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In this episode of When Bearing Witness, we talk with Kishshana Palmer, a dynamic international speaker, coach, and author, to discuss her new book, Busy Is a Four-Letter Word: A Guide to Achieving More by Doing Less.
Kishshana’s candid insights offer a much-needed pause for nonprofit professionals and storytellers navigating the relentless demands of their work. We discuss the importance of slowing down to avoid burnout and maintain the authenticity and empathy necessary for impactful storytelling.
Through actionable advice and relatable anecdotes, she illustrates how storytellers can challenge unrealistic expectations, push back against "always-on" culture, and focus on what truly matters—crafting stories with care and purpose.
Whether you’re in the early stages of burnout or striving to lead with your values, this conversation is an invitation to embrace balance in a fast-paced world.
About KishshanaKishshana Palmer is an international speaker, trainer, author, and coach with a 20+ year background in fundraising, marketing, and talent management who helps leaders create high-performing teams. She’s the CEO of ManageMint, Inc., an organizational development firm focused on helping everyday leaders live well and lead well. Her firm's work centers on equity and social justice and practical solutions for today’s organizations.
Connect with KishshanaBusy Is A Four Letter Word Book | Website | ManageMint
Instagram | LinkedIn | FacebookAbout Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Romero, Associate Director of Marketing at The Nature Conservancy, to explore the critical intersection of environmental advocacy and trauma-informed storytelling. We delve into how environmental and conservation challenges profoundly impact communities, revealing the human stories often hidden behind environmental issues.
Melissa sheds light on the often-overlooked trauma that environmental challenges can impose on people, from the devastating impacts of climate change to the displacement caused by conservation efforts. Her insights expose the deep human dimensions of environmental transformation.
We explore the delicate balance between communicating urgency and maintaining compassionate care in environmental communications—ensuring we motivate action without overwhelming or paralyzing our audience.
Through her thoughtful perspective, Melissa illuminates a path toward more responsible and empathetic environmental storytelling.
About MelissaMelissa Romero is an Associate Director of Marketing at The Nature Conservancy. She has had the honor of telling stories that drive change for good through various roles as a journalist, editor, and non-profit communications and marketing professional. Today, she continues to champion and practice ethical, trauma-informed, and values-based storytelling.
Connect with Melissa
LinkedIn | The Nature Conservancy
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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Crisis journalist Àmáká Òkóyè has witnessed some of the most harrowing conflicts and atrocities in Nigeria’s recent history. And her commitment to elevating the human stories behind the headlines came at a heavy personal cost.
In this powerful episode, Àmáká bravely opens up about her mental health crisis after immersing herself in conflict reporting. Her story shines a much-needed light on the profound mental and emotional toll of bearing witness.
Àmáká's journey shows us the importance of storytellers prioritizing their own well-being, building strong support networks, and advocating for industry-wide changes to better protect the mental health of those on the frontlines. Her story is a crucial reminder that when we care for ourselves, we are better equipped to tell the stories that truly matter.
Content warning: In this episode, we'll be talking about details of the atrocities that Àmáká covers, as well as details of her mental health crisis. Be mindful of your emotional capacity while listening.
About Àmáká ÒkóyèÀmáká Òkóyè is a journalist covering all human angle stories, crises, and conflicts in volatile areas, including North East Nigeria. She is a storyteller, documentary producer, and anchor.
Connect with Àmáká ÒkóyèPodcast | LinkedIn | Instagram
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In an era where social change often feels like one step forward and two back, this impactful conversation with "The Empathy Guy," Joseph Cope, offers a fresh perspective on how we can move the needle on significant social issues.
Thanks to Joseph, leaders around the country have begun to discover one of the keys to authentic human connection—the most unheralded of leadership superpowers—empathy.
For anyone who has ever felt frustrated by resistance to change in their organization or struggled to bridge the gap between different perspectives, this will provide you with supportive strategies to make change.
Through real-world examples and actionable insights, you'll discover how to transform challenging relationships with leadership, colleagues, and stakeholders into opportunities for meaningful connection and change.
About Joseph CopeJoseph Cope is a keynote speaker, corporate workshop presenter, and empathy coach. Two decades of work with the world’s most misunderstood population, American teenagers, have helped this award-winning and former middle-school educator develop an empathy-driven and outside-the-box perspective that he shares with leaders who feel stuck with the status quo.
