Younger Self" to life. Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Selassie, a registered nurse with over 17 years of experience, shared her wisdom about friendship – a lesson she learned from her mom and continues to foster to this day.Growing up, Selassie's mom's close-knit circle of friends was so tight-knit that she initially thought they all were family. This tight bond opened her eyes to the power of authentic relationships and the importance of nurturing these connections. She learned that if you show your true self, you're more likely to sustain your friendships. The friendships you treasure are a mirror of who you are - if you crave empathy, be empathetic; if you value reliability, be someone others can rely on. In essence, you need to embody the qualities you seek in your friends.Besides having a successful career - which includes a masters in Nursing Informatics, a role as a utilization review nurse at a top 3 medical insurance company, and owning a home health agency, Gad Healthcare LLC, Selassie also takes time to give back to her community. One of her remarkable contributions is through Mfantsiman Old Girls Association (MOGA) USA, where she serves on the executive board. In 2020, she coordinated a cookbook "MOGA89 Delight" to raise funds for her high school's project.Balancing her career, philanthropic efforts, and personal life, Selassie still prioritizes fostering her friendships. It's a testament to the importance of sustaining relationships in our lives, regardless of our busy routines. This episode is a reminder that friendships, like any other relationship, require nurturing, authenticity, and a good dose of empathy to flourish. Are you the friend that you need in your life?Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Dr. Julie Jones is an Associate Professor at Converse University, where she also received her BA degree. An innovative educational development professional, Dr. Jones has had an exceptional journey since starting her teaching career in 1999 and has taught various grades, both in general and special education. Dr. Jones maintains an active research agenda with interests that blend instructional technology and pedagogy with creativity and play. She directs the capstone course in child and family studies, empowering Converse seniors to apply the skills they've acquired into health and community work across the upstate. At the height of the pandemic, Dr. Jones and her colleague, Jed Dearybury, published a bestselling book, The Playful Classroom (Wiley Jossey Bass), which continues to have a profound impact on classrooms worldwide. In November 2022, Dr. Jones expanded on the concept to a broader audience with her book The Playful Life: The Power of Play in our Every Day.Dr. Jones' conversation on Humanity Chats revolved around the power of play and how it can be harnessed in our everyday lives. She emphasized the importance of being intentional friends and reminded us to treat every day as a gift. Encouraging us all to find joy in everything we do, she urged us to say yes to opportunities that bring us happiness and be decisive with our refusals. This philosophy also extends into her work, where she uses play as a tool to help facilitate a transition from traditional classrooms to a digital, one-to-one educational experience.Aside from her research on play, Dr. Jones has contributed significantly to the field of education through numerous articles in instructional technology, school leadership, and instructional practices for at-risk students. She also served as the editor of the Teacher Education Journal of South Carolina and presided over the South Carolina Association of Teacher Educators.In her own words, Dr. Jones describes her life's work as an answer to God's question, "What did you do with all that I have given to you?" We are happy to have had the opportunity to learn from her and look forward to her future contributions in the education field. To delve deeper into Dr. Jones' philosophy on the power of play, and to catch more insights, check out her podcast, We are Playful, available on all major podcast platforms.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

The inspiring Lisa Lopez shares a story of resilience and self-discovery, having grown up as a victim of colorism. Throughout her childhood, she faced comments about her dark skin, often veiled as 'compliments,' such as being 'pretty for a dark-skinned girl' or suggestions about marrying a lighter-skinned person. Unbeknownst to her, society was making distinctions based on the shade of one's skin.One day, she encountered a verse in the Bible, 'I am dark but beautiful.' This verse spoke to her on a deep level, as it seemed to echo her personal journey. Inspired by this, Lisa launched a merchandise line named 'Dark but Beautiful', available for purchase at darkbutbeautiful.com. Lisa's story is a testament to overcoming societal biases and embracing your unique self. Her journey continues to inspire and remind us all that we are not defined by our skin color but by our character and actions.  