"Those who say they can and those who say they can't are both right." - Henry Ford (Although it was originally attributed to Confucius). Daryl Tholmich shares his transformative experience of grace during a challenging hike in Yosemite National Park.

[Why This Is Important] - The importance of this story is to illustrate the power of surrender, trust, and resilience in facing life's challenges. The main message is to become a person worth listening to so you can embrace surrender, trust, and resilience. The episode message is to find strength and guidance in moments of uncertainty through the power of surrender and trust.

[What you need to know.] - Daryl Tolmich's experience in Yosemite National Park taught him the profound impact of surrender and trust in the face of adversity. His process of finding strength through surrender and trusting in something greater than himself led to a transformative shift in his coaching practice.

[What you need to do.] - Recognize the potential for growth and transformation in surrendering to life’s challenges and trusting in a higher purpose. Embrace the power of surrender and trust to overcome obstacles and foster personal growth.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now - Reflect on areas in your own life where surrender and trust can lead to growth and transformation. Embrace the power of surrender and trust in facing challenges and fostering resilience.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Daryl Tolmich is Intentional Communication Coach at Bonfire River.

Check out Daryl’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daryl-tolmich-b6985b305/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Daryl Tolmich, leadership coaching, intentional communication, spiritual journey, men's group, Yosemite National Park, nature, hiking, outdoor adventure, personal growth, self-discovery, resilience, grace, spiritual awakening, prayer, conversation with God, vibration, empowerment, trust, surrender, faith, corporate clients, operational teams, business owners, leadership, toxic positivity, belief in oneself, community, teamwork, experienced hikers, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

"We have the tools in place to rebuild just as we always have." - Charles Ajemian

[Why This Is Important] - The main message is to become a person worth listening to so you can understand how to rebuild and transform after a crisis. The episode message is to learn how to build equity from the individual level up through the family, community, and into the nation and world at large.

[What you need to know] - In the midst of crisis, individuals can develop equity in themselves through education and skills, contributing to the empowerment and enrichment of the community as a whole. The diversity of knowledge and skills can lead to the development of sustainable systems and adaptive leadership, creating a more enduring and sustainable world.

[What you need to do] - Embrace and celebrate diversity, develop sustainable systems that are adaptive and regenerative, and focus on harnessing the strengths of individuals and guiding the community with an understanding of systems.

[TAKE ACTION] - Embrace diversity, cultivate sustainable systems, and guide the community with an understanding of systems and adaptive mindful leadership.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Charles Ajemian is the Founder and Director of Mediaflux Benefit Corporation, a digital innovations company that specializes in social enterprise and impact consulting, online business strategy, and enterprise technology strategy, design, and development.

Charles is a passionate advocate and a former national director of Social Enterprise Alliance, a platform that supports and advances the movement of organizations and individuals who dedicate themselves to social progress through social enterprise.

Check out Charles’ profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesajemian/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Charles Ajemian, fear, crisis, violence, rebuild, war of the roses, glorious revolution, American revolution, civil war, great depression, World War 2, equity, individual, community, nation, world, mindfulness, education, skills, apprenticeship, diversity, empowerment, sustainability, environment, leadership, innovation, inclusivity, disaster, technology, responsibility, community, poverty, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

"When everything falls apart, communities will come together in social enterprise to develop valued marketplaces and engagements, so they can survive again." - Charles Ajemian

[Why This Is Important]

The main message of this episode is to become a person worth listening to so you can understand the value of social enterprise. The importance lies in recognizing the impact of art and the artists in creating a sustainable and interconnected society through mindful and social responsible business practices.

[What you need to know.]

In the conversation, Charles Ajemian emphasizes the significance of bringing back the depth and meaning that artists bring to society. He also discusses the role of social enterprise in solving systemic problems and the need to build society and marketplaces that value human connection and soft values.

[What you need to do.]

1. Recognize the influence of artists in shaping society through new images and sounds.

2. Understand the role of social enterprise in solving systemic problems and creating sustainable marketplaces.

3. Advocate for mindful and socially responsible business practices.

4. Re-envision society by embracing collaboration and community.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now: Reflect on the impact of art and artists in your community. Consider how you can contribute to sustainable, mindful, and interconnected societies through your actions.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Charles Ajemian is the Founder and Director of Mediaflux Benefit Corporation, a digital innovations company that specializes in social enterprise and impact consulting, online business strategy, and enterprise technology strategy, design, and development.

