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. 

Dr. Liz Henry is highly-regarded professional in the fields of pediatrics and parenting and in this Blue Sky conversation, she shares her views on everything from technology, drugs and alcohol, whether it’s tougher to be a kid today, and more.  The content is relevant for kids, current parents, past parents, and even adults who might take this information and cut their own parents a little slack.  Dr. Liz is optimistic, enthusiastic, and engaging and her advice is both helpful and practical, with much of it pulled from her best-selling book, You Are Not a Bad Parent: A Pediatrician’s Guide to Reducing Conflict and Connecting with Your Teens. 

Chapters:

03:36 The Choice of Pediatrics  Doctor Liz shares her path to pediatrics, highlighting her passion for preventive care and the importance of fostering relationships with families to promote children’s well-being. 

05:24 Navigating Parent-Child Relationships  Doctor Liz discusses the delicate balance of being a friend and a parent, emphasizing the need for open communication and the ability to switch roles when necessary. 

07:55 The Technology Debate  Doctor Liz weighs in on the ongoing debate about technology use among children, advocating for a balanced approach that emphasizes education and role modeling. 

12:51 Coddling and Parenting Styles  Bill and Doctor Liz explore the trend of parents taking their children’s side in disputes, discussing the importance of fostering independence and resilience in kids. 

15:03 Redefining Good Parenting  Doctor Liz reflects on her book’s purpose to reassure parents that they are not ‘bad parents,’ encouraging them to embrace their concerns and focus on connection with their children. 

18:00 Social Media’s Impact on Parenting  The discussion turns to the influence of social media on parenting, with Doctor Liz highlighting both its benefits and pitfalls in fostering unrealistic comparisons among parents. 

21:09 The Youth Mental Health Crisis  Doctor Liz discusses the alarming rise in youth mental health issues, attributing it to societal pressures and unprecedented global challenges that today’s teens face. 

24:02 Addressing the Mental Health Shortage  The conversation touches on the shortage of mental health professionals and the need for accessible counseling services in schools to support youth effectively. 

27:40 Conflict in Parent-Teen Relationships  Doctor Liz reveals a surprising source of conflict between parents and teens, emphasizing the importance of understanding and communication to avoid unnecessary power struggles. 

29:30 Bridging Divides: The Polarization Dilemma  Doctor Liz discusses the increasing polarization in society and how it affects adult relationships. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging differing viewpoints, even when they seem ridiculous, to foster understanding and connection. 

32:03 Kids’ Voices Matter: Shifting Perspectives  Doctor Liz highlights the need to recognize children’s contributions in society and the importance of listening to their perspectives. She argues that decisions should consider how they impact the next generation, rather than sidelining their voices. 

35:12 The Importance of Listening to Kids  The conversation shifts to the necessity of engaging with children about their experiences and concerns in today’s world. Doctor Liz stresses that parents should actively seek their children’s input, which can lead to valuable insights and understanding. 

42:07 The Potential of the Next Generation  Exploring the optimism surrounding today’s youth, Doctor Liz reflects on their unique strengths and capabilities.  

44:44 Closing Thoughts: Connecting Generations  In the conclusion, Doctor Liz shares her insights on the importance of intergenerational communication and connection. She encourages parents to engage with their children genuinely, fostering relationships that benefit everyone involved. 

Note for Encore Presentation: 

This episode originally dropped in April of 2023 and in the time since, you’ve no doubt heard Bill quote from Kevin – and his latest book – on numerous occasions.  If you heard this one when it debuted last year, I do think it’s worth another listen, and if this is your first time, we promise you’re in for a treat.  

The legendary Kevin Kelly shares his optimistic views on technology and our collective future.  As someone who was building online communities as early as the 1980’s and helped create Wired magazine in 1993, Kevin has seen it all, and his fascinating insights and predictions on subjects including social media and artificial intelligence are based on years of hands-on experience.  He and Bill also discuss some of their favorite excerpts from Kevin’s great new book, Excellent Advice for Living: Wisdom I Wish I’d Known Earlier.  As Seth Godin says, “One hundred years from now, when so much of the nonsense of our age is forgotten, people will still remember Kevin Kelly and his wisdom.” 

