Respect Circles - The Podcast

It was late last summer when we decided to expand our Respect Circles conversations to the airways by starting this podcast. Since that time, we've had some incredible guests and have covered topics that are so meaningful. Today we thought it would be fun to reflect back on some of our most memorable episodes, the ones that really stood out to us, and share what we've learned from them and the actions we've taken as a result.   We want to share that we'll be taking a pause after this episode with the podcast, for at least the summer, as we consider what our future offerings may look like. We've gotten a lot of ideas based on your feedback for what's needed in the world today, and we want to make sure that we're taking time to really consider how to make the most meaningful impact that we possibly can.  We can't wait for the next chapter as we continue to move forward stepping into the space of making human connections on a different scale. We're sure that this will give us the opportunity to do this work in a way that will continue to resonate with the audience, but also feed our souls.  Stay tuned to our social media, Instagram and Facebook, and we'll keep you posted on future developments. We'd love to get your input on what you'd like to see us offer next, whether it's in the community or corporate space, and how you think we can make the biggest difference. You can go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message and you can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com to give us your thoughts.  Thanks so much for your support and being a part of this amazing journey (so far!) and we can't wait to see what's next! 

Today we are joined by a very special guest, Jodi O'Donnell-Ames, as we learn about her journey and the amazing work she is doing to make a difference in the world and the lives of others. Jodi is a speaker, coach, author, and founder of Hope Loves Company - a non-profit organization with the mission of supporting children and young adults who love someone with ALS. Jodi's story of caring for her husband as he lived with, and eventually passed away from, ALS is a powerful one. In this episode, she helps us open up a dialogue on ALS, the experiences she had in caring for her husband, her own process of grief and healing, and the ways she now helps others who are dealing with difficult loss.  We also explore some of the challenges that people who have limited mobility face daily, and how we can all be more aware and advocate for increased accessibility for all. It's a big issue that most of us may not think about if it doesn't impact us directly, but we can all be part of the solution in minimizing and eliminating these barriers.  We truly appreciate Jodi for stepping into the circle and trusting us by sharing her story on the podcast. She is a beautiful human being on a powerful mission.  We encourage you to check out Jodi's resources to learn more and to then take action to help (you can donate to Hope Loves Company by clicking here, or at the link in the show notes.)  The beautiful thing about Respect Circles is we always learn something and can take action to make a difference.    You can also invite Jodi to speak to your group or organization through her website.   As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends!  In this episode you'll hear: What ALS is and how Jodi came to learn about it in a very personal way [5:49] The first steps Jodi and her husband took after receiving the devastating diagnosis and the ways in which they got busy advocating [9:26] Where she got the tremendous will to fight and how she knew that she was born for the role of caregiving and helping others [13:29] What she did to use grief to propel her forward on her mission, and how a certain event shifted her entire perspective on her family's situation [18:26] Jodi's philosophy on caregiving and showing up to help someone in needed, even when you may not know the right way to do it [21:51] How she used love and memories to move forward and create Hope Loves Company [28:45] What we need to be aware of about accessibility issues and becoming an advocate for change in this area [32:36] The actions steps we can take to become a better ally for these causes today [39:35] Links & Resources:  Jodi's Website, Instagram, Facebook & Twitter Her Books, Someone I Love Has ALS: A Family Caregiver Guide & The Stars That Shine    Share the Care: How to Organize a Group to Care for Someone Who Is Seriously Ill by Cappy Capossela & Sheila Warnock Hope Loves Company's Website, Instagram & Facebook Hope Loves Company Documentary Donate to Hope Loves Company Register for Camp HLC 2022 & Apply for a Hug of Hope Care Package ​​CBC News Article, Here are the N.B. beaches that have accessibility features ​​36: Climbing Your Second Mountain: Creating Joy and Leaving a Legacy In the Second Half of Your Life

Does success breed happiness?  And how do we live for a cause larger than ourselves, as we're often encouraged to do? Today we are diving into answering these questions and exploring the concept of preparing to find true joy in the second half of your life, or as has been referred to as your “second mountain”. In this conversation, we talk about how natural it is to be longing for more at this point of our lives, and the importance of investing in relationships instead of accumulating more possessions and higher social status.  In today's episode, we explore what we can do to show up right now to live our values and experience life in a more meaningful way, for ourselves and others. Longing for more out of life is not uncommon and you're definitely not alone in that longing. Through our conversation, we hope to provoke your thinking about the life you want to create and the joy that is possible, and remind you that you can't leave it up to chance.   As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends!  In this episode you'll hear: A look at what the “First Mountain” and “Second Mountain” of life is, and the critical lie that people are telling themselves about success and happiness [4:54] How we can begin to fix what has happened over the last few decades to the cultural and moral structure of our society [7:26] The unhealthy habits that AJ is shedding and the person that he is becoming as he approaches his second mountain [10:27] What Stephanie sees in the clients that she coaches who are in the second act of their lives [13:29] What surprises most people as they reach the peak of their first mountain and being the descent towards the next one [28:37]  How Stephanie navigated the phase of her career when she recognized she had reached the summit of her first mountain [29:40] Some of the common pitfalls of always chasing “more” [37:10] What you can do to prepare to ascend your second mountain and how to develop a plan versus just letting it happen [38:45]  Links & Resources:  The Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life by David Brooks  From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières

If you joined us last week, you'll know we started a great conversation with two experts in the field of equine therapy and training, Alia Shahi and Becky Nibecker. This week we continue the conversation, learn more about their experiences, and explore how working with horses can be a gift to students, teachers, leaders, and to all of us who embrace this experience.  Alia works for a non-profit organization called Reins of H.O.P.E. as an EAGALA certified Equine Specialist, assisting in providing equine assisted psychotherapy to at-risk youth and military personnel. She is currently pursuing licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist, and recently graduated with a master's degree in counseling psychology. Horses have been Alia's passion since she was a child. They have taught her some of the greatest life lessons she has learned thus far: how to show up as a partner, that leadership has nothing to do with dominance, and the importance of present-centered connection. Today, the wisdom and knowledge they pass on to her continues to inform her as a single parent, an equine specialist, a mental health clinician, and as a human. Becky was first introduced to Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) upon starting her 25th year as an educator. She was fascinated to learn that horses are motivated by pressure and learn by the release of that pressure. That year, as a middle school principal, her opening faculty meeting included a video of a horse at liberty with a human. She encouraged the faculty to dance with their students in this same manner; to see their presentation of the subject matter as the pressure, and to allow time at the end of each class period for reflection, the release that teaches. In a world that is full of information, deadlines and the need to prove and produce, this dance is often interrupted and we lose the ability to self-regulate and set healthy boundaries. Becky believes we need to create margins in our life to pause, reflect and release tension. If you missed Part 1 last week, you can find it on your favorite podcast app, or at https://www.respectcircles.com/34-how-a-horse-can-improve-your-mental-health-part-1/.  This conversation really was an invitation for us to get out of our heads and comfort zones in order to try something new, and who would have imagined that we could discover so much about ourselves through horses? We've learned that horses have the intuition to teach us what we may not be able to see. If you are willing to step into the arena with these fascinating animals, you'll experience incredible growth. As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends!  In this episode you'll hear: The big realizations that Alia made about bringing equine therapy into the parenting arena [1:42] Becky's thoughts on the how work with horses could be applied as an educator of children [6:03] How she allowed the horse to be a powerful partner in overcoming internal chatter that she was having [8:02] Ways to provide safety and security of the horse, and why this is so important to do [10:13] What horses can teach us about all of our relationships [13:01] The feedback that these animals can provide us, and how the horses were able to help Becky share more about her own faith with others [15:26] A story that demonstrates how horse work can be applied to leadership development [17:55] What their organization is doing to give everyone greater access to their horses [23:49] The similarities that Becky sees between the work they do with horses and what we do here at Respect Circles [26:50] Our biggest takeaways from this conversation with Alia and Becky, and what we plan to do with this knew knowledge [31:02] Links & Resources:   Reins of Hope Website, Instagram & Facebook  Alia's Thesis, Parenting Through Horsemanship: A Relationship-Based Approach to Children https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X8leBjvGeQYdYDyFp7Sm1PhKU4cJotqv/view?usp=sharing  NBC News Article, Black horse trainers offer horseback riding as therapy BBC News Article, The black cowboys of Chicago's South Side Time Magazine, The True Story of the Black Cowboys of Philadelphia Depicted in Concrete Cowboy 34: How A Horse Can Improve Your Mental Health (Part 1) 33: The Path to Stronger Relationships - Getting Clear on Your Emotions 32: Wholeheartedness - Living Life From a Place of Courage 20: How to Become an Emotionally Intelligent Leader 7: Becoming A Deliberate Listener

