Melissa Connelly had a rocky start to her high school career, being placed in her school’s truancy program after missing sixty days of classes in 8th grade.  Fortunately, Melissa found her guidance counselor, Mrs. Jeter, who changed her life.  With her help, Melissa turned her academic career around and through determined optimism, managed to earn college degrees and build a successful, high impact life.  She now oversees OneGoal, a national postsecondary access and success organization and she shares her inspiring story on this episode of Blue Sky. 

Chapters: 

02:11 Meet Melissa Connelly  Bill introduces Melissa Connelly, CEO of OneGoal, highlighting her journey as a first-generation college graduate and her commitment to helping underserved youth succeed in education. 

03:21 A Challenging Upbringing  Melissa details the struggles she faced as a child of a single mother and her experiences in a truancy program that initially hindered her education. 

05:39 The Turning Point  With the help of her social worker, Mrs. Jeter, Melissa learns to advocate for herself, transforming her academic trajectory from truancy to success in high school. 

10:04 College Dreams Dashed  Melissa recounts her emotional experience of arriving at NYU only to realize she couldn’t afford the cab fare, leading to a difficult return home and reassessment of her college journey. 

13:10 Introducing OneGoal  Melissa explains the mission of OneGoal, an organization dedicated to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to achieve their post-secondary aspirations, addressing systemic barriers in education. 

15:49 The Role of Mentorship  Melissa draws parallels between her experience with Mrs. Jeter and the mentorship provided by OneGoal, emphasizing the importance of caring adults in students’ lives. 

18:02 How OneGoal Operates  Melissa describes how OneGoal identifies students in need of support and integrates its program into high schools to provide guidance and resources for post-secondary success. 

21:02 Scaling the Impact  Melissa shares the scale of OneGoal’s impact, serving over 14,000 students in 300 schools, and discusses the organization’s efforts to train districts to provide similar support. 

28:37 Equity in Education  Melissa discusses the need for equitable educational resources and support, emphasizing the importance of treating all students with the same care and attention afforded to athletes. 

30:07 Measuring Success  Melissa shares the metrics of success for OneGoal, highlighting how their students outperform peers in graduation rates. She emphasizes the importance of both data and personal stories that keep her motivated in the challenging work of education. 

35:03 Breaking Negative Labels  The conversation shifts to the impact of labels on students and how they can shape self-identity. Melissa advocates for removing negative stigmas and fostering a more supportive environment for all students. 

36:53 Navigating the College Process  Melissa shares personal insights about her son’s college application journey, revealing the challenges he faces in a system that often overlooks individual identities. This discussion highlights the need for more personalized attention in education. 

42:01 The Future of Education  Reflecting on the current state of education, Melissa emphasizes the need for systemic change to create equitable opportunities for all students.  

46:06 Glimmers of Hope  Melissa introduces the concept of ‘glimmers’ as positive signs amidst challenges, encouraging a focus on hope and solutions in education.  

50:16 Looking Ahead: A Vision for OneGoal  In a forward-looking discussion, Melissa envisions a future where OneGoal no longer needs to exist because the systemic issues in education have been addressed.  

Jamie Metzl is one of the world’s leading authorities on the implications of the intersecting AI, genetics, and biotechnology revolutions and how governments, corporations, organizations, and individuals can ride the wave of these unprecedented transformations to build their best possible futures. In this Blue Sky episode, he talks about the optimistic insights and opportunities he describes in his new book, Superconvergence. 

Chapters:

01:11 Meet Jamie Metzl  Bill introduces Jamie Metzl, a technology and healthcare futurist, highlighting his impressive background and recent works. The discussion begins to explore the themes of Jamie’s latest book, ‘Superconvergence.’ 

02:44 The Nature of Optimism  Jamie shares his lifelong optimism and how his experiences, including his family’s history, have shaped his perspective.  

06:07 The Power of Literacy  The conversation shifts to the remarkable increase in global literacy rates over the past century. Jamie emphasizes the significance of empowered minds and the potential for collaboration in addressing global challenges. 

09:11 Understanding Biological Change  Jamie discusses the fluid nature of biology and the historical context of human intervention in biological systems.  

13:10 Agricultural Innovations  The discussion focuses on the advancements in agricultural productivity, including the role of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).  

17:03 The Miracle of COVID Vaccines  Jamie reflects on the rapid development of COVID vaccines, emphasizing the technological advancements that made it possible.  