Chapters:

02:28 The Power of Optimism  Kevin shares his insights on why optimism is crucial for envisioning a better future, emphasizing that it is through optimism that we can imagine and create positive change.  

07:17 Technology’s Double-Edged Sword  The conversation shifts to the challenges posed by technology, with Kevin discussing how many of today’s problems stem from past technological solutions.

10:15 Addressing Climate Change  Kevin emphasizes the need for technological solutions to tackle climate change, arguing that personal virtue alone is insufficient.  

12:29 The Lifespan of Technology  Kevin likens technology to babies, explaining that we can only fully understand its potential as it matures and evolves.  

15:35 Social Media: An Ongoing Experiment  Kevin discusses the complexities of social media’s impact, suggesting that we are still in the early stages of understanding its effects. 

21:13 AI: Underhyped or Overhyped?  The conversation turns to AI, with Kevin arguing that AI is currently underhyped in terms of its future potential. He explains that while current AI tools are impressive, they are just the beginning of a much larger evolution in technology. 

25:09 Excellent Advice for Living  Kevin introduces his latest book, Excellent Advice for Living, sharing his motivation for compiling wisdom and insights into a concise format.  

34:50 The Value of True Connections  This chapter underscores the importance of cultivating deep relationships over superficial ones, advocating for quality over quantity.  

36:36 Old-Fashioned Values in Modern Times  The discussion shifts to the Amish lifestyle, highlighting their commitment to family meals and the balance of technology in their lives. Kevin reflects on how these traditional values can inform modern living. 

38:16 Dancing in the Rain  The metaphor of dancing in the rain serves as a reminder to embrace life’s challenges and find joy in adversity.  

40:04 The Power of Attention  They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and the conscious allocation of attention in a distraction-filled world.  

42:21 Embracing “Pronoia”  The concept of “pronoia,” the belief that the universe is conspiring to help us, is introduced as an antidote to negativity. They discuss how gratitude and generosity can enhance our lives and relationships. 

46:00 Finding Common Ground  The hosts discuss the importance of identifying shared values in conversations, especially in politically charged discussions. They suggest that focusing on agreement can help bridge divides and foster understanding. 

48:31 Meeting Etiquette and Respect  This chapter offers advice for running effective meetings, including the value of ending them early and ensuring contributions are meaningful.  

50:00 The Engine of Optimism  The episode concludes with a powerful analogy comparing optimism to an engine that drives progress. 

Alexandra “Lexi” Hudson was raised by a philosopher father and a mother who is a recognized manners expert.  As a result, she has spent much of her life contemplating what forms of behavior constitute “the good life,” and lead to human flourishing.  Following a disheartening stint working in government and seeing even spotty incidents of politeness masking an underlying incivility, she was driven to write her new book, which reaches back to great thinkers and writers throughout history to teach us timeless lessons. It is this work that forms the basis of this Blue Sky conversation. 

From her book description: 

“From classical philosophers like Epictetus, to great twentieth-century thinkers like Martin Luther King Jr., to her own experience working in the federal government during one of the most politically fraught eras in our nation's history, Hudson examines how civility—a respect for the personhood and dignity of others—transcends political disagreements. Respecting someone means valuing them enough to tell them when you think they are wrong.” 

Order The Soul of Civility

Chapters:

02:05 Meet Lexi Hudson  Bill introduces his guest, Alexandra Hudson, a writer and speaker dedicated to civility and human flourishing.  

04:50 The Disease of Division  Lexi discusses the societal ‘disease’ of division and incivility, reflecting on her experiences in government.  