She hopes to create a more inclusive and diverse industry through her work at Stisa Talent Agency, where she actively seeks out and represents talented individuals from all walks of life. Through her talent agency, Lisa and her husband have built a reputation for professionalism, reliability, and uniqueness, making their agency the go-to for casting directors across the United States. Stisa Talent Agency, the premier talent agency in South Carolina, caters not only to Fortune 500 companies but also local businesses, placing actors, models, and voiceover artists in feature films alongside A-listers, national TV commercials, nationally broadcast television shows, national print ads, and runway shows. To learn more about Stisa Talent Agency, visit stisatalent.com. Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Tafiea Stokes, author  of "Grow Through It". A Self-Development Podcast host and family nurse practitioner, shares her fertility journey and tips on self-help.Equipped with the lessons learned and skills honed through her own marriage, she shares her approach on how to align one's mindset. The heartwarming conversation is sure to encourage listeners, by providing a perspective on life's challenges and the joys of parenting.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

On the next episode of Humanity Chats, we are thrilled to welcome Brandon Baughn, Office Director of World Relief Upstate South Carolina, and Matthew Soerens, Vice President of Advocacy and Policy for World Relief. They join Marjy Marj to shed light on the vital work of World Relief and the upcoming "Welcoming the Stranger" event. World Relief Upstate SC's mission and privilege is to empower local churches to embrace our refugee and immigrant neighbors with the love of Jesus. However, integration challenges often hinder our new neighbors from fully flourishing in our communities. The upcoming event aims to explore how the church and the community can collaboratively support their holistic well-being and overcome these challenges. Having returned from nearly 15 years in Pakistan and Indonesia working on community and educational development, Brandon Baughn brings his experience and knowledge to the discussion. His time overseas, from managing a mobile literacy school program for nomadic groups in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, to serving as the Program Director for YICF's refugee education program in Jakarta, Indonesia, has prepared him for his current role in South Carolina. Matthew Soerens, with his experience as the Vice President of Advocacy and Policy for World Relief and as the National Coordinator for the Evangelical Immigration Table, is an advocate for immigration reforms rooted in biblical principles. He is also the co-author of the books "Welcoming the Stranger" and "Inalienable," which align with the theme of the event.Join us for this enlightening episode of Humanity Chats discussing the "Welcoming the Stranger" event. The event will feature insightful conversations led by Bri Stensrud (Women of Welcome), Pastor Charles Kenya (Neema Church), Kristel Acevedo (Transformation Church), Dr. Tony Beam (North Greenville University), and Matthew Soerens and Todun Afolabi from World Relief. Together, they will delve into God's heart for the sojourner and how we can express Jesus's love through actions and words. Join World Relief at North Hills Church at 4952 Edwards Road Taylors, SC 29687 on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Doors Open at 8:30 a.m. The event will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.mTogether, we can learn how to provide love, welcome, and support to our newest neighbors.Visit WorldRelief.org to learn more.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

In the latest episode of the Humanity Chats podcast, we host a conversation with Jan Osei-Tutu about Intellectual Property (IP). Jan comes with an extensive background as an author, attorney, and educator. With her legal training obtained in Canada and licenses to practice in New York, USA and Ontario, Canada, she has amassed a wealth of legal experience spanning across different continents.As a Ghanaian/Canadian/American global citizen who has lived in multiple countries and undertaken legal work in regions as diverse as Canada, Tanzania, and Ghana, Jan's multinational experiences have led to her affectionate nickname, the "trans-continental misfit". Her unique perspective adds to her strength to navigate the complex nature of culture and intellectual property.Jan is the founder of JotKulture, a platform that is a testament to her belief in the power of cross-cultural understanding in a global marketplace. Through the podcast, Jan delves into Intellectual Property, a field she has been teaching for over a decade in the USA, with an innate ability to simplify and demystify the subject matter.This episode of Humanity Chats offers an innovative approach to discussing Intellectual Property, drawing on Jan's multicultural experiences and global perspective. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of intellectual property from an everyday comparative and global viewpoint.Intellectual Property is not just limited to legal matters, but also plays a crucial role in various industries, from technology to fashion. Jan's expertise in this field goes beyond just the legal aspects and delves into the cultural and societal implications of intellectual property.Through her work with JotKulture, Jan is creating a platform for discussions on intellectual property that are not only informative but also promote cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. So whether you're an entrepreneur, artist, or simply curious about the role of intellectual property in our globalized world, JotKulture is a good resource for all things IP.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Veronica, who has shaken hands with not one, but two United States Presidents - Bill Clinton and George Bush Junior, courtesy of her husband's military service, is the co-founder of the veteran-owned Alliance Seminars Coaching.Through her faith-based organization, she uses her life experiences to provide coaching services, motivational speaking, and certified workshops. A stalwart supporter of women's empowerment, Veronica is committed to preparing today's women for tomorrow's challenges. She has been a beacon of support and guidance for countless women through workshops, retreats, conferences, and roundtables.Her own life journey, filled with various encounters, enables her to connect with others. Given her personal experience as the wife of a veteran, she extends her guidance specifically to military wives, helping them navigate the unique challenges that come with a military lifestyle.This episode is a conversation, with insights drawn from Veronica's life experiences and determination to help military wives. To learn more about Veronica and Alliance Seminars Coaching, visit their website at Alliance Seminars.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Marla J. Albertie is a Florida-born certified career, executive, and life coach. She is no stranger to life's unexpected curveballs, having started from scratch after a second divorce, a bankruptcy, a house sale, and a significant move, all while beginning her PhD program.Marla's journey testifies to her tenacity. Her experiences have shaped her into the coach she is today. She walks in her clients' shoes by offering tailored guidance. She advocates for confidence as a daily cultivation, an ever-evolving journey that requires continuous effort and self-belief.Marla's approach to boosting confidence involves a blend of introspection, goal setting, and self-appreciation. She encourages everyone to start with a simple step: make a list of all the things they excel at. She believes that removing obstacles, and journaling aspirations and accomplishments can be incredibly empowering. Stepping back to read over these self-affirming entries, individuals can witness an improvement in their thinking process.In Marla's own words, "We all need a cheer squad but you have to cheer for yourself". So, get ready to gain some valuable insights and confidence-boosting tips from Marla J. Albertie. An opportunity to learn from a coach who's walked the path and is ready to guide others on their journey.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

David Dippong joins Marjy Marj to chat about investing in Real Estate.Operating under the banner of Cømpass, a leading real estate brokerage, David supports clients with residential single and multi-family purchases, sales, and investments. Per our conversation, whether you're a low-income individual or a high net-worth investor, David's proficiency in creating and managing a diverse residential property portfolio will guide you to meet your investment and financial freedom goals.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Avni Panchal joins Marjy Marj to chat about Cultural Identity.About AvniAvni calls herself 'The Indian Counselor'.  An empowerment and relationship coach, her mission is to de-stigmatized mental health.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Rising Talent Coach - Dan Freehling, will join Marjy on September 7th, 2023 to chat about Millennial Leadership. About DanDan Freehling is a coach who specializes in working with today's rising talent. He is the founder of Contempus Leadership and the author of The Career Design Map. Dan works directly with high-potential leaders and through forward-looking organizations seeking to develop their leadership pipeline. He holds an MA in Organizational Leadership and Learning from the George Washington University and an MBA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Listeners may visit CareerDesignQuiz.com to take a free career quiz, or connect with Dan on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/danfreehlingHumanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Leadership and Performance Coach - Michael Seiler, joins Marjy to chat about his passion for helping people thrive, and excel in all aspects of life and sport.About MichaelMichael Seiler combines a unique background of 30 years in a variety of industries withexperience as a high-level endurance athlete for a unique perspective to the path tosuccess. He works with organizations, teams, and individuals to support the development of sustainable high performance.His approach is hugely practical, harnessing the simple (but not easy) ingredients of what it takes to deliver sustained success.Michael is a serial entrepreneur who has founded successful companies