Connect With Joseph
Website | LinkedIn
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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Meenadchi is many things, including being a somatic healing practitioner, TEDx speaker, and communications expert whose work centers on social change and embodied transformation.
She also helps folks clear ancestral trauma to create intergenerational healing.
Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of generational healing, offering insights that could transform your perspective on personal growth and self-discovery.
The impact of understanding generational trauma extends far beyond individual growth. It plays a vital role in cultural healing, helping us comprehend the broader implications of collective trauma on communities and societies.
This understanding can be a catalyst for personal empowerment, showing how addressing generational wounds can lead to increased resilience, creativity, and joy in our lives.
Perhaps most surprisingly, exploring our ancestral past can contribute to our holistic well-being, revealing unexpected connections between historical experiences and our current physical, emotional, and mental health.
Uncover the profound impact of generational trauma and why it matters for personal and societal growth. This enlightening podcast episode explores the hidden threads that connect our past, present, and future, revealing how understanding ancestral wounds can be a key to unlocking our full potential.
Tune in to discover why understanding generational trauma isn't just about healing old wounds—it's about opening doors to new possibilities for ourselves and the world around us.
About Meenadchi
Meenadchi is a somatic healing practitioner, TEDx speaker, and communications expert whose work centers social change and embodied transformation. Using a blend of Family Constellation Therapy and Non-Violent Communication, Meenadchi supports individuals and changemakers in reconnecting with the intuitive wisdom of our bodies so that we can co-create intergenerational healing by changing the way we speak to ourselves, each other, and the universe. Meenadchi holds a clinical license in occupational therapy and has historically served communities impacted by gender-based violence, complex trauma, and serious mental illness. She is the author of Decolonizing Non-Violent Communication.
Connect with MeenadchiWebsite | LinkedIn | Instagram | Workbook
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In this episode, we sit down with Tiffany Yu, disability rights advocate and author of the groundbreaking new book The Anti-Ableist Manifesto, as she shares her journey from a childhood car accident to becoming a leading voice in disability inclusion.
For storytellers, content creators, and anyone looking to make their work more inclusive, this conversation is an essential guide to understanding how language shapes perception and how we can all contribute to building a more accessible world.
Through candid discussion and practical insights, Tiffany challenges us to move beyond outdated narratives and fear-based approaches to disability storytelling.
Don't miss this timely and transformative conversation that goes beyond mere political correctness to explore the heart of authentic, respectful storytelling. As Tiffany's new book launches, this episode provides a unique opportunity to learn from someone who has not only lived the experience but has dedicated her life to changing the narrative around disability.
About Tiffany YuTiffany Yu is the CEO & Founder of Diversability, a 3x TEDx speaker, and the author of The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: Smashing Stereotypes, Forging Change, and Building a Disability-Inclusive World. At the age of 9, Tiffany became disabled as a result of a car accident that also took the life of her father. As an adult, she started her career at Goldman Sachs before becoming a speaker and writer on disability. She has recently released her book, The Anti-Ableist Manifesto.
Connect with Tiffany YuThe Anti-Ableist Manifesto Book | Website
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In this episode, I sit down with Shulamit Ber Levtov, "The Entrepreneurs' Therapist," to address a critical issue in the nonprofit world: the mental health of storytellers who bear witness to challenging narratives.
In the nonprofit sector, many of us wear multiple hats - we're not just storytellers but also fundraisers, advocates, project managers, and more. This balancing act, coupled with the emotional weight of the stories we tell, can lead to a unique form of stress and burnout.
How do we continue to do impactful work without sacrificing our own well-being?
Shulamit brings us practical nervous system care techniques that can be implemented by anyone, regardless of their resources or position.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the stories you tell, struggled with the many roles you play in your organization, or simply want to proactively manage your mental well-being while continuing to make a difference, this conversation is for you.
Tune in for nervous system care insights that could transform how you approach your work and self-care in the world of nonprofit storytelling.