23:31 The Future of Precision Medicine  The conversation shifts to the promise of targeted and personalized medicine, which tailors treatments to individual patients. Jamie discusses the potential for precision healthcare to revolutionize treatment and improve outcomes. 

29:18 Confronting Climate Change  In this chapter, Jamie Metzl discusses the pressing issue of climate change and its link to agriculture, highlighting how agricultural practices contribute significantly to carbon emissions.  

30:04 Rethinking Agriculture  Metzl dives into the complexities of animal agriculture, revealing its massive environmental footprint and the ethical dilemmas it presents. He argues for a shift in perspective on how we produce and consume animal products, advocating for sustainable alternatives. 

33:14 The Promise of Cultivated Meat  Exploring the emerging field of cell-cultured animal products, Metzl presents a vision for the future of meat that is both ethical and sustainable. He discusses how advancements in biotechnology could revolutionize our food systems while addressing environmental concerns. 

36:04 Navigating Uncomfortable Innovations  In this segment, Metzl addresses the discomfort many feel about lab-grown meat and encourages listeners to research the realities of conventional animal farming.  

39:27 Balancing Risks and Rewards  Metzl emphasizes the importance of weighing the potential risks and benefits of new technologies, including synthetic biology and genetic engineering. He highlights the need for careful consideration of the consequences while remaining optimistic about the innovations that can improve our lives. 

44:40 Learning from History  Reflecting on the lessons from history, Metzl discusses how past technologies have shaped our present challenges, such as climate change. He urges a forward-thinking approach that embraces innovation while acknowledging its complexities. 

46:02 Embracing the Future  In the closing chapter, Metzl encourages listeners to maintain an open mind about new technologies and their potential to solve pressing global issues. He stresses the importance of not getting locked into present anxieties, but rather looking ahead to the possibilities that lie in innovation. 

This is a special encore presentation of the very first episode of Blue Sky!  This conversation with David Gardner first aired in March of 2023 and is still one of our favorites. 

David Gardner discusses a wide range of topics, from the relationship between optimism and entrepreneurship to developing an investment strategy with an eye towards your own positive vision for the future, to David’s outsized love for, of all things, board games!  Motley Fool: www.Fool.com 

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Blue Sky Podcast  In this encore presentation of Blue Sky’s inaugural episode, host Bill Burke introduces the Blue Sky Podcast and his guest, David Gardner, co-founder of the Motley Fool.

02:07 The Power of Optimism in Entrepreneurship  David Gardner shares insights on the intrinsic link between optimism and entrepreneurship, emphasizing that successful ventures often begin with a hopeful vision. He discusses how optimism fuels creativity and persistence in business. 

05:49 Investing with Purpose and Embracing Failure  David elaborates on the philosophy of making investments that reflect one’s vision for the future while discussing the inevitability of failure in both investing and entrepreneurship.  

12:00 Lifelong Learning and Adaptability  The importance of lifelong learning is highlighted as David discusses how adaptability is crucial in a rapidly changing world. He shares personal anecdotes about his reading habits and the value of continuous education. 

18:33 The Case for Conscious Capitalism  David passionately defends capitalism as a force for good while explaining the principles of conscious capitalism, emphasizing purpose over profit and the importance of serving all stakeholders.  

30:04 Rational Optimism and Future Progress  The conversation delves into the concept of rational optimism, with David referencing historical progress in human society. He argues that despite current challenges, the trajectory of humanity is one of continual improvement. 

34:03 The Future Is Here  David discusses the rapid advancements in technology and how they shape our present and future, encouraging listeners to embrace innovations like AI. 

37:01 Reflections on the Past and Leadership  The discussion turns to the tendency to glorify the past while overlooking current advancements, with David sharing personal anecdotes.  

43:07 The Power of Gratitude and The Motley Fool Foundation  David discusses the link between gratitude and optimism, highlighting how expressing gratitude can enhance happiness and foster positive relationships. He also introduces the Motley Fool Foundation, aimed at improving financial literacy in underserved populations. 

49:30 The Joy of Board Games  The conversation takes a lighter turn as David shares his passion for board games and their role in family bonding.  

56:17 The Roots of Optimism and Closing Thoughts  David reflects on the origins of his optimism, attributing it to both genetic factors and life experiences, and shares personal stories that shaped his outlook.  

