Speak For Change With Thomas Sage Pedersen

Thomas Sage Pedersen

Welcome to Speak for Change with Thomas Sage Pedersen! Our mission is to inspire and promote positive and lasting change in our local & global communities.

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Episodes

138 Ignite Nexus Series| DeAndre James: Importance of Black Leadership,Overcoming Adversity,Embracing Resilience
Nov 7 2023
138 Ignite Nexus Series| DeAndre James: Importance of Black Leadership,Overcoming Adversity,Embracing Resilience
Find DeAndrehttps://pvhealthtrust.org/Instagram: @pvhealthFacebook & Twitter: pvhealthtrustLinkedin: Community Health Trust of Pajaro ValleyAboutOften, we are left wondering how to navigate the murky waters of the corporate world while being a person of color. How can we persevere through the darkness and everyday challenges that come with it? There’s no one better to answer these questions than DeAndre James, the executive director of Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley. DeAndre puts his heart on the line as he shares his personal experiences as a Black CEO. His insights into staying resilient even when faced with adversity are not only enlightening but also empowering.Racism, unfortunately, is a reality many people of color face in the workplace. But how do you handle it? This episode takes you into personal stories of overcoming such harsh realities. We also highlight the role of nonprofits in society, including their dilemma of donor focus versus community focus. Balancing these two aspects could be instrumental in dismantling systems of racism and inequality. By opening doors to opportunity, we believe positive change can be brought into our society.The power of advice should not be underestimated and can indeed transform lives, as you'll hear from DeAndre's experiences. We also discuss strategies to manage personal desires versus community obligations, and how the transformative potential of music and conversations can bring about personal growth.DeAndre talks about his ‘go-to’ stress relievers, books, movies that inspire him, and how astrology and power animals have been a source of motivation. Join us for this insightful conversation with DeAndre James and gain a fresh perspective on resilience, perseverance, and empowerment.Ignite Nexus Consulting, life & executive coaching for organizations & individuals. Start the journey today!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show
Ep.137 Lasalle & Michelle Strong: Save Capitola Bar & Grill from an Unjust Eviction
Nov 6 2023
Ep.137 Lasalle & Michelle Strong: Save Capitola Bar & Grill from an Unjust Eviction
AboutWhat if the business you've worked so hard to build faces the threat of being torn down by racial discrimination and power dynamics? This is the lived reality of Michelle and Lasalle Strong, owners of Capitola Bar & Grill, who found themselves embroiled in a tense standoff with a hostile, possibly racist, landlord. Throughout this episode, you'll walk a mile in their shoes, experiencing their trials and tribulations, from the hurdles of starting a business to the struggle of maintaining it amidst racially tinged landlord disputes. The Strongs share the raw truth about the power dynamics that overshadow their journey, from their landlord's attempts to default their lease to the bureaucratic difficulties in proving racism. As we journey deeper into their compelling narrative, we also examine the broader societal issues at play. We challenge the norms established by patriarchal society and racial biases, questioning the entitlement to wealth and success. We also discuss the role of corporate giants like Verizon in supporting financial bigotry and the importance of community-driven change.But it's not all about struggle and strife. Amidst these tumultuous times, the Strongs have managed to launch a culinary adventure - the Firehouse Pizza Company. Stand with us against individuals who threaten to dismantle progress towards unity and inclusivity. Be inspired by Michelle and Lasalle's resilience, and let their story fuel your desire to spark change. After all, every voice can make a difference, and yours could be the one that tips the scales towards a more equitable future.Find The Strongshttps://capitolabarandgrill.com/save-capitola-bar-%26-grillInstagram.com/capitolabarandgrillIgnite Nexus Consulting, life & executive coaching for organizations & individuals. Start the journey today!Everyone's Music School Creating positive and lasting change in people's lives with music!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show
Ep. 136 Nic Stone  Exploring the Power of Humanity, Storytelling and so much more with
Aug 22 2023
Ep. 136 Nic Stone Exploring the Power of Humanity, Storytelling and so much more with
Have you ever contemplated the potency of a well-written novel or the impact of a compelling story? Join us as we tap into the power of literature with none other than New York Times bestselling author, Nic Stone. We dive deep into the world of young adult literature, discussing the need for representation, and the importance of highlighting human experiences. Stone shares her spiritual journey and how she views the impact of her work.She also unveils her unique approach to capturing the essence of human experiences in her writing.Find Nic Stonehttp://www.instagram.com/nicstoneAbout Nic StoneNic Stone is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Dear Martin, the novel that launched her career in 2017 and encourages readers of all ages to examine the biases in their own lives and to have honest discussions about race in today’s world.  Nic’s mission is to create books and stories that speak to kids underrepresented in YA literature today—and her aim is to not only create windows in which young people are introduced to new perspectives but also mirrors in which children see their experiences and identities fully represented. Born and raised in a suburb of Atlanta, GA, Nic grew up with a wide range of cultures, religions, and backgrounds, and constantly strives to bring diverse voices and stories to her work. All of her novels have been widely embraced by teens and adults and have been the recipients of numerous accolades, awards and starred reviews. In addition to Dear Martin, her books include Dear Justyce, Blackout, Whiteout, and middle-grade novel, Clean Getaway, all New York Times bestsellers, Odd One Out, Jackpot, the Shuri (Black Panther) novels, How to Be a (Young) Antiracist as well as Fast Pitch. Her next YA novel, Chaos Theory, will be published on February 28, 2023. A Spelman College graduate, Nic lives in Atlanta with her family. Find her online at nicstone.info or @nicstone.Everyone's Music School Creating positive and lasting change in people's lives with music!Ignite Nexus Consulting, life & executive coaching for organizations & individuals. Start the journey today!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show
Ep.135 Teagan Faran | Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music |  Career as a Musician, Wellness, A lot About Music
Aug 15 2023
Ep.135 Teagan Faran | Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music | Career as a Musician, Wellness, A lot About Music
FInd Teaganhttps://persephonephoenix.com/https://www.teaganfaran.comhttp://www.instagram.com/teagbbyAbout TeaganA native of Buffalo, NY, Teagan Faran is a multidisciplinary musician focused on enacting social change through the arts. Faran has collaborated with the International Contemporary Ensemble, Alarm Will Sound, Palaver Strings, and the Cabrillo Festival Orchestra. Recent recording features include albums with Carlos Simon, La Martino Orquesta Típica, and loadbang. She has had compositions featured at the NYSSMA Conference and the Persis Vehar Competition for Excellence. Also active in the world of tango music, she has performed with Victor Lavallén and the Orquesta Escuela de Emilio Balcarce, as well as at festivals across the United States. As a soloist, Faran has performed throughout the United States, Italy, Argentina, Germany, México, and Canada, including appearances with the Buffalo Philharmonic, the Uptown Philharmonic, the Greater Buffalo Youth Orchestra the Ann Arbor Camerata, the Williamsville East Symphonic Orchestra, and the University of Vermont Symphony. Administratively, she has held internship positions in the Marketing and Education Departments of the Buffalo Philharmonic, and Education and Concerts/Touring with Jazz at Lincoln Center. She founded Ann Arbor arts collective Red Shoe Company and worked as a teaching artist with the Kennedy Center, the University Musical Society  and the Sphinx Organization.After graduating from the University of Michigan, Faran moved to Buenos Aires on a Fulbright grant. Faran was also a Turn The Spotlight Fellow, receiving their inaugural Hedwig Holbrook Prize. Faran participated in OneBeat, a fellowship in musical diplomacy, DeeDee Bridgewater’s Woodshed Network, and recently graduated from the Manhattan School of Music, where she studied Contemporary Performance. She performs in the electroacoustic duo Persephone & the Phoenix as well as being a certified personal trainer, with a focus on career longevity for performers. Faran currently teaches violin and runs the Electronic Experimentation Lab at DePauw University.Support the show
Ep.134 Adam W. Sadberry | Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music | what is contemporary music?, being Black in the orchestral/classical landscape and so much more!
Aug 12 2023
Ep.134 Adam W. Sadberry | Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music | what is contemporary music?, being Black in the orchestral/classical landscape and so much more!
Find Adam!Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/adamhappyberryAbout Adam Sadberry Named one of The Washington Post’s 23 for ‘23, flutist and educator Adam W. Sadberry is paving a distinctive career with his citizenry, creativity, and vibrancy both on and off stage. As a winner of Concert Artists Guild’s 2021 Victor Elmaleh Competition, he is making debuts in the 22/23 season with Chamber Music Detroit, Newport Classical, Scottsdale Performing Arts, Macon Concert Series, Strings Music Festival, Pro Musica: San Miguel de Allende, Northeast Kingdom Classical, Glema Mahr Performing Arts Center, Dumbarton Concerts, and more. Adam is tremendously excited to make his Merkin Hall debut in NYC during March 2023 where he will premiere a composition by Dameun Strange that is inspired by Adam’s late grandfather and unsung hero of the Civil Rights Movement, L. Alex Wilson. Adam’s commitment to citizenry is reflected through his collegiate work. He is on faculty at the University of Minnesota (Twin Cities) for the spring 2023 semester, and he has given residencies at Lawrence University, Northern Michigan University, South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, and Wesleyan College (GA). Adam has had performance engagements at Indiana University (Bloomington), Pepperdine University, and Georgia Southwestern State University, and he has given masterclasses at New York University, Oakland University, University of Memphis, Rhodes College, and the Harmony Project (Los Angeles). Adam’s work revolves around identity, his grandfather’s legacy, and mindfulness that is informed by Alexander Technique. His most popular lectures are Using Your Identity to Create a Relevant Voice in Music and Musical Journalism: Continuing a Legacy Through the Flute.Along with his solo and educational work, Adam has a strong foundation in orchestral playing. He is the principal flutist of the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music in Santa Cruz, CA, he has played principal flute with the St. Louis and Detroit Symphony Orchestras, and he has previously held positions with orchestras including acting principal flute with Memphis Symphony Orchestra, flute and piccolo with the Des Moines Metro Opera, and orchestra fellow with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. He has also performed with the Minnesota Orchestra, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Sphinx Symphony Orchestra, and the New World Symphony. Adam can be heard playing on the soundtrack of Disney’s The Lion King (2019) and in the Hollywood Bowl’s Juneteenth Celebration (2022) that included artists such as Chaka Khan, Ne-Yo, Billy Porter, Questlove, and Earth, Wind, and Fire.Adam is currently enrolled in the Training Course at the Minnesota Center for The Alexander Technique as a 2023 Judith Leibowitz Scholar, and he holds a Bachelor of Music and Performer’s Certificate from the Eastman School of Music. Outside of music, Adam finds joy in rollerskating, listening to podcasts, reading, playing video games, and spending time outdoors. Everyone's Music School Creating positive and lasting change in people's lives with music!Twdcc's Black health Matters Initiative Promotes equity to improve the quality of life for Black residents in Santa Cruz CountyDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show
Ep.133 The Central Coast Creative Corps Grant w/ Jim Brown
Apr 5 2023
Ep.133 The Central Coast Creative Corps Grant w/ Jim Brown
The Central Coast Creative Corps GrantApplication Deadline: May 1, 2023.Location: The Central Coast Region (Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties). Eligibility: Nonprofit/fiscally sponsored organizations, Government agencies, Tribal government.Amount:  $140,000 in funding for One year (9/23-8/24). $100,000 goes to the  artists.Important: You don't need an artist or a real plan to complete this grant.  Just need to show the impact you want to make and How you are open and ready to collaborate. Artists: Make sure to register and start talking with potential organizations now.Goals:The goal of the Central Coast Creative Corps is to invest in artists across disciplines to partner with nonprofits, government agencies, and tribal governments to collaboratively advance civic engagement, public health, social justice, and climate resilience across the Central Coast.Aiming to uplift the creative workforce and improve community health outcomes, the Central Coast Creative Corps Program will fund 23 working partnerships between community-based organizations and local artists, creative workers, or culture bearers for a one-year duration from September 2023 - August 2024. The deadline to apply is May 1, 2023.To Apply and to register as an artist go to the link below:https://www.centralcoastcreativecorps.org/For PDF guideline go toHttp://linktr.ee/speakforchangepodcastAbout Jim  BrownExecutive Director since 2020, Jim works with the entire Arts Council Santa Cruz County team to advance our mission. He is involved in every aspect of the organization from fundraising and finance to long-term strategic planning and overseeing our programs.Jim served as the Executive Director of both the Diversity Center and the 418 Project before joining the Arts Council as Grants Program Manager in 2012. He served as Program Officer and Grants Manager at Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, before returning to the Arts Council in 2017, as Deputy and Tannery Director, to work more closely with the arts community.A former software engineer, Jim has followed his dedication to building communities that support authentic self-expression. He has three children (Serenity, Andrew, and Nate) who he adopted through the foster system in 2011. In addition to parenting, Jim loves to dance, hike, and read fantasy & science fiction novels.Support the show
Ep.130 Alyssa Gilbert: Explore Series Oregon | How to Combat The Houseless crisis, Fundraising in Competitive Markets, Exploitation in Presidential  Campaigns & More
Mar 21 2023
Ep.130 Alyssa Gilbert: Explore Series Oregon | How to Combat The Houseless crisis, Fundraising in Competitive Markets, Exploitation in Presidential Campaigns & More
About Alyssa:Alyssa grew up in a low-income town in rural Oregon with a single mom who works harder than anyone she knows. Alyssa's big break was being offered a full ride to college - a dream Alyssa  always had, but didn't know was in the cards for her. Alyssa's mom wasn't a voter until recently and she lived in a middle-of-nowhere bubble, so she didn't know there was anything people like her could do to make a difference in the world until someone stopped her on the street in college and asked Alyssa if she wanted to help save the sea turtles. Of course she did! By the time Alyssa graduated, she was the president of a policy advocacy student group and was overseeing 3 campaigns. She graduated and was hired on to the presidential election for Elizabeth Warren - the campaign trail was a dream come true. She was crushed when she lost, but soon joined Biden's campaign and got to win! Since then, Alyssa has moved back to her home state of Oregon and took a job in nonprofit fundraising for a local homeless services organization.Find Alyssa:Website: http://alyssa-gilbert-8rl4.squarespace.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-gilbert-a63337138/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/alyssa_7_nicole Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssa_7_nicole/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssa.n.gilbert.3Support the show