Our Voices Matter Podcast

Linda Lorelle

Our stories have the power to bring us closer together, if only we will listen. Emmy Award-winning journalist and entrepreneur, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, intimate conversations that reveal our common humanity. This show is not about politics; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves. read less
Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

How to Forge Our Differences into a Stronger Future - Denise Hamilton
Mar 6 2024
How to Forge Our Differences into a Stronger Future - Denise Hamilton
As American school children, we learned it by heart, and recited it every day."I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America..."But how often did we then, and do we now, think about the meaning behind the words? "...one nation. Under God. Indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."IndivisibleWhat does it mean to be indivisible? It's a question Denise Hamilton explores with intelligence, empathy and disarming approachability in her groundbreaking debut as an author."Indivisible: How to Forge Our Differences into a Stronger Future" grabs you by the throat on page one of the Prologue, and doesn't let you go.Through deft storytelling, research and personal reflection, Hamilton challenges us to re-think what it means to build diversity and inclusion in a polarized world where the words and the concepts are increasingly demonized.It's Not About a ChecklistHamilton is a nationally recognized workplace culture and DEI expert, and CEO of WatchHerWork, a digital learning platform for professional women.She has helped hundreds of companies recognize that meeting their DEI goals, if they still have them, is not about a checklist.It's about helping organizations figure out what their guiding principles are -- and whether they choose to act on them.It's about maximizing the gifts of everyone involved so that they and the organization can thrive.Beyond the WorkplaceWhat's so powerful about Hamilton's approach is that it applies far beyond the workplace into every aspect of our relationships, both professional and personal.The book is chock full of examples that allow you to see yourself in a given scenario, and then challenges you to re-examine your beliefs.It reveals the power within each of us to enact positive change, and gives us the tools to do so.Denise is a return guest who first shared her thoughtful perspective with the OVM community shortly after we launched.We couldn't be more proud to have Denise back to share her powerful new book.It's exactly what we need to help unify our fractured world.Support the show
How to Keep College Campuses from Becoming Political Battlegrounds - Manu Meel
Jan 18 2024
How to Keep College Campuses from Becoming Political Battlegrounds - Manu Meel
What is driving the recent conflict on college campuses? One obvious factor is reaction to the Israel-Hamas War.But my guest this week isn’t sure it’s quite that simple. As CEO of the non-profit, BridgeUSA, 25 year-old Manu Meel is in constant contact with students on more than 70 campuses across the country.The organization helps facilitate conversations among college and high school students with idealogical differences.In the days and weeks following the October 7th massacre of Israelis by Hamas, Bridge USA heard plenty from its student members.“There was a lot of pain, there was a lot of confusion as to what to do on campus,” says Manu. “And then as the news cycle started going and as what I call the elite Twitter crowd went to play, and as people started to essentially lose sight of what had happened and focus on what’s the broader implication, what’s my tribe going to say and how do I make the most of this moment — I think then you saw that trickle down into campuses. “Tribal Politics on Campus Political protest on campus is nothing new. But America’s tribal politics have reached a fever pitch, finding a fertile home where the freedom to explore and express, typically a welcome right of passage, is now emblazoned with an asterisk.*Speak your mind at the risk of being demonized by “the other”.*Explore divergent points of view at the risk of angering your tribe.*Express your opinion at the risk of being cancelled, or worse..Glimmer of HopeIt’s no surprise that the tension on college campuses is a microcosm of the tension in America.But there is a glimmer of hope, Manu assures us, and it’s on these very college campuses.It’s just that we don’t often hear about it in the media.You’ll hear about it now as Manu helps unpack the nuances of this complex topic.This remarkable young leader kicks off the 6th year of Our Voices Matter, sharing thoughtful insight on the generation tasked with leading us into the future.One that will hopefully remind us how to have civil, constructive conversations with those who look and think differently than we do.A future where we celebrate and embrace our common humanity rather than blind allegiance to our tribes.www.ourvoicesmatterpodcast.comwww.lorellemedia.comThis podcast is devoted to empowering us all to better understand each other's differences...one story at a time.  Emmy Award-winning journalist, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, unexpected conversations that reveal our common humanity.  This show is not about politics per se; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves.Support the show