Today, Lee Ellis is an acclaimed and accomplished author and leadership coach.  But in 1967, while flying a combat mission over North Vietnam, he was shot down, captured, and held as a prisoner of war for five-and-a-half years at the “Hanoi Hilton,” where his group of fellow prisoners included the late Senator John McCain.  and on this Blue Sky episode, Colonel Lee Ellis shares his incredible story and the valuable leadership and life lessons he learned under these trying circumstances, as well as the optimistic and hopeful mindset he’s used to get him through his toughest challenges.  

Chapters:

02:11 Meet Lee Ellis  Lee Ellis shares his gratitude for being on the podcast and reflects on his long-standing connection with Bill Burke. They delve into Lee’s early life in Georgia and the pivotal moment that sparked his passion for flying. 

05:03 The Vietnam Experience Begins  He vividly describes the moment he was shot down during his 53rd mission over North Vietnam and the immediate aftermath of his capture. 

07:13 Life as a POW  Lee paints a picture of his harrowing life as a prisoner of war in the infamous Hanoi Hilton. He shares the challenges of living in cramped quarters with fellow POWs and the psychological toll of constant interrogation. 

11:13 Finding Hope in Darkness  In this chapter, Lee discusses the importance of hope and optimism during his captivity.  

15:03 The Power of Leadership  Lee reflects on the remarkable leadership displayed by senior officers in the POW camp. He emphasizes the significance of following a strong command structure and the impact it had on their morale and resilience. 

21:10 Resilience and Adaptability  Lee shares stories of resilience and adaptability among the POWs, including their innovative methods of communication.  

25:35 Viktor Frankl’s Influence Lee discusses how he came to read Viktor Frankl’s ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ while imprisoned. He recounts a touching encounter with Frankl shortly after his release, reflecting on the profound impact of the book on his perspective. 

27:51 The Power of Brotherhood  Lee shares how the bond between fellow POWs fostered a sense of community and optimism during their harrowing experience.  

29:23 A Career Beyond the POW Experience  After returning home, Lee discusses his extensive career in the Air Force, highlighting his rise through the ranks and his passion for leadership training.  

31:39 The Essence of Leadership  Lee delves into the significance of leadership, explaining his motivation to help others become better leaders. He introduces his model of confidence and humility, illustrating how these traits can inspire teams and foster a positive work environment. 

35:00 Listening: The Key to Great Leadership  In this chapter, Lee emphasizes the importance of listening as a fundamental quality of effective leadership. He shares insights from his research, revealing that the ability to listen ranks highest among the traits people seek in their leaders. 

38:23 Gratitude Through Adversity  Lee reflects on how his POW experience shaped his perspective on life and gratitude. He discusses the psychological resilience developed through hardship and how it influences his outlook on modern challenges. 

43:39 Optimism and the Future  As Lee addresses the current state of the country, he expresses concerns about polarization and the impact of technology on personal connections. He shares his hope for a future where leaders prioritize respect and understanding across differences. 

50:01 Lessons from Lee Ellis  In the closing segment, Lee summarizes key lessons from his life experiences, emphasizing belief in oneself, the importance of relationships, and faith in a higher power. His insights serve as a powerful reminder of the values that can guide us through adversity. 

Theodore (Ted) R. Johnson served twenty years in the United States Navy before becoming a columnist and author.  His latest book, If We Are Brave is a collection of essays on race in America, and in this Blue Sky conversation, Ted describes his pragmatic optimism and belief that the United States has in its founding ideals the path towards forming a “more perfect union.”  Ted’s personal story is remarkable, rising from humble beginnings to become an officer in the US Navy, White House Fellow, and speechwriter for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.   

Chapters:

02:33 Meet Ted Johnson: A Journey from the South  Ted Johnson shares his upbringing in North Carolina, detailing the duality of growing up in a predominantly white suburb while attending a black church. His experiences shaped his worldview and influenced his educational and career choices. 

06:10 From HBCU to the Navy  Ted discusses his decision to attend Hampton University and how it led him to a career in the Navy. He reflects on how a chance encounter with a Navy recruiter changed his life trajectory. 

09:43 A Career in the Navy: Unexpected Turns  Ted recounts his 20-year journey in the Navy, highlighting key experiences that led him to become a speechwriter for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.  