06:54 Growing Up with Judy the Manners Lady  Lexi shares her unique upbringing as the daughter of Judi the Manners Lady, highlighting the influence of her mother’s kindness and emphasis on community.  

08:00 Civility vs. Politeness  Lexi distinguishes between civility and politeness, explaining that civility is rooted in recognizing others as moral equals.  

11:40 The Importance of Disagreement  Lexi emphasizes that true civility sometimes requires engaging in difficult conversations and disagreeing respectfully.  

13:02 Global Trends in Incivility  The conversation shifts to the global rise of incivility, with Lexi noting that the challenges faced in the U.S. are mirrored worldwide.  

16:06 The Role of Social Media  Lexi discusses the impact of social media on societal discourse, drawing parallels to historical concerns about new technologies. She highlights the need for mindfulness in digital interactions to preserve humanity. 

22:33 Remembering the Human Element  Lexi stresses the importance of recognizing the human side of social media interactions, which can often lead to dehumanization. She encourages listeners to maintain empathy and connection in digital communications. 

27:20 Navigating Opinions in a Divided World  Lexi shares insights on the pressure to have opinions on every issue, especially during crises. She advocates for the idea that it’s okay to refrain from engaging in every argument, emphasizing the value of thoughtful consideration. 

33:37 The Perils of Constant Distraction  Drawing from Blaise Pascal’s insights, Lexi addresses humanity’s struggle with distraction and the inability to sit quietly in solitude. She argues that this constant need for stimulation detracts from self-awareness and authentic connections with others. 

36:01 The Call for Solitude and Self-Reflection  Lexi elaborates on Pascal’s thoughts regarding the necessity of solitude for understanding oneself and forming meaningful relationships. She emphasizes that embracing quiet moments can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling life. 

37:50 Envisioning a Civil Society  In the concluding segment, Lexi paints a hopeful picture of a society transformed by the principles outlined in her book, advocating for deeper connections and understanding among individuals. She envisions a world where civility fosters warmth, intimacy, and genuine curiosity about one another. 

Tim Fitzpatrick learned about healthcare the hard way, as a long-term inpatient undergoing a battery of surgeries to address injuries sustained while serving as a pilot in the US Navy.  After recovering and leaving the service, Tim was an equities trader for a bank, and after learning more about new media technologies, then meeting a physician who was pioneering virtual reality in healthcare, Tim found his passion, and left his job to co-found IKONA, where he now serves as CEO.  This innovative and inspiring company is using virtual reality tools to help kidney patients understand the sometimes scary challenges faced when moving to a home dialysis setting.   

Chapters: 

01:11 Meet Tim Fitzpatrick  Tim Fitzpatrick, co-founder and CEO of IKONA, shares his personal journey into healthcare, shaped by his experiences as a long-term hospital inpatient. His background in the Navy and finance laid the groundwork for his passion for healthcare innovation. 

02:22 The Impact of Personal Experience  Tim delves into his hospital experiences, discussing the empathy he developed for patients and the insights he gained about the healthcare system. He reflects on how these experiences motivated him to pursue a career in healthcare technology. 

07:03 From Navy to Trading  Transitioning from the Navy to a trading career, Tim explains how his military training prepared him for high-pressure environments. He shares how his time in finance helped him recognize what truly drives him, ultimately leading him back to healthcare. 

11:57 The Birth of IKONA  Tim recounts the origins of IKONA Health, highlighting the innovative work of his cofounders in using virtual reality to enhance patient education.  

16:31 Innovating Patient Experience  As Tim discusses the evolution of IKONA’s technology, he emphasizes the importance of improving patient experiences in healthcare settings. He explains how virtual reality can help patients prepare for surgeries and manage anxiety. 

21:09 The Role of VR in Kidney Care  Tim elaborates on how IKONA’s VR solutions are tailored for patients with kidney failure, particularly in educating them about home dialysis options. He discusses the emotional and instructional benefits of VR in helping patients make informed decisions. 

