The Power Of Stories Podcast

Alison Arngrim is an American actress, author, philanthropist, and advocate for the protection of children from abuse, exploitation, and neglect. At five years old, Alison began her television career and is best known for her portrayal of Nellie Olsen on the NBC television series, "Little House on the Prairie."  In this episode, Alison discusses her experiences of being a child actor and growing up in a family where working in show business was the norm… having a slow-down in bookings at eleven years old, prompting her father to tell her that her acting career might be over… at twelve years old, being cast as Nellie Olsen in "Little House on the Prairie"… after years of being famous, doing shows and personal appearances, finding ways to schedule downtime and relax… how stardom affects people's expectations of her in social gatherings… beginning her comedy career at fifteen years old, at the height of her popularity on Little House on the Prairie, by writing a comedy act with a group called The Village Idiots and performing in Los Angeles clubs and coffee houses four nights a week… beginning to her philanthropic work at twelve years old then, in the 1980s, when the actor Steve Trace went public with his AIDS diagnosis, volunteering to support the AIDS Project Los Angeles… in the early 2000s, becoming involved with a newly formed The National Association to Protect Children (protect.org), working with Congress and many States to enact legislation to rescue children, combat child exploitation and human trafficking, support cutting-edge technology, and increase government accountability and transparency…. going public with her own abuse as a child… now serving as President of The Board of Directors of The National Association to Protect Children… and encouraging us all to use our strengths and our weaknesses. You can learn more about Alison Arngrim and her tour schedule at BONNETHEADS.com

Danielle Mullings is a dynamic young leader and technology enthusiast. She does a fun mix of tech, youth empowerment, and media, hosting a youth TV show, moderating global science events, and serving on Jamaica's AI Task Force. Danielle is currently juggling these responsibilities while part-time pursuing her Masters of Science in Translational Health Sciences at Oxford University while also working with regional and international entities. In this episode, Danielle discusses her commitment to bringing young people together, listening to their experiences and ensuring that their voices are heard… leadership roles early in her school and university years… incorporating the viewpoints of others in the youth leadership and advocacy space… working to increase the number of young people  involved in decision-making forums… growing up in a loving and supportive family, and the important life lessons her family taught her… being encouraged to pursue roles of increasing scope and responsibilities as a university student, including running for Guild President, leading thousands of students and being the official representative to the university administration, as well as the regional university administration, representing 50,000 students across the Caribbean… the role of technology in effectively gathering and using data to understand and communicate the needs of students… how her experiences led her to become the host of a youth TV show in Jamaica, showcasing young people, their stories, and their accomplishments… the importance of individualized approaches to self-care… ways to deal with our own self-criticism… the importance of volunteerism and how it can lead to unexpected career opportunities… having the courage to apply for roles that may seem out of reach... how introducing herself to a Government Minister led to being invited to join Jamaica's AI Task Force and another government committee... the power of a simple compliment in encouraging others, and the reminder to be more positive as we speak with people day-to-day… and her advice to young women (and us all) to “shoot for the stars” as we find our voice. (Jamaica)

Susan Jeremy is a solo performer, stand-up, playwright  and public school teacher in New York City. As a performer, she keeps her audiences laughing with many characters, music, observations, and dry wit. She is the author of seven solo shows which she performs internationally. Susan's works have been featured around the world at comedy festivals, including the  Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal. She is the recipient of the Best Comedy and Best Production award at Montreal Fringe Festival along with Best touring show at Hamilton Fringe. In this episode, Susan discusses her seventh solo show, Robert Will Show You the Door (Tales of Being Fired), and how being fired from a series of jobs led her to becoming a special education teacher. She reveals that she is an undiagnosed person with dyslexia and how this affected what she thought was possible. She discusses how performing led her to find her confidence and overcome her learning disability.When she started substitute teaching she used her daily experiences to write her first a solo show. She brought the show to Montreal and it was an instant hit, landing her a contract to tour the show nationally, only to have it cancelled when  9/11 happened. Susan took this as a sign that she was supposed to work with kids. When she was offered a full time teaching job, she took it, walked away from show business and went to grad school at night. A feat that she never saw was possible. Susan learned that the way forward is to not listen to people  who say “ You can't do this” and never to doubt yourself. The mere act of trying is brave and will lead you on a path to accomplish things. As a breast cancer survivor, Susan discusses how facing a life challenging illness made her  even more determined to accomplish her goals. She used humor as a survival technique and inspired others who were going through treatment. This led her to teaching children who were in the hospital. Having already survived cancer, she knew that these kids wanted to have a normal school session and not be seen as patients.  She wants our listeners to trust themselves if they are uncertain, and if you don't know how to do something, just act as if you do and the confidence will lead you through. You can learn more about Susan Jeremy and find information about her upcoming performances, at https://www.susanjeremy.net/

Dr. Patty Johnson is a writer and psychologist who believes in healing through stories. She is currently working on a memoir and has 2 published books—Essays of Night and Daylight and Breathe & Release: A 12 Month Journal for Healing from Anxiety.In this episode, Dr. Johnson discusses what sparked her interest in becoming a psychologist… being guided by behavioral medicine, a model of integrating both the physiological and the psychological… how important listening to people's stories has been in her life… being born in America to immigrant parents, and cultural differences that she and her family navigated… behavioral medicine, a model of integrating the physiological and the psychological… exploring how the mind and body work together... generational trauma… immigrant trauma… the beauty and complexity of growing up in two cultures… the importance of helping people align their physical symptoms with what is happening in their life or with what they have been thinking about… her love of writing and how, as an adolescent, writing helped her process feelings she was unable to discuss… the healing power of stories… our experience of seeing ourselves differently from how others see us… meditating on the power, strength, and ability we have to do things that we were told we could not do… the importance of realizing that it doesn't matter what other people say about us if we know who we are… and these inspiring words, “There's so much strength in fighting to be who we are.” (United States)

After 10 years of searching for the right support to enable Jen to follow her dreams, Jen and Sue Blackwell (Daughter and Mum) co-created DanceSyndrome in 2009, where everyone matters and all are encouraged to lead happy, healthy and purposeful lives. DanceSyndrome is for people with and without Down's syndrome and other learning disabilities, using inclusive dance as a vehicle in a unique, ground-breaking way which doesn't exist anywhere else. Jen, Sue, and DanceSyndrome are international multi-award-winning leaders of change, disrupting the status quo and challenging perceptions and systems where necessary. They show everyone the art of the possible, whatever label or perceived ability we attach to ourselves or others, by taking one step at a time. Jen was born with Down's syndrome and says, “With the right support at the right time we can go further and further”In this special episode you will hear the voices of three women: Jen Blackwell, Sue Blackwell, and Tracey-Jane Hughes, who restated some questions for Jen. Jen and Sue discuss creating DanceSyndrome and their experiences showcasing the performances of this dance company… facing and overcoming the bureaucracy and systems that saw Jen as a learning disability instead of as a person… the importance of true inclusion rather than tokenistic inclusion to enable everyone to be a leader in their own life… Jen's love of dance throughout her life… being honored at Buckingham Palace…. Jen being appointed Lead Ambassador for Innovation and Entrepreneurship by the High Sheriff of Manchester for her year of tenure in 2018.… encouraging all women and girls to speak out and speak up… and the importance of creating opportunities for all! (United Kingdom)