in e-commerce, digital strategy and endurance coaching. Throughout his career he has established a proven track record in coaching high performance teams and is regularly sought out as a mentor. As a collegiate soccer player turned endurance athlete, Michael became fascinated withleading and coaching athletes. He founded Stage22 Performance - an endurancecoaching and bike fitting company - in 2017. In 2022, he co-founded Metta Endurancewith his coach, Holly Benner, to help athletes achieve their best performance in sports and life while building sustainability and durability in alignment with their values.Michael helps athletes and professionals develop the tools that create pathways for sustainable high performance.To learn more about Michael's coaching, visit www.mettaendurance.comBio provided by Michael Seiler.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Thanks for the love. We can't wait to share Season 10 with you. Stay tuned for an inspirational lineup!Best Wishes,MarjyHumanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Dr. Sue Boscia joins Marjy to chat about her immigrant heritage, memories of her childhood in America and Italy, her favorite recipes, educational journey, family life, community, and her culture. About Dr. BosciaBorn to an Italian Mother and a First Generation Italian-American, Dr. Boscia's mother was from Emilia-Romagna and her father's parents were from Abruzzo and Basilicata.She was raised in both Italy and the USA (Summers in Italy).Raised in Northern New Jersey, not far from NYC,  she attended Moravian College (Parents would not let me go more than 2 hours away from home undergrad) and obtained her Medical Degree from New York Medical College.Dr. Boscia trained in Internal Medicine Residency at the University of Massachusetts and obtained a Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology at University of Rochester.Dr. Boscia became a Karate Mom, Band Mom, Debutante Mom, Dog Mom and is now a Member of The Echo Operative Band. She enjoys cooking, exercising, German Shepherds and playing for Charity Events.Fun Fact: She trained her dog to be a therapy dog for Nursing Homes.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Archie Andah chats with Marjy about his personal journey to fatherhood and how parenting impacts his work/home life. He also shares his favorite childhood memories with his dad, snippets of how he was raised, and how intends to raise his young son. About ArchieArchie graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and a minor in Urban and Regional Planning. After thriving with a Fortune 100 company, Archie decided to take a leap of faith and establish his own financial planning practice. Archie has a national client-base and has seen his team has grown from a team of one, to a team of 4 that specializes in goal-based financial planning with concentrations in wealth accumulation, risk management, and retirement income distribution. His parents, Eddie and Aba, were immigrants from Ghana and raised Archie to be compassionate, dependable and keep a strong work ethic – values he has worked to integrate into his practice. As a wealth management advisor, Archie believes he's been called to use his knowledge and expertise to serve his community and be a resource to everyone he meets. In December of 2022, Archie and his wife, Sarah, welcomed their first child, James, into the world.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Katherine McCord chats with Marjy Marj about neurodiversity and accessibility in the workplace, schools, and within communities. She shares her personal story of neurodiversity, the importance of inclusion, and how to embrace individuals with different abilities.From being the little girl who played HR (even firing her mother when she was five years old), Katherine is a neurodiverse (Bipolar, OCD, Misophonia) and physically diverse (multiple diagnosis including a seizure disorder) human. She enjoys speaking about diversity and inclusion, HR, hiring, HR Tech, entrepreneurship, and general empowerment.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Osnat Benari joins Marjy Marj to discuss how to manage change in the workplace. Osnat is a product leader, strategist, builder, advisor, and a coach for startups and young professionals.Over her twenty-plus-year career in product management, she cofounded Dragons Can Fly, a Web3 product strategy and design agency, and led product partnerships for BBG Ventures. She has also led product and innovation groups at AOL Studios and Verizon. As part of the founding team at WeWork Labs, she helped build the company's physical and digital experiences, and she most recently served as senior vice president of Product Management at Diligent.Osnat was one of the product-led-growth top 25 influencers and currently serves on the advisory board for Audioburst and Hunter College. She is an alumni committee member at the American Friends of Tel Aviv University.Osnat is an advocate for resilience and mental health in the workplace and a founding member of Chief, a network focused on connecting and supporting women executive leaders.