29:03 The Future of Home Healthcare  Tim discusses the shift towards home-based healthcare solutions, emphasizing the importance of reducing hospital visits and costs. He highlights regulatory changes and initiatives that support this transition, making healthcare more accessible, especially in rural areas. 

32:30 Understanding IKONA’s Customer Base  The conversation shifts to IKONA target customers, primarily large dialysis organizations and nephrology specialists.  

35:20 Innovative Training Solutions in Healthcare  Tim elaborates on the innovative training methods IKONA is developing, focusing on emotional and instructional learning for patients. He shares the vision for creating accessible training opportunities that enhance patient care and safety. 

38:40 Exploring VR’s Potential in Pain Management  The discussion highlights the transformative potential of VR in pain management, allowing patients to manage pain through mindfulness techniques. Tim shares insights on how this technology could reduce reliance on opioids and improve patient outcomes. 

41:40 The Future of Surgical Training with VR  Tim discusses the application of VR in surgical training, emphasizing its role in providing safe, repeatable practice for surgeons. He explains how VR can enhance proficiency and safety in high-risk procedures, revolutionizing medical training. 

44:30 An Optimistic Vision for Healthcare’s Future  In the closing segment, Tim expresses his optimism about the future of healthcare technology and the positive impact of VR. He shares his belief in the potential of these innovations to enhance patient care and transform the healthcare landscape. 

Raul Espinoza’s father had many talents, but an equal number of demons.  He struggled with addiction and was abusive to Raul’s mother as well as to him and his siblings.  At the early age of ten, Raul decided he would take a different path and vowed not to drink and to treat women with respect.  He has stayed true to this pledge and now, at the age of 38, Raul Espinoza is the executive director and driving force behind All Kings, a peer-led support organization that empowers men who have been – or may soon be impacted by the criminal justice system.  This is an inspiring conversation about how this man overcame extreme challenges to make a huge difference in the lives of others with similar backgrounds. 

All Kings: www.allkings.org 

NY Times feature: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/01/style/all-kings-mens-work-retreat-masculinity.html 

Episode Chapters:

02:06 Raul Espinoza’s Personal Journey  Raul shares his personal story of growing up in a challenging environment marked by domestic violence, substance abuse, and finding resilience and release through the arts. 

06:04 Turning Pain into Purpose  Raul discusses how his childhood experiences led him to channel his emotions into art, setting the foundation for his journey towards personal development and helping others. 

10:08 Entering the World of Personal Development  Raul shares his initial resistance to personal development work, his transformative experience, and his decision to help others navigate their own traumas and challenges. 

14:00 Journey to All Kings  Raul recounts his global travels, working with marginalized communities, and finding his calling at All Kings, a nonprofit focusing on men’s mental health, trauma, and leadership development. 

18:04 All Kings: A Peer-Led Men’s Group  Exploration of All Kings’ mission to address the crisis of manhood in America, providing a safe space for men impacted by the justice system and at-risk youth to process trauma and develop leadership skills. 

23:24 Impact of Incarceration on Men  Discussion on the disproportionate incarceration rates of men of color in America, the challenges faced by those reentering society, and the cycle of trauma perpetuated by the current system. 

29:34 Unpacking Stories at All Kings  Discover how All Kings uses retreats to revisit personal narratives, emotions, and beliefs, creating a safe space for men to unpack and share their stories while incorporating somatic healing and experiential learning. 

33:29 Peer-Led Support and Emotional Healing  Explore the power of peer-led support in men’s groups, where individuals process trauma and emotions, unlocking each other’s experiences and fostering emotional healing through shared storytelling and vulnerability. 

37:23 Body, Community, Equality: Pillars of Transformation  Delve into how All Kings integrates body awareness, community support, and equality principles into their program, empowering men to explore emotional intelligence, release negative energy, and cultivate a supportive environment for personal growth. 

