What happens when communities lose their economic lifeline—and who steps in to help them rebuild? In this episode of Eavesdrop with Meena, Meena sits down with John Austin, a visionary policy expert and advocate for regional renewal, whose work spans from Michigan’s factory towns to forgotten regions across Europe.

John shares his personal story growing up in the Appalachian foothills and how it led him to champion policies that create real economic opportunity in places too often left behind. We explore the dangers of isolationism, the false promises of populism, and the practical, people-first strategies that can transform struggling communities into thriving hubs of innovation and hope.

With clarity, candor, and deep experience, John helps us understand what it really means to invest in the future—and why smart, inclusive economic development is essential to the survival of democracy.

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Meena Global ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠to discover more and connect with Meena.

On the May 5th edition of Eavesdrop With Meena, what happens when communities lose their economic lifeline—and who steps in to help them rebuild? In this episode, Meena sits down with John Austin, a visionary policy expert and advocate for regional renewal, whose work spans from Michigan’s factory towns to forgotten regions across Europe.

John shares his personal story growing up in the Appalachian foothills and how it led him to champion policies that create real economic opportunity in places too often left behind. We explore the dangers of isolationism, the false promises of populism, and the practical, people-first strategies that can transform struggling communities into thriving hubs of innovation and hope.

With clarity, candor, and deep experience, John helps us understand what it really means to invest in the future—and why smart, inclusive economic development is essential to the survival of democracy.

Join us May 5 for this important discussion!

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Meena Global ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠to discover more and connect with Meena.

On this episode of Eavesdrop With Meena, Joseph Malone is brand director at HOLO Footwear, an immigrant-founded brand headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan. HOLO is more than a footwear company—it’s a case study in how creative entrepreneurs are reshaping legacy industries with bold ideas and cultural authenticity. In this episode, Joseph shares his personal journey from the Dominican Republic to the frontlines of sustainable design. We explore what it means to democratize sustainability, how immigrant founders navigate the capital landscape, and why staying “ten toes down” is about more than resilience—it’s a mindset for building legacy.  

Visit HOLO Footwear

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠Meena Global ⁠⁠⁠⁠to discover more and connect with Meena.

On the next episode of Eavesdrop With Meena, Meena sits down with Joseph Malone, brand director at HOLO Footwear, an immigrant-founded brand headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan. HOLO is more than a footwear company—it’s a case study in how creative entrepreneurs are reshaping legacy industries with bold ideas and cultural authenticity. In this episode, Joseph shares his personal journey from the Dominican Republic to the frontlines of sustainable design. We explore what it means to democratize sustainability, how immigrant founders navigate the capital landscape, and why staying “ten toes down” is about more than resilience—it’s a mindset for building legacy.  

On this episode of Eavesdrop With Meena, Scott MacGregor is a beacon of resilience and passion, sharing his profound journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur and leader. In this engaging conversation, Scott explores how his early life experiences shaped his relentless work ethic and commitment to living an extraordinary life. He delves into the importance of curiosity, the power of choosing to be extraordinary, and the value of adversity as a gift. Scott also discusses his ventures, including The Outlier Project and Outlier Magazine, which aim to connect and inspire like-minded individuals. This episode offers rich insights into overcoming obstacles and creating impact through dedication and kindness.

Visit ⁠The Outlier Project⁠

Sign up for the free ⁠Outlier Magazine⁠

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Visit ⁠⁠⁠Meena Global ⁠⁠⁠to discover more and connect with Meena.

Coming Monday on Eavesdrop With Meena, Scott MacGregor is a beacon of resilience and passion, sharing his profound journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur and leader. In this engaging conversation, Scott explores how his early life experiences shaped his relentless work ethic and commitment to living an extraordinary life. He delves into the importance of curiosity, the power of choosing to be extraordinary, and the value of adversity as a gift. Scott also discusses his ventures, including The Outlier Project and Outlier Magazine, which aim to connect and inspire like-minded individuals. This episode offers rich insights into overcoming obstacles and creating impact through dedication and kindness.

Visit ⁠The Outlier Project

On the next episode of Eavesdrop With Meena, Scott MacGregor is a beacon of resilience and passion, sharing his profound journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur and leader. In this engaging conversation, Scott explores how his early life experiences shaped his relentless work ethic and commitment to living an extraordinary life. He delves into the importance of curiosity, the power of choosing to be extraordinary, and the value of adversity as a gift. Scott also discusses his ventures, including The Outlier Project and Outlier Magazine, which aim to connect and inspire like-minded individuals. This episode offers rich insights into overcoming obstacles and creating impact through dedication and kindness. Coming April 7!

Visit The Outlier Project

Sign up for the free Outlier Magazine

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Visit ⁠⁠Meena Global ⁠⁠to discover more and connect with Meena.

Welcome back to part two of my breathtaking conversation with Parker Palmer. Parker is a gifted voice who speaks in paragraphs and pages. In this episode, we discuss gratitude, community, and the essence of true leadership. The Center for Courage and Renewal continues Parker’s important work on teaching compassion, identity and integrity in the workplace. Our conversation delves deep into community, servant leadership, and human-centered connections amid the rise of AI. Parker's reflections on life, death, and humility offer profound insights into living courageously and meaningfully. Don't miss this enriching discussion with this Sage for the Ages!

Visit the Center for Courage and Renewal

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Visit ⁠Meena Global ⁠to discover more and connect with Meena.

In Part 1 of this heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Parker Palmer, Meena and Parker discuss the importance of courage, authenticity, and dialogue in navigating today’s turbulent political and social landscape. Reflecting on his own experiences with clinical depression, Palmer emphasizes the necessity of living an undivided life and reclaiming our shared power for the common good. His insights touch on the pressing issues of our times, including racism, authoritarianism, and the ongoing struggle for democracy. Join us for an inspiring discussion on how we can cultivate joy, integrity, and community in challenging times.

Visit the ⁠Center for Courage and Renewal

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Visit ⁠Meena Global ⁠to discover more and connect with Meena.

Tune in March 17th for part 1 of Meena's heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Parker Palmer. A revered scholar and thought leader, Parker and Meena discuss the importance of courage, authenticity, and dialogue in navigating today’s turbulent political and social landscape. Reflecting on his own experiences with clinical depression, Palmer emphasizes the necessity of living an undivided life and reclaiming our shared power for the common good. His insights touch on the pressing issues of our times, including racism, authoritarianism, and the ongoing struggle for democracy. Join us for an inspiring discussion on how we can cultivate joy, integrity, and community in challenging times.