Charles is a passionate advocate and a former national director of Social Enterprise Alliance, a platform that supports and advances the movement of organizations and individuals who dedicate themselves to social progress through social enterprise.

Check out Charles’ profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesajemian/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Charles Ajemian, market value, art industry, evolution of art, street art, social benefit, social enterprise, artists, MTV, corporations, branding, logo design, Taylor Swift, Colin Kaepernick, modern capitalism, cheap labor, social impact, society, interconnectedness, peace movement, revolution, crisis, mindfulness, solution, community, values, collaboration, industrial revolution, business development, fundraising, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

"It really was a bloodless revolution. We didn't have to go and take up arms to get in or into the ivory tower." - Charles Ajemian shares his journey from the world of dance, radio, and film to revolutionizing society through technology and social enterprise.

[Why This Is Important] The main message is to become a person worth listening to so you can re-envision society's future. Charles Ajemian's story shows the power of personal and professional evolution, using creativity, technology, and forward-thinking to reshape societal structures for the better.

[What you need to know] Listeners will gain insight into Charles Ajemian's evolution from a rebellious musician to a visionary social entrepreneur. They will understand the profound impact of the arts on reshaping the business and societal landscape, and the role of technology in leading non-violent revolutions.

[What you need to do]

1. Reflect on personal evolution: Embrace growth and change, drawing inspiration from Charles Ajemian's journey.

2. Explore the impact of creativity on business: Consider how artistic expressions can influence and transform traditional business models.

3. Embrace technology as a force for positive change: Look for ways to leverage technology to revolutionize and re-envision societal and business structures.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now: Reflect on how your personal journey and creative endeavors can contribute to reshaping societal and business norms.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Charles Ajemian is the Founder and Director of Mediaflux Benefit Corporation, a digital innovations company that specializes in social enterprise and impact consulting, online business strategy, and enterprise technology strategy, design, and development.

Charles is a passionate advocate and a former national director of Social Enterprise Alliance, a platform that supports and advances the movement of organizations and individuals who dedicate themselves to social progress through social enterprise.

Check out Charles’ profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesajemian/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Charles Ajemian, social enterprise, Shenandoah Valley, Richmond, Soul Train, disco revolution, hip hop, breakdancing, under-resourced communities, art school, music, punk funk, rebellion, Australia, spiritual search, shadow work, technology, national radio station, software, revolution, oppression, music industry, Napster, peer to peer, Media Flux, innovation, society, art project, business, arts, storytelling, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

 "What stands in the way? We're at the zoning part, you know, where, we have to go before the planning commission and, make the case for them changing the zoning on this parcel property from residential to mixed use, to allow for both the housing and the farm, development." - Duron Chavis

[Why This Is Important] - The main message behind Duron Chavis' story is the determination to overcome challenges and create transformational initiatives in urban agriculture and affordable housing. Becoming a person worth listening to allows you to be part of the change and uplift communities. This episode's message is to highlight the significance of building neighborhood farms as community assets in addressing historical inequities.

[What you need to know.] - Duron Chavis is working on a land use project, the Bensley Agrisure, in North Chesterfield, developing it into an aggregate—a neighborhood with a farm as a community asset. This development will feature affordable homes, tiny homes, a wellness center, and a 1.5-acre incubator farm to train urban farmers and increase access to healthy local food.

[What you need to do.] - Take action by recognizing the importance of community-based farming projects that facilitate access to healthy food, address historical inequities, and provide affordable housing solutions. Support and engage in initiatives that focus on building community assets and promoting urban agriculture as a means of positive transformation.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now - Get involved in community initiatives that focus on urban agriculture, affordable housing, and sustainable development. Support projects that seek to create neighborhood farms and promote access to healthy, local food for all community members.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Duron Chavis started his career in community advocacy as first a volunteer then an employee of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of VA. He worked as a museum coordinator developing programs and conducting guided tours for groups of all ages and backgrounds.