Christine is a passionate communications specialist and environmentalist. She is a lover of human rights and advocates for the rights of women and girls. Christine has been working in the NGO space for over fifteen years and has a dream to write and produce a TV show about non-profit organizations.  In this episode, Christine discusses why she began calling herself an environmentalist when working on her Master's Degree and working for a non-governmental organization producing a show on environmental issues… facing the challenge of breaking down jargon so people can better understand environmental issues… for her Master's thesis, focusing on how the media can best communicate about environment issues… having her thesis published and being recruited by the environmental movement, Let's Do It! World, to be a representative in Kenya… in 2016, launching the non-profit Let's Do It! Kenya … hosting the first “cleanup” day in Kenya and having 20,000 people participate… the importance of engaging young people to drive change… traveling to different countries to discuss environmental challenges and solutions… the reminder that “every small step counts”… with her colleagues working in other countries, championing the successful effort to have the United Nations declare September 20 as World Cleanup Day… discovering that many of the grassroots efforts to conserve the environment were being led by women and young girls… working to have these women and girls included in decision-making spaces… the importance of mentorship and coaching. (Kenya)

Pooja Priyamvada is a higher education educator in various fields, including media, literature, mental health and theater. Pooja holds a background in media. She is an author, a translator and, more recently, an entrepreneur. Pooja likes to say that she is also a full-time parent. In this episode, Pooja discusses her reasons to begin writing about mental health after experiencing postpartum depression about 16 years ago… her prior interest in mental illnesses and mental health… the stigma and taboo one faces in discussing depression, and the challenges at the time, of finding psychiatrists and psychologists in Delhi… beginning to educate herself about mental health support and training to become a counselor… the broad misunderstanding of mental health… the dismissal and resistance someone faces when speaking about their mental health experiences… cultural norms that expect women “to  stay within the margins that are defined for us”  and to not speak out….  the books she has written and translated… writing newspaper columns and appearing on radio shows… being labeled a mental health activist despite her diverse roles and areas of expertise… her experiences with the cultural expectations related to death and grieving… her role as a grief counsellor… the various forms of grief…. intersectional feminism… the importance of women lending support to each other and building each other up… the power of sisterhood, of community, and of our collective voice… and the reminder that “You are the most important person in your life.” (India) 

Vivi Lin is a Taiwanese human rights activist who founded the global nonprofit organization With Red & Period Museum, fighting for period equity and menstrual justice, and ending period poverty and stigma. Vivi is a youth advisor for the Taiwanese government and is currently studying public policy in Oxford. In this episode, Vivi discusses her inspiration to fight for menstrual justice and then to establish the With Red & Period Museum in Taipei… the lack of education about and awareness of menstrual issues, including period poverty, where financial constraints result in lack of access to menstrual products… the importance of having a safe space where people can discuss and ask questions about periods… her parents' commitment to her education and to exposing her to books, ideas, and information about Taiwan's history… attending political protests and rallies as a child… the importance of fighting for opportunities and taking action, even if you fail… as an undergrad in Scotland, learning from activists who fought for Scotland to become the first country to legislate the right to access free period products for anyone who needs them... her realization that if this was possible in Scotland, it was possible in Taiwan, too… starting her organization from her dorm room… the power of collective action from a society or a community to create sustainable change… the reminder that change takes time, so it is it is important to never lose hope. (Taiwan)

Patience Nyange serves as the Spokesperson for the Office of the Executive Secretary at the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). With over 18 years of experience in media, communications, and advocacy, she is a seasoned professional specializing in broadcast journalism, international public relations, social media management, and mentorship for young journalists and PR practitioners. Patience is particularly passionate about human rights, with a strong focus on women's and girls' rights and empowerment. She has been a leading advocate for gender-sensitive reporting across Africa. Patience is also the visionary behind the #KenyaWomenSeries, a platform dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements of Kenyan women. This initiative highlights inspiring stories of women making a difference, showcasing Patience's dedication to amplifying women's voices and accomplishments.In this episode, Patience discusses seeing, at a young age, how gender inequality limited opportunities for women in her community and how this sparked a deep sense of injustice… her gratitude for her parents, their messages that she and her brothers and sisters are all equal, and the opportunity to be able to speak out… role models who inspired her pursuit for education… her commitment to continue to advocate for a world where every woman and girl can realize her full potential… working with two volunteers, Esther Karagu and Nancy Marangu, to profile 52 women leaders in Kenya, celebrating them and highlighting their stories and their impact on their communities… the importance of creating a platform where women could tell their stories in a way that they wanted it told… the importance of mentorship and of publicly affirming those we mentor… how women sharing our stories can encourage us in overcoming obstacles and challenges…. and the importance of challenging stereotypes and amplifying women's achievements. (Kenya) 

Maricar Jagger was born in a small town on the island of Borneo in Indonesia. She has experienced life in different countries growing up, and studied in the United States.  Maricar wanted to be an artist but studied business in college and pursued a career in Marketing. She is a creative at heart, and she believes in the power of the arts to change lives. You can see Maricar's beautiful, handmade cards at http://etsy.com/shop/MaricardsIn this episode, Maricar discusses how her mother taught her to be a businesswoman and entrepreneur at a very young age, and how she began making and embroidering purses that she sold to classmates… realizing later, in secondary school, that she could earn money from her creative work… the importance of recognizing your unique skills… experiencing bullying at work and then resigning from her job during the pandemic… accepting an administrative job working with Ukrainian refugees and helping match them with local hosts in the UK… encouraging artists to explore their exhibit and sell their work… the importance of saying “yes” to opportunities… overcoming fear… and this inspiring advice to us all, “I realized that sometimes you really need to speak up to get your voice heard. It's no point waiting for people to discover you or to find you. Feel the fear, but do it anyway.” (Indonesia and United Kingdom)

