Your host, Mark Brand sits down with Benjamin McBride (BJ) and Michelle Monterrosa, advocates behind the 1-800 Happy Birthday project: whose work is transforming how we remember, honour, and heal in the face of tragedy.

From personal heartbreak to sparking national conversations, our guests’ journeys are a testament to the power of community, storytelling, and resilience. In a world that often overlooks the deep human toll of violence, this conversation is a reminder that true change begins with remembering those we’ve lost and lifting each other up. We discuss:

• Why honouring victims’ stories, and remembering names can be a way to healing
• How art, creative memorials, and public installations create opportunities for collective grief and hope
• The importance of grassroots advocacy, community action, and building safe spaces for support and truth-telling
• How vulnerability and compassion can help transform trauma into new visions for justice and reform
• The role of family, community leaders, and cross-generational mentorship in sustaining movements for change

This episode is for anyone who believes that justice is more than headlines, it’s about memory, love, and rewriting the narrative together.

This podcast is proudly supported by East Coast Credit Union. 

At East Coast Credit Union, we’re proud to support community voices and meaningful conversations. The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on this podcast are their own and don’t necessarily reflect those of East Coast Credit Union.