In 2003 he founded the highly acclaimed Happily Natural Day festival as a grassroots effort to supplement the summer jazz concert that was held annually at the institution. The festival is a weekend long experience held annually in both Richmond VA and Atlanta GA that focuses on cultural awareness, health, wellness and social change.

Check out Duron’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duronchavis/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Duron Chavis, Gayle Turner, Shelli Jost Brady, past, Amelia, land use project, Bensley Agrisure, Maggie Walker Community Land Trust, affordable housing, Girls For A Change, Sundance, documentary, zoning, residential, mixed use, discrimination, community, Virginia State University, Virginia Tech, dialogue, opportunities for growth, impasses, urban farming, wellness center, value added products, acreage, 80 acres in Amelia, bed and breakfast, retreat center, conservation easements, black and brown communities, historical inequities, finite and infinite games, USDA, FSA offices, regenerative farming

"Yeah. Nothing says hope like planting a seed."

[Why This Is Important] - The main message is to become a person worth listening to, so you can realize the impact of a story like Duron Chavis's journey in urban agriculture, from his time at Lewis Ginter to his founding of Happily Natural Day and the Sankofa Community Orchard.

[What you need to know] - Listeners need to know about Duron Chavis's impactful journey from Lewis Ginter, where he focused on community engagement and racial equity, to founding Happily Natural Day and the Sankofa Community Orchard, emphasizing the importance of food security, mental health, and land justice.

[What you need to do] - Take action by recognizing the significance of urban agriculture in addressing food insecurity and health disparities, as well as the importance of building interdependent systems rather than systems of dependency.

[TAKE ACTION] - Do this now: Learn from Duron Chavis's journey and consider how urban agriculture and community-based initiatives can contribute to addressing food equity and mental health in your own community.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Duron Chavis started his career in community advocacy as first a volunteer then an employee of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of VA. He worked as a museum coordinator developing programs and conducting guided tours for groups of all ages and backgrounds.

In 2003 he founded the highly acclaimed Happily Natural Day festival as a grassroots effort to supplement the summer jazz concert that was held annually at the institution. The festival is a weekend long experience held annually in both Richmond VA and Atlanta GA that focuses on cultural awareness, health, wellness and social change. Chavis has worked with Dr. Llaila Afrika, Dr. Phil Valentine, Hakim Bey, Dr. Neely Fuller, Queen Afua, Runoko Rashidi, Ashra Kwesi, Ashanti Alston, Dhoruba Bin-Wahad, dead prez, Popmaster Fabel and many more community activists, scholars and organizations from all over the country.

Check out Duron’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duronchavis/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Louis Ginter, community engagement, racial equity, Leadership Metro Richmond, urban environment, COVID response, mental health, food security, Institute For Contemporary Art, Black Space Matters, urban garden, Sankofa Community Orchard, urban farm, land acquisition, land justice, land tenure, BIPOC farmers, USDA, zoning laws, access to capital, nonhierarchical organization, ecosystem development, interdependence, mental health, hope, survival, seed planting, community organizers, urban farm fellowship, resources for farmers, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner

"Communities of color usually don't have their stories told, and we felt and still feel that it was critical for us to bring those stories to the surface so that you can understand why communities needed this type of transformation, this type of change." - Duron Chavis

[Why This Is Important]

Objective The Why: The main message of this episode is to understand the significance of storytelling in urban agriculture and community transformation. To become a person worth listening to, it is important to recognize the value of diverse community stories and their impact on creating real change.

[What You Need to Know]

In this episode, Duron Chavis, the founding director of Happily Natural Day, shares his journey from working for the city of Richmond to becoming involved in promoting urban agriculture and community gardens. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of his ventures, including working on a sustainable urban agriculture project in Petersburg, Virginia, and transitioning to a role focused on community engagement in Richmond.