How Jewish and Arab Israelis Seek Pieces of Peace During War
Nov 29 2023
How Jewish and Arab Israelis Seek Pieces of Peace During War
The eyes of the world are trained on Israel and Gaza like no time in recent memory.The horror of October 7th ignited a firestorm that will reverberate for generations to come.Yet, in the midst of unfathomable pain borne by families on both sides of the Israel Hamas War, there is an ongoing search for pieces of peace.Jewish and Arab Israelis working together toward a shared society.Even now.Especially now.Shared SocietyWhen I learned about the work of Givat Haviva, I knew this was a conduit to having a constructive conversation — not so much about the war itself — but the humans who are impacted and simply want peace.Even when it comes in pieces.For the last 74 years, Givat Haviva has brought together Jews and Arabs who live in Israel to work toward a shared society.One that recognizes the dignity and rights of all its citizens, including the 20% of Israelis who are Arab.Michal Sella and Mohammad Darawshe work side by side to make the mission of Givat Haviva a reality.She as CEO of the non-profit, and he as Director of Strategy, together they lead a team of Jewish and Arab Israelis to create the model society they want to live in.With a focus on education, language instruction, culture, and art, their programs bring Arabs and Jews face to face, often for the first time in their lives.Their efforts became exponentially more difficult on October 7th.Doing the WorkIn Givat Haviva’s October 2023 newsletter, Sella writes:“Together with the insufferable anxiety and loss, it is important for me to call your attention to the emergence of other human traits –compassion, demonstrations of responsibility, and coping.Givat Haviva now faces two major tasks. The first is to help, to the extent possible, civilians and families from the south who were compelled to leave their homes after the most ruthless experiences one can imagine.The second is to do everything in our power to maintain the calm internally in Israel – to protect the rights of all citizens of Israel, and to protect proper relations between Jews and Arabs within the State of Israel.”And that is what they are doing, as they cope with their own feelings of anxiety, anger and uncertainty about the future of their families.It isn’t easy. But Sella and Darawshe remain committed to doing the work.The Road to PeaceDisillusioned with Israeli leadership, neither has faith in a top down approach to achieving their goal of a shared society.They are convinced that the road to peace starts from the bottom up — with human to human interaction.So their efforts focus on breaking down barriers and fostering relationships.Talking. Listening. Learning.EngagiSupport the show
How To Belong, Not Just Fit In - Dumpling Dudez
Jun 29 2023
How To Belong, Not Just Fit In - Dumpling Dudez
It’s been inspiring to see our friends in the LGBTQ+ community celebrate and be celebrated during Pride Month.Though, I must say I long for the day when we don’t need a specific month to acknowledge the humanity of those who are marginalized.No matter who we love, what our race, how we pray or how we identify, we matter. We are human. We belong.But until that day, I am grateful for each month that shines a spotlight on stories too often overlooked.Stories that teach us and show us the full, beautiful complexity of what makes us human.An Unlikely Story UnfoldsAs Pride Month 2023 wraps up, I was reminded of a delightful and enlightening conversation I had with two men determined to figure out how to belong, not just fit in.Chih Lin’s posts on LinkedIn caught my attention a couple of years ago. So, I reached out and before I knew it, I was interviewing him and his husband, Michael Dorsey.My first question: What on earth possessed two engineers to ditch their corporate jobs in oil and gas, take a leap of faith and launch a business making dumplings? And from there, the unlikely story unfolds, taking us along on their quest to simply be who they are.To stop twisting themselves into knots, just to fit in.What would it feel like to truly belong?Because they took that leap of faith, now they know.www.ourvoicesmatterpodcast.comwww.lorellemedia.comThis podcast is devoted to empowering us all to better understand each other's differences...one story at a time.  Emmy Award-winning journalist, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, unexpected conversations that reveal our common humanity.  This show is not about politics per se; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves.Support the show
How Humor Leads to Hope for Humanity - Nick Anderson
Jun 15 2023
How Humor Leads to Hope for Humanity - Nick Anderson