If you've ever felt the need to improve your physical or mental health, or you're looking for a personal or professional development opportunity, we bet you've never thought of looking for help in a horse barn! Yet, the growing field of equine therapy is showing us that spending time with animals can be extremely beneficial to our well-being. In the first part of this special 2-part series, we welcome our expert guests, Alia Shahi and Becky Nibecker, as they each share the experiences and wisdom that they've gained from their fascinating work with horses.  Alia works for a non-profit organization called Reins of H.O.P.E. as an EAGALA certified Equine Specialist, assisting in providing equine assisted psychotherapy to at-risk youth and military personnel. She is currently pursuing licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist, and recently graduated with a master's degree in counseling psychology. Horses have been Alia's passion since she was a child. They have taught her some of the greatest life lessons she has learned thus far: how to show up as a partner, that leadership has nothing to do with dominance, and the importance of present-centered connection. Today, the wisdom and knowledge they pass on to her continues to inform her as a single parent, an equine specialist, a mental health clinician, and as a human. Becky Nibecker was first introduced to Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) upon starting her 25th year as an educator. She was fascinated to learn that horses are motivated by pressure and learn by the release of that pressure. That year, as a middle school principal, her opening faculty meeting included a video of a horse at liberty with a human. She encouraged the faculty to dance with their students in this same manner; to see their presentation of the subject matter as the pressure, and to allow time at the end of each class period for reflection, the release that teaches. In a world that is full of information, deadlines and the need to prove and produce, this dance is often interrupted and we lose the ability to self-regulate and set healthy boundaries. Becky believes we need to create margins in our life to pause, reflect and release tension. There is such a richness in the messages that both Alia and Becky share in this conversation about their work, and we appreciate their openness to be vulnerable and transparent as they each speak their truth. We hope that you will return next week for Part 2, as they reveal more about the incredible powers that horses possess and the transformations that they have experienced themselves and witnessed in the clients that they serve.  As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends!  In this episode you'll hear: What equine-assisted psychotherapy and learning is all about, and what led them to this field of work [7:15] The biggest impact that the horses have had on Becky [8:20] Why there is power in pausing to reflect, both for children and adults [9:30]  Why the work that she does means so much to Alia [12:12] The story of the horse, Tank, that changed everything for her [17:02] What Becky thinks makes the connection between horses and humans so special [21:13] How horses have the ability to help anyone who is willing to step into that world find their authentic self [24:00] Links & Resources:  Reins of Hope Website, Instagram & Facebook Alia's Thesis, Parenting Through Horsemanship: A Relationship-Based Approach to Children https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X8leBjvGeQYdYDyFp7Sm1PhKU4cJotqv/view?usp=sharing NBC News Article, Black horse trainers offer horseback riding as therapy BBC News Article, The black cowboys of Chicago's South Side Time Magazine, The True Story of the Black Cowboys of Philadelphia Depicted in Concrete Cowboy 33: The Path to Stronger Relationships - Getting Clear on Your Emotions 32: Wholeheartedness - Living Life From a Place of Courage

This week on the podcast we're continuing our discussion around what it takes to live a wholehearted life, based on the teachings of Brené Brown (if you haven't yet listened to last week's episode, we encourage you to check that out)!  Today we're going deeper around emotions and discuss the importance (in every relationship) of clearly naming and communicating what you're feeling.  It's especially important when things feel uncertain or like they're “too much”, as can often be the case in the times we find ourselves in right now.  We're excited to practice more of Brené's teachings, and we want to hear how you use them as well to reach a better version of yourself!  As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends!  In this episode you'll hear: How we are emotional beings that have never been trained how to name, manage, or label our emotions [3:56] Why our connections with others are only as deep as the connections we have with ourselves [8:01] Understanding the concept that above all, we are emotional beings that think [15:03] Why we feel that overall our communications are falling flat [16:23] What the emotion of anguish is about, and why it's so powerful [20:11] How talking about Brene's series is a great way to start expressing your emotions and strengthening your connections with others [24:58] The distinctions between worry and anxiety and being stressed and overwhelmed [27:32] The dangers in mislabeling our emotions and forcing ourselves into an emotion by doing this [30:59] A few healthy things you can do now to manage your emotions when things become uncertain [32:39]

In a recent episode, we spent time exploring what it means to live a quality life and how our choices, sacrifices, and perspective influence our own meaning of life. Today we'd like to go deeper with this conversation and look at what it means to live wholeheartedly, and share some steps we can take to move towards being more courageous in this pursuit.  During this conversation, we often refer to the amazing teachings and philosophies of Brené Brown, including her “guideposts.” We both love Brené's work and have spoken about it in past episodes of Respect Circles, and we encourage you to refer to Brené's work and the resources listed below so that you can take just one step to show up in a more authentic way. See what happens as you challenge yourself to lean into love and to be more courageous, and let us know how it impacts your life, and the life of your loved ones as well!  As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: What one of our favorite authors, Brené Brown, says about living wholeheartedly [1:31] AJ's constant pursuit of living this way, and the acronym he attempts to live by [3:31] What vulnerability and courage look like to us, and why people are so often hesitant to show up, especially on social media [6:51] Stories that we have told ourselves from an early age that still resonate with us years later [11:18] Why shame is such a powerful emotion, plus a quote that has helped lift the shame for Stephanie [14:10] A conscious decision that AJ had to make to stop playing small [18:48] What Stephanie noticed early on about how other women leaders were showing up in the workplace [19:13] Why perfectionism really equals fear [22:33] Tips for cultivating a resilient spirit [28:00] How Brené Brown's TED Talk literally changed AJ's life [35:03] Why you need to start getting selfish and strategic about the people you surround yourself with [37:03] The reasons we are both such big fans of Brené Brown, and our biggest takeaways from her work [38:18] Actions steps you can take this week to step into living more courageously [43:29]  Links & Resources:  Brené Brown's Website, Books & Podcast  Brené Brown: The Call to Courage on Netflix  HBO Max Presents Brené Brown: Atlas of the Heart Watch Her 2010 Ted Talk, The Power of Vulnerability 30: Perspective: What Does Quality of Life Really Mean?