(Bio provided by Osnat Benari)Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Melody Murray joins Marjy on the chats to discuss ways to identify and combat suicidal behaviors.About Melody:Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Child Mental Health Specialist.Former comedian.  Did standup in Los Angeles for 5 years at the Hollywood Improv, the Ha Ha, Comedy Store and the Jon Lovitz Comedy Club Interviewed by the NY Times, the Business Insider, "The Doctors", E! Networks and "Peace of Mind with Taraji" on Facebook WatchFormer reality tv producer and director on several shows including MTV's The Real World, Next, Bad Girls Club, Janice Dickinson's Modeling Agency, etcRecently completed my first book, “Mourning the Living:  When The Loved One You've Lost is Still Here”' Four years as a Hospital ER Mental Health Evaluator assessing homicidal and suicidal patients. Former Children's show co-host Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Khala Marande Hawes talks about being a mother of three, managing her business, and supporting mothers.She is a serial entrepreneur. For the past seven years, she has been helping businesses to build, elevate and market their brands through her branding and marketing company, Agency24. She co-owns alongside her husband and partners, Oak and Ave Property Group, a real estate brokerage and development company in Spartanburg, SC. She also serves as the founder of Mom Got Goals, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping mothers reach their goals. And, is the program coordinator for Start:Me Spartanburg through the University of South Carolina Upstate.Khala received her undergraduate degree from the University of South CarolinaUpstate where she studied a combination of Education, Entrepreneurship andNonprofit Administration. And later, received her Master's Degree in Digital Marketing from East Tennessee State University in December of 2021.Khala's mission is to help people tell their stories.  As the parent of a special needs child, she is an advocate for female entrepreneurship and providing women with the tools necessary to be successful, create freedom, and build generational wealth.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Martina Clark (mar-tee-nah clah-rk), she/her, joins Humanity Chats to talk about her HIV journey.Martina is the author of My Unexpected Life: An International Memoir of Two Pandemics, HIV and COVID-19. She worked for more than 20 years for the United Nations system and now teaches writing and critical reading for CUNY. She's been living with HIV for more than half her life – 30 years and counting – and survived COVID-19 in 2020. Martina has traveled to more than 90 countries and conducted condom demonstrations in at least 50 of them. She's traveled by boat, bus, and plane, but never by elephant or camel. My Unexpected Life is her first book.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Shannon Petrovich chats with Marjy about strategies to help one break free from an abusive partner, parent, adult child, sibling, or work-colleague.Shannon earned her Bachelor's degree from Bowdoin College, and her Master's in Social Work from the University of Connecticut. She earned her clinical licenses in Social Work and Substance Abuse Counseling, and is a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

 Certified Divorce Recovery Coach Leah Marie Mazur Shares About Recovering from Divorce.Leah Marie Mazur is a certified Divorce Recovery Coach and founder of Mindfully Ready, LLC. She specializes in helping moms through the mental and emotional side of divorce so they can heal, move forward, and thrive in their new chapter. She also provides a safe, judgment-free community for women rebuilding after divorce in her private Facebook group Divorced & Empowered.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Dietician Alexandra Lautenschlaeger shares tips on diets.About GuestAlexandra Lautenschlaeger graduated from Clemson University in 1997 and 1998 with Bachelor Degrees in Biological Sciences, Modern Languages (German), and Sociology. She continued some graduate work in Food Science and Nutrition. In 2002, she was accepted to the Department of Health and Environmental Control Dietetic Internship Program. She was hired by Sodexo to work in at Wallace Thompson Hospital as a clinical dietitian in 2003.In 2006, she participated in a grassroots campaign to overturn then Governor Sanford's veto on dietetic licensure. It was overturned. In 2009 she became the nominating chair of the Piedmont Dietetic Association. That same year she won the Young Dietetic Dietitian of the Year Award from the South Carolina Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. That National Dairy Alliance chose Alexandra to be on the“top nine” for their campaign in the Southeast. In 2010, she served as the PDA President. After that, she served as President Elect, President, and Past President of SCAND.In 2013, Alexandra served on the board of the Clinical Nutrition Management DPG. That same year, she was chosen to help write the competency standards for today's CDR. She also has managed to bring Past President's like Ethan Bergam to speak at SCAND's annual meeting. In 2109, she presented to UPAADE regarding CKD and Diabetes.To this day, Alexandra participates in all grassroots campaigns to better dietetics. Now she promotes serving local food campaigns to help the food deserts in Spartanburg through Food Share, the Farmers Market, and USDA Farm to Families programs. She goes on local radio stations to promote all things nutrition. At the end of the day, she loves all things local, her fur babies, networking, her church, and most of all family.