I can hear my dad saying it now: “I have to laugh to keep from crying.” As a little girl, I didn’t quite get it.But now I do. And it’s safe to say, these days, that’s how most of us feel.Up is down. Fake is real. Fact is fiction. The world has gone mad.And we’re all choosing sides — scared to death of what this chaos means for our future.So. How to cope with it all?…My guest this week chooses laughter over tears. And he’s talented enough to bring us along for the ride.Storied HistoryThis week, our nation made history with the arrest and arraignment of the 45th President of the United States.Certainly, no laughing matter.But then a political cartoon from Nick Anderson hit my inbox.I was reminded of the long and storied history of this creative art form, under attack in recent years.And why I asked Nick to sit down with me shortly after he and a group of fellow Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonists launched Counterpoint a couple of years ago.8 from the Right. 8 from the Left. Churning out an online newsletter with competing cartoons about the biggest stories of the day. Including the one from this week.The Power of Political CartoonsAs Counterpoint continues to thrive, Nick’s contributions to the political landscape now extend to his role as Managing Editor of Reform Austin News.And while he and his team of investigative journalists help Texans understand state politics and politicians, his sketch pad remains by his side.As stated in Counterpoint, “Political cartoons have shaped our country from its earliest days.They create the kind of political environment our country needs right now: a balanced, uncensored debate with enough humor to make these critical topics approachable for the dinner table, and to invite healthy discussions among friends.A nation divided by opinion cannot stand, but a nation composed of diverse opinions and lively debate will land on the best possible consensus. Cartoons can help us get there.”We need all the help we can get.Support the show
How Gen Z Leaders are Strengthening our Democracy - Manu Meel
May 18 2023
How Gen Z Leaders are Strengthening our Democracy - Manu Meel
“We cannot coexist if we cannot talk to each other — it’s that simple.”And that complicated. Yet the leaders of BridgeUSA are determined to meet the challenge.This 7 year-old non-profit is “building a student movement to bring the country together”, led by a dynamic CEO and return guest to Our Voices Matter, Manu Meel.Lessons LearnedWhen we first spoke with Manu over a year ago, he was about to embark upon a nationwide campaign across college campuses, aptly called “Let’s F*#king Talk to Each Other“.I was eager to find out how it went, what lessons were learned, and how the organization is making progress in its mission to fight political division.Manu more than delivers in this follow-up conversation, offering perspective and insight that belie his youth.And perhaps most important, he offers hope. I don’t know about you, but I sure need some of that.The Hopeful MajorityThere’s even a bit of breaking news: Manu and BridgeUSA are joining the world of podcasting.“The Hopeful Majority” podcast launches May 29th.As a member of the OVM community, I’m sure you join me in welcoming Manu to this space.We certainly need more amplification of our majority voices in the middle, the 80% who are far too often drowned out by the extreme voices that drive our political narrative.Yes, our voices matter, too.www.ourvoicesmatterpodcast.comwww.lorellemedia.comThis podcast is devoted to empowering us all to better understand each other's differences...one story at a time.  Emmy Award-winning journalist, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, unexpected conversations that reveal our common humanity.  This show is not about politics per se; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves.Support the show
How Art, Activism & the Power of Listening Create Change - Jordan Seaberry
Mar 30 2023
How Art, Activism & the Power of Listening Create Change - Jordan Seaberry
Talking with Jordan Seaberry is like wrapping up in a warm blanket on a frigid, winter night.You still feel the cold, but the softness enveloping you takes the edge off.Our chaotic world churns constantly, spewing more mayhem, but somehow, we still have hope.Jordan and others of his generation give me the sense that ultimately, we’ll be ok.What is an Artist?But not without doing the work, and Jordan is among many, spectacular millennials leading the way.He wears numerous hats. Painter, educator and legislative advocate with a law degree.Director of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture.And just like another famous Chicagoan from the South Side, he’s an organizer.It’s a beautiful blueprint for making lasting change, and fits right into Jordan’s definition of an artist: “An artist is someone who blurs distinctions between fields.”It Starts With ListeningWhether painting or teaching — advocating or organizing — Jordan’s approach to all of his work starts with listening.As the host of this podcast who regularly asks you to have the “courage to listen“, now you know why I was so eager to have him on the show.Jordan’s authenticity and empathy are on full display as he shares a fascinating backstory that connects to the responsibility he feels as an artist.A responsibility to recognize the dignity of all things and to be an integral part of the community.What an honor to welcome him to the Our Voices Matter community. Enjoy!Support the show
How Connecting Across Generations = Hope - Jodi and Colette Rabitoy
Mar 16 2023
How Connecting Across Generations = Hope - Jodi and Colette Rabitoy