Mushairat Mamun is a first-generation American Bangladeshi who was born and raised in Queens, New York. At 17, she moved to Bangladesh to pursue her undergraduate degree, focusing on Public Health and Philanthropy. Throughout her early medical career, Mushairat played a crucial role in addressing challenges in Maternal Health in Bangladesh. Currently, she is pursuing a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies in Atlanta, and is the first person in her family to pursue a career in medicine. In this episode, Mushairat discusses how, even as a child, she sought ways to learn through new challenges. She reflects on growing up in a community where health and medicine were rarely discussed, and making big decisions, like moving to Bangladesh to study and find her own sense of identity. She shares how she grew through friendships and storytelling, driven by a desire to learn more, do more, and pursue a field where she could help others. Mushairat emphasizes the importance of discussing feelings, emotions, love, and relationships to support mental health, even when these topics are considered taboo. She highlights her experience speaking with women across all age groups, valuing the significance of hearing them discuss their health and bodies, and challenging long-standing cultural norms. Mushairat encourages women to use their voices to advocate for themselves and others, engage in meaningful issues, and promote change. Her advice to women and girls is: “Find what challenges you and do what scares you the most. Once you learn to control that fear, you can unleash your true potential.” (USA)

Margaret Akullo is a Ugandan born British citizen, a Criminologist and a visionary with ethical leadership qualities. In her extensive career of three decades in international development she has led diverse teams delivering programmatic change and social impact in more than 20 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America. In 2022, at the age of 55 and after more than three decades of work in various organizations, Margaret retired early from her job in the United Nations to embark on a journey of purpose and self-discovery and to craft her soul-led future career.  In this episode, Margaret discusses her path to becoming a criminologist and her interest in behavior from a very young age… wanting to study law at university but encouraged by her parents to pursue a business degree and continuing on to do marketing… starting a job with the Metropolitan Police in London and working there for about 15 years, first in a department dealing with finance… how her deep interest in studying behavior eventually led to a position working as a criminal intelligence analyst… pursuing a Master's Degree in criminology… working as a criminologist in various organizations and in five different roles in the United Nations, and being exposed to many diverse experiences and cultures around the world... traveling extensively and living in Thailand, Austria, and Ethiopia… the process of deciding to retire early after having an ongoing inner dialogue with herself about her unexpressed potential, and then coaching herself out of the United Nations… discussing her article, “Quitting Is Leading, Too” and her empowering leadership decision that led her to “deconstruct” the person she was and beginning a journey of transformation… asking herself who she was without her career and aligning with the core of who she truly was… taking the bold and courageous decision to quit her job at 55 years old… grieving the loss of her career but knowing this was part of her journey to reach her personal transformational goal… and this beautiful advice for us all about introspection, “I think it's important to shine the torch inwards as it leads to self-growth.” (Uganda, United Kingdom, Austria)

Yolandé Conradie describes herself as an ordinary woman who lives an ordinary life but has had extraordinary experiences. She is a psychosocial therapist by profession, but loves teaching and educating, and puts her skills to use as a life coach and a university educator. In this first episode of Season 4, Yolandé discusses growing up in a cult where her parents were members, a cult in which there were many rules for girls and women and very few for men, and where friendships outside of the cult were discouraged… the fear that was instilled in cult members, and the excommunication they faced, if they did not adhere to the rules… being an observant child, and noticing the inconsistencies between what people preached and what they did… at 19 years old, getting married within the cult… being exposed to more of life and eventually realizing that she had to leave the cult, even though it would not be a quick or easy process… finding a psychosocial therapist who first helped her discover herself and a different life path, “writing a new ending to an old beginning”… studying to become a psychosocial therapist herself… getting divorced from her husband of 20 years at age 39… moving to a new city to begin a brand new life and a new career, making her way completely on her own terms… realizing that she is stronger than she thought, and that she was capable of doing more than she once believed was passible.  (South Africa)

Dr. Joannie Marlene Bewa, MD, PhD, is a physician, public health researcher, global advocate for girls & women's sexual and reproductive health, and the founder and CEO of DOTOH Health.  She has over fifteen years of combined experience in global health, health policy, digital health, clinical care, research, international development and non-profits management. In this episode, Dr. Bewa discusses how her own encounter with the health care system as a girl sparked her passion for health and how that evolved to her focus on sexual and reproductive health... volunteering in a community organization that was focusing on health, respecting cultural and social norms while also challenging them… beyond basic health care, the importance of health information, education, community engagement, awareness and the spectrum of preventative care… the importance of addressing health inequities… the encouragement and support of her parents, and the valuable lessons she learned from them about hard work and about why it is important to help others… setting up a nonprofit at age 21, the Young Beninese Leaders Association, successfully establishing partnerships with other nonprofits, and then receiving support from  First Lady Michelle Obama's Young African Women Leaders Grant Program to scale up programs… the importance of making the right decision at the right time, and of being open to opportunities and not missing them… continuing her studies to become a medical doctor and then working for a Masters degree and a PhD… ensuring that all girls have access to quality education by removing the financial, cultural, social, and logistical barriers they face… the essential role of mentors and role models, and safe spaces where girls can  express themselves freely without being judged… the need to see more women in politics and in leadership roles globally, and as medical doctors, engineers, astronaut, and journalists… and this encouragement for us all, “Believe in yourself, believe in your power, believe in your voice. Start somewhere because tomorrow starts today.” (Republic of Benin and USA)

Dr. Suchi Gaur is the Founder of Mission Hummingbirds and is on a new journey to resource the work that women and young women are doing in their local communities.  In this episode, Suchi discusses the story of hummingbirds and how this powerful and tiny bird has inspired her personally, appearing in challenging times in her life and giving her hope… the loss of her mother two years ago after fighting a strong battle with cancer and long COVID… understanding that everyone's journey through grief is different… not knowing how to process her grief, and then deciding to convert that grief into gratitude… the new organization, Mission Hummingbirds, that she recently founded to honor her inspiring mother… her goal of capitalizing on her 20 years in the development space to support, resource, and nurture women and young women to live their dreams through the concept of “Find, Foster, Fund”… that one of the biggest problems in the development sector is that most of the financial resources rarely reach the hands of women and young women in their communities… the importance of listening to  women and young women, trusting that they know how resources can be best used, and resourcing their work… and the reminder that “Every one of us can contribute to making the world a better place.”  (The Netherlands and India)

Akinyi Juma is the current Mrs. Universe Kenya 2024 and the founder of Rebirth of a Queen, a community-based organization with a mission to empower and include survivors of sexual & gender-based violence and human trafficking to become economically empowered. In this episode, Akinyi discusses how her own experiences as a survivor of sexual violence and domestic violence motivated her to launch Rebirth of a Queen five years ago and to give survivors a safe space and a home… the importance of ensuring that survivors are included in programming and decision-making, and that they are supported to become financially independent… how helping others heal has also helped her heal from her own trauma… the launch of a full economic empowerment program… recent attacks on the shelter and the process of identifying a new location for the shelter, in a safer community, and involving the community, community elders, local police, and other stakeholders… her daily prayer that she never lose her kindness and never stop being a safe space… the hopes and dreams of the young women she supports… her belief that this is divine work that she was called to do… her selection as Mrs. Universe Kenya 2024… the importance of reminding women that their voices are powerful, and of continuing to tell our own stories and embracing their power.  (Kenya)

