In today's episode, we are so excited to chat with Dr. Linet Mera (she/ella), co-founder of the Unconscious Bias Project. Dr. Mera is our first Friends episode guest! We delve into her origin story - touching on the importance of community, how genuine relationships can lead to new opportunities and how her life experiences led her to the amazing work she and the team at the Unconscious Bias Project are doing. Although Dr. Mera's path to the Unconscious Bias Project is unconventional, her story is an inspirational example of owning one's life experiences and the realization that we all can make a positive impact on the world around us.

You can learn more about Dr. Linet Mera's work with the Unconscious Bias Project at the links below:

• Website: https://www.unconsciousbiasproject.org/

WARNING: In this episode we discuss sexual abuse, suicide and mental health issues. We warn listeners before discussing any of these topics and include details about how far you will need to skip. If you or anyone you know is experiencing any of these issues, you can use the resources below for help.

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673

Challenging Perceptions of What It Means to Be a Fashion Start-up

Today we chat with Jimmy Zollo, co-founder of fashion start-up Joe & Bella - a brand that challenges perceptions of what it means to be a fashion start-up by focusing on contemporary, stylish adaptive-wear for seniors. Every day 10,000 people in the US turn 65. Additionally, we are quickly approaching a time when, for the first time in US history, there will be more people over 65 than people under 18. Given these stats, why is it that the start-up community pays so little attention to the needs of older adults? We'll learn how Jimmy and the team at Joe & Bella are tackling the problem head on in the fashion industry.

Make sure to listen all the way though the company origin story. It's one of the most inspiring and heartwarming stories I have heard.

To support or learn more about Joe & Bella use the links below.

Website

https://joeandbella.com/

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ShopJoeandBella/

Twitter

https://twitter.com/shopjoeandbella

LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/joe-bella

These days when people think of innovative business models or running an influential business, the focus is usually on start-ups or large tech firms. Rarely are non-profit organizations are usually not the first thing to come to mind. In today's conversation, we chat with Alexis Krohn (she/her) of the Unconscious Bias Project (UBP). We cover so much in such a short conversation - from her career path and innovative business practices at UBP to music and the importance of community (some call it a network) throughout every aspect of our lives.

About halfway through this episode you'll also hear me make an embarrassing assumption about one of Alexis' favorite activities.

About Alexis Krohn (she/her)

Alexis is a writer, teacher, community organizer. She’s here, she’s queer, and she’s passionate about spreadsheets, system design, and workshop facilitation. On the side, she spins fire, plays guitar, and loves engaging with people with curiosity and compassion.

If you'd like to learn more about the Unconscious Bias Project or keep up with Alexis' work, you can visit the following websites:

https://www.unconsciousbiasproject.org/

https://medium.com/@alexis.l.krohn