The Space In Between Podcast

This podcast episode, inspired by bestselling author Mei Mei Fox's TEDx talk "How Storytelling Can Heal Trauma and Our Divided World," delves into the transformational impact of storytelling in bridging divides at personal, organizational, and global levels.  Host Leigh Morgan and guest Mei Mei Fox discuss how both telling and listening to stories can form new neural connections and promote connection and understanding across many dimensions of difference. 

The conversation highlights what Fox calls the "Story Cure" and its central role in fostering empathy and bonding, which serves as a foundation for creativity and problem-solving. They also consider the dangers associated with the "Story Curse" and how fear-based social media algorithms can amplify divisiveness and polarization.

They dive into the influence of technology, ethical leadership in digital spaces, and how storytelling helped Rwanda transform deep trauma from genocide into a more united national culture. These and other real-world examples underscore the transformative power of sharing personal narratives. 

Morgan and Fox end with specific tools listeners can use to amplify the benefits of storytelling to heal the world. These tools include asking someone "What's your story?", taking five minutes a day to journal, and as leaders, encouraging teams to share stories to unlock creative problem-solving.

Connect with MeiMei Fox:
Website and watch her TEDx talk 

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This episode of 'The Space in Between' podcast, hosted by Leigh Morgan, features in-depth discussions on the diverse experiences and evolving roles of Southeast Asian and Indian communities in the United States. Leigh's guest is noted tech executive Lakshmi Nidamarthi, whose incredible life and career has given her a unique perspective on this topic. Their conversation explores the themes of immigration, cultural barriers and similarities, the pursuit of the 'American dream' and the rise of Kamala Harris, Niki Haley and other influential politicians with Indian heritage. 

Their conversation also delves into the political impact and growing visibility of Indian Americans, and the broad diversity of views and opinions within that community. They also explore Lakshmi's compelling immigration story and the intersectionality across race, ethnic, and other identities including the importance of representation and active engagement in fostering democracy and inclusive dialogues. Their conversation underscores the need for understanding and connecting with others amidst a polarized societal landscape.

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Hello, and welcome to The Space in Between podcast. I'm your host Leigh Morgan.  This podcast is for listeners who are fed up with the hyper-polarized. nature of the world today - and who crave spaces where current events can be discussed in constructive, enlightening and delightful ways. 

My guests will be some of the world's most interesting and curious leaders, influencers, and change makers from very diverse backgrounds. This year we tackle super hard issues and launch a 'Leadership that Matters' series with guests who have a delightful mix of confidence, humility, and practical advice for how all of us can better navigate today's increasingly fragmented and sometimes chaotic world.  

I'd love to hear from you!  Please leave a review wherever you listen to the podcast, via the Space in Between podcasts website, or on LinkedIn. 

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