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Learn about Higgins4Books.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Learn about the Book Blackout from the South Carolina Education AssociationHumanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Humanity Chats is happy to host five educators as they discuss the importance of social-emotional learning on SEL Day.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Be HER Champion is an uplifting panel discussion to motivate girls and women to speak up, support, and advocate for each other. The virtual event is free and open to all genders.In commemoration of International Women's Day, join our panelists and moderator as we learn about ways to be inclusive, affirming, amplifying, and to encourage a sense of belonging across different platforms. Panelists share experience in business, the nonprofit world, education and, from a global perspective.Meet our PanelistsMary L. Thomas - has over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. She currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of The Spartanburg County Foundation and as the Executive Director of the Robert Hett Chapman III Center for PhilanthropyMolly Talbot-Metz - is the Mary Black Foundation's fourth President/CEOAnita Erskine - is a multi-hyphenate – an award-winning TV Host and Producer, Event Moderator, Actress and Keynote Speaker. She has been featured in the following publications: Forbes | CNN | Business Insider | Discovery | CNBC Africa | Avance Media | Glitz Africa | Those Who Inspire | Who Is Who | Trent Magazine | New African WomenModerated by Marjy Marj (Marjorie Boafo Appiah) - seven-time bestselling author, business leader and host of the globally ranked Humanity Chats Podcast.The theme for this year's Women's Day celebration is Embrace Equity.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Alabama Poet Laureate and Celebrated Author Ashley M. Jones Joins the Chats to Talk Literacy and Writing Journey.About AshleyAshley M. Jones is Poet Laureate of the state of Alabama (2022-2026). She holds an MFA in Poetry from Florida International University, and she is the author of Magic City Gospel (Hub City Press 2017),  dark / / thing (Pleiades Press 2019), and REPARATIONS NOW! (Hub City Press 2021). Her poetry has earned several awards, including the Rona Jaffe Foundation Writers Award, the Silver Medal in the Independent Publishers Book Awards, the Lena-Miles Wever Todd Prize for Poetry, a Literature Fellowship from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, the Lucille Clifton Poetry Prize, and the Lucille Clifton Legacy Award. She was a finalist for the Ruth Lily Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Fellowship in 2020, and her collection, REPARATIONS NOW! was on the longlist for the 2022 PEN/Voelcker Award for Poetry. Her poems and essays appear in or are forthcoming at CNN, POETRY, The Oxford American, Origins Journal, The Quarry by Split This Rock, Obsidian, and many others. She teaches Creative Writing at the Alabama School of Fine Arts and in the Low Residency MFA at Converse University. Jones co-directs PEN Birmingham, and she is the founding director of the Magic City Poetry Festival. She recently served as a guest editor for Poetry Magazine, and she is a 2022 Academy of American Poets Poet Laureate Fellow. Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Sidney Keys III is a young author and entrepreneur, who decided to take his love for reading to the next level by creating Books n Bros at the young age of 10!You may recognize him from appearances like: Oprah's magazine, Good Morning America, CNN, Huffington Post or being honored as an official Marvel hero! His name is Sidney Keys III and he loves to read. In addition to playing sports and playing a leadership role in student government, Sidney continues to inspire young readers across the globe. He joins Marjy to share his passion for literacy and the motivation behind his newest book - Books N Bros: 44 Inspiring Books for Black Boys.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

The community gathers to launch Marjy Marj's Conversations About Race. Panelists discuss issues pertaining to inequities, race, stopping Asian hate, inclusion, belonging, mentorship, Colorism, broadening our lens, and more. Launch Panel - Hope Blackley, Dr. Russell Booker, Dr. Esther Godfrey, Dr. Nika White, and Victor Durrah Jr. Humanity Champion Organizations in attendance:Betsy Wakefield Teter (Hub City Writers Project)Nicke Haney (Brown Girls Read)Bruh Mentor BROTHERS RESTORING URBAN HOPE, INC.Institute for Youth JusticeSpartanburg Academic MovementCarlo and Nika White FoundationHumanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Mother and daughter Robin and Katherine Pearson share their experience with homeschooling, the art of writing, and their interest in history.About Robin PearsonRobin W. Pearson's writing sprouts from her Southern roots, her faith in Jesus Christ, and her love of her husband, seven children, and four-legged baby, Oscar. She's the author of the Christy Award–winning A Long Time Comin', 'Til I Want No More, and her latest, Walking in Tall Weeds. Follow this homeschool mama to hear her adventures in faith, family, and fiction.About Katherine PearsonA graduate of Wake Forest University, Katherine loves to study and discuss history.