Earlier this March the U.S. House of Representatives passed The CROWN Act, which bans any form of discrimination based on hairstyle or texture. We also recently witnessed one of the most qualified Supreme Court candidates, Ketanji Brown Jackson, complete her senate confirmation hearing. Though we heard a lot about her qualifications and her appointment was well-deserved, there was just as much chatter about her “sister locks.” This has been an ongoing issue for decades, if not centuries, and we just knew that we had to dive deeper into the topic of Black women in America, and the role that hair has played in their journey.  If you think this is just about hair though, stay tuned, because we have two very special guests joining us to share their experiences, not only in corporate America, but in academia and in society as a whole.  Joy Morton is the Assistant Deputy Insurance Commissioner with The Virginia State Corporation Commission, and Ayo Morton is a preacher, poet, doctoral candidate, and adjunct professor at The University of Memphis. Both happen to be AJ's relatives, his sister and his niece respectively, and they offer a wealth of insight into this topic.  It was so much fun to have Joy and Ayo as our guests on the podcast.  As always, we learned and gained a broader perspective and we'll continue to have these conversations so that we can educate ourselves and raise awareness.  That's what Respect Circles is all about.  As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends!  In this episode you'll hear: A look back at the history of the Black hair care industry [4:09] AJ's experience growing up around this topic [5:06] Why hair is such a significant conversation in the Black community, especially amongst the women [8:03] Hair as a way for Black women to reclaim their agency [11:38] How Both Joy and Ayo were introduced to the importance of hair, and the role it has played in both of their lives [13:00] What their initial thoughts on The CROWN Act were, and whether they think this law will make a difference [21:18] A fascinating study that shows the majority of people, regardless of race or gender, hold some biases around hair [27:49] The pressures faced by Black women in relation to their hair, particularly from others in the Black community [32:10] The differences that Joy is seeing with hair in Corporate America [36:38]  What magic can happen when someone is comfortable with who he or she is [41:11]   What both Joy and Ayo's preferred hair style of texture would be if no social pressures existed [43:06] Ways to become an ally and to show up and support others [48:20] Their advice to parents of young people on navigating this important issue [51:33]  Links & Resources:  India.Arie ft. Akon - I Am Not My Hair (Official Video)  Chris Rock's Documentary, Good Hair Madame C.J. Walker 28: Microaggressions: What They Are and Why They Are So Damaging 14: Spotlight On Generosity: How Greta Randolph's Outreach is Impacting Lives 12: The Cost of Code-Switching 2: Have We Lost Our Humanity? with Rev. Dr. Lisa Johnson The Characteristics of Negro Expression by Zora Neale Hurston  http://americainclass.org/seminars11-12/artnewnegro/NegroExpression.pdf  The “Good Hair” Study by Perception Institute:  https://perception.org/goodhair/   Take the Perception Institute's Hair Bias test here.   Duke University Study, Black women with natural hairstyles are less likely to get job interviews: https://socialequity.duke.edu/news/black-women-with-natural-hairstyles-are-less-likely-to-get-job-interviews/  The Chastity Jones Case  The Jenesis Jones Case  A wrestler was forced to cut his dreadlocks before a match. His town is still looking for answers (Andrew Johnson): https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/04/17/wrestler-was-forced-cut-his-dreadlocks-before-match-his-town-is-still-looking-answers/  2019 Joy Collective Study Six Things Everyone Should Know About Black Hair History https://odelebeauty.com/blogs/the-rinse/black-hair-history-facts

What is the meaning of life? We have all heard this unanswerable question, but we often don't take the time to reflect on what a good quality of life really is. In today's episode, we thought we'd venture into a conversation on life and help give some perspective on this question that is so very important to everyone, particularly at this point of time.  We want to share how we view quality of life, and to let you know how you absolutely are in control of how you look at life and the choices you make. The perspective that you choose to hold will help determine your quality of life and the life you want, and we hope this conversation helps you in some way. As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends!  In this episode you'll hear: How the World Health Organization defines “Quality of LIfe” [1:31] What the meaning of life is all about for AJ [7:31] How life really is a series of choices [11:18] A look at choices, rewards, and consequences [15:37] The magic that gaining perspective will bring to your quality of life [17:44] How forgiving others will improve your well-being, and allow you to move on [23:44] Best Practices for developing a positive mindset, and as a result, a better quality of life [26:19] Links & Resources:    Quality of Life Study by US News & World Report  Oprah's Super Soul Conversation podcast with Frank Bruni: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/super-soul/id1264843400?i=1000554938812 Frank Bruni's book, The Beauty of Dusk.  

Current statistics show that there are approximately 330 million people living in the United States, and according to our national ethos, we each live by the ideals that our freedom as American citizens includes the opportunity for prosperity and success. As well, it includes an upward social mobility for our family and our children achieved through hard work in a society with few barriers. However, what if all of this is out of reach for a large part of our population? In this episode, we want to explore the concept of The American Dream, and talk about if it is truly something that is offered to all of our citizens.  How could you be getting a little more involved in helping people? Today we'll be providing examples of what we could, and should, be doing to help as many of those around us in need achieve The American Dream as possible. Start with one small step, and see the magic that happens for those who need a lift and a little bit of help, because it could be any of us, at any time, in that same situation.  As always, we love to hear your feedback.  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends!  In this episode you'll hear:  Where the term “The American Dream” came from originally [1:46] What the restaurant industry is doing to help its workers get closer to realizing this dream [6:41] How the poverty measure for the United States is calculated, and what's been happening to average salaries in this country [9:00]  What living in poverty really means [10:16] Important things that have been overlooked about poverty for too long [11:49] Why the topic of poverty can be so controversial [13:28] The impact that Stephanie has seen from pandemic stimulus given to Americans the last few years [15:02] What changes need to be done at the political, and business level, to lift Amercians out of poverty [15:36] Actions steps that each of us can take as individuals to help those in need [22:43]  Links & Resources:  Current Population Survey (CPS)  An Experiment to Inform Universal Basic Income (McKinsey & Company Study)

One of the many things we love about doing this podcast is that there is always more to learn and explore. Our mission is to share thought-provoking topics that help us all be better humans. One conversation at a time. Join us this week as we start a dialogue about microaggressions - words and actions directed at members of a marginalized group that are often offensive or unconsciously reinforce a stereotype. We'll share examples and talk about ways to respond to these types of aggressions. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: How a “microaggression” is defined [2:54] What is a “macroaggression” and one recent example of it [4:10] Both of our experiences with both micro and macroaggressions [4:43] What the appropriate response to others after getting stung by a microaggression should look like [11:30] Examples of different types of microaggressions in action [14:52] How when it comes to microaggressions we all have a responsibility to do better [23:00] Tips for minimizing the possibility of offending others [28:09]

While many of you have heard of Title IX, most people haven't paid close attention to what it is and who is protected underneath it. In this episode, we're looking at interpretations of this comprehensive law that removed many of the barriers that once prevented people, on the basis of sex, from participating in educational opportunities and the careers of their choice. During the past two administrations, the responsibility for applying this law shifted from the federal level to the states, especially as it relates to gender identity for transgender athletes. There is much to learn about this evolving topic, and we want to look at it from multiple perspectives. How can we all learn, and have empathy for all involved? While we definitely don't have all the answers, we hope to shine a light on it today and to encourage respectful conversation and debate around it. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: What Title IX is, what it meant in 1972, and what is means now [1:18] Who Lia Thomas is, and how AJ's view of her story has evolved [3:26] A look at the debate of who is allowed to compete in women's sports [6:48] The role that a lack of data in comparing performances in transgender and cisgender people is having in this discussion [8:57] Both sides of the debate around allowing people to compete or not to compete [11:27] What's really needed right now that would make this issues surrounding Title IX clearer [16:08] Whether or not we think this is just the beginning of human advancement [18:36] What happens when a level of religious beliefs and values are added to the discussion [21:12] The different levels of barriers that exist for trans athletes in 2022 [22:43]

Today on the podcast we thought we'd have a candid conversation about where we find ourselves, both mentally and emotionally, after two+ years of a pandemic, political and social unrest in our country, and watching the horrific events unfold in Ukraine. We felt it might be therapeutic for listeners (and for us!) if we had a conversation about how we're doing right now, and to share some ways that we minimize and manage the impact of the pressures we've all been facing. There may be a lot happening in the world right now that we can't control, so listen in as we talk about ways to focus on the things we can do something about. We acknowledge that we're all going to have challenges, but the more we get out and start living our lives, the more alive we are going to feel. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com , on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: How we each feel about things opening up post-pandemic, and what we're looking forward to the most [6:07] The ways that we managed our worries throughout the pandemic [12:40] What is the one thing that we can take control of, regardless of what is happening around us or globally [13:31] Why finding and focusing on the positives of each day is such a powerful practice [15:12] What we're doing to manage the information overload and stresses on our schedules [19:48] Our thoughts and feelings about the current conflict in Ukraine [27:12] Why a return to decency is needed from everyone at this point in time [33:05]