People often ask where and how I find guests for Our Voices Matter.The short answer is, when I run across a story I think will resonate with our audience, I jump on it.For this episode, I didn’t have to look very far.Literally across my desk.No Subject Off LimitsJodi Rabitoy is my Executive Assistant at Linda Lorelle Media.As you might imagine, we talk a lot. About pretty much everything, especially when it comes to the podcast, which she helps produce and market.No subject is off limits with us — race, mental health, family dynamics, gender identity, marriage, politics, social justice, you name it.And since we’re both parents of young adults, we talk about that, too.So when I decided to launch this series amplifying the voices of GenZ and Millennials, I asked Jodi if she and her daughter, Colette, would join me on the podcast.Lucky for all of us, they said yes.What Drives Millennial Decision-MakingColette received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Houston in 2020 and is now a designer at the Houston architecture firm, Regan & Andre.Jodi has been working with me at Linda Lorelle Media for a little over three years.She has a Masters in Elementary Education & Teaching from Viterbo University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.I was interested in talking with them after Jodi shared with me some of Colette’s perspectives about her future, what is influencing her decision-making and the impact on Jodi as a loving parent who wants the best for her child.In some ways, it reminds of me conversations with my own Millennial daughter, but interesting, additional themes also emerged.Hope for the FutureAt the end of the day, I think these conversations are important because they help us better understand what each other is going through from a generational perspective.And from a human perspective.My generation is leaving a profoundly troubled world with existential consequences for the next generations to deal with.Sometimes it’s hard for them — and for us — to have hope for the future.But we have to keep looking for it.I feel blessed to find hope in conversations like this one.Here’s hoping you find it, too.www.ourvoicesmatterpodcast.comwww.lorellemedia.comThis podcast is devoted to empowering us all to better understand each other's differences...one story at a time.  Emmy Award-winning journalist, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, unexpected conversations that reveal our common humanity.  This show is not about politics per se; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves.Support the show
How the Power of Story Connects History to Humanity - Deborah Mouton
Mar 3 2023
How the Power of Story Connects History to Humanity - Deborah Mouton
“When your story is being told, make sure you are the one holding the pen.”It’s one of Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton’s favorite quotes. And one that has particular resonance in 2023 as powerful, political forces are literally trying to erase parts of American history.Black history.But Mouton is holding the pen.Multi-Genre Literary ArtistA self-described multi-genre literary artist, she is a master at guiding us along her journey, forging a path that leads straight to the core of our humanity.Who are we? Who do we want to be? And how does our present connect to our past?From opera to poetry slam — from New York’s American Lyric Theater to Stages Theater in Houston — the 37 year old Mouton is staking her claim as one of the most transformative storytellers of our time.When Houston Ballet legend, Lauren Anderson, was looking for someone to tell her story, she found an extraordinary partner in Mouton.Houston’s poet laureate emeritus crafted a script that took a tumultuous narrative and elevated it in a way that took the audience’s breath away.“Plumshuga” received rave reviews during its recent Houston run, and efforts are underway to take it to other parts of the county.Never one to sit still, Mouton has a new book set for release next week, March 7th.Her deft storytelling skills are on full display in “Black Chameleon: Memory, Womanhood and Myth”.And her new children’s book, “Hush Hush Hurricane”, will be out soon.Determined to Excel in Everything PossibleDeborah D.E.E.P. Mouton has two young children, a boy and a girl.She is determined to ensure that they know their history.She is determined to, in her words, “write us back into the history of our country.”She is D.E.E.P. Determined to Excel in Everything Possible.How fortunate we are that she is holding the pen.www.ourvoicesmatterpodcast.comwww.lorellemedia.comThis podcast is devoted to empowering us all to better understand each other's differences...one story at a time.  Emmy Award-winning journalist, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, unexpected conversations that reveal our common humanity.  This show is not about politics per se; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves.Support the show
Why “It Starts With Love” is the Perfect Album Title and Message to Humanity - Kam Franklin
Feb 24 2023
Why “It Starts With Love” is the Perfect Album Title and Message to Humanity - Kam Franklin
The message comes from Millennial recording artist, Kam Franklin, and her band, The Suffers.Kam, the Houston band’s lead singer, lives her life leading with love — and the truth, even when it isn’t pretty.I became a Kam super fan after sitting down with her for the podcast in November of 2020. Her talent, intellect and empathy toward others on full display.Surviving the PandemicStill in full-blown pandemic mode at that time, Kam and The Suffers did everything in their power to keep the band and their music alive.Fast forward to June of 2022 and the release of “It Starts With Love“, their third studio album reflecting the hard work and hard truths of life.Our conversation touches on the band’s experiences touring the country pre-COVID, and Kam’s astute, eye-opening observations of how we treat each other as humans.And how much more work lies ahead of us to simply accept each other for who we are.Celebrating LifeFor all of the truth-telling in The Suffers’ music, there’s an equal dose of celebrating this crazy, fun, messy life we are all living.You should check out some of their appearances on David Letterman, Jimmy Kimmel Live andThe Daily Show.But only after you check out this episode that captures the essence of who Kam Franklin is, what my generation has to learn from hers, and the secret to healing what ails us.Spoiler alert: It Starts With Love.Support the show
What Millennials and Gen Z Think About the Future
Feb 17 2023
What Millennials and Gen Z Think About the Future
When you were 18, what were you concerned about?If you’re of a certain age, my guess is that the demise of our planet and Artificial Intelligence taking over weren’t at the top of your list.But for today’s youth, those are real concerns. And it impacts how they think about and prepare for the future.In Part 2 of our series, Across the Generations, I sit down with a mother and daughter who are grappling in real time with these questions and more.Amplify and Connect18 year old Alex Jennings is a freshman at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She’s pursuing a degree in Visual Design, while wondering if AI will make her skillset obsolete before she even graduates.Her mom, Karen Walrond, is making a return appearance on Our Voices Matter to engage in this important conversation with her daughter. What are Karen’s hopes and fears for Alex as she prepares for adulthood in an increasingly uncertain world?Karen is a badass, modern day renaissance woman whose new book, Radiant Rebellion, will be out later this year.The point of having conversations like this is two-fold: 1) to amplify the voices of Millennials and Gen Z who are often ignored, underestimated and misunderstood, and 2) to learn from each other and celebrate what connects us across generations.Three WordsEnvironment. Economy. Empathy. These 3 words play a prominent role in our conversation — as do three words I ask both Alex and Karen to share when thinking about the future.What are your three words?Whatever they are, my hope is that this conversation enlightens your perspective and encourages you to talk — and most important — listen — to those in your life of a different generation.There is so much for us to learn from each other. And together, we can tackle and solve the challenges that lie before us.Support the show
What Millennials and Gen Z Want Boomers to Know
Feb 10 2023
What Millennials and Gen Z Want Boomers to Know
It’s no secret that sometimes we just don’t “get” each other. There’s a disconnect between the generations.That in itself certainly isn’t new.But what seems, or at least feels different, is the fragility of the systems on which we depend — and the urgency of figuring out how to save ourselves…from ourselves…So that a livable world with a thriving society will still be here for Millennials, Gen Z and future generations.Boomers, it’s time for us to listen.And that’s exactly what we’ll do in this new OVM series, “Across the Generations.”Kitchen Table TalkThe idea came to me while having conversations with my 28 year-old Millennial daughter who recently moved back home for a short while.We sit around the kitchen table and talk about everything. Jobs. Climate Change. The Environment. Mental Health. Dating. Marriage and Family. Race. Social Justice. Politics.The more I learned from Lindsey, the more I listened. And the more I wanted to hear from more young people.Those who will inherit the divisive, chaotic, stressed-to-the-max planet we are leaving them.What are they thinking? What do they want us to know? What can we learn from them? And how can we connect across ALL generations, cultures and races — as humans?Rule BreakerMy amazing daughter, Lindsey Lorelle Gregory, graciously agreed to kick off the series with me, laying down a few ground rules — which I promptly broke!I really didn’t mean to, but we taped our first conversation on the 2nd anniversary of the January 6th insurrection. So…You’ll have to tune in to see where our conversation goes — and catch my grand-pup, Layla’s cameo appearance.Looking AheadLindsey and I barely scratched the surface, which means there will be Linda & Lindsey/Part 2 in the coming weeks.In the meantime, the series will include other parent/child duos, as well as young individuals making their mark in a variety of industries.They really do give me hope for our future.Can’t wait to share these stories with you as we connect Across the Generations.www.ourvoicesmatterpodcast.comwww.lorellemedia.comThis podcast is devoted to empowering us all to better understand each other's differences...one story at a time.  Emmy Award-winning journalist, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, unexpected conversations that reveal our common humanity.  This show is not about politics per se; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves.Support the show