[What You Need to Do]

All Action Steps Needed:

1. Listen to Duron Chavis's experiences and insights about urban agriculture and community transformation.

2. Reflect on the significance of storytelling in bringing about real change within diverse communities.

3. Consider the role you can play in promoting racial equity and understanding the stories of marginalized communities.

[TAKE ACTION]

Do this now: Tune in to the episode to learn from Duron Chavis's remarkable journey and gain valuable perspectives on the power of storytelling in urban agriculture and community development.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Duron Chavis started his career in community advocacy as first a volunteer then an employee of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of VA. He worked as a museum coordinator developing programs and conducting guided tours for groups of all ages and backgrounds. In 2003 he founded the highly acclaimed Happily Natural Day festival as a grassroots effort to supplement the summer jazz concert that was held annually at the institution. The festival is a weekend long experience held annually in both Richmond VA and Atlanta GA that focuses on cultural awareness, health, wellness and social change. Chavis has worked with Dr. Llaila Afrika, Dr. Phil Valentine, Hakim Bey, Dr. Neely Fuller, Queen Afua, Runoko Rashidi, Ashra Kwesi, Ashanti Alston, Dhoruba Bin-Wahad, dead prez, Popmaster Fabel and many more community activists, scholars and organizations from all over the country.

Check out Duron’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duronchavis/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

urban agriculture, community gardens, food security, urban farming, indoor farming, sustainable urban agriculture, aquaponics, aeroponic grow system, food stamps, community transformation, community justice, public green space, race, racial equity strategy, urban farmers, storytelling, community engagement, Richmond, Petersburg, Virginia State University, Louis Skinner Botanical Garden, nonprofit, built environment, collaborative work, agriculture funding, agriculture grants, urban agriculture projects, food access, food justice, community capacity, community storytelling, Duron Chavis, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

"If not us, who? If not now, when?" - This powerful quote embodies the transformational journey of Duron Chavis, a passionate advocate for food justice and community empowerment.

[Why This Is Important] - The main message here is to become a person worth listening to so you can advocate for positive change. Duron's story underlines the significance of addressing food insecurity, creating sustainable communities, and nurturing local agriculture. His journey embodies resilience, innovation, and the power of community collaboration.

[What you need to know.] - Duron Chavis discovered his passion for storytelling and community empowerment through his work at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. Realizing the impact of systemic issues on black and brown communities, he initiated Happily Natural Day, a transformative event celebrating diversity and connectedness. His encounters with black farmers and the stark reality of food deserts spurred him to take action.

[What you need to do.] - Recognize the impact of systemic issues on communities. Embrace diversity and connectedness. Advocate for sustainable food sources and strive to address food insecurity. Engage with local farmers and community members to create lasting change.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now - Start by identifying local organizations and farms to support. Educate yourself about food justice and food deserts. Engage with communities and advocate for sustainable solutions to address systemic issues.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Duron Chavis started his career in community advocacy as first a volunteer then an employee of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of VA. He worked as a museum coordinator developing programs and conducting guided tours for groups of all ages and backgrounds.

In 2003 he founded the highly acclaimed Happily Natural Day festival as a grassroots effort to supplement the summer jazz concert that was held annually at the institution. The festival is a weekend long experience held annually in both Richmond VA and Atlanta GA that focuses on cultural awareness, health, wellness and social change. Chavis has worked with Dr. Llaila Afrika, Dr. Phil Valentine, Hakim Bey, Dr. Neely Fuller, Queen Afua, Runoko Rashidi, Ashra Kwesi, Ashanti Alston, Dhoruba Bin-Wahad, dead prez, Popmaster Fabel and many more community activists, scholars and organizations from all over the country.

Check out Duron’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duronchavis/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

urban agriculture, Black History Museum, cultural center, jazz concert, Happily Natural Day, Brown versus Board of Education, diversity of blackness, Kenneth Clark doll study, networking, relationship building, food insecurity, food desert, grocery store access, hurricane impact, food stamps, pop-up farmers markets, community gardens, McDonough Community Garden, food justice, climate resiliency, self-determination, social justice, cultural identity, communal work, community activism, earth workers, collective good, breaking bread, community transformation, urban food access, Duron Chavis, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

"Values are behaviors you can measure." - Jack Welch

[Why This Is Important] - The main message is the importance of building relationships, resilience, and providing second chances in the face of adversity. Becoming a person worth listening to will help transform lives, as discussed in this episode.

[What you need to know.] - Real Life holds the value that everyone deserves a second chance, especially those who have been marginalized or ostracized by society.

- Consistency and relationships are fundamental components in building resilience and fostering personal transformation.