On today's show, we welcome a special guest who helps us explore an area which we can all be more knowledgeable about. Listen in as we have a great dialogue about the Jewish experience, the rise in anti-Semitism around the world, and what is happening today. Tanya Schecter is a highly experienced leadership coach and consultant who focuses on relationship-based leadership and the author of Lead from Your Heart: The Art of Relationship-based Leadership among other writings. She's been doing this work for over two decades and believes that all relationships are important, starting with the one we hold with ourselves. One of the areas that she is passionate about is exploring differences and fostering conversations to facilitate growth. This was a fascinating conversation that will help us all play a more supportive role when confronted with anti-Semitism and the rise in violence against Jewish people. We hope that it will help you, too, in learning and becoming more aware. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: Tanya's background and what led her to offer leadership coaching [4:14] What her own experience looks like being Jewish, and what she feels is causing the rise of anti-Semitism that exists today [7:57] A look at Judaism and the stigmatization of the jobs that Jewish people were forced into [16:41] What the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement is about and what the real impact of it is [21:41] How you can fight anti-Semitism and create more tolerace and inclusion [25:55] The benefit of studying and understanding the history of anti-Semitism [28:08] Tanya's thoughts on the recent incident involving Whoopi Goldberg and the comments she made [34:19] Links & Resources: https://htiinstitute.com/ Contact Tanya by Phone: (778) 859-0703 or Email: tanya@htiinstitute.com Get Tanya's Book: Lead From Your Heart: The Art of Relationship Based Leadership ​​ CNN poll reveals anti-Semitism is alive and well in Europe: https://www.cnn.com/videos/world/2018/11/26/cnn-poll-anti-semitism-in-europe-lon-orig.cnn List of Attacks on Jewish Institutions in the U.S.: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_attacks_on_Jewish_institutions_in_the_United_States Whoopi Goldberg Clarifies Comments About the Holocaust on The Late Show (Vanity Fair Article and Video Clip): https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/whoopi-goldberg-clarifies-comments-about-the-holocaust-on-the-late-show https://aninjusticemag.com/dear-american-progressives-your-jewish-friends-are-terrified-b24068fcf488 

If you've turned on a television or looked at social media over the past decade, it's hard to miss the discourse that's taking place in our country. We as Americans pride ourselves in our rights in free speech, as spelled out in the First Amendment to the U.S, Constitution. However, lately there seems to be a lot of discussion around what should and shouldn't fall under our rights to protected speech, which is why we wanted to dedicate an episode to this topic. In this episode, we look at how far we've gone to protect ourselves from offensive remarks, and look at whether it is time to take a stand against what many consider hateful, and even harmful, rhetoric. Is there a balance that can be achieved here, and is there a line that should not be stepped over? We don't have all the answers, but, as always, hope to provoke and expand your thinking. It's a timely conversation, particularly keeping in mind the college and university students of today will become our decision makers and leaders of tomorrow. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/  to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: A discussion of free speech and the dangers of creating “safe spaces” [4:54] A look at the different parts of the first amendment, and why they need to be understood [8:47] Our thoughts on the need for respectful discourse and debates at this time [11:33] The freedom of information that exists today, and who is controlling the narrative [14:59] What role healthy dialogue with our neighbors will play as we navigate the subject of free speech [17:13] How right now we are all living in a world of receiving information via media sound bites [19:10] The hypocrisy of cancel culture and first amendment offences [21:44] The ways that oppression still exists, and the systemic components that will reinforce those oppressions even further [28:10] What is our responsibility as society and individuals, and how you get involved in this discussion and issue [33:19] Links & Resources: 22: Choosing Courage Over Comfort: Time to Speak Up Mike Rowe's Podcast, The Way I Heard It: https://mikerowe.com/podcast/ No Safe Spaces (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGasBP2TxJeWBG5ZcyDyHWw 

Throughout the month of February we are honoring Black History Month on Respect Circles, with featured episodes focused on the contributions made by Black Americans in our country. Today we're excited to share information and insights about Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the important role that they continue to play in our society. Many of today's and yesterday's notable figures have walked the campuses of HBCUs, including our very special guests, whom AJ is proud to call his friends. Dr. Richard Mason, who also goes by Rick, is a Professor and Department Chair of Conselling at Hampton University, based in Hampton, Virginia, and Miss Alice Coleman is Magnet Resource Coordinator at Engineering & Science University Magnet School (ESUMS) located in West Haven, Connecticut. This was an engaging conversation on the importance of HBCUs and the impact that they have played in the lives of Black Americans, and the country as a whole. We hope you will find our guests' personal experiences and the insights they've gained from HBCUs as informative and inspiring as we did. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: What HBCUs are and the importance they have had in the past, and the future, of Black Americans [1:51] How both Rick and Alice were introduced to HBCUs while growing up [3:42] The way that HBCUs were historically formed in this country, and why they exist today [5:27] The reasons that it is so important to expose our children to HBCUs and what they stand for [8:52] What role HBCUs play in relieving the bias pressure for their students [11:05] A few common misconceptions about HBCUs [19:05] The life-changing experiences and values Alice and Rick carried forward by attending HBCUs [20:13] AJ, Alice and Rick's take on the powerful bonds and sense of community and family formed at HBCUs [26:55] What needs to be done differently in order to keep HBCUs viable in the future for years to come [29:28] A look at HBCU Homecoming, what it stands for and what makes it so special [34:33] What corporations need to do to support HBCUs and the future leaders [38:25] Links & Resources: Alice's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alice-s-coleman-mba-48500a227/ Email Rick: richard.mason@hamptonu.edu https://www.respectcircles.com/22-choosing-courage-over-comfort-time-to-speak-up/ CT HBCU Alumni Network: https://www.cthbcu.com/ Hampton University: https://www.hamptonu.edu/ 

Today we're diving headfirst into a topic that we've been wrestling with, especially due to some recent events in the news. We've found ourselves just a little fired up, and we think that the timing just might be right to jump into a deeper discussion on this subject. Over the last couple of years, social tensions in the U.S. have brought much needed conversation around the topics of inequity and bias, as we discussed last week with our guest, Dr. Neal Siler. In this episode, we're expanding on things and pulling back the curtain further on privilege and bias, as we hope to provoke your thinking and inspire you to action. We believe it's time to identify our own privilege and move to a place where everyone receives the same type of treatment. Let's open ourselves up to learn, grow, speak out, and to be an ally! As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/  to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/ , or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: Some of the ways that Stephanie has seen privilege throughout her life [5:17] The intersectionality that exists when we talk about privilege [7:44] Visible and invisible identities, and the power in putting yourself in the other person's shoes [12:45] What is the very first thing you need to do before you can be an ally and use the privilege you have for good [13:48] White privilege, and why white people often get defensive when it is addressed [14:51] Why we believe that children are strong enough to know the truth and to be a part of this conversation on privilege and bias [19:21] The recent blowback regarding the Supreme Court nomination in our country [24:43] Our thoughts on the recent lawsuit filed against the NFL [32:55] Why staying silent is not the answer when it comes to privilege and bias [44:03] Links & Resources: 21: Spotlight On Cultural Humility: The Process of Healing with Dr. R. Neil Siler Verywell Mind Article, What Is White Privilege?:  https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-white-privilege-5070460   