12:12 The Power of Writing: Ted’s Passion  Ted reveals his love for writing and how it became a central focus of his post-military career. He discusses his first book, ‘When the Stars Begin to Fall,’ and the themes of racism and optimism that permeate his work. 

18:09 Why Ted Loves America  Ted explains his deep love for America, likening it to familial bonds. He reflects on the nation’s promise of democracy and equality, despite its historical shortcomings. 

20:15 Reflections on Progress Since Trayvon Martin  Ted discusses the impact of Trayvon Martin’s death on his perspective and activism. He evaluates the progress made in addressing racism in America over the past twelve years, noting both advancements and ongoing challenges. 

25:45 The Role of Organizations in Promoting Diversity  Ted shares his thoughts on how businesses can better reflect the communities they serve through diversity and inclusion efforts.  

29:01 The Complexity of Affirmative Action  Ted and Bill explore the nuances of affirmative action, discussing how perceptions change based on personal experiences.  

32:01 The Founding Ideals vs. Historical Flaws  The conversation shifts to the founding documents of the United States, emphasizing the need to separate the ideals from the flawed individuals who created them.  

36:16 Introducing If We Are Brave  Ted discusses his latest book, If We Are Brave, which aims to present a national conversation on race through his unique perspective. He shares insights into the essays included and the themes of optimism and realism that permeate his work. 

39:49 The Legacy of Optimism  Reflecting on his family’s history, Ted shares how the optimism of his ancestors inspires him to believe in a better future for America.  

42:12 New America and the US at 250 Initiative  Ted introduces New America, a think tank focused on evolving policies to match societal changes, and discusses the US at 250 initiative. This project aims to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence by fostering dialogue and understanding across diverse communities. 

45:30 The Impact of ‘If We Are Brave’  In the final segment, Ted expresses his hopes for readers of his book to gain a deeper understanding of race and democracy in America.  

Lee Woodruff and her husband Bob were, in many ways, on top of the world.  She was with her children at Walt Disney World while Bob was overseas in one of his first news gathering assignments after being named a co-anchor of ABC World News Tonight.  Everything changed in an instant when the vehicle Bob was traveling in hit a roadside bomb and he sustained a traumatic brain injury.  From there, Lee and his family faced the challenges of trauma, grief, and persevered thanks to what Lee describes as her “Four F’s”: Family, Friends, Funny, and Faith.”  Not long after Bob made an against-the-odds recovery, he and Lee founded the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which helps support veterans, servicemembers, and their families.   

Chapters:

00:31 The Woodruff Story: Love and Triumph  Lee Woodruff shares her journey with her husband Bob, detailing their love story, career changes, and the sudden shift in their lives due to personal tragedy. 

02:08 A Life of Accomplishments  Lee discusses her multifaceted career as a bestselling author, public speaker, and co-founder of the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which supports veterans with traumatic brain injuries. 

04:42 The Impact of Tiananmen Square  Lee recounts Bob’s transformative experience reporting on the Tiananmen Square protests, which redirected his career from law to journalism. 

08:31 The Shocking News  Lee describes the moment she received the devastating news of Bob’s injury while at Disney World, highlighting the emotional turmoil and urgency of the situation. 

12:14 The Four F’s   Amidst chaos, Lee identifies the four pillars—family, friends, funny, and faith—that helped her navigate the challenges of Bob’s recovery. 

13:16 The Birth of the Bob Woodruff Foundation  After Bob’s recovery, Lee explains the motivation behind founding the Bob Woodruff Foundation, aiming to support veterans and families affected by war injuries. 

16:03 Finding Strength in Adversity  Lee reflects on how the couple’s response to adversity became a source of inspiration, emphasizing the importance of perspective in overcoming life’s challenges. 

19:14 Bob’s Remarkable Recovery  Lee shares insights into Bob’s recovery journey, acknowledging the uniqueness of each brain injury experience while celebrating his progress. 

22:05 Navigating Complicated Grief  Lee discusses the complexities of grief when a loved one survives but changes, highlighting the importance of allowing oneself to mourn what has been lost. 

29:02 The Foundation’s Humble Beginnings  Lee Woodruff shares how the foundation started from a lack of expertise but evolved into a vital resource for veterans. 

30:31 Innovative Solutions for Veterans  The discussion highlights the foundation’s innovative efforts in addressing infertility issues for veterans, showcasing their commitment to helping families in need.  