About Shulamit Ber LevtovShulamit Ber Levtov, MA, RSW, CCTP, CFSW is an award-winning business owner, speaker, and The Entrepreneurs' Therapist. Shulamit is working passionately to transform the entrepreneurial ecosystem to include founder mental health as a business priority. She also works 1:1 with women business owners to prevent burnout and preserve their peace of mind as they ride the emotional rollercoaster of running a business.
As a masters-level, licensed somatic trauma therapist and a trauma survivor herself, with certifications in Nonviolent Communication, Dare To Lead™, Trauma of Money and Financial Social Work, Shulamit brings a unique perspective and approach to supporting women in business.
Connect with Shulamit Ber LevtovWebsite | Newsletter Signup | LinkedIn | Instagram
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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Join us as we explore the complex world of human trafficking storytelling with Matthew Fairfax, co-founder of the Justice and Soul Foundation.
Content warning: This episode discusses sex trafficking and sexual violence. Please be mindful of your emotional capacity while listening.
Matthew's journey from salon owner to advocate is both surprising and inspiring. His organization is dedicated to empowering survivors and at-risk youth through professional cosmetology training, offering them a path to self-sufficiency and renewed confidence.
In this episode, we'll explore how Matthew's experiences in Cambodia transformed his mission and shaped his approach to advocacy. We'll examine the delicate balance between creating impactful stories and avoiding harmful sensationalism when advocating against human trafficking.
Listen to gain insights into how we can all contribute to a more responsible and compassionate dialogue around human trafficking.
About Matthew FairfaxMatthew Fairfax is the President/CEO of James Alan Salon & Spa in Seattle and co-founder of the Justice and Soul Foundation. In 2012, he and his colleague, Lauren Ebright, co-founded the Justice and Soul Foundation, and in 2013, Matthew sold all his belongings and moved to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. He now oversees both a salon and academy in Cambodia, along with the Justice and Soul Foundation in Seattle. Matthew recently returned to Seattle to implement a similar program for at-risk youth and survivors in the Pacific Northwest.
Connect with Matthew
Learn More About Justice & Soul | Facebook | Instagram
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In this episode
Imagine if story gathering wasn't just about words on a page or voice-to-voice.
What if we could capture narratives through the stroke of a paintbrush, the sculpting of clay, or the graceful movements of dance?
In this fascinating episode, we dive into this very realm with Madeleine St. John, whose vocation spans from nonprofit communications, philanthropy, community engagement, and expressive arts therapy.
Madeleine introduces us to the forward-thinking concept of sensory story gathering, where all our senses come into play to share and understand human experiences. She shares practical insights on how organizations can incorporate art, movement, and other creative techniques to uncover richer, more nuanced narratives.
Multisensory storytelling is a powerful alternative way for nonprofits to connect with communities, especially those who've faced trauma or struggle with traditional forms of expression.
We explore how this multisensory approach allows story owners to share on their own terms.
About Madeleine St. JohnMadeleine’s vocation spans nonprofit communications, philanthropy, community engagement, and expressive arts therapy. She’ll be guiding us through Integrating the Senses into your Storytelling Process—from collection to self-care to community care to the share.
Connect with Madeleine St. JohnWebsite | LinkedIn
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In this episode
In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Janelle Suzanne, the managing partner and chief marketing officer at Louder Agency. Janelle and I take on the complex topic of youth-centered storytelling, offering valuable insights into the delicate balance between sharing impactful narratives and protecting vulnerable children.
Our discussion begins by exploring the nuances of storytelling for young people in challenging circumstances, with a particular focus on children in foster care. Janelle advocates for a paradigm shift in traditional storytelling approaches, encouraging a move away from sensationalism towards more empowering methods that preserve dignity. She provides practical strategies for protecting children's identities while still conveying powerful stories that resonate with audiences.
Throughout our conversation, Janelle's passion for ethical storytelling shines through. She's on a mission to change how we talk about young people, focusing on their strengths and potential rather than just their struggles. Whether you're in youth advocacy and services, this episode is for you.
About Janelle SuzanneWith nearly two decades of experience in messaging, marketing, and philanthropy, Janelle Suzanne is dedicated to amplifying the impact of organizations. As the Managing Partner and Chief Marketing Officer of Louder Agency, she specializes in crafting digital strategies and messaging that elevate nonprofits and purposeful brands.