- The comprehensive and holistic programming approach is key to achieving the greatest individual transformation.

[What you need to do.]- Expand your understanding of the value of second chances in transforming lives.

- Foster consistent and meaningful relationships in your personal and professional life to support others in overcoming adversity.

- Embrace a comprehensive and holistic approach in your endeavors to drive the greatest transformation in others.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now Reflect on a time when you or someone else deserved a second chance, and consider how it impacted your or their life.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Dr. Sarah Scarbrough, the visionary behind REAL LIFE, serves as its founder and director. The inception of REAL LIFE emerged from her initiative within the Richmond City Justice Center (jai), where she keenly observed the persistent challenges faced by individuals transitioning from incarceration. Driven by a commitment to address these obstacles comprehensively, she envisioned a multifaceted approach to support those in adverse situations.

Today, REAL LIFE extends its impact through various avenues, including a Community Center, 11 recovery houses, jail programs, an expectant mother program, and Project SAF—an intervention program tackling gun violence, aiming to provide crucial support to some of our community's most at-risk men and women.

REAL LIFE, being a nonprofit organization, relies on the generosity of community members through donations and the invaluable contributions of volunteers. If you share an interest in supporting their mission, or if you'd like to explore specific ways to get involved, please visit their website for more information.

Check out Dr. Sarah’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-scarbrough-phd-a9ba2237/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Doctor Sarah Scarborough, Real Life, values, behaviors, metrics, evaluation, mission, vision, second chance, relationships, resiliency, comprehensive, holistic programming approach, Hopewell, gun violence reduction, Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority, subsidized housing, social media, retaliatory fire, Big Six, planning, players, incidents, restorative justice, community resilience program, peace walks, Tri Cities area, street reps, caseworkers, recovery program, employment partners, community collaboration, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

"There are always ways to make a difference even when it's not planned. Just listen to Dr. Sarah Scarbrough's incredible journey in reducing gun violence in Central Virginia."

[Why This Is Important] - The main message is "Become a person worth listening to so you can make a positive impact on your community." Regarding the story of Dr. Sarah Scarbrough's gun violence reduction initiative, the episode message is to illustrate the power of targeted intervention and community partnerships in reducing gun violence.

[What you need to know.] - Dr. Sarah Scarbrough and her organization, Real Life, implemented a targeted intervention program called Group Violence Intervention (GVI) in response to a sharp increase in violence in the east end of Richmond and Hopewell, Virginia. By identifying individuals most at risk to shoot or be shot and providing opportunities for change, they have seen significant reductions in violence.

[What you need to do.] - Support and engage with local efforts to reduce gun violence through targeted interventions and community partnerships. Educate yourself about the impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences on individuals at risk for gun violence, and advocate for comprehensive support services and resources to address these needs.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now - Reach out to local organizations or law enforcement agencies to learn about any targeted violence intervention programs in your area and find ways to support or get involved.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Dr. Sarah Scarbrough, the visionary behind REAL LIFE, serves as its founder and director. The inception of REAL LIFE emerged from her initiative within the Richmond City Justice Center (jai), where she keenly observed the persistent challenges faced by individuals transitioning from incarceration. Driven by a commitment to address these obstacles comprehensively, she envisioned a multifaceted approach to support those in adverse situations.

REAL LIFE, being a nonprofit organization, relies on the generosity of community members through donations and the invaluable contributions of volunteers. If you share an interest in supporting their mission, or if you'd like to explore specific ways to get involved, please visit their website for more information.

Today, REAL LIFE extends its impact through various avenues, including a Community Center, 11 recovery houses, jail programs, an expectant mother program, and Project SAF—an intervention program tackling gun violence, aiming to provide crucial support to some of our community's most at-risk men and women.

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Gun violence initiative, rehabilitation, violence reduction, group violence intervention, GVI, National Network For Safe Communities, grant funding, Hopewell, Richmond, city council, crime reduction, problem analysis, life coaching, trauma, adverse childhood experiences, community support, trust, violence prevention, community engagement, social services, police department, economic performance, public safety, strategic planning, intervention program, Richmond City Jail, criminal justice, violent offenders, community center, real life, Dr Sarah Scarbrough, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.