32:06 Mobilizing Awareness Through Personal Experience  Lee reflects on how her husband’s injury brought national attention to veterans’ issues, emphasizing the importance of treating returning service members with dignity.  

33:05 Navigating Caregiving and Grief  Lee discusses the complexities of caregiving and the unique challenges faced by families in crisis.  

37:11 The Impact on Family: Growing Through Adversity  Lee reflects on how her children’s experiences during her husband’s recovery have shaped them into empathetic individuals.  

40:49 Looking Ahead: New Ventures and Aspirations  As Lee shares her future aspirations, including a new novel and media consulting work, she reflects on the lessons learned from her journey.  

42:17 Closing Thoughts: Embracing Life’s Challenges  In the final segment, Lee emphasizes the importance of playing the hand you’re dealt and finding silver linings in adversity. 

This is a special encore edition of an episode which first aired in March of 2023.  In the time since then, our guest has added yet another best-selling book to his list of titles, “How Leaders Learn.”    

David Novak has had a remarkably successful career and one that was defined by his boundless enthusiasm and contagious sense of optimism.  He describes in this episode that he’s never come across a leader who wasn’t an optimist and reflects on why he thinks this is the case.  He also discusses the inspiring work he’s been doing since leaving his job at the top of Yum! Brands, where he was widely considered to be one of the top CEO’s in the world. 

Chapters:

03:03 The Importance of Leadership David discusses why he believes leadership is a privilege and a responsibility, emphasizing the need for effective leaders who can inspire and motivate.  

05:38 Formative Experiences: A Trailer Park Kid David shares his unique upbringing as a ‘trailer park kid,’ moving frequently and learning the importance of making friends. He reflects on how this experience shaped his understanding of people and the value of relationships in leadership. 

09:40 Optimism in Leadership David explores the critical role of optimism in leadership, asserting that successful leaders must create hope and define reality for their teams. . 

14:04 The Power of Recognition David shares his belief in the significance of recognizing and appreciating employees’ efforts.  

19:00 Creating a Culture of Appreciation David discusses how he fostered a culture of recognition at Yum! Brands, highlighting the ripple effect of appreciation in leadership.  

24:47 Overcoming Worry and Fear David addresses the common fears and anxieties that leaders face, sharing insights on how to overcome them.  

26:54 The Lifelong Learning Mindset David discusses the value of being a lifelong learner and his ongoing commitment to self-improvement. He emphasizes that effective leaders combine confidence with humility, recognizing the importance of learning from others. 

30:08 Embracing the Unknown Host Bill Burke shares a pivotal moment from his past with Ted Turner, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step into uncertainty.  

31:52 David Novak Leadership: A Mission to Empower David discusses his mission to develop better leaders through the David Novak Leadership initiative, which offers programs for all ages.  

35:11 Teaching Leadership in Schools In this chapter, David explains the challenges and successes of integrating leadership programs into school curriculums. 

40:06 Hiring with Intention David reveals his unique approach to hiring, emphasizing the importance of character and how potential hires treat others.  

45:00 The Birth of Cool Ranch Doritos David recounts the creative process behind the iconic Cool Ranch Doritos, illustrating how looking outside one’s category can lead to innovation.  

49:57 Optimism and Unfinished Business In this chapter, David discusses the role of optimism in overcoming setbacks and pursuing unfinished business in life.  

Known in the science community primarily for her work as a geneticists and epidemiologist with a focus on oncology, Immaculata De Vivo seems like an unlikely person to co-Author a book called, “The Biology of Kindness.”  But the more she understood the role that behavior played in our wellbeing and that it can even have an impact on our DNA structures, the more she wanted to write her findings in a book that would be accessible to people outside the world of academia.  In this episode, Immaculata describes why all scientists must be optimists, and why we should all keep open minds and strive to be lifelong learners who don’t “fall in love with our hypotheses.”  She also describes the “five values” that are key to our wellbeing: kindness, optimism, forgiveness, gratitude, and happiness and offers practical advice and examples for how we might pursue this in our lives.  

Chapters:

02:05 Introducing Immaculata De Vivo  Bill welcomes Immaculata De Vivo, a prominent figure in cancer epidemiology and co-author of ‘The Biology of Kindness.’ They discuss her impressive academic background and the intriguing intersection of her scientific research with the themes of kindness and positivity. 

03:30 The Journey to Kindness  Immaculata shares her unexpected journey from molecular biology to writing about kindness. 

08:00 Optimism in Science  Bill and Immaculata explore the necessity of optimism in scientific research, discussing how failures are a common part of the process.  

09:19 Nature vs. Nurture  The conversation shifts to the nature versus nurture debate, with Immaculata quoting, ‘genes load the gun, the environment pulls the trigger.’  

12:30 Understanding Telomeres  This chapter highlights the biological mechanisms behind aging and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to mitigate accelerated telomere shortening. 

15:00 The Science of Kindness  Immaculata discusses the motivation behind her book, ‘The Biology of Kindness,’ and the importance of making scientific information accessible to a broader audience.  

19:00 The Five Values of Well-Being  The conversation transitions to the five fundamental values outlined in Immaculata’s book: kindness, optimism, forgiveness, gratitude, and happiness.  

24:00 Adaptability and Evolution  Immaculata reflects on the concept of adaptability in evolution, challenging the notion of ‘survival of the fittest.’ She emphasizes that kindness and the ability to adapt are crucial for survival, drawing parallels to Darwin’s observations. 

25:15 The Impact of Nature and Music  The discussion shifts to the benefits of nature and music on mental health and well-being. Immaculata shares insights from her colleagues on how these elements can lower stress and positively influence our biological markers. 

30:00 Defining Optimism  The hosts discuss a straightforward definition of optimism, emphasizing the belief that tomorrow can be better than today.  

32:00 Optimism in Science and Personal Experience  Immaculata shares her journey into the world of optimism through her experiences and meetings with experts. 

35:00 The Genetic and Environmental Aspects of Optimism  The conversation delves into the genetic and environmental influences on optimism, suggesting that while some may be predisposed to optimism, there are numerous ways to cultivate it.  

39:00 Gratitude as a Tool for Optimism  Immaculata discusses the power of gratitude in enhancing one’s outlook on life, sharing personal anecdotes about practicing gratitude with her own daughter.  

41:00 The Swimmer Experiment: A Lesson in Mindset  The hosts explore Martin Seligman’s swimmer experiment, illustrating how optimism and pessimism can influence performance under pressure.  

46:00 Leaving with Hope  Immaculata expresses her goal of leaving audiences feeling hopeful and inspired, regardless of the challenges discussed.  

The husband and wife team of Mary Louise and Bruce Cohen have impressive backgrounds in law and government and for the past ten years, they’ve used their skills to advance the cause of skilled refugees around the world.  The organization they co-founded, Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB), identifies refugees with marketable skills and places them in a talent database that matches them with eager employers.  The Cohens tackle their intimidating challenges with an inspiring sense of can-do optimism and their TBB’s success is a reflection of these efforts. 

Chapters:

01:02 Meet the Cohens  Bill introduces Mary Louise and Bruce Cohen, a husband and wife team dedicated to helping refugees through their organization, Talent Beyond Boundaries. 

04:05 Transitioning to Nonprofit Work  The Cohens discuss their transition from their legal careers to nonprofit work, driven by a desire to contribute more significantly to society, particularly in the realm of immigration reform. 

08:10 Challenges Faced by Refugees  Mary Louise outlines the various obstacles refugees encounter, such as lack of documentation and legal barriers, which hinder their ability to utilize their skills in new countries. 

10:12 The Focus on Skilled Labor Pathways  The Cohens explain how Talent Beyond Boundaries aims to create skilled labor pathways for refugees, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance over traditional humanitarian aid. 

15:27 Employer Engagement and Support  Bill and the Cohens discuss the growing support from private sector employers who are increasingly willing to underwrite costs associated with hiring refugees. 

19:14 The Future of Refugee Talent in the U.S.  Mary Louise and Bruce express optimism about the potential for the U.S. to recognize the value of refugee talent and the need for reform in immigration policies. 

21:28 The Ripple Effects of Their Work  The Cohens discuss the significant positive impacts of their work, including increased income for relocated families and the long-term benefits for future generations. 

24:02 Changing Perceptions of Refugees  They emphasize the importance of changing societal perceptions of refugees, highlighting their resilience and the skills they bring to their new communities. 

27:10 Strategic Goals for the Future  The conversation wraps up with a discussion of Talent Beyond Boundaries’ strategic goals, focusing on expanding access to skilled immigration pathways for refugees. 