Today is a very special episode, as we look back on the tremendous contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, how he would feel about the changes we have made, and the current state of America 60 years later. Our expert guest is Dr. R. Neil Siler, who is here to share his wisdom and experiences on the impact of racial trauma on individuals, and to talk about ways we can move to a healthier state. Dr. R. Neal Siler is pastor emeritus of the First Shiloh Baptist Church, Mechanicsville, VA. He is a clinician, spiritual director, and founder of The Healing Place Center for Counseling and Spiritual Formation. He is a University and Seminary in Toronto, Ontario, the Director of the Spiritual Direction Program and Director of D.E.I. Initiatives for Healing Care Ministries in Ashland, Ohio. He is a contributing author to UMI's Pastor's Precepts Commentary, the author of How I Got Over: Healing for the African American Soul and several other books and small group curricula. Much of his work focuses on the psychological and systemic issues that create pain and brokenness for African Americans and marginalized people. His wife Dr. Sharon E. Siler serves alongside him in ministry, and they delight in sharing life with two children, their spouses, and three grandchildren. This episode with Dr. Siler is a much needed conversation about the state of our nation, while serving up a message of hope as we build a more equitable humanity. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: Dr. Siler's take on the words of Dr. Martin Luther King and his dream [6:02] How can we help people live beyond just the ideology of Dr. King and truly understand the purpose of what he had to stand for [8:59] The reasons he believes that race not being addressed effectively in this country [11:44] How we can promote moving towards the solutions, and what is currently working in the battle against racism [15:10] Dr. Siler's thoughts on taking race-based discrimination to heart in order to move forward with intention [19:28] Actions steps for making a difference right now [27:10] What we feel can be a path to true healing in America [29:11] What cultural competency is, and isn't, about [32:34] How Dr. King would want us to show up as leaders in this movement of change that is needed [34:56] Links & Resources: The Healing Place Center for Counseling and Spiritual Formation Contact #: 804-277-3831 Dr. Siler's Book, How I Got Over: Healing for the African American Soul I Have A Dream Speech (Martin Luther King, Jr., August 28, 1963): Text: https://www.ihaveadreamspeech.us/ Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dKimoybmEo American Public Health Association Documentary, Racism is a Public Health Crisis: https://www.apha.org/topics-and-issues/health-equity/racism-and-health/racism-declarations Emmett Till: The Murder That Shocked the World and Propelled the Civil Rights Movement by Devery S. Anderson Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson

As we continue our look at what makes an effective leader, today we dive deeper into the concept of emotional intelligence and how developing it can contribute to your success as a leader and in life. Being results driven as a leader is crucial, but the skills known as emotional intelligence are just as important to be aware of as you work to bring out the best in yourself, and each and every person that you lead. In today's episode, we reveal how you can nurture and prioritize your mental health, as well as what it means to be an empathic leader, and we hope to provide you with the resources, tools (and lessons from our personal experiences!) to help you on your own leadership journey. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/  to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: How getting in check with your own emotions and knowing yourself will benefit you as a leader [7:46] What self-regulation is all about, and how it will allow you to manage, respond, and react to every situation that you encounter [10:43] How sharing your emotions can not only be life-changing for you, but for those that you share them with [19:38] Our thoughts on whether nature or nurture plays a bigger role when it comes to emotional intelligence [22:28] The way that organizations can negatively impacted by leaders who do not possess emotional intelligence [27:18] Action steps you can take right now to boost your own emotional intelligence [33:14] Links & Resources: Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman: https://amzn.to/32fQu69   The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion by Jonathan Haidt: https://amzn.to/3nWjBTz https://www.inc.com/marcel-schwantes/15-websites-that-will-make-your-emotional-intelligence-better.html   https://hbr.org/2017/02/emotional-intelligence-has-12-elements-which-do-you-need-to-work-on https://www.hbo.com/succession 

Today's conversation is all about leadership, which we believe is such an important topic because everyone is a leader in their own way. With several decades of combined leadership experience, we want to begin a broader dialogue about why leadership matters and some of the lessons we've learned, along with resources that will be helpful in your own personal leadership journey. We want to stress that this conversation isn't just for individuals that have a formal leadership title. We believe that there are always new things to be learned as we explore leadership in our daily lives, and opportunities for us to step up and lead in a number of different ways. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening. We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends! In this episode you'll hear: Why we feel so strongly that everyone is a leader, regardless of his or her formal title [1:46] The very first thing that comes to Stephanie's mind when she thinks of leadership [3:32] Some of AJ's personal experience with the leadership positions that he's held over the years [4:30] Where many leaders today are going wrong by not focusing on the right things [7:52] A big taboo of leadership, and the dangers of practicing leadership the “traditional” way [9:26] The role that vulnerability plays in leadership [16:39] A difficult decision that AJ had to make in 2020, from a family leadership standpoint [18:17] The power and importance of communication in leadership [33:24] Action steps you can take right now to assess where you are as leader, where you want to be, and what you can do to bridge the gap [34:05] Links & Resources: Recommended Readings and TED Talk by Dr. Brené Brown: Dare to Lead: Brave Work.Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. https://amzn.to/33wSaIS Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead https://amzn.to/3tx5k3n Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience https://amzn.to/33kBULf TED Talk (with over 56M views): https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability 

Last week in the United States, we acknowledged the one-year anniversary of the events that took place last January 6th, which we all see as a very dark day in our history. Horrific actions taken on this date have created even more division in our country, and today on the podcast we want to explore where we are right now and what it means moving forward, as we redefine what democracy really means to each and every one of us. As you'll hear, we both think that ultimately being decent human beings and having a foundational understanding of what differentiates a lie from the truth is a great starting point that we can all begin at, because when done right, democracy is a beautiful thing that we should all be a part of. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends. We can't wait for you to join us this year on Respect Circles! In this episode you'll hear: The important line that got crossed on January 6th, 2021, and why this means so much for the entire country's future [5:49] The evolutionary approach that is happening where we are seeing an erosion of our systems, institutions, and our way of life [9:40] How the stance on social justice issues changed to fit the narrative [14:45] Why making the memorial and one-year anniversary political is so disturbing [19:37] What is the beauty of democracy [20:49] How we can all start to redefine what democracy means to us, what we will you stand for, and what we will stand against [22:27] What is is not the time for right now, and the opportunity we have at this point in time to learn from each other [26:31] The need to become more critical in our thinking and to start challenging the status quo [29:55] The power we have when all of our voices singing together [32:10]

In our final episode of Respect Circles for 2021, we take a look back at some of our learning and growth during the past year. We also reveal our personal goals for 2022, and share our vision for expanding our podcast and serving even more people. There is a lot of good happening in the world right now. We are so grateful for the opportunity to speak with you each week as we all gain new perspectives. We thank you so much for your support helping Respect Circles already become a top 5% podcast worldwide! Without you this wouldn't be possible, and we look forward to exploring new topics with you in the new year. As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by visiting our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends. See you in the new year! In this episode you'll hear: What the holiday traditions mean for us as we come to the end of yet another year [3:34] Our year in review and some reflections we've had along the way [7:23] A conversation around where we are as a society as it pertains to mental health [12:23] The personal growth we have experienced in 2021 specifically because of this podcast, plus the opportunity Respect Circles has given us [16:17] Our goals for 2022, and where we see this podcast heading [21:04] Why your story is always worth sharing [24:30] Links & Resources: https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/respect-circles-the-podcast-stephanie-mbQLx4tIqeK/ 

As we head into the holidays, we thought it would be a great time to share some things that are meaningful to us, as well as venture into a discussion on what we're looking for as we head into a new year. Weighing on our hearts right now is pondering what it really means to be human, and how each one of us can strive to be kinder to the people that cross our paths. Ultimately, you can only control what you can control and how you show your heart to others, but if you're able to love others and look for creative opportunities to show them kindness, we know you'll find yourself living a more rewarding life in the ways that matter most. We hope this conversation encourages you to think and examine your own outlook and behavior as we end one year and prepare to begin another. Let's see how we can all inject more kindness into humanity in order to get back to where we need to be. We love to hear your feedback! If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too . We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: Why this is the most magical time of the year for AJ, and the big question he'd like people to ponder this holiday season [5:21] What it really means to be “human” [7:00] What Stephanie is seeing that disturbs her, particularly online, and how we can reframe our approach to these situations [8:26] The role that basic decency plays when something horrific happens, and a current event where this was not displayed [10:41] Why AJ feels that kindness is a virtue that we need to practice on a consistent basis [14:44] Ways to being added more kindness into your life right now [16:56] How AJ is tackling the issue of binary thinking in the world today [18:12] A simple practice that Stephanie uses to infuse more kindness into the world [20:51] The overarching message that performings certain acts of kindness gives to others [24:41] Why being kind shouldn't be viewed as a weakness or displaying vulnerability [27:01] A reminder to connect with the people that we love, especially at this time of year [27:39] Links & Resources: https://www.respectcircles.com/13-the-power-of-gratitude/ 