43:54 Impact and Optimism  Discover the outcomes and impact of All Kings’ work in transforming lives and communities, fueled by stories of personal growth, leadership development, and the ripple effects of empowerment, highlighting the optimism and hope that drives Raul Espinosa and his team forward. 

Note for this encore presentation: While much of our discussion centered on Professor Pinker’s views on how the world continues to improve while we have trouble believing it, he also goes into details about his concerns about the state of public discourse on college campuses. He and I conducted this interview in June of 2023, several months before the conflict between Hamas and Israel began, and subsequent demonstrations caused huge disruptions on college campuses around the country, including Pinker’s own Harvard University.   He’s since been very active in shaping his school’s policy on open speech and debate and whether or not universities should take public positions on political issues that don’t directly relate to those schools.   It’s interesting now to listen to what he had to say about his campus’s climate, before it became an issue of press coverage and public debate. 

In this wide-ranging conversation, renowned author and professor Steven Pinker describes that while he resists being called an “optimist,” as the label doesn’t necessarily suit his temperament, his deep dives into historical data have convinced him that the world is indeed getting better and has been on a steady trajectory since the days of the Enlightenment, the subject of one of his many acclaimed books.  Dr. Pinker also describes why he believes so many intellectuals resist acknowledging that the world is making progress; and adds, ironically, that self-described “progressives” often have the toughest time with this.  He also shares his concerns about the policing of speech on college campuses – including Harvard – and the deleterious effects this has on students’ wellbeing.   

Chapters:

03:30 The World Getting Better  Steven Pinker discusses the concept of human progress and how our cognitive abilities allow us to overcome negative impulses. He explains the importance of acknowledging progress despite inherent biases towards negativity. 

11:00 Optimism vs. Pessimism  Explore Steven Pinker’s view on optimism and pessimism, highlighting how his perspective is rooted in data and empirical evidence rather than personal temperament. Understand the societal perception of optimism and pessimism in intellectual circles. 

12:07 Glorifying the Past  Delve into the tendency to glorify the past and criticize the present. Learn about the societal inclination to equate pessimism with moral seriousness and the impact of historical perspectives on current discourse. 

23:01 Criticism and Academic Freedom  Steven Pinker addresses concerns about academic freedom and the culture of censorship and intolerance in higher education. Understand the importance of open discourse and challenging dominant orthodoxies for societal progress. 

27:33 Campus Climate and Mental Health  Pinker describes how campus orientations and cultural shifts impact young people’s mental health, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. 

31:53 Positive Historical Trends  Discussing surprising positive historical trends related to violence, environmental improvements, and changing perceptions of war and heroism. 

36:18 War and Peaceful Service  Exploring the shift from glorifying war to promoting peaceful service as a means to cultivate heroic and altruistic qualities in individuals. 

38:50 Spreading Optimism and Data-Driven Progress  Pinker offers advice on spreading awareness of positive trends, emphasizing data-driven optimism, acknowledging challenges, and the role of human agency in creating a better world. 

40:31 Reflections on War and Optimism  Dr. Pinker reflects on the historical glorification of war and the potential for mandatory peaceful service, along with the importance of data-driven optimism in shaping perspectives. 

Dr. Hasan Merali came to admire toddlers when he began working with kids in a hospital emergency department.  Seeing their remarkable resilience, optimism, and courage in the face of adversity led him to think about ways we as adults can learn from these young people.  The result is his great book, “Sleep Well, Take Risks, Squish the Peas: Secrets from the Science of Toddlers for a Happier, More Successful Way of Life.”  On this fun Blue Sky episode, Dr. Merali shares many of these secrets, from being good at saying no, finishing meals when full, taking risks, and sleeping well with consistent bedtime rituals.  

Order Dr. Merali's new book here.

Chapters:

03:06 Pediatrics and Inspiration from Children  Dr. Merali shares his journey into pediatrics, inspired by the resilience and optimism of children facing medical challenges, highlighting the valuable life lessons adults can learn from toddlers’ approach to life. 