30:00 Navigating Skilled Worker Pathways  This chapter discusses Canada’s skilled workers federal program and how refugees are increasingly applying independently.  

32:44 Collaborative Efforts for Systemic Change  Mary Louise and Bruce share insights on their long-term goal of transforming global immigration systems. They discuss the increasing involvement of international organizations like the UN and the International Organization for Migration in promoting complementary solutions to humanitarian resettlement. 

36:47 The Future Vision of Talent Beyond Boundaries  As Mary Louise and Bruce discuss their future roles, they articulate a vision where TBB’s services are no longer needed due to open pathways for skilled refugees.  

38:28 Connecting with Talent Beyond Boundaries  The Cohens provide information on how potential employers and supporters can connect with TBB. They emphasize the importance of community engagement and the organization’s charitable status across multiple countries.  

40:21 Reflections on Progress and Optimism  The episode wraps up with reflections on the technological advancements that support TBB’s mission and the hopeful vision for the future of immigration pathways. The guests express gratitude for the opportunity to share their inspiring journey. 

At a time in her life that should have been one of her happiest – just prior to her wedding – Christina Menkemeller developed frightening symptoms and was given a devastating diagnosis.   In the wake of this news, Christina’s fiancé Cardin never wavered in his commitment and the newlywed couple decided to take a yearlong trip that would change the course of their lives.  After facing the understandable “why me” moments, Christina was buoyed by her faith and a sense of gratitude and decided to launch a nonprofit – called Being Positioned – to help others with conditions like hers go on their own dream trips.  She describes this organization as a sort of “Make-A-Wish for adults” and it’s already making a huge impact and helping her find purpose in her suffering. 

Chapters:

02:11 Meet Christina Menkemeller  Bill welcomes Christina, his first cousin once removed, and expresses excitement about their family connection. She shares her journey leading up to a life-changing diagnosis that altered her path. 

03:00 Facing a Life-Altering Diagnosis  Christina recounts the frightening onset of her symptoms just before her wedding, leading to a diagnosis of a rare, debilitating disease. She discusses the emotional turmoil of receiving such news at a critical moment in her life. 

07:01 The ‘Why Me?’ Moment  Christina reflects on the devastating moment of her diagnosis and the fear of losing her hearing. She shares how her husband, Cardin, provided unwavering support during this challenging time. 

10:24 A Bold Decision to Travel  After grappling with Christina’s diagnosis, Cardin suggests they quit their jobs and travel the world. This chapter explores the couple’s decision-making process and the motivation behind their adventurous leap. 

14:28 Transformative Travels  Christina describes how their year-long trip changed her outlook on life, helping her regain confidence and joy.

19:08 A Newfound Courage  Midway through their travels, she begins to shed her fears and embrace life more fully.  

20:07 The Birth of a Nonprofit  Upon returning home, Christina feels inspired to create a nonprofit, ‘Being Positioned,’ aimed at helping others with rare genetic disorders. She discusses the motivation behind this initiative and its mission to provide unforgettable travel experiences. 

25:20 Empowering Others Through Travel  Christina explains how ‘Being Positioned’ facilitates dream trips for adults facing life-altering health conditions.  

30:13 The Power of Community  She discusses the emotional support she receives from her partner and the importance of community in facing challenges. 

31:41 Finding Purpose in Suffering  In this chapter, Christina shares her journey of finding meaning in her suffering and how it has transformed her outlook on life. She emphasizes the significance of therapy and the importance of recognizing the impact of her struggles on others. 

33:05 From Idea to Reality: Creating ‘Being Positioned’  Christina recounts her journey from a moment of inspiration to the creation of her ambitious nonprofit. She highlights the importance of optimism in entrepreneurship and how her experiences fueled her desire to help others. 

37:01 Empathy Born from Experience  This chapter explores how Christina’s diagnosis has deepened her empathy for others facing similar struggles. She shares a poignant moment of connection with a fellow patient, illustrating the power of shared experiences. 

40:41 Choosing Gratitude Amidst Hardship  Christina offers valuable advice on cultivating gratitude during difficult times, emphasizing the importance of recognizing small moments of joy. She shares her personal practice of journaling gratitude and how it helps her navigate her challenges. 

43:53 A Message of Hope and Inspiration  Christina reflects on her journey and the strength she draws from her faith and gratitude. The conversation wraps up with a heartfelt acknowledgment of her resilience and the positive impact she aims to create through her work.