Elisa Gambino began her career as a producer in the CNN Rome bureau.  After 15 years of covering conflict and upheavals  for CNN, she together with her partner and husband founded their own production company, One Production Place Films, where they devote their time, energy and talents to sharing stories about how we live in community with each other.  One of Elisa's recent projects was the catalyst for the largest environmental justice grant in the state of New York when the governor provided 150 million dollars for the city of Mount Vernon to repair their sewage systems.In this episode, Elisa discusses her early work as a journalist and how it still shapes her filmmaking… her work in the CNN Rome bureau… being sent with the team covering the fall of the Berlin Wall and facing the challenges and opportunities of handling new responsibilities as history unfolded… continuing to win new assignments in various regions of the world… “growing” into being a producer at CNN… meeting her husband, who was a cameraman at CNN… her experiences seeing communities destroyed because of conflicts that were oftentimes out of their control… the important role that the legendary Ingrid Formanek has played in her career, giving her increasing responsibilities and encouragement when they worked together, and encouragement that continues today… leaving CNN and deciding to pursue something totally new by opening a successful fresh pasta shop that eventually closed as a result of the economic crisis of 2008… with her partner and husband, founding a production company that focuses on community and how we live together… approaching documentary filmmaking from the vantage point of being observers rather than being part of the story they are sharing… being in a constant state of learning as she covers a wide range of issues in her filmmaking… still needed to remind herself to be her own best friend… the importance of asking ourselves how we can do better, and then working in community to change what needs to be changed… recognizing that we have the power to drive change… empowering others by letting them know that their voices matter and that people are listening.  (USA)

River Savante is 16 years old and has already set a world record as the youngest American female to summit Imja Tse in the Nepal Everest region, which is 20,500 ft. River is training to be the youngest American female to summit Mount Everest, scheduled for next May/June 2025. In this episode, River discusses going with her mother leading trips to Kathmandu after the 2015 earthquake in Nepal to help with humanitarian aid, and building earthquake-proof homes, and sponsoring schools… adding an Everest Base Camp trip to their expedition company as it evolved into a trekking company… being asked by her mother to return to Everest in 2022 to represent their company… learning from her mother about the importance of adapting to any situation, and watching her accomplish “incredible things” in foreign countries… knowing that the life lessons and skills that she has learned will help her when she goes off to college… living in Ulaanbaatar now, the capital of Mongolia and loving the vibe and feeling of this city… summiting Imja Tse, a mountain in the Himalayas of eastern Nepal, with a Sherpa guide teaching her the skills to use on Everest… living in Malaysia and meeting a three-times Everest summitter representing Malaysia, and accepting his invitation to train with his Malaysian Everest summiting team… her upcoming season in Nepal in October… her focus on school online with her high school in North Carolina, USA, that has been very supportive of her pursuing her dreams… reminding us that we are even more capable than we think we are, and that we can lead by example and follow our dreams, and support and encourage each other… the importance of offering compassion,  understanding, and listening to each other... and wanting women to know that it's so important to speak their truth and to stand up for themselves and their dreams. (USA and Nepal)Here is River's GoFundMe page... https://gofund.me/405b1ef9

Sadia Jahan Rothi is an Environmental and Climate Activist. She is the Board Director of Eco-Network Global, which is a youth-led organization. She started climate and environmental activism with Eco-Network in 2018 when she first witnessed how climate change has been affecting the lives of coastal regions people of Bangladesh. She is also a climate researcher, working at BRAC University.In this episode, Sadia discusses how she began environmental activism at University in 2018, and how it led to shifting her focus from environmental activism to climate activism. During a field trip from her university, she was conducting a survey and got the opportunity to interact with local people in the coastal region of Bangladesh. She got to know about the impact of climate change on their lives and livelihoods, especially the harmful effects of salinity intrusion on groundwater and agricultural land, resulting in the loss of livelihoods, health, and economy.  At a young age, her family's commitment to recycling and conserving water, then joining a group of like-minded young students at university, led her to work with Eco-Network Global, a youth-led organization now working in 25 countries.She emphasized the inclusion of youth voices not only in the formulation of National Plans and Policies but also a growing need for youth voices in policy implementation. She believes in being patient when it comes to activism for society because a change doesn't happen overnight. In the International Conferences where she attends, she always ensures to bring and represent the local voice. She believes in creating a safe space for women and girls where they can express their opinions and thoughts openly without being judged and mentoring them.  (Bangladesh)~ Episode description written by Sadia Jahan Rothi

Belinda Greb is an accomplished nature and wildlife photographer who has been influenced by her sense of belonging in, and connecting with, nature.In this episode, Belinda discusses growing up in a rural setting and finding solitude and peace in nature… her interest in photography and beginning her work as a professional photographer with landscape photography and transitioning to more of a focus on wildlife, photographing animals in their natural habitat, trying to capture their essence and translate that to others… the consciousness of animals… the increasing impact of climate change on wildlife and people… losing her home in the Oregon forest fires of 2020, and how that experience gave her even more compassion towards other people in other areas who are being affected by climate change or anything else that causes them to lose their home or their country… belonging… the beauty of nature as a pillar of strength… the importance of believing in ourselves, following our intuition, living life to the fullest, and not getting hung up on what other people think. (USA) https://belinda-greb.pixels.com/

Joan Kembabazi is a full time gender equality activist and she actively campaigns for an end to child marriage. Joan is also the founder of Gufasha Girls Foundation. In this episode, Joan discusses the reasons she campaigns and advocates for girls' education, for an end to child marriage, for every girl's right to thrive and to dream… her grief in losing her best friend, Gufasha Moureen, to child marriage at age 13, and Gufasha's death in childbirth… beginning community work and then, in 2016, founding Gufasha Girls Foundation to honor her friend's memory by working to end child marriage… how societal norms and traditional mindsets deny girls' right to education, and how girls' dreams, hopes, and childhoods are stolen by child marriage… her own father's and grandmother's commitment Joan's education… her grandmother's love and her role as a “strong pillar” in Joan's life… the role of teachers in encouraging her to use her voice to advocate for positive change in her community…  the importance of supporting girls in realizing that they are powerful, that they must believe in themselves, and that no one has the right to tell them that they cannot become the empowered person they want to be.  (Uganda)

Nisha Benny-Varghese is a humanitarian, storyteller and describes herself as “an aspiring Good Human Being” who tries to make a difference and inspire others to do the same. In this episode, Nisha discusses volunteering at Breath of Life, a children's home in East London, South Africa, that cares for abandoned and orphaned babies until they find a suitable home for them or until they are reunited with their families… her liberating experience ziplining in 2016 to raise funds for Smile Train to repair 42 cleft palates… how having cerebral palsy and needing help every day has inspired her philanthropy and volunteerism… the importance of not “labeling” people… getting great joy from the small things in life… practicing gratitude every morning and every night by mentioning to herself a list of things for which she is grateful… reminding us to use past pain to help someone else in the present… and this inspiring advice for us all, “Don't let anyone tell you that your voice doesn't matter.” (South Africa)