Connect with Janelle SuzanneLouder Agency | Nonprofit Amplifier | LinkedIn | Braid Mission Case Story
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In this powerful episode, former public defender Sy Hoekstra shares his experiences working in family court, shedding light on the often-overlooked challenges within the child welfare system.
A system where both families and public defenders have no choice but to tell incredibly traumatic stories.
Content Warning: Sy describes the traumatic impact of investigations on families, particularly on families of color. So, we'll be talking about systematic racism at play. Be mindful of your emotional capacity as you listen in.
Expect to gain eye-opening insights into the complexities of family court, the power dynamics at play, and the lasting impact on all involved. This episode covers the intersection of law, social services, and systemic inequalities, challenging listeners to reconsider their assumptions about family welfare and public defense.
It also sheds light on the beautiful power of storytelling and advocacy during the most traumatic seasons of people’s lives.
Hoekstra's personal journey from public defense to burnout, as well as his current work, demonstrates how these experiences continue to shape his advocacy for marginalized voices and social justice.
About Sy HoekstraSy is a founding partner of the faith-based media and publishing company, KTF Press. He is also an attorney who has worked in the federal court system and as a public defender in New York City's child welfare system. He lives in Manhattan with his wife and daughter.
Connect Sy Hoekstra
KTF Press | KTF Press IG
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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Are you ready for a masterclass in trauma-informed space holding?
In this episode of When Bearing Witness, we are joined by Frank Velásquez Jr., founder of 4 the Hood and creator of the Ascending Leaders in Color Fellowship program.
Frank pulls back the curtain on how he creates protected spaces for leaders of color to connect, grow, and authentically express themselves without filters. We also discussed the crucial need for these spaces, given the historical lack of representation in leadership roles and the challenges people of color face in predominantly white workplaces.
About Frank Velásquez Jr.Meet Frank Velásquez Jr.: Storyteller Extraordinaire, Social Justice Warrior, and Community Trailblazer. With a heart as big as his vision, Frank dances on the frontlines of change, armed with an unshakeable belief in racial and gender equity. As the founder of 4 Da Hood and the mastermind behind the Ascending Leaders in Color Fellowship program, Frank is forging paths for people of color to lead with authenticity, courage, and joy! For Frank, advancing equity isn't just a job—it's a movement toward building generational wealth for communities of color!
Connect with Frank Velásquez Jr.4 Da Hood | Ascending Leaders in Color Fellowship program| LinkedIn | Instagram
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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Cliff Mayotte, a seasoned oral historian and co-author of the book Say It Forward: A Guide to Social Justice Storytelling shares invaluable insights from his experiences as a social justice-centered storyteller. Cliff's journey began with a deep love for theater and a transformative encounter with Studs Terkel's oral histories, which ignited his passion for storytelling rooted in social justice.
He challenges rigid assumptions about trauma-informed practices, advocating for creating "brave spaces" that embrace nuance, ambiguity, and the full humanity of storytellers. His wisdom extends to navigating power dynamics, historical trauma, and the physical manifestations of intergenerational suffering.
Cliff's approach reminds us that trauma-informed storytelling is ultimately about building authentic relationships based on mutual choice and collaboration. By sharing powerful questioning techniques and a deep reverence for storytellers' autonomy, he offers listeners a refreshing perspective on amplifying voices with care, nuance, and a commitment to resisting harm while promoting safety.
About Cliff MayotteCliff is an interdisciplinary storyteller and educator who uses oral history, theatre, and journalism in his work. He is the co-author and editor of Say it Forward: A Social Justice Guide to Storytelling. He is a recipient of the Beverly Kees Educator Award from the Society of Professional Journalists. For over 12 years, Cliff served as the Education Program Director for Voice of Witness, a nonprofit that amplifies the voices of people impacted by and fighting against injustice. Cliff is also a former education director for the Tony award-winning Berkeley Repertory Theatre.
He is currently the lead teacher for The Nation Fund's Fellowship for the Future of Journalism, working to nurture diverse voices and support the next generation of independent journalists.
Connect with CliffWebsite | LinkedIn | Say It Forward Book
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In this episode, Crystal Whitaker, an inclusive branding and leadership development consultant, shares her insights on creating authentic, values-driven brands that foster a sense of belonging.