What's it really like to be a “#GirlDad” in today's world? Along with AJ, we are so excited to have two other fathers of young women as our guests on the podcast. On today's episode, Matthew Cole and Kevin Wright share their perspectives, explore what fatherhood means to them, and answer important questions around navigating the journey of fatherhood in this day and age. We hope you find this episode informative and impactful and enjoy this conversation we had with Matthew and Kevin, whether you have daughters or not. We love to hear your feedback! If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: Some of Matthew and Kevin's real life experiences as #GirlDads [5:04] A discussion around some of the criticisms surrounding the use of this hashtag [9:05] The importance of recognizing the individuality of your daughters as a #GirlDad [14:17] How fatherhood has changed both Matthew and Kevin [18:27] The steps they each have taken to prepare their daughters in the best way possible for adulthood [24:29] The way that Matthew and Kevin strike the right balance of providing life lessons while protecting their daughters [30:07] Their advice for other #GirlDads who want to support their daughters in navigating the journey of growing up [38:02] The role that tough love plays as a #GirlDad [43:23] What scares both Matthew and Kevin as fathers of young women [44:59] Links & Resources: ​​Matthew Cole's Contact Info: cmatthewscole@live.com Kevin Wright's Contact Info: Kevin@kevindwright.com  952-207-5339

As we head into the holiday season, we recognize this time as one of celebration and being with family and friends. Yet, we also know that there are many people in our communities that continue to struggle with getting their basic needs met. Today we're excited to share with you another one of our “Spotlights on Extraordinary People”, where we highlight people in our communities and share how they are making a difference in the world.  Our guest for this episode is Greta Randolph, who is the Directional Leader of Outreach at Saint Paul's Baptist Church in Richmond, VA., also known as a “Church for People on the Grow!” As she reveals today, no matter how much you do, there is so much more to be done, and the need is tremendous. Like Greta, if you do good, good will continue to come. If you plant those seeds, you will see the tremendous impact that you can make on individuals, and your community as a whole. We love to hear your feedback!  If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message.  You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too.  We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening!  We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast,  leave us a rating and review, and share with your friends. See you next week!   In this episode you'll hear: The impact that Greta is making through her work with Saint Paul's Baptist Church [5:23] An event the church recently held for Veterans that had a significant impact on the entire community [10:43] What she finds is driving up the needs for different charity programs at this time [15:10] How people can get more involved in their own communities and why it's so important to be doing this [18:02] The reasons that being of service to others matters so much to Greta personally [22:45] What she describes as the “trickle down effect” of doing good for others [26:28] Greta's tips and strategies for recharging as a busy professional [28:36] The powerful words that she lives by each day [30:49] Links & Resources:  https://www.myspbc.org/  outreach@myspbc.org  https://www.linkedin.com/in/greta-randolph-8a914827/

We often hear that it's important to live with gratitude, but with everything that is happening in our daily lives, how many of us actually stop to do this? As we're preparing to celebrate Thanksgiving here in the United States, we thought it would be timely to take a pause and reflect on what we're grateful for. We also reveal what the holiday means to us, and share some research that we've discovered on the benefits of a consistent gratitude practice. We love to hear your feedback! If you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, please go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave us a message. You can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: Why Thanksgiving is our favorite holiday, and the role gratitude plays in this celebration [3:31] A difficult experience that AJ had to go through last year on Thanksgiving Day, and how it gave him a whole new perspective on gratitude [9:25] The impact that gratitude can have on our lives, and why living a life of gratitude can be challenging for so many people [12:36] Stephanie's practices that help her focus on being grateful [15:27] A recent event in her life that makes her even more grateful about health, and the importance that good health has for everyone [16:22] AJ's gratitude practices and a simple gesture he did recently for someone that matters to him [21:26] An excellent resource for learning more about difficult cultures and the way that they celebrate and give thanks for their blessings [27:23] Action steps to take away from this episode that will put you on the path of living with more gratitude [29:38] Links & Resources: https://www.respectcircles.com/10-the-power-of-hope/ 'Year 6!' Teen Who Was Accidentally Invited to 'Grandma's' Thanksgiving Keeps Tradition Going: https://people.com/human-interest/wanda-dench-and-jamal-hinton-keep-up-thanksgiving-tradition-year-6/ Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi: https://www.hulu.com/series/taste-the-nation-with-padma-lakshmi-53d48a66-d254-4e4f-89a1-277ec6c57368 

On today's episode we're exploring what code-switching is all about, and what happens when people feel the need to change their language and behavior to fit into certain environments. We'll be talking about why code switching is practiced, the danger that exists when people feel that it's needed, and what we all lose out on when people can't show up as their authentic selves. As we continue to raise issues of diversity, inclusion, and equity, we hope you find this episode informative and actionable, as we believe these conversations are a critical part of the mosaic of all organizations and communities. We're also pleased to share that listeners can now leave us a voicemail! Please drop us a line to say hello, or if you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, let us know. All you have to do is go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave your message. We look forward to hearing from you! As always, you can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com , on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: The official definition of “code-switching”, plus why and how it happens [2:59] AJ's own experience with this practice growing up [3:36] Stephanie's views on code-switching from the perspective of a white person [9:04] What it looks like to code-switch in Corporate America [12:02] The tremendous losses that result from people not being able to be their full, authentic self [15:33] How code-switching occurs in the school system, and what studies are saying about this [22:48] A benefit that AJ discovered with the pandemic in regards code-switching [31:29] How organizations can minimize the need for code-switching, and really promote greater inclusion for all [36:11] Why there is so much power in representation [38:08] Links & Resources: https://www.respectcircles.com/10-the-power-of-hope/ https://hbr.org/2019/11/the-costs-of-codeswitching 

Today we explore a topic that has become a point of controversy in the U.S. and one we believe we can all benefit from understanding more broadly. Critical Race Theory, or CRT, is a graduate-level academic concept that is more than 40 years old, created by legal scholars in the late 1970's. We both feel that we can use this week's episode as an opportunity for all of us to learn more about CRT and discuss what it is and what it is not. We look forward to hearing your learning from this episode. We're also pleased to share that listeners can now leave us a voicemail! Please drop us a line to say hello, or if you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, let us know. All you have to do is go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave your message. We look forward to hearing from you! As always, you can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: What CRT is, and isn't [5:06] How the idea race has been viewed throughout history [7:31] A problematic trend that people tend to adopt around race that is common at this time [9:19] The reasons why CRT is such a big topic right now [10:55] Why black history is such a controversial subject [17:42] What role parents have in black history education, and the need for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) training [20:00] How the most amount of learning will take place when we are uncomfortable [23:26] Racism in the workplace, and the importance of training to combat it [24:38] Some action steps we can all take right now to get us moving in the right direction [30:58] A positive experience that AJ recently had with a coworker, and how it was such a powerful step forward [43:06] Links & Resources: https://nmaahc.si.edu/ https://www.nbcnews.com/southlake-podcast https://dei.extension.org/ https://www.teachforamerica.org/ https://www.respectcircles.com/10-the-power-of-hope/ 