Tsehay Getu is a passionate chef who has a platform called Tsehay's Kitchen where she shares her love for food and culture.In this episode, Tsehay discusses how, in her childhood, her parents stressed the importance of education for her and her brothers… moving from Ethiopia to Sweden at a young age… the challenges of going through a divorce, being a single mom, and moving to the U.S… feeling alone and moving on with her life by not giving up during challenging times… starting to cook, learning over time, and falling in love with food, her playground, her “happy place”… overcoming gender biases in the food industry… her first post on Instagram, 11 years ago, showing videos about the food she loves… the importance of love and of not taking things for granted… and the importance of loving ourselves, and of listening, having more compassion, and supporting each other. (Sweden and Ethiopia)

Dr. Oliver-Burgess is a senior humanitarian and development expert with experience working in complex emergencies and post-conflict contexts, including regions of Middle East, Central Asia, West and East Africa, Eastern Europe, and Central America. Angela is the Founder and President of the non-profit organization SMILE for Budgie, which she started in honor of her late husband, Paul “Budgie” Burgess.In this episode, Angela discusses the phased work of humanitarian aid workers in crisis situations and of development workers in addressing the needs of communities moving forward… from an early age, her life's calling to be of service to others… working in a male-dominated field, learning not to take things too personally, and asking, “Where is the higher goal here? What are we all trying to work for?”… overcoming fear and dealing with trauma at your own pace… the work of SMILE for Budgie and the man who inspired it, believing that there is no reason why any child needs to live in violence… providing educational and psychosocial assistance for young people in the system of care, and ensuring that their voices are heard… collaborating with all Agencies working in child welfare to identify community-based solutions… the importance of encouraging young people to believe that what they say matters and to embrace their own authentic voice.  (USA)

Maureen Twahirwa is a Rwandan citizen and a mother who is passionate about advocating for women, girls and young people.  She has worked in the private sector, as well as in national and international organizations to make that difference.In this episode, Maureen discusses her recent move from Rwanda to South Sudan, wanting to do more for communities while also pursuing career growth… working to end to gender-based violence and to advance everyone's rights, with a focus on the rights of women, girls, and young people… the great strength and potential of young people in creating positive change… the gap in gender quality… combining her career with her responsibilities as a mother… involving her family and children in her decision to work in South Sudan, and the role of technology in staying connected with her family… the importance of seeking help from the support system around us… and encouraging every woman and every girl to use their voice to encourage or advocate for others… using her own voice to make a difference in terms of policy changes, programming and services for those whose voices are not heard yet they contribute to peace and sustainable development. (Rwanda)

Helen Tai has already held many roles in her life.  She has had successful careers as an entrepreneur and innovator in Corporate America and, at the same time, has been highly engaged in public service.  Helen has held local and State elected offices and continues to be committed to advocacy and addressing injustices in her community and beyond.In in this episode, Helen discusses childhood experiences that shaped her later engagement in politics,  including being an environmentalist at a young age and facing racism as one of very few Asian Americans in her school… the progression of her political engagement from voting in all elections and writing to express her opinions to elected officials, on to various forms of political activism, and then successfully running for local and State elected offices… her focus on engaging the public to speak up and to show up for positive change… her experience as the only female on a community board… working for restrictions on gun access in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including universal background checks… voting as a sacred right and privilege, and the importance of educating ourselves about issues and candidates… ways we can use our individual talents in supporting the political process… doing our part to change the world. (USA)   

Franka Cadée, PhD is a midwife, an anthropologist, a mother, a gardener and avid rower. Franka's passion in life has been sexual and reproductive justice and she is currently Director of Global Initiatives at Maternity Foundation in Copenhagen.In this episode, Franka discusses the origins of her passion for sexual and reproductive justice… the politics of aid… studying anthropology and, within that, medical anthropology… her decision to leave academia and to become a midwife… midwifery as a fantastic profession that is deeply important to women, their families, and their community… her definition of “a good birth”… how people can become powerful and strong when they can access the rights they deserve…midwives as a marginalized group globally whose knowledge has not been valued and has been medicalized in many ways… her former role as President of the International Confederation of Midwives… the important leadership quality of asking for help… overcoming a fear of public speaking… the global, skills-building work of Maternity Foundation that supports midwives and skilled birth attendants in facilitating safer births… our responsibility to support each other and to use our voice, because our voice matters. (Denmark and The Netherlands)

Hawa Bah is originally from Guinea, in West Africa. Hawa moved to the UK in 2007. As a survivor of FGM and child marriage, She created an organization called HawaDal-Peaceful Mind to end FGM.  Hawa also works for Touchstone in partnership with the National Health Service to advocate for girls who are FGM survivors and for Solace, an organization that works with refugees and asylum seekers. In 2022, Hawa received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.  Hawa is also the owner of Mahin Ka Men, a catering business.In this episode, Hawa discusses her advocacy to end FGM in the U.K. and globally… the pain and trauma she experienced as a survivor of FGM at 8 or 9 years old, and her forced child marriage at 13 years old in Guinea the country where she was born… her strength in surviving… faith, forgiveness, and moving on… the significance of being recognized with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service… the importance of being respected, values, and recognized… appreciating being able to stay in the U.K., where she can make her own decisions and use her voice to help end FGM… the need for education, investment, and the involvement of community members in the flight to end FGM. (United Kingdom and Guinea, West Africa) 

Fernanda Vázquez is a decolonial feminist and activist in women's rights and sexual and reproductive rights.In this episode, Fernanda discusses studying International Relations at university… attending the Women's March in México City with her mother… learning about feminism during the pandemic, becoming a decolonial feminist, and being inspired by Angela Davis… having a very good childhood, with her parents allowing her to make many decisions for herself… observing her parents share the responsibilities of the household… being aware of the high rates of violence against women in her country and, at an early age, pretesting street harassment when she observed her mother experiencing it… the importance of young people's participation in political discussions and decisions, and the privilege of having the opportunity to speak in events related to the United Nations general Assembly in September, 2023… positive change that is coming from grassroots organizations and from the leadership of young people… believing that we can work together to have a better world… advocacy for women's rights, including the right to decide what they want to do with their bodies, the right to education, and the right to avoid early marriage and to choose whether or not that want to be married at all… the importance of mentorship and of intergenerational dialogs… the role of support networks for young people where they can speak and develop themselves. (México)