05:02 Toddlers’ Worldview and Happiness  Exploration of toddlers’ world filled with wonder, empathy, and honesty, emphasizing the lessons adults can learn from toddlers about kindness, generosity, and genuine happiness. 

09:03 Toddler Teachings on Kindness and Happiness  Exploration of how toddlers’ innate kindness and generosity contribute to their happiness, with insights on how adults can experience deeper happiness through acts of kindness and sharing. 

10:20 Eating Habits: Lessons from Toddlers  Insights into toddlers’ natural ability to self-regulate food intake based on hunger cues, contrasting with adult tendencies to eat for reasons beyond hunger, highlighting the benefits of mindful eating. 

12:03 Resilience and Trust in Toddlers  Exploration of toddlers’ resilience and trust in others, exemplified by their natural empathy and trusting nature, emphasizing the positive impact of these traits on building relationships and facing challenges. 

15:30 The Humor and Reading Cliffs  Discussion on the decline in laughter and reading habits with age, exploring the benefits of humor and reading for maintaining optimism and cognitive health throughout life. 

17:14 Lifelong Learning and Deep Reading  Emphasis on the importance of lifelong learning and deep reading, inspired by toddlers’ curiosity and love for books, highlighting the cognitive benefits of reading and its impact on mental well-being. 

19:39 Positive Self-Talk and Bedtime Routine  Insights into the power of positive self-talk inspired by toddlers’ natural self-affirmations, along with the benefits of a structured bedtime routine for promoting better sleep and mental well-being in adults. 

28:09 The Power of Saying No  Learn about the benefits of saying no and how toddlers can teach us the importance of setting boundaries and managing our commitments. Explore the concept of exerting control over our schedules and the value of being assertive in decision-making. 

31:36 Risk-Taking and Quick Decision Making  Explore how toddlers excel in making quick decisions and taking risks guided by learning, relationships, and empathy. Understand the benefits of embracing risk-taking and making swift decisions in personal and professional growth. 

33:05 Confidence and Optimism  Discover how toddlers exhibit high levels of confidence and optimism even in the face of setbacks. Learn about the importance of maintaining confidence and optimism in adulthood for personal development and success. 

40:45 Applying Toddler Behavior in Work Life  Understand how toddler behavior can positively impact teamwork and communication in the workplace. Explore the benefits of incorporating play, direct communication, and teamwork inspired by toddler attributes into professional settings. 

44:07 Parenting and Embracing Toddlerhood  Reflect on the challenges and rewards of parenting toddlers, emphasizing the importance of appreciating and learning from toddler behavior. Consider the value of embracing the toddler spirit in both parenting and personal development. 

Teju Ravilochan was born in the United States, just two years after his parents came to this country from their native India.  His parents went on to careers in medicine, but only after help from several corners of their adopted community.  Growing up, they taught these lessons to their son, and today Teju is the founder of GatherFor, a non-profit dedicated to the belief that “in community, we have everything we need.”  In this Blue Sky conversation, Teju describes the remarkable and brave work that he and his colleagues are doing, particularly in challenging housing development in Brooklyn, NY.  Teju describes how nearly every tactic and practice they pursue is nothing new, but rather reaching back to old, in some cases ancestral, concepts of community and looking out for our neighbors.  Teju’s optimism is as infectious as his work his inspiring. 

  Learn more about GatherFor: https://gatherfor.org/ 

 Chapters:

01:12 Teju Ravolochan’s Journey with GatherFor  Teju Ravilochan shares his background and the founding of GatherFor, a non-profit organization that organizes neighbors in Brownsville, Brooklyn to support each other unconditionally. 

02:23 Teju’s Family and Heritage  Teju discusses his family’s immigration journey from India to the United States, highlighting the support and kindness they received from their community, shaping his belief in the importance of community over individualism. 