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Spartanburg Police Chief Thompson shares his policing experience, the  relationship  between the police and the community,  measures being taken by the police to combat police brutality, training opportunities within the police force , and the fears faced by members of the force.About Chief ThompsonChief Alonzo Thompson was born and raised in North Carolina and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1982 with a B.A. degree in Political Science. He is a graduate of the 183rd Session of the FBI National Academy, and a graduate of the DEA Drug Unit Commander Academy N° 55. He also completed the Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA-2012) held at the School of Government of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Chief Thompson served 30 years with the Winston– Salem Police Department and retired from the agency in January 2014 after having attained the rank of Assistant Chief. Chief Alonzo Thompson assumed the role of Chief of Police for the City of Spartanburg on February 1, 2014. He is an active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the South Carolina Police Chiefs Association (SCPCA), and the FBI National Academy of Associates – SC Chapter.Chief Thompson is the immediate past Chair of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Upstate and remains on the Board of Directors. He also serves on the Board of Directors for AMI Kids White Pines; Charles Lea Center; Mobile Meals and Project Hope Foundation. He formally served on the Boards of Directors of Spartanburg Academic Movement (SAM); Spartanburg Disabilities and Special Needs (DSN); Palmetto Council Boy Scouts of America and Fifty Upstate Senior Wellness Initiative. He is currently a member of the Spartanburg Racial Equity Collaborative. Chief Thompson is a graduate of the South Carolina Diversity Leadership Institute Upstate Class XVIII - Fall 2014 of the Richard W. Riley Institute at Furman University. He also completed the Leadership Spartanburg Class of 2014-15 and serves on the Board of Regents of the Leadership Spartanburg Alumni Association. He is also a graduate of the Spartanburg Regional Health System 2017 Regional Fellows Leadership Program. Chief Thompson is a member of the Rotary Club of Spartanburg and the South Side Lions Club. He is also a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.Chief Thompson is married to Catrina Amelia Thompson who recently retired as Chief of Police of the Winston-Salem, NC Police Department to be appointed as the US Marshal of the Middle District of North Carolina. He cherishes his roles and responsibilities as a father to the couple's two children, Alyson Blakely and Christopher Aaron.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Jasmine Stewart joins the chats to share about self-worth.Jasmine's purpose in life is to foster lasting relationships of love & integrity with girls and young women by building them up through the teaching of self-worth. Founder of Broken but Healed, an organization dedicated to enriching, educating, and inspiring young ladies to be exceptional women of God in their home, schools, and community, Jasmine challenges those around and connected to her to strive to live a life that is pleasing to Christ despite what this dark world may portray. Jasmine enjoys reading, shopping, and giving back to her community. She and her husband, Devin have a son and daughter. The family currently resides in Boiling Springs, SC.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

The mother of Ghana's Spelling Bee, mentor and child advocate - Eugenia Tachie-Menson discuses the importance of investing in children.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Dr. Dweck shares how to navigate menopause. She answers questions on menopause, perimenopause, vaginal health, and lifestyle changes. We discuss hormonal changes, therapy, and more.About Dr. DweckDr. Alyssa Dweck is a practicing gynecologist and the Chief Medical Officer of Bonafide. An Ob/Gyn for over 25 years with a special interest in menopausal health and training in female sexual health, Dr. Dweck is the co-author of three books and has appeared on The Today Show and Good Day LA.  She contributes regularly to multiple prints and online media outlets.  She has been voted “Top Doctor” in New York Magazine and Westchester Magazine.When she's not helping women improve their health, Dr. Dweck enjoys time with her husband, two sons, and “girly” English Bulldog.  She is an avid runner and sports car enthusiast.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj

Dr. Walter Lee shares about the Call Me Mister program at University of South Carolina UpstateHumanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj