Mending Lives

Join Jane Houng and Vanessa Chan as they close the first season of Mending Lives. In this heartfelt episode, they reflect on powerful moments, connections, and the wisdom shared by guests. Delve into stories of resilience, spirituality, and healing as Jane opens up about her journey and the lessons learned from 24 interviews. This episode wraps up the year with inspiring insights and hope for the future. "Don't turn away. Keep your gaze on the damaged places. That's where the light enters you." – Rumi"There is a crack in everything. That's where the light gets in." – Leonard CohenJane Houng:LinkedInBecky’s Button InitiativeInstagramMending Lives PodcastRebecca Dykes WritersPersonal WebsiteVanessa Chan:Finding Ananda WebsiteFinding Ananda LinktreeFinding Ananda InstagramSingapore Meditative Walk Meetup GroupHong Kong Finding Ananda Yoga and Meditation Meetup Group

Join Jane Houng in a compelling conversation with Marija Todorova about her multifaceted career. From interpreting in refugee camps to empowering asylum seekers in Hong Kong, discover how Marija’s work amplifies the voices of those often unheard and fosters a deeper understanding of cultural and linguistic barriers.Website: https://www.marijatodorova.comTwitter: https://x.com/MarijaTodorovaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marija_todorova_Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marija-todorova-04488522

In this riveting episode of Mending Lives, Jane Houng shares the remarkable journey of Mansour Saliba, a young Lebanese scholar whose dedication to social change breathes new hope into challenging circumstances. Together, they illuminate the power of collaboration and the drive to uplift communities, especially amidst Lebanon’s current crisis.Mansour’s wisdom and actions resonate deeply, inspiring listeners to embrace opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the world. For those moved by his message, we invite you to support the resilience of Lebanon’s communities. Below are links to trusted organizations working directly to provide relief and essential support:Lebanese Red Cross – Offering critical humanitarian assistance on the ground.Beit El Baraka – Providing dignity and essential support to Lebanese families.OffreJoie – A non-profit organization dedicated to unity and volunteer service across Lebanon.Lebanese Food Bank – Fighting hunger by providing food assistance to families in need.FoodBlessed – Supporting those in food insecurity with compassion and community spirit.BETA Lebanon – Caring for animals and fostering responsible pet ownership throughout Lebanon.Ahla Fawda - Relief missionThank you for listening, and thank you for standing with Lebanon.

In this heartfelt episode, host Jane Houng sits down with Samira El Hussein, an inspiring English teacher and translator from Tripoli, Lebanon. They discuss Samira's decade-long journey teaching English, her role in translating Jane's memoir, and their collaborative work on Becky's Button. Jane shares this initiative's history, and her plans to work with university students to make this world safer for them. Tune in to hear about the impact of gender-based violence projects and the resilience and spirit of Lebanese women.Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samira-hussein-b42688167/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/englishwsamira/profilecard/?igsh=eDkyNzNjd2J5aDhu

In this episode of 'Mending Lives,' Jane Houng interviews Mike Lindup, a founder of the jazz-funk band Level 42. This episode moves from their shared history at a specialist music school to an exploration of music's transcendental power to 'express the inexpressible'. With thoughtful insights into the process of songwriting plus amusing anecdotes, this conversation resonates with the universal need for creativity, connection and camaraderie.Website: http://www.mikelindup.comTwitter: https://x.com/MikeLindupFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.lindup.music   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelindup/

If you want to know something about these two charities that Jane Houng established in her deceased daughter's name, this episode is a must! Every journey starts with a single step, often alone, but Jane was fortunate to meet Stavros Mirogiannis midway in her six-year trek. As a director of Becky's Bathhouse in Greece, Stavros shared Jane's vision for Becky's Button making noises globally. Here you can learn what it is, how it works, how it averted a gang rape during a pilot project that Stavros managed. Jane then explains the rationale for Becky's Button's focus on raising awareness about physical and online sexual harassment to university students. This discussion is enriched by personal anecdotes and real-life stories of women who have suffered violence.

In this thought-provoking episode, Jane Houng speaks with Vassilis Manoussakis, a remarkable educator and poet who challenges the stereotypes surrounding prisoners. Through his innovative creative writing programs, Vassilis empowers Greek inmates to explore their pasts, reframe memories, find their voices, and embrace a new narrative. Discover the impact of narrative therapy on mending lives and the inspiring stories of those who have found hope and freedom from behind bars.Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/vasilis-manousakis-22a9a371Newyorkwritersworkshop: https://newyorkwritersworkshop.weebly.com/faculty.html#VasilisManousakisMort Subite: https://liveencounters.net/2023-le-pw/05-may-le-pw-2023/vasilis-manousakis-morte-subite/

In this fascinating episode of Mending Lives, host Jane Houng converses with Yuyutsu Sharma, a revered poet and translator based in Nepal. From accompanying his father on spiritual pilgrimages to dedicating his life capturing the essence of the Himalayas in verse, Yuyutsu shares his life’s journey and the solace he found in nature's grandeur after the death of his mother. Their discussion is an enriching contemplation on grief, grace, and the eternal connection between nature and art. So tune in for an inspiring tale of loss, discovery, and the poetic quest for meaning amid life's peaks and valleys.Website URL | https://www.yuyutsusharma.com/ Twitter URL | https://x.com/SharmaYuyutsu Instagram URL | https://www.instagram.com/yuyutsusharma/ Linkedin URL | https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuyutsu-sharma-74449b12/ White Lotus Book Shop | https://hlfnepal.whitelotusbookshop.com/

Join Jane Houng for an engrossing dialogue with Ravi Shankar, the American poet whose life encapsulates the essence of resilience. Ravi takes us through his challenging cultural transitions between the U.S. and India, his pernicious experiences of incarceration and the press, and his subsequent mission to reform the criminal justice system through memoir writing and teaching. This episode, recorded in peaceful Nepal, unravels Ravi’s journey from a bicultural childhood to becoming a voice for those often unheard, offering listeners a profound reflection on identity, trauma, and the redemptive power of writing.Website: https://www.poetravishankar.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/empurpler Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empurpler/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravishankarpoet/ Memoir: https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/5924.htm TEDx talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAclRHL_nYY Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ4OsMSBPFE&t=1669s Poetry Foundation: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/ravi-shankar

How can you maintain your humanity in these challenging times? How can Tarot help you discover your better self? How can you turn pain into something graceful? Join Jane Houng as she chats with Tony Barnstone, a prolific poet, writer, teacher and translator. They share their perspectives on how to turn suffering into wisdom and how generosity can mend lives. This episode features a live Tarot reading that provides practical wisdom on navigating life's mysteries with creativity and fun, emphasizing the restorative power of art and spirituality. Website: https://www.whittier.edu/ Twitter: https://x.com/tokyosburning?lang=en  Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/tbarnstone/   LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-barnstone-b52892285/ https://poets.org/poet/tony-barnstone  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Tony-%20Barnstone/author/B000APLO9Q?    https://www.amazon.com/Apocryphal-Poems-Tony-Barnstone/dp/8196360142/  https://www.amazon.com/Radiant-Tarot-Creativity-Full-Color-Keepsake/dp/1578637503

Join Jane Houng for a heartfelt conversation with Tim Tomlinson, a poet, fiction writer and educator whose life is a testament to the human capacity for self-mastery. From the seedy bars of New Orleans to the serene depths of the ocean, he shares his harrowing journey from addiction and penury to the transformative power of nature, the written word and human connections. Discover how the ocean, yoga and a loving wife catalyzed his transformation.                             Website: https://www.timtomlinson.org/  Twitter: https://x.com/ttomlinsonnyww Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timtomlinson7/ New York Writers Workshop:   https://newyorkwritersworkshop.weebly.com/

Join Jane Houng as she delves into the remarkable life of Neville Sarony, covering his challenges from being the first foreign lawyer in Nepal to his distinguished career in the UK and Hong Kong. Neville shares insights about his legal practices, his service in the 7th Gurkha Rifles, and his lifelong dedication to justice. Learn about his experiences living and working in Kathmandu, his authoring of novels and memoirs, and his captivating performances of jazz piano. This heartfelt and captivating dialogue reveals the profound cultural, professional, and personal experiences that have shaped Neville's unique journey.

This episode is a powerful discussion on the role of writers as both artists and activists. From her roots in Mumbai and Goa to international acclaim, Rochelle Potkar shares her journey as a poet, fiction writer, and screenwriter with Jane. Delving into some controversial aspects of motherhood, patriarchy, marriage and gender fluidity, they take an in-depth look at how literature has the potential to challenge societal norms and shift consciousness. If you don't know why adult male orangutans are solitary, this is a must! You'll hear some poetry too. website: https://rochellepotkar.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/rochellepotkarInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rochellepotkar/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rochellepotkar/Coin in Rivers: https://www.amazon.in/Coins-Rivers-Poems-Rochelle-Potkar-ebook/dp/B0D1V2L1ZN/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/rochelles-verandah/id1601074536

Join Jane Houng as she explores the world of Nigel Purkis, a shop owner in Chichester whose passion for colour has brightened the lives of many. With personal anecdotes, professional insights and surprising revelations, Nigel explains how his dedication to vibrant hues and customer satisfaction has created a kaleidoscope of happiness. In this episode, you will discover the art of living with depression, as well as the art of colour, through the eyes of a man committed to making the world a better place. Details of Nigel's store:Name: GorgeousLocation: 2 Northgate, Chichester PO19 1BAhttps://chichesterbid.co.uk/profiles/gorgeous/

Azra Rahim describes herself as a global wandering mystic. In this episode, she offers insightful perspectives on patriarchy, sexual harassment, gender fluidity and the liberating power of creative writing. This lively discussion also touches on multiculturalism, Sufi, Zika, Hindu scriptures, and why Jane felt so discomforted when presenting an opening address at the latest Rebecca Dykes Writers Retreat in the US. Listen to their journeys of self-discovery and share this episode to spread their inspiring messages.  Azra Rahim demonstrating how to whirl Poem: Kindness by Naomi Shihab Nye Tallis: Spem in Alium

Join us in this heartwarming episode as we dive into the inspiring journey of Jess Rinker. Discover how Jess transformed her life through the power of writing, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and creativity. From her early days of struggling to find her path to becoming a successful author, Jess shares the pivotal moments and influences that shaped her career. This episode is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the enduring hope that fuels artistic expression. Whether you're an aspiring writer or simply in need of a dose of inspiration, Jess's story will leave you feeling empowered and ready to embrace your own journey with renewed purpose.Website: www.jessrinker.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessrinkerauthor/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-rinker-64b335162/

Join us for a lively and insightful discussion with Amy, one of the best YA writers working today. She delves into her unique creative process, personal journey through loss, and perspectives on gender identity. Recognized with prestigious American awards, she also discusses her latest works and her founding of Gracie’s House, a summer camp for LGBTQ+ youth.  This episode underscores the importance of supporting all individuals, regardless of gender identity.https://www.as-king.com/Instagram www.gracieshouse.com Pick_The_Lock_Pre-order A.S. King Margaret A. Edward Speech 2022

In this episode, Jane Houng explores the multifaceted life of Vanessa Chan, a veteran woman executive in tech who found solace and strength in yoga, meditation, and outdoor adventures. Vanessa discusses the personal qualities essential for leadership, the importance of mental health, and how her meditative hikes bring tranquility to Hong Kong and Singapore urban dwellers while redefining the purpose of her life and career.https://www.findingananda.com/ https://www.meetup.com/lantau-sai-kung-basecamp-hiking-meetup-group/ insighttimer.com/VanessaChan

Life throws us curveballs, but what if those challenges are opportunities to discover our own strength? In this episode, Sister Gemma Simmonds, a powerhouse of positivity, grapples with the big questions: Are we bound by forces beyond our control, or do we have the freedom to forge our own destiny? Sister Gemma shares profound insights gleaned from a remarkable life, challenging the idea of determinism and revealing the power of choice. Even in the darkest corners, she shows us how to cultivate compassion and find meaning. Join us for an uplifting conversation that will leave you empowered to navigate life's uncertainties and create a brighter future.

Are you feeling lost, or looking for a deeper purpose? In this week's episode, I have a powerful conversation with Father Will, a renowned pastor at St Stephen's Chapel and St John's Cathedral in Hong Kong. We explore the transformative power of faith and interfaith dialogue. We share personal stories of loss and paths to hope and meaning. This episode offers inspiration to anyone facing personal challenges or seeking a renewed sense of purpose. Unmissable!