Yodit Kifle Smith is a daughter, sister, wife, friend to many, and now also the mother of a precious daughter, a role she treasures deeply.  Among her many other roles, Yodit is the co-host of the Power of Stories Podcast In this episode, Yodit discusses her new role as a mom… learning to see the world through her daughter's eyes… facing fears in parenthood, and overcoming those fears… trusting God and the strength that He gives… distinguishing between rational fears and irrational ones… how her own experiences inspired her to create a series of online workshops to help pregnant moms be more prepared for their first year of motherhood, honestly and openly sharing real-life experiences rather than romanticized descriptions of what to expect… the “aloneness” often felt by new moms… matrescence, the transition into motherhood… the importance of asking for help, and knowing that you are not alone… and how we can all take the time to encourage the people who are right next to us. (USA)

Ana Laura Araya is the Co-Founder of Soy Niña. She has worked in nonprofit organizations and private foundations since she finished college.  Ana Laura studied Journalism and Photography but during the past years she has worked in fundraising, event planning and communications in nonprofit organizations.  Currently, she is finishing a certificate degree in Nonprofit Management from Harvard Extension School.  Ana Laura is very passionate about the rights of girls. In this episode, Ana Laura discusses the inspiration to start a non-profit organization focused on young girls, Soy Niña, and the organization's work to empower girls in vulnerable communities, beginning at age six, and working with girls through ninth grade… her move from Costa Rica to the U.S. at age twelve, how that move affected her life and then, ten years ago, following her intuition and moving back to Costa Rica… the importance of discovering the essence of what makes us unique and of not comparing ourselves to others and … the importance of listening to your heart… reminding us all to believe that girls' opinions matter, to listen to girls, and to realize that, most often, they know what is best for themselves. (Costa Rica)

Theodora Biney-Amissah is a first-generation Ghanaian-American, a community and women's public health and impact professional, a birthworker-entrepreneur and family caregiver.  Theodora is deeply committed to helping pregnant, birthing, and postpartum women and people and their families navigate reproductive and maternal health care, particularly postpartum healing and recovery with doula support, community care and education.In this episode, Theodora discusses growing up in a large family of many cousins, and learning lessons in childhood about caring for people in community… being called a doula years before she actually became one… after college, her experiences working in public health and working with midwives… volunteering in women's shelters… practicing self-care by taking time to pause… setting boundaries for herself in her different roles… her experiences of being a family caregiver at various times in her life… gaps in community and national maternal healthcare… learning many things from her grandmother, who was an entrepreneur, as is her mother… encouraging community members to discuss health concerns and issues… her role in getting people to think about what they want for themselves regarding their maternal health journeys, and what they don't want… the importance for us to believe that we are all unique and have gifts to share in the world. Saa Yare Boah Doula Care LLC (USA)

Yasmina Benslimane is a feminist activist, consultant, and women empowerment coach.  Yasmina is the founder of Politics4Her, a non-profit organization that advocates for greater political participation of young women and girls. In this episode, Yasmina discusses bring born in Morocco, living in Dubai, and her early exposure to different countries and cultures… after living in several countries, seeing herself as a global citizen… facing racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia… tokenism and other experiences of young leaders and advocates who are working for positive change… the importance of being outspoken and of speaking truth to power… the role of her mother, and her own role, in helping her believe in herself… the power of social media platforms for young people… launching Politics4Her in 2017, first as a blog and then expanding into digital advocacy, capacity-building, and a movement for more inclusive involvement of young women and girls in politics… approaches for dealing with online hate… the importance of being kind to ourselves and of celebrating what we have accomplished.  (Morocco and Puerto Rico)      

Ruchi is a Medical Doctor and a Public Health professional in India. She also writes blogs and articles as chronicles of her journey of evolution as an individual.  In this episode, Dr. Ruchi discusses her parents' expectations that she would become a Medical Doctor… moving to a new city for medical school, and her openness to new experiences while there… her exploration and path to a career and Public Health… making unconventional choices… the importance of internal exploration and introspection for us all, and awareness of our full being… seeking and listening to advice and guidance from others… how gender norms affected her professional life… learning from mistakes and moving on… and the importance of being self-aware, and of breaking through the boundaries of other peoples' perceptions and our own. (India)

Linda Joy is the Storytelling Guide and Bestselling Publisher at Inspired Living Publishing (ILP)  AND Publisher of the beloved Aspire Magazine-the premiere inspirational magazine for women.  Since 2010, through ILP's Authentic Storytelling™ model and sacred anthology division, over 260 women have overcome their writing blocks and embraced their inner storyteller to become bestselling authors while healing part of themselves in the process. In this episode, Linda discusses deserving a life that aligns with the truth of who we are… living an authentic life… shedding the SHOULDs and HAVE TOs in order to live an intentional life… tapping into and building a relationship with our inner wisdom… the important role of journaling and of having conversations with our Sacred Self and with our fear… the pivotal moment that inspired her to transform her life “from the inside out”… the power of our thoughts and beliefs in determining our future… staying focused on being the highest and best version of herself… how other people's stories can help us during our periods of transformation… the importance of sharing our stories and of remembering the truth of who we are.  Linda is offering you a free magazine and bonus gifts at www.SubscribetoAspire.com

Eva Nangalo is a midwife working in Nakaseke General Hospital in Uganda.  In April, 2023 Eva was featured in Bill Gates's Heroes in the Field. In this episode, Eva her belief that she was born to be a midwife and as a little girl growing up in rural Uganda, telling her mother that she wanted to be a midwife… having a challenging relationship with her father in her early years, his taking her away from her mother, and his insistence that she become a teacher even though that was not her dream… being forced into a marriage that she did not want and then having her first child… fulfilling her dream of becoming a registered midwife… faith and the grace of God… forgiveness healing her heart… being recognized and acknowledged internationally for her passion for midwifery and her commitment to saving the lives of mothers and babies… her excitement at being featured in Bill Gates's Heroes in the Field… the importance for us all to be bold, be strong, work hard and be proud.  (Uganda)

A pan-African feminist with roots in Cameroon, Françoise Moudouthe is passionate about supporting African feminist movements to thrive. In January 2021, she became the CEO of the African Women's Development Fund, a pan-African women's fund that provides financial and other resources to African women's organizations working towards the fulfillment of all African women's rights. Prior to joining AWDF, Françoise established Eyala, a bilingual platform that amplifies the voices and lived experiences of African feminists, and worked as an international consultant for gender justice in Africa. Earlier in her career, she played an instrumental role in setting up Girls Not Brides, the global civil society partnership to end child marriage, and in spearheading its growth in Africa. Françoise is a Board member of  the Equality Fund and Prospera.In this episode, Françoise discusses how her many conversations with women throughout her life fostered an early fascination with justice and ignited her passion for activism and movements to end injustice… being an outspoken girl, growing up in Cameroon, and using her voice to make her opinions known… moving to France as a teenager with her mother and the adversities that her mother faced because her competencies were not recognized in her new country… what Françoise learned from her mother's decisions and how they shaped her own choices about who she is and about and how she uses her voice… learning about feminism from conversations with, and the actions of,  women working to address the structural inequities they face…. defining her identity as an African feminist who is passionate about ensuring that movements work, and thrive… loving to make space for those who are systematically marginalized by listening to their stories and amplifying their stories and their voices… understanding that there is knowledge and power in our daily stories… the importance of creating space for people, and particularly women, to ask questions and reacting to those with empathy, and not judgment.  (Cameroon)