Crystal delves into the fine line between intentional inclusion and performative actions, stressing the need for consistent, year-round efforts that go beyond tokenism. She provides practical strategies for brave leadership, such as disrupting the status quo, practicing attunement, and incorporating trauma-informed principles into business operations.
Weaving insights from her book Brave Leadership is a Choice, Crystal invites listeners to embark on a journey of self-reflection, aligning their values with their brand messaging and leadership approach.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone striving to create an inclusive, human-focused, and values-aligned brand that celebrates diversity and fosters a true sense of belonging.
About Chrystal WhiteakerCrystal Whiteaker is an Inclusive Branding and Leadership Development Consultant, and author of Brave Leadership is a Choice: An Inclusive Guide to Creating Belonging. Crystal helps mission-driven brands and leaders create inclusive, human-focused, values-aligned environments. Crystal brings 20 years of practical, creative, relational, process-driven experience across multiple industries. She is a self-described "corporate-trained, creative hippie” and has been honored as the 2024 Empowerment Leader of the Year by BRA Network.
Connect with Chrystal Whiteaker
Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Celebrate Consciously Days of Recognition
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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Fundraising is a calling fueled by a passion for important causes. However, the weight of connecting resources to meet overwhelming needs can lead to burnout for even the most dedicated fundraisers. In this candid discussion, veteran fundraiser Micah James opens up about the unique stresses faced by those tasked with championing non-profit missions through securing donations.
From carrying the burden of potential impact on lives to navigating intense seasonal workloads, Micah provides insights into the drivers behind fundraiser fatigue. She shares hard-won wisdom on maintaining balance, setting boundaries, finding rejuvenating hobbies, and leveraging accountability partners. Her advice is grounded in personal experiences of pushing too hard, and the wake-up calls her body issued.
About Micah James
Micah is the Manager of the Professional Services Team at Bloomerang. She’s experienced as a church administrator and in non-profit fundraising. Micah has earned credentials as a Certified Church Administrator and a Certified Fund Raising Executive. She serves in her community supporting causes she’s passionate about, such as efforts to grow sustainable housing, support families experiencing homelessness, and education.
Connect with Micah JamesWebsite | LinkedIn
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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As a development director at NAMI, Liz Jackson is immersed in the powerful and often painful stories of those impacted by mental illness. In this episode, she shares her journey of learning the critical importance of self-care for storytellers bearing witness to trauma.
Liz openly discusses the warning signs that she was approaching burnout early in her role and how she became more deliberate about caring for herself. Liz's wisdom on nurturing resilience as a storyteller is a must-listen for any nonprofit professional navigating this emotional terrain.
About Liz JacksonLiz Jackson is the Director of Development at NAMI Greater Los Angeles County, the leading countywide organization composed of grassroots-based chapters that promote wellness, recovery, equality, and dignity for individuals and families affected by mental illness. Liz is a bridge-building fundraiser, goal-crusher, and fierce advocate for racial and social justice.
Connect with Liz JacksonWebsite | LinkedIn
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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In the first episode of our special series on mental health in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we discuss maintaining emotional health while continuing your activism. Many activists burn out quickly due to compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress, and a lack of emotional self-care. In this episode, Jonathan Walton opens up about his own journey from unhealthy activism driven by unresolved personal wounds to a more sustainable practice of emotionally healthy activism.
Jonathan's wisdom stems from an understanding of complex intersecting identities and a belief that authentic activism flows from an affirmation of one's full humanity.
Whether you're an avid activist feeling depleted or simply want to integrate more sustainable practices, this conversation will inspire you. Jonathan's framework for emotionally healthy activism allows room for hope, rest, and wholeness as we work toward collective liberation. His insights offer a path for activists to fully show up—not just for causes but also for themselves and their loved ones.
About Jonathan WaltonJonathan Walton is the creator of the Emotionally Healthy Activist Course and podcast and the author of 5 books, including "Twelve Lies That Hold America Captive." He is also a co-founder of KTF Press and co-host of the Shake the Dust podcast. He has a degree in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MA from the City University in New York in the Study of the Americas.
Currently, he also works as a Senior Resource Specialist in InterVarsity's Multi-Ethnic Initiatives Department and leads the Emotionally Healthy Activist Team. He focuses on developing resources around Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, including executing one-off workshops, cohort experiences, and conferences.