How Quitting Alcohol Saved His Life and Disrupted an Industry - Danny Frounfelkner
Jan 13 2023
How Quitting Alcohol Saved His Life and Disrupted an Industry - Danny Frounfelkner
Since we first introduced you to Sipple and its co-founder, Danny Frounfelkner, the Houston-based company has hit next level status. At least from my humble perspective as a customer.Like many of you, I am participating in Dry January, which necessitated a recent shopping trip to my favorite non-alcoholic bottle shop.The place was packed. First timers. Regulars. All of us browsing bulging shelves decked out with new offerings, reflecting the growth of this booming multi-billion dollar industry.We’re not talking Shirley Temples (look it up, GenZ and Millennials).We’re talking sophisticated cocktails, minus the alcohol, that make it taste, look and feel like you’re “drinking”.Alcohol CultureAlcohol is everywhere in our culture.Those who choose not to drink, for whatever reason, are sometimes made to feel like “the other.”Danny knows that feeling all too well. Which is part of the reason he and his wife, Helenita, launched Sipple during the pandemic.They are determined to change the narrative from — “why aren’t you drinking?” to “what are you drinking?” — and their trademarked phrase, “what are you drinking today for tomorrow?”During our conversation, Danny goes deep to illustrate the simple mindset shift borne of his personal experience and complicated journey with alcohol — including 20+ years playing multiple roles in the beverage and spirits industry.Dry JanuaryWhat better time to revisit this episode than Dry January, to inspire those of us kicking off the new year alcohol-free.But let me be clear.Whether you like your cocktails leaded or unleaded, you are welcome here.This podcast — and Sipple — are judgment-free zones.And that is the point.Cheers!Support the show
Why They Call Her The Candle Queen - Ianthe Mauro
Dec 16 2022
Why They Call Her The Candle Queen - Ianthe Mauro
I love candles. Especially during the Christmas holidays, which makes this the perfect time to revisit my conversation with The Candle Queen.Ianthe Mauro is fluent in the language of candles. Whatever the shape or scent, candles are a perfect metaphor for what Ianthe is all about — bringing light and love to our troubled world.Sound familiar? It’s one of the mantras of this podcast and all of the content I create.And it’s in perfect alignment with Ianthe’s philosophy and reminder to us all: “Never leave a burning candle, or suffering friend, unattended”.Objects With PurposeIanthe’s company is Objects With Purpose.  It has grown and evolved since I first sat down with her in July of 2021, garnering rave reviews.Our conversation here runs the gamut — from a life-changing diagnosis, to lessons learned from being “othered” to embracing her purpose in life.That purpose centers around her passion for making eco-friendly, vegan, luxury, custom candles  (they double as body butter…seriously!!) and mentoring women who share that same passion. Queen MotherIt’s all part of Ianthe’s mission of dynamic disruption — creating opportunities for women where they previously didn’t exist. Many started their businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ianthe calls them her “Candle Queens”, so I guess that makes her the Queen Mother!Light your favorite candle (my favorite is Crave The Depths) , kick back and feel your stress melt away as Ianthe and I take you on a journey filled with light and love.www.ourvoicesmatterpodcast.comwww.lorellemedia.comThis podcast is devoted to empowering us all to better understand each other's differences...one story at a time.  Emmy Award-winning journalist, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, unexpected conversations that reveal our common humanity.  This show is not about politics per se; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves.#womeninbusiness #womenentrepreneurs #womenwholeadSupport the show
How to Break Barriers and Soar:My Family’s Story of an Engineering Pioneer - Carol Lawson
Dec 9 2022
How to Break Barriers and Soar:My Family’s Story of an Engineering Pioneer - Carol Lawson
Growing up, she was simply my second cousin, Yvonne. Someone I looked forward to seeing on my summer visits to Nashville, Tennessee, my mother’s hometown.Little did I know she was also a pioneer — a badass Black woman who refused to let the barriers of the day keep her down.No matter the obstacle, Yvonne “Y.Y.” Clark, started by asking herself: “How do we fix this?” An approach instilled in her by her parents, Dr. Coleman Milton Young, Jr. and Hortense Houston Young.Whether it was fixing the family toaster as a child or teaching herself to stop stuttering, Y.Y. figured out at an early age how to turn a challenge into a triumph.Nashville’s Own Hidden FigureHer list of firsts is long:First woman to receive a mechanical engineering degree from Howard University (1951).First African American member of the Society of Women Engineers (1952)First woman engineer hired as an instructor at Tennessee State University (TSU) (1955)And many more which you can find here.She even worked for NASA, helping to design the box that would carry moon rocks back to Earth.Nashville’s own “Hidden Figure”.Seriously.How did I not know this?!?!Which brings me to a lesson learned in sharing this episode with you.Your Family’s Story MattersYour family’s story matters. Don’t take it for granted.I knew bits and pieces of this story, but sadly, it took another podcast to make me sit up and pay homage to my own family’s story.The Lost Women of Science is an extraordinary podcast highlighting the stories and accomplishments of women whose contributions may not have received the recognition they deserve.Women like my cousin, Yvonne, who is featured in multiple episodes this season.So I reached out to Yvonne’s daughter, my cousin, Carol Lawson, and asked her to join me in conversation about her mom.We hadn’t seen each other in a long time so it was great to reconnect — even more so, to hear Carol’s perspective on her mother’s legacy.And what we can all learn from it today.If I may say so, this is a terrific episode to listen to with family over the holiday. Perhaps it will spark conversation about your own family’s story.I hope you will take a few minutes to enjoy my conversation with Carol, learn about her extraordinary mother, and then check out the Lost Women of Science podcast to go even deeper.Yvonne, Y.Y. Clark.Trailblazer. Beloved professor and mentor at Tennessee State University. My cousin.Love you, Yvonne. And thank you for the legacy you left our family and the world.Support the show
How a Soul Food Scholar Uses Food and Faith to Help Bridge Our Divides - Adrian Miller
Nov 11 2022
How a Soul Food Scholar Uses Food and Faith to Help Bridge Our Divides - Adrian Miller
He calls himself a recovering lawyer and politico turned culinary historian, food writer and professional speaker.Sprinkle in a healthy dose of faith and social justice activism and voilà — a Soul Food Scholar “dropping knowledge like hot biscuits!”Somehow, Adrian Miller has managed to fashion a successful career intersecting his multitude of talents to the benefit of us all.From the White House to NetflixSome of you might recognize him from his star turn on the acclaimed Netflix docuseries, “High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America”.Or perhaps you’ve encountered him on his cross-country travels.He visited 150 restaurants in 35 cities as he researched his James Beard Award-winning book, “Soul Food: The Surprising Story of an American Cuisine, One Plate at a Time.”He received a second James Beard Award just this year for his most recent book, “Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue.”Oh — and he worked in Bill Clinton’s White House as Deputy Director of the President’s Initiative for One America addressing racism, ethics and religious issues of reconciliation.So there’s that…Not to mention his skills as a gifted storyteller and speaker with a wicked sense of humor.Finding his CallingEarly in his career, Adrian aspired to represent his home state of Colorado in the U.S. Senate.Instead, he has found a unique and compelling way to contribute to our national discourse using scholarship, food and faith to help bridge our divides.As Executive Director of the Colorado Council of Churches, Adrian works to build interfaith relationships and advocate on social justice issues.Clearly we have a lot to talk about, including some fun, food facts from my childhood during the Switch it Up segment at the end. So don’t miss it!Be Featured on Our Voices MatterSpeaking of fun, food facts, we’d love to hear yours! You might even win a prize.Send us a quick phone video sharing one of your favorite food memories. Bonus if your memory is about bringing people together.We’ll use your videos to create a special episode of OVM just in time for the holidays.The OVM team will vote on the best video and the winner of a $100 Visa gift card will be announced when the episode drops on December 1st..The deadline to upload your video is Friday, November 18, 2022.I can’t wait to see it. So get to it!Support the show
Why An Interracial Couple Emigrated From the U.S. - Elizabeth Silleck LaRue
Nov 3 2022
Why An Interracial Couple Emigrated From the U.S. - Elizabeth Silleck LaRue