Clare Schexnyder describes herself as a "Woman of the World, Mother, Founder, Entrepreneur, Producer, Community Organizer, Activist, and Ally."  Clare has packed a few careers into her life so far. A producer for CNN for 17 years, she covered politics, breaking news stories and war zones. She left CNN after the birth of her child and founded her own company called, "Oh Baby! Fitness" in 2005. Clare had serious postpartum depression after her son was born, and the friendships she made in a new parent support group, and the daily long walks she took with new friends (and some anti-depressants) literally saved her life and gave her the idea for creating a business that is now international. Oh Baby! Fitness offers pregnancy and mom & baby exercise classes, and also trains fitness, medical and birth professionals in pre and postnatal exercise worldwide. Clare is also a community organizer, political activist and advocate for transgender kids. In this episode, Clare shares her story of being a producer at CNN, her struggle with postpartum depression, and her realization about community and exercise being life-saving. Clare also shares about her later breast cancer diagnosis, and how she learned to accept help. It was a lesson that she immediately put into daily practice  when her Mom was diagnosed with brain cancer just 6 weeks after Clare had a double mastectomy. Clare's story about the power of community and the power of asking for and accepting help inspires us. She tells us about the importance of showing up, of listening, of speaking up and, most importantly, of taking action to drive change in our communities to help our friends and neighbors. She did it in her hometown of Atlanta and helped spark others to do it across the country and around the world. We think you'll love hearing her story in her own words. (USA)

Fithriyyah is a Doctor of Medicine and an environment youth activist since 2015.  She is working on Planetary Health & Environmental Rights issues for her advocacy work at the moment. Fithriyyah has spoken at many international high-level policy consultation forums, representing youth locally and regionally, especially at the UN and ASEAN forums.  In this episode, Fithriyyah discusses her passion for environmental issues as a young leader, and the impact of environmental change on health… joining local movements for youth activism before attending medical school… understanding at a young age that she would need to work hard to reach her dreams… studying environmental effects on human health… joining the ASEAN Youth Forum, a youth community from 11 ASEAN countries… the importance of meaningful youth participation throughout the process of policy change at local, national, and international levels… language and financial barriers that impede young people from participating in international conferences and forums… climate change and its effects, especially on marginalized communities… the importance of each of us making small changes to have a positive effect on the environment… ensuring that we provide space and support for young people… and the remainder that we can all make change in our community. (Indonesia)

Asfiya Rahman is a writer who has written three novels and numerous articles. She also loves to read and travel. In this episode, Asfiya discusses the power of childhood dreams… her experience having open-minded, supportive parents, even when she was making decisions about the educational path she would pursue… choosing to study commerce, and then pursuing an MBA… teaching… rediscovering her love of writing after the birth of her daughter, and then switching careers to become a writer… the importance of asking for help, and also offering help and advice to others… deciding that what you need is important, and making yourself a priority… education, and the choices it gives you… validating and helping empower others by listening to them… the importance of sharing your experiences because “just by sharing your experiences, you could be making a world of difference to someone.” (India)

Judith Staff is a primary school teacher, and mainly teaches Early Years.  She has left teaching a few times to work with women and girls who have survived physical and sexual violence and abuse.  For the past few years, Judith has worked on a government-funded violence reduction initiative for young children aged 3 and up. Judith is married and has three teenage children. In this episode, Judith discusses her catalogue of complex childhood trauma which took her an a winding career pathway, to currently teaching a government-funded violence reduction program for 3 to 6 year-olds in areas where there are high levels of violence.  Judith is committed to amplifying the voices of children,  helping them develop self-worth and self-belief, and advocating for little girls so they know that what they have to say is important and that their voices will be heard. (England)

Janet Nestor is a spiritual seeker, wife, mother, grandmother, author… licensed clinical Mental Health Counselor… Diplomat in Comprehensive Energy Psychology… and Energy Medicine Practitioner who loves animals, trees, and all of mother nature's family of life!In this episode, Janet discusses her award-winning book, Pathways to Wholeness… living mindfully in peace and love… our natural relaxation response… Radiant Energies Balance, a practice which she helped develop… the importance of spending time and finding peace in Nature… our connection  mindful meditation… self-love, self-care, self-worth and self-confidence… growing up on a farm and developing a compassionate view of animals that are raised for food… moving meditation, including the ancient medication called “shaking and breathing” to quiet the mind… broadening our definition of meditation, and finding the quiet oasis within us… walking meditation… Tai chi and the flow of energy in our body… events in her childhood that motivated her to become a mental health counselor… encouraging women to claim their power by seeing them, hearing them, listening to them, and recognizing who they are and what their needs may be, and supporting them in speaking their truth. (USA)

Rinki Sharma is a positive change-maker who believes in change and living life with a purpose.In this episode, Rinki discusses her passion as a change-maker and her belief that we can all inspire and act for change in our communities… the importance of a positive mindset and of believing in yourself… the need for flexibility in a fast-changing world, and understanding how to engage others in making needed change… agency and having the courage to speak out, and the turning point in her life when she joined the “She Creates Change” community of change.org which motivated her to use Twitter for good, connecting her with more purpose-driven communities including #ThePowerOfStories, #SpiritChat, and #SayftyChat… reframing a harsh criticism by understanding “the power of zero”… learning from the people around us, even those who do not treat us well… the importance of saying “no” and of claiming responsibility for our life, for our decisions, and for setting our boundaries… choosing to encourage and inspire others by empowering them, and by not judging them. (India)

Pauline Juma is from Kajido, Kenya. She is a mother, a storyteller and the Director and Founder of Rebirth of A Queen.  In this episode, Pauline discusses founding Rebirth of A Queen, a safe-house that works to empower teenage survivors of sexual violence by giving them the opportunity to heal, to learn, and to pursue their dreams… being labeled a “rebel” as a girl…intergenerational trauma… growing up in poverty… her seven years of silence after surviving sexual violence and being threatened to tell no one about the assault… the process of healing, and how writing poetry helped her… mental health and resilience… her mother's lessons about forgiveness, and her own understanding that forgiveness is a journey and a process… disconnecting forgiveness from religion… the healing power of writing encouraging letters to herself, especially to the former girl that she was at 16 and to the young woman she was at 23… learning to say “No” without feeling guilty when someone asks for help, and saying “Let me think about it” instead…and the importance of telling one's own story. (Kenya)  