Connect with Jonathan WaltonWebsite | LinkedIn | Emotionally Healthy Activist Patreon | KTF Press Newsletter and Podcast
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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Carol will guide us through a 20-minute body scan meditation.
The body scan is a practice of systematically bringing gentle attention to each part of the body. It helps us become more present and aware of the physical sensations we often ignore or tune out. With this awareness, we can release areas of tightness or tension.
Before you press play, find a comfortable position. You can sit upright in a chair or lie down on your back on a mat or blanket.
Take a moment to settle into your position and allow your body to feel supported. You may want to slightly soften your gaze or let your eyes close completely. The most important thing is to find a position that feels stable and relaxed for you.
Enjoy!
About Carol
As a multi-certified meditation and yoga teacher, Carol helps people like you feel younger, healthier, and more present again. She practices easy, uncomplicated ways to peel away the layers of stress and access the many scientifically proven benefits of meditation.
With well-researched methods that are easy and accessible to everyone, she can show you how meditation can help you gain clarity, ramp up resilience, improve your health, and strengthen your relationships.Let’s find your way into meditation. Visit Meditate With Carol
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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AI has seemed to blow in like a tornado this past year. The rapid development of AI has brought both excitement and concerns around potential biases and inequities.
In this episode, data equity expert Meena discusses why we need to be intentional about centering humans and promoting inclusivity as AI becomes more ubiquitous. Meena emphasizes that data is ultimately about people - we are the data points that these systems analyze and make predictions from. If AI models are trained on datasets lacking diverse representation, they will perpetuate harmful biases and alienate entire communities.
Meena advocates for having open conversations to develop organizational "AI values" that prioritize ethics, accountability, and evaluating real-world impacts. Rather than rushing to adopt shiny new AI tools, she urges taking a step back to understand how the technology aligns with an organization's mission and equitably serves all stakeholders. Meena shares examples of responsible AI practices in action.
About Meena DasMeena Das (she/her) is the CEO, consultant, and facilitator of two practices - NamasteData and Data Is For Everyone. Namaste Data focuses on advancing data equity for nonprofits and social impact agencies, while Data Is For Everyone provides tools and resources to help people learn how to navigate the world of data. Meena is a specialist in designing and teaching equitable research tools and analyzing engagement. She supports nonprofits in three critical areas: data collection assessments, community surveys, and staff workshops on topics like improving data equity and human-centric algorithms.
Connect with Meena DasWebsite | LinkedIn | Dear Human Newsletter | Data Uncollected Newsletter
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
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Giving voice to our stories, especially the painful chapters, can be a daunting yet profoundly healing journey. Many of us hold back, grappling with self-doubt and the fear of revisiting trauma. However, as Marti Statler, CEO of Rebel Queen Books, passionately shares, bravely articulating your narrative through writing can be a transformative act of self-reclamation.
To be clear, this path of healing is a choice. And if you do choose to reclaim your story, this episode is for you.
Statler guides us through the delicate process of unpacking our stories with care and compassion. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating a strong support system of "dream keepers" - trusted individuals who can hold space for you as you dive into the tender depths. Developing self-care practices, such as compassionate journaling, can help reframe perspectives and offer solace.
With authenticity and vulnerability, Statler opens up about how boldly owning her truth allowed others to feel less alone in their struggles. While revisiting painful memories can be challenging, she shares how giving voice to your story can forge deep human connections and personal growth.
This episode provides a roadmap for courageously exploring your narrative, even the most difficult chapters, with gentleness and care. Through Statler's guidance, you'll gain insights into creating a nurturing environment to safely unpack your story, one layer at a time, ultimately discovering the healing potential within your truth.
About Marti StatlerMarti Statler is the CEO of Rebel Queen and podcast host of The Rebel Maker. She knows exactly what she's doing when it comes to helping women get their books done and into the world. She has a "no BS" approach to publishing and problem-solving—along with her tenacity to make things happen.
Connect with Marti StatlerRebel Queen Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook
About Host Maria Bryan
Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.
Connect with Maria
Speaking & Training | LinkedIn | Email - Näytä enemmän