After what we've all been through collectively these past few years, today we wanted to have a discussion about hope, and the immense power that it can bring to our lives. In this episode, you'll not only hear what hope means to each of us, but we share some practical ways in which you can start living a life filled with more hope at this very moment. We're also pleased to share that listeners can now leave us a voicemail! Please drop us a line to say hello, or if you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, let us know. All you have to do is go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave your message. We look forward to hearing from you! As always, you can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: A picture that caught AJ's attention, and why it represents how he personally feels about hope [2:34] How “hope” is defined and the ways it relates to trust [5:06] Why having hope is so important for our society right now [6:50] How being hopeful can help move you in a positive direction, even if life feels out of your control [9:26] Tips for holding onto hope in the most challenging of times [12:58] How maintaining contact with others can support them, and help you at the same time [18:36] Some challenges that AJ has faced in maintaining a hopeful outlook [23:43] What you can do to assess whether you are strengthening your “muscle of hope” [33:16] Links & Resources: Hope Painting by George Frederic Watts: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hope_(painting) Brené Brown episodes on Oprah's Super Soul Sunday: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/super-soul/id1264843400?i=1000539136286 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/super-soul/id1264843400?i=1000539136249 

We've received some great feedback on our recent episode, Becoming A Deliberate Listener, where we spoke about the importance of listening and really being present with people. Today we'd like to take that conversation just a little deeper, and talk about the need to suspend judgment and focus on what we can learn from the person in front of us, even if we don't agree. We explore examples of high profile individuals who have spoken out in a way that some find offensive and whether there is learning to be gained from those who make us uncomfortable. As always, we have more questions than answers and we'd love to hear your takeaways from this episode. We're also pleased to share that listeners can now leave us a voicemail! Please drop us a line to say hello, or if you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, let us know. All you have to do is go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave your message. We look forward to hearing from you! As always, you can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: An opportunity that we may be missing when we fail to suspend judgment or go on the defensive when in conversation with others [3:39] The different aspects involved when you're being triggered by something that is said to you [7:01] AJ's take on the motivation behind certain actions, and why some of these actions actually may not be intended to harm you [12:21] The responsibility that leadership has to create an environment where all people feel comfortable [15:40] Our responsibilities as individuals to recognize and address our own trigger points [17:15] How biases come into play when one party is triggered [22:21] Our biggest takeaways from the conversation on listening without judgment [23:49] Links & Resources: https://www.respectcircles.com/7-becoming-a-deliberate-listener/ The Experiment Podcast, Who Would Jesus Mock?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/who-would-jesus-mock/id1549704404?i=1000538553776 Dave Chappelle's The Closer on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/com/title/81228510 

Looking back over the past 25 years or so, we have seen significant change in both the demographics in our country and the communities in which we live. Today, we scratch the surface on what has shifted for men in America and begin to explore what is driving behavior, especially in the last couple of years. This episode is a look at how to be better, both as men, women, and the mentors of the next generation, so that we can form a better, more inclusive, supportive, and forward-facing society. We're excited to announce that listeners can now leave us a voicemail! Please drop us a line to say hello, or if you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, let us know. All you have to do is go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave your message. We look forward to hearing from you! As always, you can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: The changes being seen in college enrollment by men in this country, and how less access to education is affecting critical thinking and opportunities [6:53] Other ways and opportunities to get the social skills that are so desperately needed right now, and how to participate in other forms of community other than college [10:41] How the fear of losing positions of power and control is causing some men to act out, and why building awareness around this an important step in creating solutions to these issues [16:26] Why it's so important for men to volunteer to be a mentor to others, and the benefits our youth will see by having this type of support in their lives [20:38] Stories of men in AJ's life who have benefited from having a strong role model [23:02] Our challenge for listeners to step up by being a mentor, volunteering and fostering those relationships with the younger generation of this country [25:16] Each of our commitments to each other, ourselves, and our listeners [29:54]

Today's topic can dramatically improve the quality of our conversations and, in turn, our personal and professional relationships. In this episode, we discuss the importance of becoming a better listener, because so often we jump to our own biases and form judgments before truly processing what the other person is saying. What might be possible if we just listened more? Let's find out! We're excited to announce that listeners can now leave us a voicemail! Please drop us a line to say hello, or if you have a question or topic that you'd like us to discuss in a future episode, let us know. All you have to do is go to https://www.respectcircles.com/voicemail/ to leave your message. We look forward to hearing from you! As always, you can also reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/, or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com too . Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: Personal experiences we have both had where we noticed a lack of listening taking place [6:53] A big lesson about learning that AJ has learned along the way [13:05] Tips for how we can all become better listeners [15:42] Specific questions to ask yourself to assess whether you area good listener [16:30] What the 3 levels of listening are, and why they're all important to be aware of [17:17] The tremendous gift that deliberate listening can give you [23:11] Why slowing down is such a powerful tool in the listening process [27:08] Self-assessments of our own listening skills [30:32] Links & Resources: The Power of Deliberate Listening | Ronnie Polaneczky | TEDxPhiladelphia Three Levels of Listening - Co-Active Coaching: Henry Kmsey-House, Karen Kimsey-House, Phillip Sandhal, and Laura Whitworth, authors. https://amzn.to/3mG7RDd Theory U: Levels of Listening: Otto Scharmer, author. https://amzn.to/2WXTx00 Be a Better Listener - Assess Yourself: https://bit.ly/3DvSKD5 

Today we are excited to bring you another installment of our “Spotlights on Extraordinary People”, where we have conversations with people in our communities, and more importantly, share how they are making a difference in the world. Everyone has a story and we can't wait to share this one with you. This episode features Vivian Doctora, an inspiring mother and wife who quite literally took a leap of faith to start her own business, realizing that there never is a “perfect” time to pursue your dreams. As you'll hear, this life-changing decision has not only paid dividends for Vivian and her family, but the impact on her community has been incredible (and she's only just getting started)! Vivian is a long-time resident of Bloomington/Normal, Illinois, and an alumni of Illinois State University. She is a proud owner of Bao Destination (ghost kitchen concept) and R Marketplace (First Food Hall of Bloomington/Normal.) After 21 years of working in the corporate world, she decided to take a chance and become an entrepreneur a few months ago. In addition to being a business owner, she is also a mom of her twins (Riley and Haley) and is married to husband Redney. Although Vivian and Redney both have lived in different states, Bloomington feels like home to them. They both fell in love with the city because of the friendships that they have built throughout the years. The opportunity to use food to share her culture and connect with people in the community is the driving force behind her creation of Bao Destination and R Marketplace (Opening Soon.) She is passionate about helping others and hoping her business venture will allow her to give back to the community that has given her so much. As always, we invite and welcome your input! Send us your thoughts on what you like about the podcast, what you want to see more of, and who we should invite into the conversation as guests on upcoming episodes. You can always reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/ or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: Vivian's inspiring story and how she got to where she is today [2:44] Where she finds the courage and confidence to pursue her dreams, day-in and day-out [7:31] Some of the challenges that Vivian has faced going from a corporate position to owning a business [9:22] The ways she helps others embrace the real significance of her product [15:02] What Vivian is doing to encourage others to start thinking differently about Asian-owned businesses [17:22] How community plays a key role in her business right now, and her future plans [21:32] The best advice Vivian gives for young entrepreneurs looking to chase their dreams in business [26:27] Links & Resources: https://www.baodestination.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Baodestination https://www.instagram.com/baodestination/ info@r-marketplace.com 

Today we are excited to begin what we're calling our “Spotlights on Extraordinary People.” Where we'll have conversations with people in our communities, and in yours and, more importantly, we'll share how they are making a difference in the world. Everyone has a story and we can't wait to share some of them with you. We're so honored to introduce you to today's guest, because she is someone who is using what she has learned on own personal journey overcoming addiction to significantly impact the lives of others. Dziko (pronounced ZEE-KOH) Singleton is the co-coordinator for a harm reduction program, a peer recovery specialist, and an HIV testing counselor with the Health Brigade in Richmond, VA, and she identifies as a person in recovery. Dziko is with Health Brigade, formerly known as The Fan Free Clinic, which has the distinction of being the first free clinic as well as the first transgender clinic and the second harm reduction program in Virginia. You can find Richmond Harm Reduction on FB, @richmondharmreduction on IG and Health Brigade website, https://www.healthbrigade.org/. If Dziko's story and the work she does resonates with you, she can be reached via email at dsingleton@healthbrigade.org  (she receives many phone calls, but answers every email!) As always, we invite and welcome your input! Send us your thoughts on what you like about the podcast, what you want to see more of, and who we should invite into the conversation as guests on upcoming episodes. You can always reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com , on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/ or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: The important work that Dziko does right now, and what led her to what she considers her true calling [4:53] The personal challenges she overcame with addiction that now gives her the insight to helps others do the same [6:05] What gives Dziko the courage to not give up on herself and the people that she helps [8:43] The element of hope that she can now give others [14:03] Why Dziko says she had to humble herself in order to accept the help that she was being offered [15:54] What her big dreams look like for making a difference in the lives of those she works with [19:07] The role that active listening can play as a catalyst for change [20:47] Links & Resources: https://www.healthbrigade.org/ dsingleton@healthbrigade.org 