Why An Interracial Couple Emigrated From the U.S.What’s your definition of “Home”?Here’s one I found in a random Google search:“A home is a place of refuge. A person’s most personal belongings are kept in a home and it’s where a person feels safe and accepted. To create a home requires an emotional connection and sense of belonging, not physical things.”Safe and accepted. A sense of belonging.Isn’t that what we all want?It’s certainly what this week’s guest wants, yet she and her husband felt compelled to leave the country to get it.Happy Anniversary…Elizabeth Silleck LaRue is a  consultant for environmental justice and conservation organizations, an attorney, and a gifted writer. She is white.Her husband, Wes, is a media producer who creates promotional content for clients, as well as independent work on issues of racial justice. He is Black.Like most couples, they looked forward to celebrating their first wedding anniversary. A simple walk on a Florida beach.Only it wasn’t quite so simple.Elizabeth’s essay on Medium chronicles what happened that day, and how it played into the couple’s decision to leave their home country — in search of “Home”.A place where they feel safe, accepted and have a sense of belonging.A Search for PeaceThe United States does not keep track of emigration, but following the 2016 election, there was an uptick in the number of Americans wanting to leave.Of course, there are all sorts of reasons why people choose to live in another country.Sometimes it’s about work. Sometimes it’s about adventure. And sometimes it’s about a search for something else.This is the story of one couple’s search for peace and autonomy.Their journey to find it provides a teachable moment in the midst of our national conversation about race, humanity and what matters.Support the show
DEI & Hair Discrimination: How to Educate Your Workforce - Janice Gassam Asare
Oct 27 2022
DEI & Hair Discrimination: How to Educate Your Workforce - Janice Gassam Asare
This week's episode of Our Voices Matter Podcast explores the intersection of two topics making recent headlines: DEI in the workplace and Black women's hair.Diversity, equity and inclusion -- along with belonging and accessibility -- have remained at the forefront of corporate conversations in the last few years. Especially after the murder of George Floyd.Last week, headlines screamed about the results of a new study by the National Institutes of Health.  "Chemical hair straighteners linked to higher risk of uterine cancer for Black women, study shows."So, what do DEI and Black women's hair have to do with one another? My guest, Janice Gassam Asare, Ph.D., is the perfect person to help us unravel the connections -- and some solutions.Dr. Asare is a noted DEI consultant who helps companies navigate the tricky waters of DEI, ERGs and multiple other acronyms aimed at creating a more inclusive work environment.She's a TEDx speaker, Senior Contributor to Forbes, an author and host of the Dirty Diversity podcast.She is also a Top Voice on LinkedIn, and that is where she came to my attention.Her article "4C Hair Discrimination" stopped me in my tracks and compelled me to invite her to be on the podcast.The NIH study had just been released when we recorded our conversation. What's the Connection?So, here's a hint about the connection between DEI and the hair of Black women like me. We use chemical hair straighteners to conform to what society -- and the workplace -- deem "acceptable". Namely, hair that looks like that of our white counterparts.And now it appears that this choice could literally be killing us.So, what if we choose instead to wear our hair naturally -- literally as it grows out of our heads? Janice and I explore the potential ramifications of that decision, including my own hair journey (in the Switch It Up segment toward the end).Janice also shares some of the challenges facing leaders in their quest to create a workplace where everyone feels safe and welcome. And most important, she offers some solutions to help them "get it right". There's a lot to unpack here, so let's get to it.Support the show
How a Leap of Faith Can Change Your Life - Yolanda Adams
Oct 20 2022
How a Leap of Faith Can Change Your Life - Yolanda Adams
This is one of my favorite episodes over the five seasons of OurVoices Matter — and it’s the one I turn to when I need a dose of hope. When my faith is being tested.When I want to wrap myself in a warm blanket and just feel good about being alive.There is so much chaos, anxiety and uncertainty in our world that it can be challenging to see the good.But it’s there.And it can be challenging to keep the faith.But we must.And sometimes we have to take a leap of faith to live the life we are meant to live.If Yolanda hadn’t taken that leap years ago, her millions of fans would have been denied the soaring voice and infectious spirit of a truly stellar human.What’s Next for Yolanda?This conversation took place three years ago, and since then, she has achieved even greater heights.Fans are now getting to see Yolanda’s acting chops as she slays in the role of Denita Jordan in the new BET Series, Kingdom Bridges.It seems there is no limit to her talent — and I can’t wait to see what she surprises us with next.In the meantime, take a break from the chaos.Remind yourself that we will get through this.And wrap yourself in this warm blanket that is the one and only, Yolanda Adams.P.S. - She sings at the end…so don’t miss it!www.ourvoicesmatterpodcast.comwww.lorellemedia.comThis podcast is devoted to empowering us all to better understand each other's differences...one story at a time.  Emmy Award-winning journalist, Linda Lorelle, guides guests through insightful, unexpected conversations that reveal our common humanity.  This show is not about politics per se; it is about finding a way to reclaim civility in the context of the contentious times in which we live, by sharing our personal and professional stories, in hopes that others might find a glimpse of themselves.Support the show