Anu Bhatnagar is a catalyst of self-love and meditative living, living every day in perfect balance of spiritually and business successes. In this episode, Anu discusses the importance of self-love and the opportunity to introduce this at a much earlier time in the lives of girls, women, boys and men… how gender inequality drives systemic inequities in women's health globally, in addition to defining a woman's role and purpose in her family and community… how lack of access to basic healthcare or basic health needs impacts women, and lack of access to basic menstrual products can affect a girl's access to education, and lead to early marriage and early motherhood… inadequate information about how cholesterol, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and heart disease affect women differently than the way these medical conditions generally affect men… incidence of women's health concerns being dismissed with the phrase “It's in your head.”… ways to overcome fear of speaking out in front of large groups of people… the importance of making self-love, self-care, and self-acceptance a part of our everyday life, and of giving ourselves time to know ourselves better.  (India and The United Arab Emirates)

 Sharon Kathryn D'Agostino is a passionate advocate for the empowerment of women and girls, and for the human rights of all.  She is the founder of the story-sharing platform, SayItForward.org, cohost of this podcast, and leader of monthly Women's Circles that she hosts online.  Sharon believes in the power of stories to spark our compassion for ourselves and for others, and to recognize that we are all connected.In this episode, Sharon discusses SayItForward.org and her passion for women and girls being able to tell their stories in their own words… some reasons why women and girls share their stories, and how they inspire her every day… learning to speak up for herself and encouraging other women to do the same when they are not being heard… the importance of listening with an open heart and with the intention of understanding others… the role of mentors in her own life, beginning with her parents, and how this cultivated her passion for mentoring others… the celebration of recording 50 episodes of The Power Of Stories podcast… reminding everyone of how unique and important their own stories are… and the importance of listening to women and girls, helping them feel heard, and encouraging them to believe that they are powerful. (USA)

Dr. Sophia Yen is the CEO and Co-Founder of Pandia Health and is Board Certified in Adolescent Medicine, having graduated from MIT, UCSF Medical School, and UC Berkeley with a MPH in Maternal Child Health. She serves as a clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Adolescent Medicine at Stanford Medical School. Dr. Yen added to her career as a physician to be an entrepreneur and advocate, launching several corporate and non-profit initiatives focused on women's reproductive health and empowerment such SheHeroes.org , fffl.co (Female Founded, Female Led), and the Silver Ribbon Campaign to Trust Women. In this episode, Dr. Yen discusses life experiences that influences her passion for adolescent medicine and for adolescents' rights to comprehensive sex ed and access tp birth control… how her parents helped her build self-confidence and intellectual curiosity at a young age… the importance of prioritizing family time, and of being a parent and not a friend… signs that an adolescent may be experiencing mental health challenges, and seeking mental health care… 988 - the Suicide & Crisis Helpline in the U.S… believing in yourself… SheHeroes.org… #StopSuckingItUp… and encouraging us all to speak up and not be afraid to ask for help.  (USA) PandiaHealth.com

Olaoluwa Abagun is a lawyer working in gender & development. Ola is the Executive Director of ATHENA and she is the Mom to a sassy one-year-old girl. In this episode, Ola discusses ATHENA, a global feminist network that seeks to advance gender equality and human rights and that elevates the voices of young women and girls in the HIV response… the status of women and girls in society… how her parents unknowingly set her on the path of feminism by modeling the importance of education and of gender equity and equality, and by encouraging her, even as a young girl, to use her voice and to speak up… her first step into advocacy as an opinionated 13-year-old selected as a representative to the Children's Parliament in Lagos, Nigeria, and learning about the challenges that many other girls were facing, including exclusion from education, child marriage, child trafficking, child labor, FGM, and rape… being an overachiever and multitasker for most of her life, and then feeling isolated and overwhelmed as a new mom… therapy… learning to be kind to herself… unrealistic expectations… the importance of giving yourself grace… emphasizing sisterhood and looking out for the women in your life and around your life who need your support. (Nigeria)

Known by her Indigenous name, Medicine Song Woman, London Ontario-based JUNO-winning artist Brenda MacIntyre is a mixed-blood Cree keynote speaker, singer, and healer.  Brenda's signature Medicine Song Healing & Reading Sessions, keynotes, workshops and Picking Up the Pieces 13 Moon Resilience and Reawakening program help women living with grief, trauma and chronic pain to heal and enrich their lives.In this episode, Brenda discusses her first experience as a song-catcher in a healing session with Indigenous grandmothers… the impact of trauma and grief… having the courage to sing on stage for the first time at 17 years old… moving to Toronto to begin her music career… the way society has “set up” women for perfectionism… searching for a sense of belonging… the importance of breathing into our bellies to access the truth of who we are, and to access our intuition… helping women find their voice… advice from women elders to take care of ourselves first, when we are conditioned to do the opposite… the importance of identifying simple, easy ways to “fill ourselves up”… the death of her son in 2016… the process of exploring who she really was and deciding to be herself… internalized, systemic racism… holding a space for other women's voices to be heard… the lasting impact of trauma and grief… the many benefits of singing, and finding a way to really fall in love with your voice. (Canada) https://medicinesongwoman.com/

Dr. Samantha Brown-Parks is a family medicine physician who started her career as a doctor in the Army. She is a mother of two boys and she also helps her family with their local business. Her goal in life is to learn as much as she can about people to help them, and to keep life fun. In this episode, Dr. Brown-Parks discusses growing up in a small agricultural town, where the community had little access to medical care… her early interest in and commitment to education and academic achievement… being accepted to medical school when she was just 19 years old, and joining the Army as a doctor at 23… her experiences as a young woman in the military… the importance of first impressions… leaving the Army and earning a Masters of Public Health… joining a medical practice and completing a university faculty development fellowship… teaching medical students and guiding them how to relate to and listen to their patients… fear as a motivator, or as a detractor… imposter syndrome… noticing the signs that it is time “move on” to something new… consulting as a medical expert for broadcast media… and reminding us all of the importance of being a role model. (USA)

Armel Sylva is a youth education activist who advocates of the rights of girls and women.  She is a STEM Educator at IMARA Comoros and is now studying in Cameroon to complete a Masters in Interpretations.  In this episode, Armel discusses her education, including completing a BA in English in her country, where the official languages are French, Comorian, and Arabic… challenging cultural gender norms and playing football as a girl… the importance of listening to her inner voice when others were telling her that she should not be playing football… believing in herself and encouraging other girls and young women to overcome gender norms and expectations… volunteering at IMARA Comoros, a youth-led NGO that educates girls and youth, and having opportunities to attend international meetings and conferences… being a change-maker for gender equality in her community and internationally… opening doors for other young people… knowing that there are people who supported her in silence and who were unseen mentors… encouraging us all to dream, to believe in ourselves, to believe in our work, and to be willing to make sacrifices to achieve our dreams… reminding young people that the world belongs to them and that they are its drivers. (Comoros)