The topic we are venturing into today has really been on our hearts and minds, and the question is: why are people so angry at this point in time? Where do we draw the line between people being angry because they feel like their individual rights are being stepped on, and what's needed to serve the greater good? This episode is an invitation for each of us to have courage in speaking up about what we feel is not right, and to have difficult conversations about issues that matter. If we all just avoid these types of conversations because we fear others' reactions, then we're really missing the opportunity to learn and the richness of the dialogue that comes from broadening our perspective. As always, we invite and welcome your input! Send us your thoughts on what you like about the podcast, what you want to see more of, and who we should invite into the conversation as guests on upcoming episodes. You can always reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/ or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: How AJ realized he needed help for the anger he was feeling, and the steps he took to become a better version of himself [4:12] The continued importance of pausing and reflecting in this process [7:38] The way to position yourself to have better public discussions about issues in a respectful and healthy manner [9:05] What you can do to step into the position of a role model for others [8:53] A recent personal experience that Stephanie had and how it impacted her perspective [12:16] AJ's thoughts on how the greater good for all has been forgotten, plus what we can all do about it [17:23] Why avoiding difficult conversations isn't the answer [18:13] Links & Resources: https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/10/politics/anger-american-electorate-cnn-poll/index.html 

This is a very special episode for us, as we're recording it on the 20th anniversary of the events of September 11th, 2001 - a day that changed all of our lives. In this episode, not only do we want to reflect and share both of our own experiences from 9/11, but we also reveal some of the meaning that came out of that day for us. As always, we invite and welcome your input! Send us your thoughts on what you like about the podcast, what you want to see more of, and who we should invite into the conversation as guests on upcoming episodes. You can always reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/ or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: What we both vividly remember, and will never forget, from that dark day 20 years ago [3:51] The ways that the country shifted following these events, and how people here came together to become kinder to each other [8:54] Our thoughts on the response by our country's leaders in the months following the events of 9/11 [11:37] An honest look at where we feel the nation stands today [15:43] The impact of social media on the current divide we have in our society right now [17:34] Why critical thinking, for each of us, will be key to heal our country [21:10] Our biggest takeaways from this discussion on 9/11, and where we are right now in 2021 [26:33]

For Episode 2 of Respect Circles, we're bringing you our very first guest, and we are so excited to be introducing you to her today. Dr. Alesia Johnson, or “Lisa” as she usually is called, has been an important part of Respect Circles since the beginning, and she always brings such wisdom and depth to our conversations (Lisa also happens to be AJ's sister!) Lisa is a product of Richmond City Public Schools and retired from teaching in that same school system after serving and working for over thirty years. She is a certified Diversity, Culture Competence, and Social Justice Trainer for the Virginia Education Association. She completed her undergraduate studies and some graduate studies at Virginia State University and additional graduate studies at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union, where she earned a Master of Divinity degree with honors. She has an earned Doctor of Ministry in Formational Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. Lisa is a member of First Shiloh Baptist Church in Mechanicsville, VA, where she works as a counselor with victims of sexual and domestic abuse; couples counseling, teen girls, and individuals who are sensing a need to live life differently. There she also serves as a senior caregiver, a small group facilitator, the Program Director, and a member on the healing care team for the Healing Place ~ Center for Christian Counseling and Spiritual Formation. She leads workshops and seminars nationwide and serves as a speaker/facilitator and preacher for conferences. Prior to her call to ministry at First Shiloh, she was a member at The Saint Paul's Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia for over forty years, where she was licensed and ordained to preach the gospel. She is the Chaplain for the Henrico County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, serves on the Board of Directors for Hope for Families (Camp Hope), and also the Council for Richmond Hill. Lisa enjoys teaching, facilitating, fellowshipping with her family and friends, worshipping, and studying the word of God. She has a passion for the marginalized and privileged, the victim and perpetrator, and believes that we all deserve healing. She has traveled extensively to share the gospel. It is her desire to be used by God to serve as a wounded healer, bringing others to a place of holistic healing.  In this episode, we'll begin to have some real dialogue about the issues that we're all facing in this divided nation, specifically looking at whether or not we have lost our humanity - and if so, how it can be recovered and repaired. You can learn more about Lisa and the work she does at https://alesiajohnson.org/alesiajohnson/, and as always, we invite and welcome your input! Send us your thoughts on what you like about the podcast, what you want to see more of, and who we should invite into the conversation as guests on upcoming episodes. You can always reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com , on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/ or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: That work that Lisa does, and what she says matters the most to her when doing it [5:23] What she feels is challenging society in the biggest ways right now [9:14] The main things that people are hungry for, and what would dramatically improve the state of the world that we live in [12:03] What factors Lisa believe landed us where we are at this point in time [16:10] Why the word “reconciliation” causes tension for her, and what she feels is the more appropriate word to use [18:58] Ways that we can collectively start to move towards healing together while advancing the conversation [21:22] The issue that Lisa has with missionary work, and where missionaries are going most often going wrong [25:22] Her best advice for young adults [29:07] A big rule that she lives her life by, and why this is so important to her [35:40] Links & Resources: https://www.facebook.com/dr.lisajohnson https://alesiajohnson.org/ https://twitter.com/DrAlesiaJohnson https://www.instagram.com/dralesiajohnson/ 

It's the very first episode of Respect Circles: The Podcast, and we're so excited to be starting this journey with you. Today you'll learn what this podcast is really about, a little bit about us, and why we felt compelled to start a podcast at this time. Behind it all, we want this to be a place where we can come together and talk about things in an authentic, and sometimes messy, way, in a safe place, and to learn to listen for understanding and to gain new perspectives. We invite and welcome your input! Send us your thoughts on what you like about the podcast, what you want to see more of, and who we should invite into the conversation as guests on upcoming episodes. You can always reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles  and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/  or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: What “Respect Circles” are all about, and how Stephanie got the idea to begin hosting them [2:05] The inspiration behind AJ getting involved with Respect Circles, plus why he says the timing for it was ideal [3:38] One of the big things Stephanie loves most about the Respect Circle calls [6:34] What AJ has learned on this journey, and the biggest fears he has today that he is still working on overcoming [6:57] The opportunity that each and every one of us has right now, and the possibilities that exist for this podcast [8:38] When it clicked for AJ that Respect Circles was making a real difference for people [9:20] What happens when we aren't willing or able to speak up for what we believe in [11:02] What is meant by the phrase “the power in the pause”, and why this is part of the process in Respect Circles [14:27] The ways in which Respect Circles is helping people listen from their hearts and focus on the choice to be happy [15:42] A bit more on us, our backgrounds and what motivates each of us [17:16] What you can expect as a listener of this podcast, and a special challenge we have for you [21:18]

In a world that can feel divided, we want to bring people together – to learn, to listen with our hearts, and to begin to see each other again. Our vision is to foster and elevate respect and learning while we talk about the real issues of the day. Join hosts Stephanie Colegrove and Alpheaus Johnson as we invite people in to share their stories and perspectives. Together we'll get inspired to take action as we create a movement of change…one conversation at a time. We invite and welcome your input!  Send us your thoughts on what you like about the podcast, what you want to see more of, and who we should invite into the conversation as guests on upcoming episodes. You can always reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com, on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/ or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com.