06:00 The American Dream and Community Support  Teju reflects on the American Dream, emphasizing the role of community support in achieving success and questioning the societal focus on financial wealth over communal bonds. 

15:06 Undervaluing Community in Modern Society  Teju discusses the loneliness epidemic and the undervaluing of community in modern society, contrasting it with historical practices of communal living and support. 

27:01 Building GatherFor in Brownsville  Teju shares the early days of Gather 4, starting with 8 people and growing through word-of-mouth. The focus is on storytelling as a tool to connect neighbors and build relationships. 

33:13 Rebuilding Trust in Public Housing  Teju recounts the challenges faced in engaging with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) to address long-standing repair issues. The chapter highlights the transformative impact of community organizing and a unique approach to building trust with NYCHA. 

46:26 Transforming Community Culture through a Block Party  The story of how a block party organized by Glenmore Proud residents led to repairing over 1,600 issues in 60 days. The event not only celebrated the repairs but also fostered a sense of community and trust among neighbors. 

48:06 Lessons in Community Organizing and Engagement  Insights into Teju’s approach to community engagement, including the importance of building trust and relationships before scaling initiatives. The chapter emphasizes the power of storytelling and shared experiences in fostering community connections. 

Note for this encore presentation: We’re bringing back this conversation in honor of Immigrant Heritage Month in the United States.  Anh and her family left their home country in the most dramatic of circumstances and in the nearly 50 years since they came to this country, their accomplishments have been extraordinary.  

The family of Anh Vu Sawyer were among the small number of South Vietnamese who successfully fled Saigon in the final days and hours of the Vietnam War.  After describing this harrowing ordeal, Anh explains how these events inspired her to lead a life of inspiring service and social entrepreneurship here in the United States.  

Chapters:

01:05 Personal History and Gratitude  Anh Vu Sawyer’s personal history in South Vietnam, her gratitude for surviving dramatic times, and her desire to give back. 

03:17 Father’s Escape and Family Reunion  The dramatic story of Ahn’s father escaping the Hanoi Hilton, reuniting with the family, and the emotional reunion during chaotic times. 

11:14 Escape from Saigon  The harrowing escape from Saigon, the challenges faced, and the miraculous moments that led to their survival and rescue. 

19:28 Evacuation and Miracle on USS Midway  Details of the evacuation process, the challenges faced on USS Midway, and the miraculous events that ensured their safe passage to the US. 

23:39 Reflections on Survival and American Generosity  Reflecting on the survival, the generosity of Americans during the evacuation, and the impact of the experience on Anh’s life. 

25:22 Life After Arrival in the US  Anh’s journey after arriving in the US, settling in Oak Brook, Illinois, and her career at People Express Airlines 

28:06 Making Impact Through Career Choices  Anh reflects on the impact of People Express Airlines and her career choices aimed at making a positive impact, especially for refugees. She discusses her work with the Southeast Asian Coalition and the joy of helping thousands access housing, jobs, and education. 

32:31 Gratitude for Freedom and Helping Others  Anh Vu Sawyer emphasizes the importance of freedom and the ability to help others, highlighting the luxury of being able to make a difference. She shares insights on the power of giving and the impact it has on changing the world. 

36:00 Lifelong Learning and Giving Back  Anh Vu Sawyer discusses her pursuit of education, including getting her MBA in her sixties, and shares her philosophy on using personal gifts to benefit others. She emphasizes the fulfillment and purpose that come from giving back. 

39:00 Social Entrepreneurship with Refugees  Anh Vu Sawyer details her latest project, a clothing company that employs refugees to create handcrafted labels, providing economic development opportunities. She explains the mission-driven approach of the business and its potential for creating positive change. 

44:00 Inspiration and Legacy of Giving  The conversation wraps up with reflections on Anh Vu Sawyer’s inspiring journey, her impact on others, and the legacy she continues to build through her dedication to helping refugees. Her story serves as a testament to the power of generosity and making a difference.